Welcome to a place where Christ should be exalted and "Self" should be abased!!
Welcome to a place where the BIBLE can be discussed rationally, intelligently, and positively without unnecessary argument!!
Welcome to a place where prayer can be requested and encouraged!!
Welcome to a place where positive and encouraging thoughts from scripture can be shared in a caring and loving way!!
Welcome to a place away from all the arguments, recriminations, and negativity of the outside world!!
Welcome to a place of rest and safety!!
Welcome to a place where Philippians 2:3 is practiced: "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves."
Welcome to this Christian thread.
(Please leave all aggression, bitterness, and philosophy outside the door and please wipe your feet before coming inside!!)
I live in my own little world. But it's OK... They know me Here!
Welcome to a place where the BIBLE can be discussed rationally, intelligently, and positively without unnecessary argument!!
Welcome to a place where prayer can be requested and encouraged!!
Welcome to a place where positive and encouraging thoughts from scripture can be shared in a caring and loving way!!
Welcome to a place away from all the arguments, recriminations, and negativity of the outside world!!
Welcome to a place of rest and safety!!
Welcome to a place where Philippians 2:3 is practiced: "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves."
Welcome to this Christian thread.
(Please leave all aggression, bitterness, and philosophy outside the door and please wipe your feet before coming inside!!)
I live in my own little world. But it's OK... They know me Here!
Hi nikki. I see that the southern US was spared from what could have been a major lose of life. There is however a great deal of property damage. The crew of the freighter and others no doubt spent a terrifying night.
It reminds me Psalms 107 23 - 31
23 Those who go down to the sea in ships,
Who do business on great waters;
24 They have seen the works of the LORD,
And His wonders in the deep.
25 For He spoke and raised up a stormy wind,
Which lifted up the waves of the sea.
26 They rose up to the heavens, they went down to the depths;
Their soul melted away in their misery.
27 They reeled and staggered like a drunken man,
And were at their wits’ end.
28 Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble,
And He brought them out of their distresses.
29 He caused the storm to be still,
So that the waves of the sea were hushed.
30 Then they were glad because they were quiet,
So He guided them to their desired haven.
31 Let them give thanks to the LORD for His lovingkindness,
And for His wonders to the sons of men!
affliction of every kind is meant for folks to draw near in faith to Him.
I received the following devotional this morning . There may be someone out in the lurker phase who is enduring very hard times. I hope it may be of some encouragement. Take care everyone ... He truly does love you !!!!
WHY AFFLICTION? A TESTING OF FAITH
“Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; thou hast tried me…” Psalm 17:3
Many today make much of their ‘profession’ of faith. They are quick to tell you how involved they are in the many ministries of the church … how meaningful are the traditions, customs, and forms of worship they adhere to … how long they have been a Christian and the circle of friends they fellowship with. All of these things are wonderful and encouraging in many ways. Sadly, many Believers make these a “spiritual crutch” for their faith. The problem lies, when these things “take precedent” for our time with God. Nothing should supersede the time it takes for us to “grow in grace.”
This involves the study of His Word … our time in prayer communicating with God and He with us … of letting His Word become applicable to every phase of our life. Having Christ the “priority and focus of our life,” will cause us to drive our stakes of faith deep into His Word and our trust solely in Him. How needful this intimate fellowship with Christ should be, when the “clouds of affliction’” envelope our lives.
When confronted with “affliction,” the ‘reality of our faith’ will come to the forefront. It will be the ‘moment of truth’ as to whether our faith is but a shallow pretence … OR … whether our faith is ‘bent on doing His will’ and ‘committed to His Plan and Purpose’ for our lives. You see, there is a profound difference in a mere “profession of our faith” … and “Possessing the Christ” who is the object of our faith and the Lord of our life.
Affliction often forms the battleground for the “testing of our faith.” There we will be tested as to the Source of our Faith. Is it a faith that “we” have established by “our” doing, “our” activity, “our” gifts, and “our” ability? Or will it prove, that we have come humbly before the Cross, acknowledged our sin, received Christ as our Savior and the Lord of our life … and cried out to Him in utter dependence, knowing how incapable we are in ourselves to battle against the forces of evil, and the devastating encounters of life.
When we exercise child-like faith, it is the “Anchor that holds us steadfast and secure.” It gives us the blessed assurance of God’s care and concern. We put our trust in the Lord, “who is able to do exceeding abundantly above all we can ask or think.” [Eph. 3:20] Our faith rests not on past experiences, creeds, customs, or traditions, but on GOD HIMSELF.
