May the Lord God bless us all
Have a safe, happy and prosperous one....
... Read More......
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Merry Christmas
From my household to your household:
Merry Christmas! May you and
your family be blessed. May you give
love and cheer to others
who are in need. May the Lord's
grace forever shine on you. Remember that
the reason for the season is Jesus!
your family be blessed. May you give
love and cheer to others
who are in need. May the Lord's
grace forever shine on you. Remember that
the reason for the season is Jesus!
Read More......
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
The Chosen Ones
I have always been in awe of the Jewish people. Jesus, after all, was Jew. The nation has gone through numerous seemingly unsurmountable problems all through out its long history. But! the Jews always ended up triumphant. They are, undeniably, the Chosen people.
There is an online forum for Jews online called Jewish Chat. It is a site that provides a perfect forum to meet and chat with fellow Jews. Visit www.Jewishchatcity.com to check the site out. Membership is totally free.
Read More......
There is an online forum for Jews online called Jewish Chat. It is a site that provides a perfect forum to meet and chat with fellow Jews. Visit www.Jewishchatcity.com to check the site out. Membership is totally free.
The Messiah
“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son,
and shall call His name Immanuel.”
Isaiah 7:14
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor,
Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it
with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.
Isaiah 9:6-7
Read More......
and shall call His name Immanuel.”
Isaiah 7:14
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor,
Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it
with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.
Isaiah 9:6-7
Friday, December 12, 2008
Nouveau Riche
How would you like to be one of the nouveau riche?Nouveau Riche is French for new rich or new money or refers to a person who has acquired considerable wealth within his own generation. Impressive feat just like www.nouveauriche.com. What is Nouveau Riche? It is your door to successful real estate investing. It's noted founders; Jim Piccolo, Mary Piccolo and Bob Synder have combined the applied knowledge from the Nouveau Riche College and the support from the Nouveau Riche community to build and change the landscape of real estate investing. Nouveau Riche offers world class education in real estate investing. Whether you are a seasoned investor or a student of real estate investing, Nouveau Riche can meet your individual needs. The college offers programs for students with varied educational and experience levels. Some of the more notable courses being offered are: S.E.E.K 101 which stands for (Super Entrepreneurial Encyclopedia of Knowledge), R2E2™ (Residential Real Estate Encyclopedia) home study program and the Coaching program session. S.E.E.K offers 10 video modules to cover subjects like entrepreneurialism, marketing, source funding, franchising and more. R2E2 on the other hand is a 15-volume series of helpful information on real estate strategies and concepts. The Coaching program consist of 8 weeks of 1/2 hour one on one coaching session to hone your skills in real estate investing. Go check the site for more information.
Read More......
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
The Silent Night
OBERNDORF, Austria --- Each year, on December 24, a special passenger train pulled by a bright red electric locomotive heads out of the train station in Salzburg for a half hour trip to the village of Oberndorf. A multitude of languages can be heard as passengers from all over the globe become Christmas pilgrims, heading for the birthplace of the world's best loved Christmas carol "Silent Night."
At the same time, the Oberndorf streets are crowded with cars bearing license plates from neighboring European Churches can be seen across the nations and filled with people who have raced along the autobahns to arrive in time for the special Christmas Eve "Silent Night" twilight service.
Throughout the world, "Silent Night" which has been translated into more than 200 languages, is an anchor for Christmas celebrations. Its lullaby-like melody and simple message of heavenly peace can be heard from small town street corners in mid-America to magnificent cathedrals in Europe and from outdoor candlelight concerts in Australia to palm thatched huts in northern Peru. The original church of St. Nicholas where "Silent Night" was first heard in 1818 was torn down in the early part of this century after sustaining damage from the flooding of the nearby Salzach River. The Silent Night Chapel was erected on the spot in front of the main altar where Gruber and Mohr stood with the choir to sing the six-stanza carol. In a higher section of town, another church was built and the original pulpit and altars from the old church were moved there. At Christmas Midnight Mass, singers stand in front of the same altars and recreate the moment when the song heard 'round the world was first performed.
Research by Bill Egan, Christmas Historian
Monday, December 8, 2008
Christmas Programs
As a child, I diligently participated in our church's Christmas program. The program was always held, then, on December 24, right before the Christmas Eve Worship service. Those Christmas programs were well attended by the church congregation. However, there never was a year where my mama was ever present to watch. My mama is a dentist but she opted to become a retailer of textile and clothing in Divisoria like my two aunts. December was and still is a busy busy month for businesses in Divisoria that's why I was always motherless during these programs.
I remember dressing up in my Sunday's best for the program. For four Sundays and sometimes Saturdays, our Sunday school teachers labored to teach us songs, dance and drama for the program. There was one Christmas where I had a pair of be-ribboned spoon and fork as instruments. There was one presentation that I was tasked to be one of the angels together with my cousin Minerva. While on stage with Mary, Joseph, Jesus, the three Kings, shepherds, cows and sheep, my cousin and I fought for space on stage. Her wings were getting taking up to much space and I was being blocked from view. Thus, the nativity included two quarreling angels. There was this one Christmas where our newly appointed pastor's wife put up a children's choir. We sang Dona Nobis Pacem. Of course I didn't know what that meant but I enjoyed that experience and might have even inspired me to go into choral conducting years later.
Every Christmas program ended with the giving of white gifts. I never fully understood why the gifts were called "white" aside from the fact that they were wrapped in white paper - usually bond paper. My favorite "white" gift to bring was a can on Darigold. It was convenient - the pantry has stock - and easy to wrap. After the program, each one of the us were given a loot bag with an apple, an orange (dalandan, not sunkist) and candies. I and my church batch mates faithfully attended the children's Christmas programs until our 6th grade. After that, we were teeners and can't possibly be caught dead joining the Children's Christmas program. Oh, btw, dona nobis pacem means give us peace.
Read More......
I remember dressing up in my Sunday's best for the program. For four Sundays and sometimes Saturdays, our Sunday school teachers labored to teach us songs, dance and drama for the program. There was one Christmas where I had a pair of be-ribboned spoon and fork as instruments. There was one presentation that I was tasked to be one of the angels together with my cousin Minerva. While on stage with Mary, Joseph, Jesus, the three Kings, shepherds, cows and sheep, my cousin and I fought for space on stage. Her wings were getting taking up to much space and I was being blocked from view. Thus, the nativity included two quarreling angels. There was this one Christmas where our newly appointed pastor's wife put up a children's choir. We sang Dona Nobis Pacem. Of course I didn't know what that meant but I enjoyed that experience and might have even inspired me to go into choral conducting years later.
Every Christmas program ended with the giving of white gifts. I never fully understood why the gifts were called "white" aside from the fact that they were wrapped in white paper - usually bond paper. My favorite "white" gift to bring was a can on Darigold. It was convenient - the pantry has stock - and easy to wrap. After the program, each one of the us were given a loot bag with an apple, an orange (dalandan, not sunkist) and candies. I and my church batch mates faithfully attended the children's Christmas programs until our 6th grade. After that, we were teeners and can't possibly be caught dead joining the Children's Christmas program. Oh, btw, dona nobis pacem means give us peace.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
It's Not X'mas
I did an article on why Christmas shouldn't be X'mas, in my other blog. A fave blogger, domjullian commented and here's his comment.
It Isn't Xmas, but Christmas
by Cathy (AllFunPages)
It isn't Xmas, but Christmas
For that's the day Christ came.
When you take Christ out of Christmas
You cross out life's best name.
I wonder why they cross out Christ,
The best that God could give.
I wonder why they've forgotten.
That we for Him should live.
Why take Christ's name out of Christmas?
For He came to set us free.
If we had Christmas without Christ
How hopeless we would be.
Why, is it ~ that they cross out Christ,
The greatest gift of all?
Why, is it ~ that nobody cares
Or listens to His call?
To me ~ X stand for nothing,
Then why, cross His name out?
To me ~ Christ means everything
He took away my doubt.
I'll never try to shame my Lord,
I'll keep His name in place;
Then when life here below is over,
I'll see Him face to face.
Let us all, "KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS"
Love and serve Him this year.
It isn't Xmas but it's Christmas,
Ring it out, loud and clear.
by Cathy (AllFunPages)
It isn't Xmas, but Christmas
For that's the day Christ came.
When you take Christ out of Christmas
You cross out life's best name.
I wonder why they cross out Christ,
The best that God could give.
I wonder why they've forgotten.
That we for Him should live.
Why take Christ's name out of Christmas?
For He came to set us free.
If we had Christmas without Christ
How hopeless we would be.
Why, is it ~ that they cross out Christ,
The greatest gift of all?
Why, is it ~ that nobody cares
Or listens to His call?
To me ~ X stand for nothing,
Then why, cross His name out?
To me ~ Christ means everything
He took away my doubt.
I'll never try to shame my Lord,
I'll keep His name in place;
Then when life here below is over,
I'll see Him face to face.
Let us all, "KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS"
Love and serve Him this year.
It isn't Xmas but it's Christmas,
Ring it out, loud and clear.
Read More......
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Sears' Wish List
"Christmas means the spirit of giving, peace and joy to you" that's according to Ethan's favorite Christmas song. Yes. Christmas is sharing and spreading peace, love and goodwill to mankind. Though I sincerely believe that the spirit of Christmas should be observed all through the year.