Our faith believes in the supernatural power of God to do the impossible. It is a deliberate commitment to the Person of Jesus Christ when there is no way … and we choose to fling ourselves in reckless abandonment with utter confidence on God! Such experimental Faith makes us “more than a conqueror” when tested by affliction.
Affliction often is the means to simplify our belief until our relationship to God is exactly that of a child … Simple Faith in an Almighty God … with nothing between. Faith must be tested, as in affliction. Our faith can only be turned into a personal possession through conflict. When our faith is steadfastly in Christ, it will be in the ONE who never fails, and sticks closer to us than a brother.
Affliction is a “testing of our faith.” May each encounter not only stretch our faith ... but drive us deeper to the FAITHFUL ONE !
Make every “test of faith” … a “Triumph of Faith!”
It reminds me Psalms 107 23 - 31
23 Those who go down to the sea in ships,
Who do business on great waters;
24 They have seen the works of the LORD,
And His wonders in the deep.
25 For He spoke and raised up a stormy wind,
Which lifted up the waves of the sea.
26 They rose up to the heavens, they went down to the depths;
Their soul melted away in their misery.
27 They reeled and staggered like a drunken man,
And were at their wits’ end.
28 Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble,
And He brought them out of their distresses.
29 He caused the storm to be still,
So that the waves of the sea were hushed.
30 Then they were glad because they were quiet,
So He guided them to their desired haven.
31 Let them give thanks to the LORD for His lovingkindness,
And for His wonders to the sons of men!
affliction of every kind is meant for folks to draw near in faith to Him.
I received the following devotional this morning . There may be someone out in the lurker phase who is enduring very hard times. I hope it may be of some encouragement. Take care everyone ... He truly does love you !!!!
WHY AFFLICTION? A TESTING OF FAITH
“Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; thou hast tried me…” Psalm 17:3
Many today make much of their ‘profession’ of faith. They are quick to tell you how involved they are in the many ministries of the church … how meaningful are the traditions, customs, and forms of worship they adhere to … how long they have been a Christian and the circle of friends they fellowship with. All of these things are wonderful and encouraging in many ways. Sadly, many Believers make these a “spiritual crutch” for their faith. The problem lies, when these things “take precedent” for our time with God. Nothing should supersede the time it takes for us to “grow in grace.”
This involves the study of His Word … our time in prayer communicating with God and He with us … of letting His Word become applicable to every phase of our life. Having Christ the “priority and focus of our life,” will cause us to drive our stakes of faith deep into His Word and our trust solely in Him. How needful this intimate fellowship with Christ should be, when the “clouds of affliction’” envelope our lives.
When confronted with “affliction,” the ‘reality of our faith’ will come to the forefront. It will be the ‘moment of truth’ as to whether our faith is but a shallow pretence … OR … whether our faith is ‘bent on doing His will’ and ‘committed to His Plan and Purpose’ for our lives. You see, there is a profound difference in a mere “profession of our faith” … and “Possessing the Christ” who is the object of our faith and the Lord of our life.
Affliction often forms the battleground for the “testing of our faith.” There we will be tested as to the Source of our Faith. Is it a faith that “we” have established by “our” doing, “our” activity, “our” gifts, and “our” ability? Or will it prove, that we have come humbly before the Cross, acknowledged our sin, received Christ as our Savior and the Lord of our life … and cried out to Him in utter dependence, knowing how incapable we are in ourselves to battle against the forces of evil, and the devastating encounters of life.
When we exercise child-like faith, it is the “Anchor that holds us steadfast and secure.” It gives us the blessed assurance of God’s care and concern. We put our trust in the Lord, “who is able to do exceeding abundantly above all we can ask or think.” [Eph. 3:20] Our faith rests not on past experiences, creeds, customs, or traditions, but on GOD HIMSELF.
Our faith believes in the supernatural power of God to do the impossible. It is a deliberate commitment to the Person of Jesus Christ when there is no way … and we choose to fling ourselves in reckless abandonment with utter confidence on God! Such experimental Faith makes us “more than a conqueror” when tested by affliction.
Affliction often is the means to simplify our belief until our relationship to God is exactly that of a child … Simple Faith in an Almighty God … with nothing between. Faith must be tested, as in affliction. Our faith can only be turned into a personal possession through conflict. When our faith is steadfastly in Christ, it will be in the ONE who never fails, and sticks closer to us than a brother.