It is that time of the year where big store companies are putting up a mad rush for sales and unbelievable discounts. Who can blame these big retail companies as whether we like it or not, the season is indeed the time for big spree shopping. The sad part is not everyone can afford the luxury of buying their personal stuff, more so, gifts for their family. Let's take one segment of society, the military one. There are over 30,000 military families who will spend their Christmas without their dad, mom, brother or sister, for they are overseas making sure that peace and security are maintained the world over. These military personnel have sacrificed so much in line with their call of duty. Their families will be spending Christmas without them. How sad can that be when Christmas, after all, is about family and togetherness. Sears, in its gallant attempt to honor and respect these military personnel have come up with Sears Heroes at Home Wish Registry
Qualified military families join by making a wish list visible at the site. The wish list range from shoes, clothing, kitchen products and appliances, TV and even gaming consules like PSP and Nintendo. Of course, one is not expected to donate a specific amount for a specific wish list. Drop by the site and contribute whatever amount your wallet can afford and your heart tells you.
Read More......
It is that time of the year where big store companies are putting up a mad rush for sales and unbelievable discounts. Who can blame these big retail companies as whether we like it or not, the season is indeed the time for big spree shopping. The sad part is not everyone can afford the luxury of buying their personal stuff, more so, gifts for their family. Let's take one segment of society, the military one. There are over 30,000 military families who will spend their Christmas without their dad, mom, brother or sister, for they are overseas making sure that peace and security are maintained the world over. These military personnel have sacrificed so much in line with their call of duty. Their families will be spending Christmas without them. How sad can that be when Christmas, after all, is about family and togetherness. Sears, in its gallant attempt to honor and respect these military personnel have come up with Sears Heroes at Home Wish Registry
Qualified military families join by making a wish list visible at the site. The wish list range from shoes, clothing, kitchen products and appliances, TV and even gaming consules like PSP and Nintendo. Of course, one is not expected to donate a specific amount for a specific wish list. Drop by the site and contribute whatever amount your wallet can afford and your heart tells you.
Set Your Hope
Today's Scripture
“Set your hope wholly and unchangeably on the grace (divine favor) that is coming to you when Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is revealed” (I Peter 1:13).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Is your hope set on God’s divine favor in your life today? One translation of this verse says, “Look forward to more and more of God’s favor.” That’s God’s dream—to pour out His goodness and grace upon you. He wants to help you get ahead in this life. He wants to lead you to the right job. He wants to lead you to the right relationship. But here’s the key: we have to be on the lookout for more of God’s favor. That tells me that we can’t get stagnant.
Don’t ever think that you can’t rise any higher. God wants to do more than you can even ask or think. It says in Ephesians, He wants to show us the immeasurable, limitless, surpassing greatness of His free favor. In other words, God wants to go far and above what we’re used to! He wants to show you favor in unusual and extraordinary ways. Set your hopes higher today. Increase your expectations of what God will do in your life. As you open your heart and mind to His unlimited favor, you will experience the abundance He has in store for you!
A Prayer for Today
Father, thank You for your increase in every area of my life today. I choose to set my hope in You knowing that You want to do more in my life than I can ever imagine. Teach me to be a vessel used by You today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Christmas Shopping at Kmart
Christmas is in the air: Decorations at malls, Christmas song played on the airwaves, people shopping for Christmas presents.. online. The internet technology has made life a little easier on us. We no longer have to go out and brave the traffic and throng of people to buy personal stuff and even presents. Kmart is now offering a 10% discount on all purchases made online. Up to November 26, the store is offering a 10% discount on almost every item they have if you purchase online. Make your purchase and the discounted price will show on your cart. Avail of 1/4ct tw Diamond 5-Stone Journey Pendant and Earrings Set in 10K Yellow Gold with an extra 10% off if you buy it online. Search for ID# 89270115 for easy access. You may want to get an extra 30% on Abbey Hill bedding Medallion Dream bedding collection- search ID# 96096112.
For the whole month of December, Kmart will also offer and additional 10% on the following items purchased online.
- womens plus sleepwear
- womens attention brand
- girls tops
- ALL juniors
- boys tops
- mens shirts and bottoms
- big mens shirts and bottoms
- infant and toddler bedding
I think this is a win-win situation. Go over the site and start shopping online.
Read More......
For the whole month of December, Kmart will also offer and additional 10% on the following items purchased online.
- womens plus sleepwear
- womens attention brand
- girls tops
- ALL juniors
- boys tops
- mens shirts and bottoms
- big mens shirts and bottoms
- infant and toddler bedding
I think this is a win-win situation. Go over the site and start shopping online.
Sad Monday
This is a repost from my other blog.
I received a sad news today. A friend, after years of battle with cancer, finally succumbed to the disease. The other day, I expressed my thought against same sex marriage in a blog I frequent. Someone did not like my view and left a comment on the said blog and in my other blog too. She said "what is it to me if gays marry." She said it will not affect my life. She said that I'm ignorant and a professing Christian. She said that I "spew" hatred but I don't see how. I was not cursing or condemning anyone. My being against same sex marriage has nothing to do with gays. It has something to do with my religious belief. If I say no to my child's request, does that mean I hate my child? If I do not agree to same sex marriage, does that mean I hate gays? Will my hatred cure cancer?
There are so many advocacies fighting for different causes. Some are petty, some are life changing. If I were to chose, I'd support advocacies that would promote world peace, ease poverty and world hunger, ban abortion, promote family planning so as to avoid abortion, education for all, find a cure for cancer and other deadly and incurable diseases, and others. If gays want to marry and the government finally allows it, so be it. But I will never consent to it for I know it will not cure cancer.
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There are so many advocacies fighting for different causes. Some are petty, some are life changing. If I were to chose, I'd support advocacies that would promote world peace, ease poverty and world hunger, ban abortion, promote family planning so as to avoid abortion, education for all, find a cure for cancer and other deadly and incurable diseases, and others. If gays want to marry and the government finally allows it, so be it. But I will never consent to it for I know it will not cure cancer.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Holiday Frames
Christmas is nearing the festive mood is beginning to fill the air. Malls are splendidly decorated and so are some houses. For the season, Holiday Glass Frames From Zenni Optical are being offered. Green and red colored frames are enjoying brisk sale in The popular online eyeglasses shop. It's so easy to get a pair of eyewear from Zenni. All you have to do is chose the frame that you want, fill in the order form, and put in the prescription details asked for, proceed to checkout and you're done. Zenni optical is still offering their best seller: $ 8 Complete Rx Eyeglasses. Check the site out for your "Christmas" frame. This is the frame I want for Christmas.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Go Viral
I have seen the phenomenal growth of some blogs that I visit. I refer to the number of visitors that a blog has. There are numerous social networking sites and other blog groups that bloggers, like you and me, can join for us to get exposure and eventually get a wide readership. For online and offline businesses, exposure in terms of advertisement is necessary for a its products or services to be known. There is a new kind of marketing that uses social networking. It is called viral marketing.
Viral marketing is a marketing phenomenon that facilitates and encourages people to pass along a marketing message voluntarily. Viral promotions may take the form of video clips, interactive Flash games, advergames, ebooks, brandable software, images, or even text messages. It creates the potential for exponential growth in the message's exposure and influence. In can be called "word-of-mouth" marketing, "network" marketing or even a "buzz".
There's a site called www.Yovia.com that offers a free online conference called How to Viral Market. The conference would basically guide you through a step by step information on the how to's and what to's of viral marketing. Check out the site to learn more about viral marketing.
Viral marketing is a marketing phenomenon that facilitates and encourages people to pass along a marketing message voluntarily. Viral promotions may take the form of video clips, interactive Flash games, advergames, ebooks, brandable software, images, or even text messages. It creates the potential for exponential growth in the message's exposure and influence. In can be called "word-of-mouth" marketing, "network" marketing or even a "buzz".
There's a site called www.Yovia.com that offers a free online conference called How to Viral Market. The conference would basically guide you through a step by step information on the how to's and what to's of viral marketing. Check out the site to learn more about viral marketing.
Read More......
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Clean Wash
A forwarded email brings a wonderful message.
Contemplate on the meaning of this forwarded email.
Contemplate on the meaning of this forwarded email.
A young couple
moves into a new neighbourhood.
The next morning while they are eating breakfast, the young
woman sees her neighbour hanging the wash outside.
"That laundry is not very clean," she said. "She doesn't know
how to wash correctly. Perhaps she needs better laundry soap."
Her husband looked on, but remained silent.
Every time her neighbour would hang her wash to dry, the young
woman would make the same comments.
About one month later, the woman was surprised to see a nice
clean wash on the line and said to her husband: "Look, she has
learned how to wash correctly. I wonder who taught her this?"
The husband said,
"I got up early this morning and cleaned our windows."
And so it is with life. What we see when watching others
depends on the purity of the window through which we look.
~Author Unknown~
Read More......
moves into a new neighbourhood.
The next morning while they are eating breakfast, the young
woman sees her neighbour hanging the wash outside.
"That laundry is not very clean," she said. "She doesn't know
how to wash correctly. Perhaps she needs better laundry soap."
Her husband looked on, but remained silent.
Every time her neighbour would hang her wash to dry, the young
woman would make the same comments.
About one month later, the woman was surprised to see a nice
clean wash on the line and said to her husband: "Look, she has
learned how to wash correctly. I wonder who taught her this?"
The husband said,
"I got up early this morning and cleaned our windows."
And so it is with life. What we see when watching others
depends on the purity of the window through which we look.
~Author Unknown~
Friday, November 7, 2008
A Means of Livelihood
Christmas is just around the corner and most organizations are probably busy with their annual planning - that is for the year 2009. In our church most planning are done in the last quarter of the year. There are various committees to deal with the ever growing needs and missions of the church. The church plans on holding various seminars to teach enterprising young people and maybe including the not-so-young people a means of livelihood. We're looking into educating this youth group haircutting and related hair services. I found this online site where clipper cutting can be taught through DVDs.I never thought that there are various clipper cutting techniques. If the church can teach these young people to cut hair, maybe they could start a hair cutting business and easily earn money. The sample haircutting videos online are easy enough to follow. The people behind the whole instructional videos are highly qualified in their field - clipper cutting. I guess I better mention this to the livelihood committee so the church can purchase some instructional videos at www. videoshelf.com
Hair Cutting Techniques
Fade Haircut | Buzz Cuts
Monday, November 3, 2008
Purified
Today's Scripture
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (I John 1:9 KJV).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
What comes to your mind when you think of the word “pure”? You might think of a young, innocent child or fresh, fallen snow. It’s interesting that most people don’t immediately think of themselves as pure even though that’s exactly how God sees us once we receive His forgiveness. The scripture says that He cleanses us from all unrighteousness. It doesn’t matter what may have happened in the past, the Bible says that He takes our sins and casts them into the sea of forgetfulness. That means He chooses not to remember them. When God looks at you, He doesn’t see your past mistakes and failures; He sees your future. He sees your gifts and talents. He sees your destiny.
Oftentimes, the enemy will try to hold us back by reminding us of our past. Whenever you start to feel guilty or condemned, remember this scripture. If you have confessed your sins to the Father and have received His forgiveness, then you have been purified. Let this truth sink down deeply on the inside of you. As you do, you will be strengthened and empowered to rise to new levels so you can enjoy the abundant life He has for you!
A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, thank You for Your love and faithfulness. Thank You for Your promise to cleanse and purify me. I surrender every area of my life to You today and invite You to have Your way in me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
New Eyeglasses for Me
I am in need of a new pair of eyeglasses and I know just where to order my new pair. Zenni Opitcal! They offer prescription glasses for as low as $8. It is not a wonder why Zenni Optical was on FOX news! The company offers Great Eyeglasses For Less and the choices are really varied. You can also get Variable Dimension Frames From Zenni. It's a valuable find for people on a budget. Click the link for Zenni on Fox.Friday, October 24, 2008
Completely Satisfied
Today's Scripture
“Blessed, fortunate, happy and spiritually prosperous…are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, uprightness and right standing with God, for they shall be completely satisfied” (Matthew 5:6 AMP).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God longs to pour out his abundant blessing on every area of your life. He wants you to live completely satisfied. When you hunger and thirst for righteousness--God’s way of doing things--then you will live in complete satisfaction. You direct your hunger by choosing what you focus on. For example, if you focus on your favorite food, if you start thinking about it early in the morning, and all throughout the day, chances are, by the end of the day you’ll be eating it! What you give your attention to, you will desire. In the same way, the more you give your attention to God and His Word, the more you will hunger for Him. Just like the scripture promises, when you hunger for righteousness, you will be completely satisfied. The world offers so many things for you to give your attention to, but they aren’t things that will satisfy. You might think you want a particular car, or certain clothes, or live in a particular neighborhood. There’s nothing wrong with those things, but understand that “things” won’t ever satisfy you. Recognize that only God will satisfy you. As you hunger for Him, you’ll live in peace and blessing and live completely satisfied all the days of your life!
A Prayer for Today
Father in Heaven, I come to You today, I ask for forgiveness for allowing anything to capture my heart and attention more than You. I choose today to give You top priority, and choose to hunger for Your righteousness. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Read More......
“Blessed, fortunate, happy and spiritually prosperous…are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, uprightness and right standing with God, for they shall be completely satisfied” (Matthew 5:6 AMP).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God longs to pour out his abundant blessing on every area of your life. He wants you to live completely satisfied. When you hunger and thirst for righteousness--God’s way of doing things--then you will live in complete satisfaction. You direct your hunger by choosing what you focus on. For example, if you focus on your favorite food, if you start thinking about it early in the morning, and all throughout the day, chances are, by the end of the day you’ll be eating it! What you give your attention to, you will desire. In the same way, the more you give your attention to God and His Word, the more you will hunger for Him. Just like the scripture promises, when you hunger for righteousness, you will be completely satisfied. The world offers so many things for you to give your attention to, but they aren’t things that will satisfy. You might think you want a particular car, or certain clothes, or live in a particular neighborhood. There’s nothing wrong with those things, but understand that “things” won’t ever satisfy you. Recognize that only God will satisfy you. As you hunger for Him, you’ll live in peace and blessing and live completely satisfied all the days of your life!
A Prayer for Today
Father in Heaven, I come to You today, I ask for forgiveness for allowing anything to capture my heart and attention more than You. I choose today to give You top priority, and choose to hunger for Your righteousness. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Sunday Worship Services
I grew up attending Sunday Worship Services on a regular basis. My mother's side of the family are one of the first Methodists in Taytay, Rizal. My grandfather was one the founding members of the Taytay United Methodist Church. If you're a Filipino chances are familiar with Toni Gonzaga, the singer/actress. Her great-grandfather, Enrique Gonzaga, was also one of the founding members of TUMC.
The Christian belief of salvation through Jesus Christ has been deeply ingrained in me. For me, religion is not the basis of salvation but just a way to know God and meet fellow believers. The edifice is not important. It is the message brought forth by the pastor that is important. Thus when a friend invited me and my family to attend a church service held in a theater, I obliged. I wanted to Find out more about my friend's church.
It was nothing like anything I have ever experienced. The 9:30 AM Worship was well attended and the theater was filled to capacity. We were all comfortably seated and the ambiance was solemn for the theater was in darkness except for the stage. As music filled the theatre, the great acoustic treatment of the theater's wall coupled with the great sound system of the theater brought forth a heavenly surreal feeling. The sermon was meaningful. The congregation, warm and receptive. The music, divine. If you want to Find out more about how it feels to attend church in a theater, you can attend the first-ever inaugural Theatre Church Conference in Silver Spring, MD on October 22 & 23.
Read More......
The Christian belief of salvation through Jesus Christ has been deeply ingrained in me. For me, religion is not the basis of salvation but just a way to know God and meet fellow believers. The edifice is not important. It is the message brought forth by the pastor that is important. Thus when a friend invited me and my family to attend a church service held in a theater, I obliged. I wanted to Find out more about my friend's church.
It was nothing like anything I have ever experienced. The 9:30 AM Worship was well attended and the theater was filled to capacity. We were all comfortably seated and the ambiance was solemn for the theater was in darkness except for the stage. As music filled the theatre, the great acoustic treatment of the theater's wall coupled with the great sound system of the theater brought forth a heavenly surreal feeling. The sermon was meaningful. The congregation, warm and receptive. The music, divine. If you want to Find out more about how it feels to attend church in a theater, you can attend the first-ever inaugural Theatre Church Conference in Silver Spring, MD on October 22 & 23.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
The Unemployed Graduate
I got this inspiring fiction from Renz.
An unemployed graduate woke up one morning and checked his pocket. All he had left was $10. He decided to use it to buy food and then wait for death as he was too proud to go begging. He was frustrated as he could find no job,and nobody was ready to help him.He bought food and as he sat down to eat, an old man and two little children came along and asked him to help them with food as they had not eaten for almost a week. He looked at them. They were so lean that he could see their bones coming out. Their eyes had gone into the socket. With the last bit of compassion he had, he gave them the food. The old man and children prayed that God would bless and prosper him and then gave him a very old coin. The young graduate said to them 'you need the prayer more than I do'.
With no money, no job, no food, the young graduate went under the bridge to rest and wait for death. As he was about to sleep, he saw an old newspaper on the ground. He picked it up, and suddenly he saw an advertisement for people with old coins to come to a certain address.He decided to go there with the old coin the old man gave him. On getting to the place, he gave the proprietor the coin. The proprietor screamed, brought out a big book and showed the young graduate a photograph. This same old coin was worth 3 million dollars. The young graduate was overjoyed as the proprietor gave him a bank draft for 3 million dollars within an hour. He collected the Bank Draft and went in search of the old man and little children.By the time he got to where he left them eating, they had gone. He asked the owner of the canteen if he knew them. He said no but they left a note for you. He quickly opened the note thinking it would lead him to find them.This is what the note said: 'You gave us your all and we have rewarded you back with the coin' Signed God the Father, The Son and The Holy Ghost. 1 Kings 17:10-16;Matthew 11:28-30
Have you given all to Jesus Christ? If you haven't, do so today and he will surprise you.
Read More......
An unemployed graduate woke up one morning and checked his pocket. All he had left was $10. He decided to use it to buy food and then wait for death as he was too proud to go begging. He was frustrated as he could find no job,and nobody was ready to help him.He bought food and as he sat down to eat, an old man and two little children came along and asked him to help them with food as they had not eaten for almost a week. He looked at them. They were so lean that he could see their bones coming out. Their eyes had gone into the socket. With the last bit of compassion he had, he gave them the food. The old man and children prayed that God would bless and prosper him and then gave him a very old coin. The young graduate said to them 'you need the prayer more than I do'.
With no money, no job, no food, the young graduate went under the bridge to rest and wait for death. As he was about to sleep, he saw an old newspaper on the ground. He picked it up, and suddenly he saw an advertisement for people with old coins to come to a certain address.He decided to go there with the old coin the old man gave him. On getting to the place, he gave the proprietor the coin. The proprietor screamed, brought out a big book and showed the young graduate a photograph. This same old coin was worth 3 million dollars. The young graduate was overjoyed as the proprietor gave him a bank draft for 3 million dollars within an hour. He collected the Bank Draft and went in search of the old man and little children.By the time he got to where he left them eating, they had gone. He asked the owner of the canteen if he knew them. He said no but they left a note for you. He quickly opened the note thinking it would lead him to find them.This is what the note said: 'You gave us your all and we have rewarded you back with the coin' Signed God the Father, The Son and The Holy Ghost. 1 Kings 17:10-16;Matthew 11:28-30
Have you given all to Jesus Christ? If you haven't, do so today and he will surprise you.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Things God Won't Ask
God won't ask what kind of car
you drove. He'll ask how many people you drove who didn't have
transportation.