Affliction is a “testing of our faith.” May each encounter not only stretch our faith ... but drive us deeper to the FAITHFUL ONE !
Make every “test of faith” … a “Triumph of Faith!”
What a wonderful message Andrew, thank you for that.
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Thx Deac for the gif
The difference between a cross to bear and a thorn in the side: the first is voluntary and the second forced upon an individual.
To be reviled as Christians is our cross to bear and I try to accept it with the knowledge that Christ told us it was coming. This sometimes isn't easy because, when lashed out at, and answer is not always available.
A wonderful post, Andrew.
Susan
To be reviled as Christians is our cross to bear and I try to accept it with the knowledge that Christ told us it was coming. This sometimes isn't easy because, when lashed out at, and answer is not always available.
A wonderful post, Andrew.
Susan
The difference between a cross to bear and a thorn in the side: the first is voluntary and the second forced upon an individual.
To be reviled as Christians is our cross to bear and I try to accept it with the knowledge that Christ told us it was coming. This sometimes isn't easy because, when lashed out at, and answer is not always available.
A wonderful post, Andrew.
Susan
To be reviled as Christians is our cross to bear and I try to accept it with the knowledge that Christ told us it was coming. This sometimes isn't easy because, when lashed out at, and answer is not always available.
A wonderful post, Andrew.
Susan
Hi Gary, hi Susan.
The devotional that came this morning reflects something each of us can consider. I am greatly impressed by its message and pass it along. The last line should cause each of us to wonder.
I hope each one enjoys their day and that we may be an influence.
THE INFLUENCE OF A LIFE
“Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." John 7:38 within
An unknown preacher of a little Wesleyan Chapel in Nottingham, England, was visiting the slum homes of the city and found a young boy by the name of William. He had compassion on him and his dire needs and saw within his heart a longing to know the Love of God, that was so foreign to him. Sensitive to this “occasion” of God’s grace, he became the ‘channel’ through which God used to lead this needy young boy to Jesus. His name was William Booth, whom God used to be the Founder the Salvation Army! The Influence of a Life.
An artist in Dusseldorf, Germany, was asked by a young girl to explain the picture of Christ which he had painted. She said, “You must have loved Him.” Reconciled to God, he painted another picture, the thorn-crowned face of Christ, whom he had learned to love. Underneath the picture he placed these words … “All this I did for thee … What hast thou done for Me?”
One day, the proud and rich Count Zinzendorf was being escorted through the Gallery. His eyes were arrested on the piercing picture of Christ. His heart was touched and moved by the Spirit of God, and his life was transformed forever, by the grace of God. He immediately gave up the glitter of the world for the eternal gold of the Redeemer.
A band of Hussites (converts of the godly martyr John Huss) asked to camp on the land owned by Count Zinzendorf. He was struck by the simplicity and godly power of these persecuted Moravians. He cast his lot with them and became a hated, but God-fearing Hussite. Count Zinzendorf was the vessel God used to give birth to the Moravian Church. Out of this spiritual band of Believers came Peter Bohler. The Influence of a Life.
John Wesley went to Georgia to convert the Indians, who later wrote, that he himself had never been converted, although an Anglican Preacher. On shipboard while making his voyage across the Atlantic, they encountered a terrifying storm. John Wesley noticed a group of Moravian Christians singing and praying, while others, including the sailors, were in dreadful fear. Conversation with the Moravians convinced him they steadfastly served the Lord in a manner wholly foreign to him.
When Wesley returned to England, he became a close friend of Peter Bohler who told John Wesley about the deeper things of God. Through his influence and instruction he led both John Wesley and his brother Charles Wesley to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. John Wesley’s life reads like fiction. He preached 52,000 times, rode over 200,000 miles on horseback preaching in the hamlets across America, authored more than 200 books, became the channel God used in one of the world’s greatest revivals, and founded the Methodist Church. John and Charles Wesley wrote over a thousand hymns such as … “And Can It Be” … “O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing” … “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”… “Take Time to be Holy” … “Soldiers of Christ Arise” and a thousand others. Each one of these men was … INFLUENCED BY A LIFE !
What is the message that rings through these testimonies? … THE INFLUENCE OF A LIFE committed to God, used to impact others through word and life, by the power of the Holy Spirit.
God wants to use YOU, As You Are, Where You Are, as a “channel” through which He can impact others with the Gospel. You might be the “only means” through whom someone will hear the Gospel!