God won't ask the square
footage of your house. He'll ask how many people you welcomed into your
home.
God won't ask about the clothes
you had in your closet. He'll ask how many you helped to clothe.
God won't ask what your highest
salary was. He'll ask if you compromised your character to obtain it.
God won't ask what your job
title was. He'll ask if you performed your job to the best of your ability.
God won't ask how many friends
you had. He'll ask how many people to whom you were a friend.
God won't ask in what
neighborhood you lived. He'll ask how you treated your neighbors.
God won't ask about the color
of your skin. He'll ask about the content of your character.
God won't ask why it took you
so long to seek Salvation. He'll lovingly take you to your mansion in
heaven, and not to the gates of Hell.
Isn't God great?!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Gadget Advisor
I can never find the TV remote! I seem to misplace it on a daily basis.Not only the TV remote though, I also misplace the DVD, Airconditioner, video recorder, name any other electronics with remote and chances are I've either lost it or have bought a replacement. I was browsing the net and found that there is a universal remote control available for people like me. The remote control basically support 15 or more devices - meaning I can use one remote for all my electronic appliances. The site is Gadget Advisor. The site does not sell these items by they review on the best electronic appliances or gadgets currently in the market. The site also discusses network media player and has interesting articles on online backup services. Check it out. It would be worth your while.
Read More......
Thursday, October 9, 2008
From Florida with Love
A package arrived for me the other day. It was post marked from Florida. Who could have sent me a package? I know some people in Florida but they're my online friends and definitely have no inkling of my physical address. I signed for the package. I just hope the contents are intact. I won an online contest about 2 months ago and my prize sent by slow mail had one item missing. As I signed and read the form, I was pleasantly surprised that the package came from my childhood friend. She and her family came over to USA and finally settled in Jacksonville, Florida about 10 years ago.
She has a daughter and she is now a happy grandmom of one cute baby boy. We last saw each other about 4 years ago. She came home to attend the wedding of a niece. We had a blast when she was here. Our girlfriends and us had an overnight stay in one fancy hotel and we all acted as teeners. That was fun! She and her husband are earning enough to afford a new house and two cars. She said they were able to find in Florida Marketing jobs that paid well. My friend was actually a registered nurse but she opted to change careers for the pay and challenge. I am glad that she and her husband are doing well now. There was a time that they were in a complete financial jam for both of them were unemployed. Thankfully, they have only a daughter to worry about. They were able to pass through those difficult times because of their unwavering faith and trust in God. Friends and relatives helped them too. When things seem to be all going downhill, God's help came. Their US immigration petition papers came through and in no time, they were on an airplane bound for USA.
She sent me "women" stuff: cologne, lotion, face cream and bath oil. And it's not even my birthday.
Read More......
She has a daughter and she is now a happy grandmom of one cute baby boy. We last saw each other about 4 years ago. She came home to attend the wedding of a niece. We had a blast when she was here. Our girlfriends and us had an overnight stay in one fancy hotel and we all acted as teeners. That was fun! She and her husband are earning enough to afford a new house and two cars. She said they were able to find in Florida Marketing jobs that paid well. My friend was actually a registered nurse but she opted to change careers for the pay and challenge. I am glad that she and her husband are doing well now. There was a time that they were in a complete financial jam for both of them were unemployed. Thankfully, they have only a daughter to worry about. They were able to pass through those difficult times because of their unwavering faith and trust in God. Friends and relatives helped them too. When things seem to be all going downhill, God's help came. Their US immigration petition papers came through and in no time, they were on an airplane bound for USA.
She sent me "women" stuff: cologne, lotion, face cream and bath oil. And it's not even my birthday.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Abide in Him
Today's Scripture
"I am the vine, you are the branches. The one who abides in Me, while I abide in him, produces much fruit..." (John 15:5).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
When you abide in something, it becomes your very source for life. Did you know God wants you to live in Him? He wants to be your source. Abiding in God means you rely on Him for everything. You rely on Him for your strength, provision, hope, joy. Like the air you breath, you rely on Him for your very life.
When you are abiding in Him, you think about Him when you go to sleep. You think about Him when you first wake up. You think about His promises all throughout the day and continually fellowship with Him in prayer. You make Him your number one priority and stay connected with other believers at church. Notice what this verse says: you will produce much fruit. When you are connected to God, everything you set your hand to will be fruitful and blessed. Just like a branch thrives when it is connected to the vine, you're going to thrive and be prosperous when you are connected to Almighty God. Depend on Him today and make Him your number one priority. As you abide in Him, He will pour out His abundant favor on you and you will live in blessing all the days of your life.
A Prayer for Today
Father in Heaven, today I am abiding in You. Like the air I breathe, I am totally dependent on You. Thank You for your promise of blessing me and helping me to always be a blessing to other people. In Jesus' name, Amen.
A Premiere Online School
There is an ongoing trend of furthering ones education through online education. Why? there are several reason and the first of which is it is highly convenient. There's no need for you to commute to and from school saving you on time and money. You get your education at the most convenient time too. There are a lot of online schools offering different courses. The question now is are all there online education facilities credible? I don't know the credibility of other schools but I do know that Nouveau University is one such school.
Founded by Jim and Mary Piccolo and Bob Synder, the school's mission is to teach busy working professionals and business owners technical skills to further their careers. They searched for economic and business professional who could help them put up and support their dream. Thus Nouveau University was born. The online university offers Associate of Science and Bachelor of Business Administration. The curriculum was designed to meet a student's ultimate professional and personal aims with excellence. Currently, Dr. Laura Palmer Noone is the CEO of Nouveau University. Dr. Noone was the former president of the largest private university in the world, University of Phoenix. Led by a premiere academician, the University has no way to go but UP!
Read More......
Founded by Jim and Mary Piccolo and Bob Synder, the school's mission is to teach busy working professionals and business owners technical skills to further their careers. They searched for economic and business professional who could help them put up and support their dream. Thus Nouveau University was born. The online university offers Associate of Science and Bachelor of Business Administration. The curriculum was designed to meet a student's ultimate professional and personal aims with excellence. Currently, Dr. Laura Palmer Noone is the CEO of Nouveau University. Dr. Noone was the former president of the largest private university in the world, University of Phoenix. Led by a premiere academician, the University has no way to go but UP!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Sealed By God
Today's Scripture
“…I will make you like my signet ring, for I have chosen you,' declares the LORD Almighty” (Haggai 2:23).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
We don’t often hear about signet rings anymore; but in Bible times, they were very significant. The signet ring was used to identify the message or messenger and the authority they had. In other words, you knew something was from the king because it was marked by His signet ring. It was representative of power and authority. This verse is saying that you are the mark of authority of Almighty God. You have been chosen and set apart to be identified with Him. When you have someone’s power and authority, you have access to everything they have. It’s like having power of attorney; you have the authority to act on behalf of that individual. As a believer in Jesus, marked with His seal, think of all you have access to today. Think about the authority you have. Everything He has is available to you—healing, provision, strength, peace, joy. You have been given authority to “sign His name” in order to receive His blessings. You are God’s seal, and you are marked to live the abundant life He has in store for you!
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing me and calling me Your own. Help me to fully understand the authority You’ve given by Your Son Jesus. I receive all You have for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Be a People Builder
Today's Scripture
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up…” (I Thessalonians 5:11).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God designed us to live in relationship with others. He wants us to help each other grow. None of us will reach our highest potential by ourselves. We need people in our lives to encourage us, and we need to encourage the people in our lives and help them reach their potential. The word “encourage” means to “urge forward.” Many times you can see things in other people that they don’t see themselves. You can see their strengths and talents. You can see that God has a special plan for them even though they may be going through a difficult time. Don’t assume that people see what you see in them. Take a moment and encourage them either with a kind word or a simple note. There might be a special gift you can give that will remind them of their goal or dream. In whatever way you can, urge the people in your life to keep moving forward. If you’ll be a people builder and help others fulfill their dreams, God will help you fulfill your dreams also, and you’ll live in blessing all the days of your life.
A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, thank You for the people You have placed in my life. Help me build them up and find creative ways to urge them forward to Your glory. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Heaven or Hell
A holy man was having a conversation with the Lord one day and said. 'Lord, I would like to know what Heaven and Hell are like. The Lord led the holy man to two doors. He opened one of the doors and the holy man looked in. In the middle of the room was a large round table. In the middle of the table was a large pot of stew, which smelled delicious and made the holy man's mouth water.The people sitting around the table were thin and sickly. They appeared to be famished. They were holding spoons with very long handles that were strapped to their arms and each found it possible to reach into the pot of stew and take a spoonful.But because the handle was longer than their arms, they could not get the spoons back into their mouths.
The holy man shuddered at the sight of their misery and suffering. The Lord said, 'You have seen Hell.They went to the next room and opened the door. It was ex actly the same as the first one. There was the large round table with the large pot of stew which made the holy man's mouth water. The people were equipped with the same long-handled spoons, but here the people were well nourished and plump, laughing and talking. The holy man said, 'I don't understand.' 'It is simple,' said the Lord.'It requires but one skill. You see they have learned to feed each other, while the greedy think only of themselves.'
Where are you in this?
Read More......
The holy man shuddered at the sight of their misery and suffering. The Lord said, 'You have seen Hell.They went to the next room and opened the door. It was ex actly the same as the first one. There was the large round table with the large pot of stew which made the holy man's mouth water. The people were equipped with the same long-handled spoons, but here the people were well nourished and plump, laughing and talking. The holy man said, 'I don't understand.' 'It is simple,' said the Lord.'It requires but one skill. You see they have learned to feed each other, while the greedy think only of themselves.'
Where are you in this?
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
When Your Hut is on Fire.....
The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him. Every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming.
Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect himself from the elements, and to store his few possessions. One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, with smoke rolling up to the sky. He felt the worst had happened, and everything was lost. He was stunned with disbelief, grief,and anger.
He cried out, "God! How could you do this to me?" Early the next day, he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island! It had come to rescue him! "How did you know I was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers. "We saw your smoke signal," they replied.
The Moral of This Story : It's easy to get discouraged when things are going bad, but we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of our pain and suffering. Remember that the next time your little hut seems to be burning to the ground. It just may be a smoke signal that summons the Grace of God.
To God Be the Glory!
Read More......
Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect himself from the elements, and to store his few possessions. One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, with smoke rolling up to the sky. He felt the worst had happened, and everything was lost. He was stunned with disbelief, grief,and anger.
He cried out, "God! How could you do this to me?" Early the next day, he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island! It had come to rescue him! "How did you know I was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers. "We saw your smoke signal," they replied.
The Moral of This Story : It's easy to get discouraged when things are going bad, but we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of our pain and suffering. Remember that the next time your little hut seems to be burning to the ground. It just may be a smoke signal that summons the Grace of God.
To God Be the Glory!
Monday, September 8, 2008
Faith and Righteousness
Today's Scripture
“Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness” (Galatians 3:6).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
So many people today are looking for ways to be righteous or to be in “right standing” with God. The Bible simply says that when we believe God, that’s righteousness. The proof, or evidence, of our faith in Him is found in our actions. The Bible says that faith without works is dead. That means, when we really believe something, our actions will support what we believe. Because Abraham believed God, he obeyed His word and left his father’s land even when he didn’t even know where he was going. In the same way, when we believe God, we have to leave some things behind in order to embrace the new life He has in store. As you let go of the old and, by faith, embrace God’s promises, know that He is leading you down paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake! Keep believing, keep stepping out, knowing that your best days are ahead of you. As you follow His leading, you’ll walk in righteousness and live the abundant life He has in store for you.
A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, today I choose to accept and believe Your Word by faith. Thank You for making me righteous and help me to follow You all the days of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Quick Fix
The fall of many small businesses and home businesses is lack of floating capital. It's easy enough to start a business but keeping it afloat for the first few months of its business life is daunting. The ongoing financial crisis the world over has made even the average Joe in need of a quick fix in terms of money. In situations like this it's reassuring to know that an online company www.AfsLoansOnline. com offers unsecured personal loans from $10K - $150K. Processing is fast and now fees collected. No hidden charges for all fees are upfront. Your loans have no collateral and will be available to you within 24-48 hours. Check it out for details.
Read More......Thursday, September 4, 2008
Texans in Heaven
Got this from a friend.
Gabriel went to the Lord and said, 'I have to talk to you. We have some Texans up here who are causing problems... They're swinging on the Pearly Gates, my horn is missing, and they are wearing T-shirts instead of their robes; there's barbecue sauce and Picante sauce all over everything, especially their T-shirts; their dogs are riding in the chariots and chasing the sheep; they are wearing baseball caps and cowboy hats instead of their halos. They refuse to keep the stairway to Heaven clean, and their boots are marking and scuffing up the halls of Wisdom. There are watermelon seeds and tortilla chip crumbs all over the place. Some of them are walking around with just one wing; and they insist on bringing their horses with them.'
The Lord said, 'Texans are Texans, Gabriel. Heaven is home to all of my children. If you want to know about real problems, call the Devil.'
So Gabriel calls the Devil who answers the phone and says, 'Hello---hold on a minute.' When he returns to the phone the Devil says, 'O.K., I'm back. What can I do for you? '
Gabriel replied, 'I just want to know what kind of problems you are having down there with the Texans.'
The Devil said, 'Hold on again. I need to check on something.' After about 5 minutes the Devil returned to the phone and said. 'I'm back. Now what was the question?'
Gabriel said, 'What kind of problems are you having down there with the Texans?'
The Devil said, 'Man, I don't believe this...hold on.' This time the Devil was gone 15 minutes and when he returns he says, 'I'm sorry Gabriel, I can't talk right now. Those Texans have put out the fire and are trying to install air conditioning...
Read More......
Gabriel went to the Lord and said, 'I have to talk to you. We have some Texans up here who are causing problems... They're swinging on the Pearly Gates, my horn is missing, and they are wearing T-shirts instead of their robes; there's barbecue sauce and Picante sauce all over everything, especially their T-shirts; their dogs are riding in the chariots and chasing the sheep; they are wearing baseball caps and cowboy hats instead of their halos. They refuse to keep the stairway to Heaven clean, and their boots are marking and scuffing up the halls of Wisdom. There are watermelon seeds and tortilla chip crumbs all over the place. Some of them are walking around with just one wing; and they insist on bringing their horses with them.'
The Lord said, 'Texans are Texans, Gabriel. Heaven is home to all of my children. If you want to know about real problems, call the Devil.'
So Gabriel calls the Devil who answers the phone and says, 'Hello---hold on a minute.' When he returns to the phone the Devil says, 'O.K., I'm back. What can I do for you? '
Gabriel replied, 'I just want to know what kind of problems you are having down there with the Texans.'
The Devil said, 'Hold on again. I need to check on something.' After about 5 minutes the Devil returned to the phone and said. 'I'm back. Now what was the question?'
Gabriel said, 'What kind of problems are you having down there with the Texans?'
The Devil said, 'Man, I don't believe this...hold on.' This time the Devil was gone 15 minutes and when he returns he says, 'I'm sorry Gabriel, I can't talk right now. Those Texans have put out the fire and are trying to install air conditioning...
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Help for Small Businesses
A lot of small establishments have closed due to insufficient cash flow. Every small businesses rely heavily on business loans to make their company float until it's earning revenue and not merely breaking even. Looking for a lender who would actually provide the small entrepreneur an unsecured loan is time consuming. EZUnsecured.com offers a no time + no collateral = no problem business loan to commercial establishments and companies in need of help. Check the site out.
Read More......Saturday, August 30, 2008
Web Hosting Sites Rated
My blog, Manna from Heaven is six months old. I have met some really cool fellow bloggers through this site. I have noticed that many of the bloggers I know are opting to buy domain names for their blogs. I have actually done the same with my first blog, bought a domain name. It is easy to but a domain name.There are many sites who offer domains in dot com, dot net, dot org, and others.The real dilemma is choosing a web host. A blogger's needs differ from one another. Getting a web host is really dependent on a blogger's requirements. Well, if you want the easy way out, you can just buy a domain name and get a free web host. However, your free host is limited in its capacity. A need for a truly capable web host is a must.
Webhostingrating.com is a site offering web hosting rating on various web host providers. The rating is based on customer satisfaction, affordability, reliability, uptime and technical support. Web Hosting Rating has a wide range of directory that includes information on all web hosting providers, their web hosting plans, promotional and discount coupons, and unedited reviews by real customers. It also has web hosting tutorials for newbies.
Do you know that there is a web programming language called Cold Fusion? CFML (cold fusion mark up language) is actually similar to HTML. Some web hosting sites use CFML for their hosting. Webhostingrating.com gives our the 10 most trusted web host. Top is InMotion, followed by Webhostingpad, Globat, Bluehost then Yahoo. A cheap web host may be all that personal bloggers need. There are a lot of companies that provide quality web hosting service on some of the best servers available for budget prices. If you are considering on getting a web host, check out the site for more information and check out sites that are included in the roster of web hosting awards.
Read More......
Webhostingrating.com is a site offering web hosting rating on various web host providers. The rating is based on customer satisfaction, affordability, reliability, uptime and technical support. Web Hosting Rating has a wide range of directory that includes information on all web hosting providers, their web hosting plans, promotional and discount coupons, and unedited reviews by real customers. It also has web hosting tutorials for newbies.
Do you know that there is a web programming language called Cold Fusion? CFML (cold fusion mark up language) is actually similar to HTML. Some web hosting sites use CFML for their hosting. Webhostingrating.com gives our the 10 most trusted web host. Top is InMotion, followed by Webhostingpad, Globat, Bluehost then Yahoo. A cheap web host may be all that personal bloggers need. There are a lot of companies that provide quality web hosting service on some of the best servers available for budget prices. If you are considering on getting a web host, check out the site for more information and check out sites that are included in the roster of web hosting awards.
Friday, August 22, 2008
He Gives Good Gifts
Today's Scripture
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father…” (James 1:17).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God has so many good and perfect gifts in store for you. Not only does He offer eternal life through His Son, Jesus, but the Bible is filled with His generous and abundant promises in this life. He wants to bless you with provision and supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. He wants to pour out His abundant favor on you and cause everything you do to prosper. He wants to bless you with spiritual gifts to make you strong in your inner man. He wants you to enjoy your job and be proud of your work at the end of the day. These are all gifts from God. Every good gift from God is meant to draw us closer to Him. Often times, people have a picture of God shaped by experiences that have happened in the past, or experiences with their earthly father. I encourage you today to let go of any past ideas and see God according to His Word. He is good and faithful, and He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him! Seek Him today and experience the life of blessing He has in store for you!
A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, thank You for Your good and perfect gifts. I open my heart to You today and ask that You help me see Your goodness so that I can know You more. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Forrest Gump at the Pearly Gates
The day finally arrived. Forrest Gump dies and goes to Heaven. He is at the Pearly Gates, met by St. Peter himself. However, the gates are closed, and Forrest approaches the gatekeeper.
St. Peter said, 'Well, Forrest, it is certainly good to see you. We have heard a lot about you I must tell you, though, that the place is filling up fast, and we have been administering an entrance examination for everyone. The test is short, but you have to pass it before you can get into Heaven.'
Forrest responds, 'It sure is good to be here, St. Peter, sir. But nobody ever told me about any entrance exam. I sure hope that the test ain't too hard. Life was a big enough test as it was.'
St. Peter continued, 'Yes, I know, Forrest, but the test is only three questions.
First:
What two days of the week begin with the letter T?
Second:
How many seconds are there in a year?
Third:
What is God's first name?'
Forrest leaves to think the questions over. He returns the next day and sees St. Peter, who waves him up, and says, 'Now that you have had a chance to think the questions over, tell me your answers'
Forrest replied, 'Well, the first one -- which two days in the week begins with the letter 'T'? Shucks, that one is easy. That would be Today and Tomorrow.' !
The Saint's eyes opened wide and he exclaimed, 'Forrest, that is not what I was thinking, but you do have a point, and I guess I did not specify, so I will give you credit for that answer. How about the next one?' asked St. Peter.
'How many seconds in a year? Now that one is harder,' replied Forrest, but I thunk and thunk about that, and I guess the only answer can be twelve.'
Astounded, St. Peter said, 'Twelve? Twelve? Forrest, how in Heaven's name could you come up with twelve seconds in a year?'
Forrest replied, 'Shucks, there's got to be twelve: January 2nd, February 2nd, March 2nd.. '
'Hold it,' interrupts St. Peter. 'I see where you are going with this, and I see your point, though that was not quite what I had in mind....but I will have to give you credit for that one, too. Let us go on with the third and final question. Can you tell me God's first name'?
'Sure,' Forrest replied, 'it's Andy.'
'Andy?' exclaimed an exasperated and frustrated St Peter.
'OK, I can understand how you came up with your answers to my first two questions, but just how in the world did you come up with the name Andy as the first name of God?'
'Shucks, that was the easiest one of all,' Forrest replied. 'I learnt it from the song, 'ANDY WALKS WITH ME, ANDY TALKS WITH ME, ANDY TELLS ME I AM HIS OWN.'
St. Peter opened the Pearly Gates, and said: 'Run Forrest, run.'
Give me a sense of humour, Lord.
Give me the ability to understand a clean joke,
To get some humour out of life, And to pass it on to other folk.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Written On Your Heart
Today's Scripture
“They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts…” (Romans 2:15).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
In the Old Testament, God’s commands were written on stone tablets and kept in the tabernacle. Now, we are living according to the New Testament, and when we accept Jesus as our personal Lord and Savior, we become His temple. He lives in us, and He engraves His promises and commands in our hearts. How can you be sure of this? This verse goes on to say that your conscience, or inner man, has a stronger knowledge of what is right and what is wrong; what you should and shouldn’t do. You are drawn to follow the Word of God. That’s the Spirit of God on the inside of you, guiding and directing you. As you follow His leading, your ability to hear and know Him is strengthened. But if you choose to bypass that prompting on the inside, your heart can become hard which will affect your ability to hear Him in the future. Make the decision today to demonstrate that God’s law is written on your heart by quickly obeying His leading. As you do, He’ll guide you down the path of blessing, and you’ll experience the abundant life He has in store for you!
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for making Your home in me and for guiding me down the path of peace and blessing. Help me to clearly follow Your promptings all the days of my life and honor You in all I do. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Friday, August 8, 2008
An Atheist in the Woods
An atheist was walking through the woods.
'What majestic trees'!
'What powerful rivers'!
'What beautiful animals'!
He said to himself.
As he was walking alongside the river, he heard a rustling in the bushes behind him. He turned to look. He saw a 7-foot grizzly bear charge towards him.
He ran as fast as he could up the path. He looked over his shoulder and saw that the bear was closing in on him.
He looked over his shoulder again, and the bear was even closer. He tripped and fell on the ground. He rolled over to pick himself up but saw that the bear was right on top of him, reaching for him with his left paw and raising his right paw to strike him.
At that instant the Atheist cried out, 'Oh my God!'
Time Stopped.
The bear froze.
The forest was silent.
As a bright light shone upon the man, a voice came out of the sky. 'You deny my existence for all these years, teach others I don't exist, and even credit creation to cosmic accident.' 'Do you expect me to help you out of this predicament? Am I to count you as a believer'?
The atheist looked directly into the light, 'It would be hypocritical of me to suddenly ask you to treat me as a Christian now, but perhaps you could make the BEAR a Christian'?
'Very Well,' said the voice.
The light went out. The sounds of the forest resumed. And the bear dropped his right paw, brought both paws together, bowed his head & spoke:
'Lord bless this food, which I am about to receive from thy bounty through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Cheers!
Sunday, August 3, 2008
A Touching Story
This was sent to me by a friend. I do not know who the author is but still I decided to post this very touching story. Read on.
I was walking around in a Target store, when I saw a Cashier hand this little boy some money back.The boy couldn't have been more than 5 or 6 years old.The Cashier said, 'I'm sorry, but you don't have enough money to buy this doll.'
Then the little boy turned to the old woman next to him: ''Granny, are you sure I don't have enough money?''The old lady replied: ''You know that you don't have enough money to buy this doll, my dear.''Then she asked him to stay there for just 5 minutes while she went to look around. She left quickly. The little boy was still holding the doll in his hand. Finally, I walked toward him and I asked him who he wished to give this doll to. 'It's the doll that my sister loved most and wanted so much for Christmas. She was sure that Santa Claus would bring it to her.'
I replied to him that maybe Santa Claus would bring it to her after all, and not to worry.But he replied to me sadly. ' No, Santa Claus can't bring it to her where she is now. I have to give the doll to my mommy so that she can give it to my sister when she goes there.'His eyes were so sad while saying this.'My Sister has gone to be with God. Daddy says that Mommy is going to see God very soon too, so I thought that she could take the doll with her to give it to my sister.''My heart nearly stopped.The little boy looked up at me and said: 'I told daddy to tell mommy not to go yet. I need her to wait until I come back from the mall.'
Then he showed me a very nice photo of him where he was laughing. He then told me 'I want mommy to take my picture with her so she won't forget me.' 'I love my mommy and I wish she doesn't have to leave me, but daddy says that she has to go to be with my little sister.'Then he looked again at the doll with sad eyes, very quietly.I quickly reached for my wallet and said to the boy. 'Suppose we check again, just in case you do have enough money for the doll?'''OK' he said, 'I hope I do have enough.' I added some of my money to his without him seeing and we started to count it. There was enough for the doll and even some spare money.The little boy said: 'Thank you God for giving me enough money!'
Then he looked at me and added, 'I asked last night before I went to sleep for God to make sure I had enough money to buy this doll, so that mommy could give It to my sister. He heard me!'''I also wanted to have enough money to buy a white rose for my mommy, but I didn't dare to ask God for too much. But He gave me enough to buy the doll and a white rose.'''My mommy loves white roses.'
A few minutes later, the old lady returned and I left with my basket.I finished my shopping in a totally different state from when I started. I couldn't get the little boy out of my mind.Then I remembered a local new s paper article two days ago, which mentioned a drunk man in a truck, who hit a car occupied by a young woman and a little girl.The little girl died right away, and the mother was left in a critical state. The family had to decide whether to pull the plug on the life-sustaining machine, because the young woman would not be able to recover from the coma.Was this the family of the little boy?
Two days after this encounter with the little boy, I read in the newspaper that the young woman had passed away.I couldn't stop myself as I bought a bunch of white roses and I went to the funeral home where the body of the young woman was expos ed for people to see and make last wishes before her burial.She was there, in her coffin, holding a beautiful white rose in her hand with the photo of the little boy and the doll placed over her chest.
I left the place, teary-eyed, feeling that my life had been changed forever.... The love that the little boy had for his mother and his sister is still, to this day, hard to imagine.And in a fraction of a second, a drunk driver had taken all this away from him.
Read More......
I was walking around in a Target store, when I saw a Cashier hand this little boy some money back.The boy couldn't have been more than 5 or 6 years old.The Cashier said, 'I'm sorry, but you don't have enough money to buy this doll.'
Then the little boy turned to the old woman next to him: ''Granny, are you sure I don't have enough money?''The old lady replied: ''You know that you don't have enough money to buy this doll, my dear.''Then she asked him to stay there for just 5 minutes while she went to look around. She left quickly. The little boy was still holding the doll in his hand. Finally, I walked toward him and I asked him who he wished to give this doll to. 'It's the doll that my sister loved most and wanted so much for Christmas. She was sure that Santa Claus would bring it to her.'
I replied to him that maybe Santa Claus would bring it to her after all, and not to worry.But he replied to me sadly. ' No, Santa Claus can't bring it to her where she is now. I have to give the doll to my mommy so that she can give it to my sister when she goes there.'His eyes were so sad while saying this.'My Sister has gone to be with God. Daddy says that Mommy is going to see God very soon too, so I thought that she could take the doll with her to give it to my sister.''My heart nearly stopped.The little boy looked up at me and said: 'I told daddy to tell mommy not to go yet. I need her to wait until I come back from the mall.'
Then he showed me a very nice photo of him where he was laughing. He then told me 'I want mommy to take my picture with her so she won't forget me.' 'I love my mommy and I wish she doesn't have to leave me, but daddy says that she has to go to be with my little sister.'Then he looked again at the doll with sad eyes, very quietly.I quickly reached for my wallet and said to the boy. 'Suppose we check again, just in case you do have enough money for the doll?'''OK' he said, 'I hope I do have enough.' I added some of my money to his without him seeing and we started to count it. There was enough for the doll and even some spare money.The little boy said: 'Thank you God for giving me enough money!'
Then he looked at me and added, 'I asked last night before I went to sleep for God to make sure I had enough money to buy this doll, so that mommy could give It to my sister. He heard me!'''I also wanted to have enough money to buy a white rose for my mommy, but I didn't dare to ask God for too much. But He gave me enough to buy the doll and a white rose.'''My mommy loves white roses.'
A few minutes later, the old lady returned and I left with my basket.I finished my shopping in a totally different state from when I started. I couldn't get the little boy out of my mind.Then I remembered a local new s paper article two days ago, which mentioned a drunk man in a truck, who hit a car occupied by a young woman and a little girl.The little girl died right away, and the mother was left in a critical state. The family had to decide whether to pull the plug on the life-sustaining machine, because the young woman would not be able to recover from the coma.Was this the family of the little boy?
Two days after this encounter with the little boy, I read in the newspaper that the young woman had passed away.I couldn't stop myself as I bought a bunch of white roses and I went to the funeral home where the body of the young woman was expos ed for people to see and make last wishes before her burial.She was there, in her coffin, holding a beautiful white rose in her hand with the photo of the little boy and the doll placed over her chest.
I left the place, teary-eyed, feeling that my life had been changed forever.... The love that the little boy had for his mother and his sister is still, to this day, hard to imagine.And in a fraction of a second, a drunk driver had taken all this away from him.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Refresh Others
Today's Scripture
“A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God’s system works on the principle of sowing and reaping. Simply put, if you are kind to others, then others will be kind to you. What you sow, you shall reap. When you refresh others, you yourself will be refreshed. That word “refresh” means to restore or revive. When you reach out to others to restore them or offer strength to them, you are planting seeds for your own future. And there are many ways to refresh others—a smile, a kind word. You might buy someone a tank of gas. You could pay for someone’s groceries in line at the grocery store. You could make a special meal for a friend in need. If you ask God to show you how to refresh others, He will. Get in the habit of looking for ways to be a blessing to other people. Have a generous attitude, step out and refresh others. As you do, you’ll reap an abundant harvest in your life, and you will live the life of blessing the Lord has for you!
A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, thank You for being a blessing to me so that I can be a blessing to others. Show me ways to refresh people in my daily life and help always to honor You in everything I say and do. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Fight Drug Addiction
Drug addiction continues to be a menace to society. What is drug addiction? If you are addicted to a drug, you have intense cravings for it. You may be emotionally, psychologically and physically addicted. You want to use it again and again. When you stop taking it, you may have unpleasant physical reactions. Drug addiction involves compulsively seeking to use a substance, regardless of the potentially negative social, psychological and physical consequences. Breaking a drug addiction is difficult, but not impossible. I have had a personal experience on drug rehabilitation.
My best friend’s son was addicted to methamphetamine. She spent a large amount of money fro the treatment but it failed. In my quest to help her, I browsed on the internet and found this video about Orange County drug abuse treatment. The video is of a former drug addict whose life has been completely changed by the Orange County drug abuse facility. He said that he has been clean for the past five years. He said that upon his graduation from the program his relationship with his family went from bad to best. He was able to put his life into order and is currently doing great. Take a look at his video.
Read More......
My best friend’s son was addicted to methamphetamine. She spent a large amount of money fro the treatment but it failed. In my quest to help her, I browsed on the internet and found this video about Orange County drug abuse treatment. The video is of a former drug addict whose life has been completely changed by the Orange County drug abuse facility. He said that he has been clean for the past five years. He said that upon his graduation from the program his relationship with his family went from bad to best. He was able to put his life into order and is currently doing great. Take a look at his video.
Run by Narconon Vista Bay, a premiere drug and alcohol treatment center, the Orange County drug rehabilitation centers are servicing areas in Fullerton, Anaheim, Brea, La Habra and Tustin in Orange County California. I might as well inform my best friend about this by asking her to watch the video.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Help Others Succeed
Today's Scripture
“Send your grain across the seas, and in time, profits will flow back to you” (Ecclesiastes 11:1 NLT).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God’s system works on the principle of sowing and reaping. What you pour out will come back to you in increased measure. When you give generously, a generous harvest will return to you. When you help others succeed, you will find abundant success on your path, too. What are you investing in the lives of the people around you? Are you helping others get ahead? There are people in your life who hold the keys for you to reach your full potential. These are people that God has placed in your life for you to help along. The higher they rise up, the higher you will rise up. When you give generously of your time, talent, and resources, you are setting yourself up for greater success. People will come across your path that will help you grow and reach your full potential. But you have to do your part to step out and sow the seed. Be on the lookout for ways you can help others. As you give of yourself to help others grow, you’ll rise higher and live the abundant life He has in store for you.
A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, I open my heart to Your heart. I invite You to use me to be a blessing in the lives of others. Show me where to invest my time, talent, and resources for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
A Father's Love
I knew that there was something special today, July 19. I know that it was my father-in-law's birthday. He passed away some seven years ago but my in-laws insist on celebrating it anyway. As I was blog hopping this morning, I read Juliana's post about her tatang. Truly, what she said about her father touched me.
I went about my usual Saturday errands when it suddenly hit me. July 19 here is July 18 in the US. Juliana's tatang died on the exact same day as my papa. What a coincidence I said to myself, then I cried. I so miss my papa, imperfect as he was. But I cried more for other fathers out there whose children will have nothing to say or reminisce about when they leave the world.
I stumbled on this video. It is a story of a father's undying and unconditional love for his son. The son told his dad that he wants to join a 5 K run. So they did. Then the son and father gradually progressed to 10K, 26K, 42K then ultimately the nightmare of all triathletes, the Ironman Triathlon. No big deal you might say. Great father-son bonding. Please watch it and be touched.
Read More......
I went about my usual Saturday errands when it suddenly hit me. July 19 here is July 18 in the US. Juliana's tatang died on the exact same day as my papa. What a coincidence I said to myself, then I cried. I so miss my papa, imperfect as he was. But I cried more for other fathers out there whose children will have nothing to say or reminisce about when they leave the world.
I stumbled on this video. It is a story of a father's undying and unconditional love for his son. The son told his dad that he wants to join a 5 K run. So they did. Then the son and father gradually progressed to 10K, 26K, 42K then ultimately the nightmare of all triathletes, the Ironman Triathlon. No big deal you might say. Great father-son bonding. Please watch it and be touched.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
In Memory
Not ten minutes ago, my mother called. I was quite wary as to why she was calling me this time of the night. She usually calls in the morning. Odd hour calls mean something is wrong. I was right.
My 27 year old niece-in-law died. It was a shocker for she was not sick the last time I saw her. According to some hasty reporting, my niece-in-law died of dehydration. She had been experiencing vomiting and LBM. I was so sad for her orphaned little girl, Bianca. She just turned six, slightly older than Ethan. May I ask my dear readers to please pray for Bianca and her dad Benbol. They need peace and acceptance in this very trying time.
Read More......
My 27 year old niece-in-law died. It was a shocker for she was not sick the last time I saw her. According to some hasty reporting, my niece-in-law died of dehydration. She had been experiencing vomiting and LBM. I was so sad for her orphaned little girl, Bianca. She just turned six, slightly older than Ethan. May I ask my dear readers to please pray for Bianca and her dad Benbol. They need peace and acceptance in this very trying time.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Pastor Bob
I just subscribed to a daily devotional guide sent by email. The website is www.horizon.org. It is the official website of an Emergent Church called Horizon North County. The church actually started as a satellite church of Horizon Christian Fellowship. As the Lord led, Pastor Mike Mackintosh put up the new church and assigned Pastor Bob Botsford as its senior pastor.
Pastor Bob has been gifted by God the ability to preach in simple yet powerful Words. Believers young and old can listen to Pastor Bob’s sermons and actually apply the teachings in their lives. Pastor Bob has a series of Sermons called I Want A Better Marriage. The Sermon series is designed for you -young, old, single, married, and divorced- so that you may be prepared to understand God’s plan and purpose for marriage. There are sample sermons downloadable from the site. As a matter of fact, the site is pretty cool what with its MP3, Podcast, Real Audio and Webcast choices. At present, Pastor Bob is the CEO of Horizon Prep and Preschool and currently is in the advisory board of the Billy Graham School of Evangelism. He also hosts his own radio show Testify on KWVE 107.9 FM and KPRZ 1210 AM.
If you are looking for a caring congregation where the word of God is first, you can
find a Church in Rancho Santa Fe - Horizon North County Church.
Read More......
Pastor Bob has been gifted by God the ability to preach in simple yet powerful Words. Believers young and old can listen to Pastor Bob’s sermons and actually apply the teachings in their lives. Pastor Bob has a series of Sermons called I Want A Better Marriage. The Sermon series is designed for you -young, old, single, married, and divorced- so that you may be prepared to understand God’s plan and purpose for marriage. There are sample sermons downloadable from the site. As a matter of fact, the site is pretty cool what with its MP3, Podcast, Real Audio and Webcast choices. At present, Pastor Bob is the CEO of Horizon Prep and Preschool and currently is in the advisory board of the Billy Graham School of Evangelism. He also hosts his own radio show Testify on KWVE 107.9 FM and KPRZ 1210 AM.
If you are looking for a caring congregation where the word of God is first, you can
find a Church in Rancho Santa Fe - Horizon North County Church.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Strange but True
Isn't it strange how a 20 dollar bill seems like such a large amount when you donate it to the church, but such a small amount when you go shopping?
Isn't it strange how 2 hours seem so long when you're at church, and how short they seem when you're watching a good movie?
Isn't it strange that you can't find a word to say when you're praying but..
you have no trouble thinking what to talk about with a friend?
Isn't it strange how difficult and boring it is to read one chapter of the Bible, but
how easy it is to read 100 pages of a popular novel or a Harry Potter book?
Isn't it strange how everyone wants front-row-tickets to concerts or games, but they do whatever is possible to sit near the last row in Church?
Isn't it strange how we need to know about an event for Church 2-3 weeks before the day so we can include it in our agenda, but we can adjust it for other events at the last minute?
Isn't it strange how difficult it is to learn a fact about God to share it with others, but how easy it is to learn, understand, extend and repeat gossip?
Isn't it strange how we believe everything that magazines and newspapers say but...
we question the words in the Bible?
Isn't it strange how everyone wants a place in heaven but... they don't want to believe, do, or say anything to get there?
Isn't it strange how we send jokes in e-mails and they are forwarded right away, but
when we are going to send messages about God, we think about it twice before we share it with others?
Strange but True. Now what are you going to do about it?
Thursday, July 10, 2008
My Son's Eyeglasses
My son lost his pair of eyeglasses again. This is the nth time he had misplaced it and I'm really getting annoyed. Teenagers! Since he is presently staying in an apartment near the university, I asked him to just visit ZenniOptical.com to browse on incredible stylish new frames from Zenni. My son said he still has the prescription from his last refraction. Great! He can just fill out the prescription form , choose from the variety of Zenni Optical $8 Rx eyeglasses. This would basically save me a lot of time and money. Take a look at the frame my son chose. It's of pure titanium and available in three colors. The company is truly a great find for Zenni Optical was on FOX news! Check it out.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Of Golfballs, Sand and Coffee
When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar . . and the coffee .
A professor stood before his Philosophy class and had some items in front of him.
When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls.
He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar.
He shook the jar lightly.
The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls.
He then asked the students again if the jar was full.
They agreed! it was.
The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the
jar.
Of course, the sand filled up everything else.
He asked once more if the jar was full.
The students responded with a unanimous "yes."
The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table
and poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filling the empty
space between the sand.
The students laughed.
"Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided, " I want you to
recognize that this jar represents your life.
"The golf balls are the important things - your God, family, your
children, your health, your friends, and your favorite passions - things
that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would
still be full.
"The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your
house, and your car.
"The sand is everything else-the small stuff.
"If you put the sand into the jar first! ," he continued, "there is
no room for the pebbles or the golf balls
"The same goes for life.
"If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will
never have room for the things that are important to you.
"Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness.
"Play with your children. "Take time to get medical checkups.
"Take your partner out to dinner.
"Play another 18.
"There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal.
"Take care of the golf balls first, the things that really matter.
"Set your priorities.
"The rest is just sand."
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the coffee
represented.
The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked.
"It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may
seem, there's always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend."
Saturday, July 5, 2008
God's Art
Call it a freak of nature, coincidence or what-have-you. I am simply amazed by these natural formations. God's hand? In all probability!
The Cat
The Croc
The Bear
His Hands
Read More......
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Paid in Full
After living what I felt was a 'decent' life, my time on earth came to the end. The first thing I remember is sitting on a bench in the waiting room of what I thought to be a court house. The doors opened and I was instructed to come in and have a seat by the defense table.
As I looked around I saw the 'prosecutor.'He was a villainous looking gent who snarled as he stared at me. He definitely was the most evil person I have ever seen.
I sat down and looked to my left and there sat My Attorney,a kind and gentle looking man whose appearance seemed so familiar to me, I felt I knew Him.
The corner door flew open and there appeared the Judge in full flowing robes. He commanded an awesome presence as He moved across the room I couldn't take my eyes off of Him.
As He took His seat behind the bench, He said, 'Let us begin.'
The prosecutor rose and said,'My name is Satan and I am here to show you why this woman belongs in hell.' He proceeded to tell of lies that I told, things that I stole, and In the past when I cheated others Satan told of other horrible Perversions that were once in my life and the more he spoke, the further down in my seat I sank.
I was so embarrassed that I couldn't look at anyone, even my own Attorney, as the Devil told of sins that even I had completely forgotten about.
As upset as I was at Satan for telling all these things about me, I was equally upset at My Attorney who sat there silently not Offering any form of defense at all.
I know I had been guilty of those things, but I had done some good in my life - couldn't that at least equal out part of the harm I'd done?
Satan finished with a fury and said, 'This woman belongs in hell, she is guilty of all that I have charged and there is not a person who can prove otherwise.'
When it was His turn, My Attorney first asked if He might approach the bench. The Judge allowed this over the strong objection of Satan, and beckoned Him to come forward.
As He got up and started walking, I was able to see Him in His full splendor and majesty.
I realized why He seemed so familiar; this was Jesus representing me, my Lord and my Savior.!
He stopped at the bench and softly said to the Judge, 'Hi, Dad,' and then He turned to address the court.
'Satan was correct in saying that this woman had sinned, I won't deny any of these allegations.
And, yes, the wage of sin is death, and this woman deserves to be punished.'
Jesus took a deep breath and turned to His Father with outstretched arms and proclaimed, 'However, I died on the cross so that this person might have eternal life and she has accepted Me as her Savior, so she is Mine.'
My Lord continued with, 'Her name is written in the Book of Life, and no one can snatch her from Me. Satan still does not understand yet. This woman is not to be given justice, but rather mercy.'
As Jesus sat down, He quietly paused, looked at His Father and said,
'There is nothing else that needs to be done.'
'I've done it all.'
The Judge lifted His mighty hand and slammed the gavel down.
The following words bellowed from His lips..
'This woman is free.'
The penalty for her has already been paid in full.
'Case dismissed.'
As my Lord led me away, I could hear Satan ranting and raving, 'I won't give up, I will win the next one.' I asked Jesus as He gave me my instructions where to go next, 'Have you ever lost a case?'
Christ lovingly smiled and said,
'Everyone that has come to Me and asked Me to represent them
has received the same verdict as you,
~Paid In Full~
Monday, June 30, 2008
The Secret
One day, one friend asked another,
"How is it that you are always so happy?
You have so much energy,
and you never seem to get down."
With her eyes smiling, she said,
"I know the Secret!"
"What secret is that?"
To which she replied,
"I'll tell you all about it,
but you have to promise to
share the Secret with others."
"The Secret is this:
I have learned there is little I can do
in my life that will make me truly happy.
I must depend on God to make
me happy and to meet my needs.
When a need arises in my life,
I have to trust God to supply
according to HIS riches.
I have learned most of the time
I don't need half of what I think I do.
He has never let me down.
Since I learned that 'Secret', I am happy."
"That's too simple!"
But upon reflecting over her own life
she recalled how she thought a bigger house
would make her happy, but it didn't!
She thought a better paying job
would make her happy, but it hadn't.
When did she realize her greatest happiness?
Sitting on the floor with her grandchildren,
playing games, eating pizza or reading a story,
a simple gift from God.
We can't depend on people to make us happy.
Only GOD in His infinite wisdom can do that.
Trust HIM!
And now I pass the Secret on to you!
So once you get it, what will you do?
That GOD in His wisdom will take care of YOU!
But it's not really a secret...
We just have to believe it and do it...
Really trust God!
Friday, June 27, 2008
The Best Gift Ever Tag
I don't usually do tags in this blog but this tag is highly inspiring. Thanks Outback Pinay for the tag.
*** Start Here ***
Friendly Rules:
1. Simply copy the inspirational story and in the end write down the lesson you have learned out from this.
2. Put your own blog name and link. Pass or tag this to your friends to inspire them.
3. Start copy from “Begin Copy” until “End Copy” to your blog.
--- The Best Gift Ever ---
A young man was getting ready to graduate from college. For many months he had admired a beautiful sports car in a dealer's showroom and knowing his father could well afford it, he told him that was all he wanted. As Graduation Day approached, the young man awaited signs that his father had purchased the car.
Finally, on the morning of his graduation his father called him into his private study. His father told him how proud he was to have such a fine son, and told him how much he loved him. He handed his son a beautiful wrapped gift box. Curious, but somewhat disappointed, the young man opened the box and found a lovely, leather-bound Bible, with the young man's name embossed in gold. Angrily, he raised his voice to his father and said, "With all your money you give me a Bible?" and stormed out of the house, leaving the Bible.
Many years passed and the young man was very successful in business. He had a beautiful home and wonderful family, but realized his father was very old and thought perhaps he should go to him. He had not seen him since that graduation day. Before he could make arrangements, he received a telegram telling him his father had passed away, and willed all of his possessions to his son. He needed to come home immediately and take care of things. When he arrived at his father's house, sudden sadness and regret filled his heart.
He began to search through his father's important papers and saw the still new Bible, just as he had left it years ago.With tears, he opened the Bible and began to turn the pages. His father had carefully underlined a verse, Matt 7:11, "And if ye, being evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your Heavenly father which is in heaven, give to those who ask Him?" As he read those words, a car key dropped from the back of the Bible.It had a tag with the dealer's name, the same dealer who had the sports car he had desired. On the tag was the date of his graduation, and the words... PAID IN FULL.
How many times do we miss God's blessing because they are not packaged as we expected? I trust you enjoyed this. Pass it on to others. Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; but remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for...
PLS. SEND THIS TO AT LEAST FIVE PEOPLE SO AS TO LET THIS GREAT LESSON FLOW AROUND.
----End Copy----
Lesson I learned: (Write here what your learned)
Things might not turn out to be what we expect or want. The great and good thing about a God is his perfection - we can literally say - He (God) knows what He is doing. Let us pray and work for what our heart desires. If in the end, we find ourselves still in a fix - worry not. God knows our needs. He will greatly provide. You just have to trust in Him. Remember Romans 8:28 - And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
I am tagging the following friends: Brown Pinay Watchamacallit Coatable Coats A Time to Weep & Laugh Can of Thoughts and everyone else who wants to grab this tag.
1. Outback-Pinay 2. And Life Goes on for Filipino Mom 3. Manna from Heaven 4. YOUR LINK HERE
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