The devotional that came this morning reflects something each of us can consider. I am greatly impressed by its message and pass it along. The last line should cause each of us to wonder.
I hope each one enjoys their day and that we may be an influence.
THE INFLUENCE OF A LIFE
“Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." John 7:38 within
An unknown preacher of a little Wesleyan Chapel in Nottingham, England, was visiting the slum homes of the city and found a young boy by the name of William. He had compassion on him and his dire needs and saw within his heart a longing to know the Love of God, that was so foreign to him. Sensitive to this “occasion” of God’s grace, he became the ‘channel’ through which God used to lead this needy young boy to Jesus. His name was William Booth, whom God used to be the Founder the Salvation Army! The Influence of a Life.
An artist in Dusseldorf, Germany, was asked by a young girl to explain the picture of Christ which he had painted. She said, “You must have loved Him.” Reconciled to God, he painted another picture, the thorn-crowned face of Christ, whom he had learned to love. Underneath the picture he placed these words … “All this I did for thee … What hast thou done for Me?”
One day, the proud and rich Count Zinzendorf was being escorted through the Gallery. His eyes were arrested on the piercing picture of Christ. His heart was touched and moved by the Spirit of God, and his life was transformed forever, by the grace of God. He immediately gave up the glitter of the world for the eternal gold of the Redeemer.
A band of Hussites (converts of the godly martyr John Huss) asked to camp on the land owned by Count Zinzendorf. He was struck by the simplicity and godly power of these persecuted Moravians. He cast his lot with them and became a hated, but God-fearing Hussite. Count Zinzendorf was the vessel God used to give birth to the Moravian Church. Out of this spiritual band of Believers came Peter Bohler. The Influence of a Life.
John Wesley went to Georgia to convert the Indians, who later wrote, that he himself had never been converted, although an Anglican Preacher. On shipboard while making his voyage across the Atlantic, they encountered a terrifying storm. John Wesley noticed a group of Moravian Christians singing and praying, while others, including the sailors, were in dreadful fear. Conversation with the Moravians convinced him they steadfastly served the Lord in a manner wholly foreign to him.
When Wesley returned to England, he became a close friend of Peter Bohler who told John Wesley about the deeper things of God. Through his influence and instruction he led both John Wesley and his brother Charles Wesley to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. John Wesley’s life reads like fiction. He preached 52,000 times, rode over 200,000 miles on horseback preaching in the hamlets across America, authored more than 200 books, became the channel God used in one of the world’s greatest revivals, and founded the Methodist Church. John and Charles Wesley wrote over a thousand hymns such as … “And Can It Be” … “O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing” … “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”… “Take Time to be Holy” … “Soldiers of Christ Arise” and a thousand others. Each one of these men was … INFLUENCED BY A LIFE !
What is the message that rings through these testimonies? … THE INFLUENCE OF A LIFE committed to God, used to impact others through word and life, by the power of the Holy Spirit.
God wants to use YOU, As You Are, Where You Are, as a “channel” through which He can impact others with the Gospel. You might be the “only means” through whom someone will hear the Gospel!
Andrew: an inspiration to live your faith!
God bless us all, Susan
God bless us all, Susan
Thank you, Andrew ... both very inspiring devotionals and helpful in helping me find my way. I am struggling these days in what to do with my so-called faith... maybe not really struggling - more like questioning it.
I've started reading this book, "Passionate Prayer". The author writes about herself and I feel like she's writing about me. Like her I've thought of myself as a 'good', diligent Christian. My heart is always seeking to help others, to witness for Christ, and to serve wherever there was a need. I involve myself in many church activities ... I serve on the church and school boards, nominating, social, music, Sabbath (Sunday to most of you) school, worship & praise, & whatever else committees, I've served as youth leader & various children's divisions (being an influence on a life, so to speak), raised funds for disaster relief or 'for those less fortunate than ourselves', play the piano/organ every Sabbath, cooked meals for the ill & disheartened and grieving, bring enough food to church potlucks to serve 10 people when there's just me (well, and lately my husband as well - yayy!), involve myself in volunteer work for the church, school and community. I've always felt that God has blessed me tremendously and the least I can do is share His goodness and His blessings. But am I really serving or living within God's will or is it just part of His will that agrees with my will? Have I fully surrendered my life to Him who surrendered His life for me?
Lately I've been convicted of the thought (in the author's words) 'Have I really been a willing vessel, eager to do what God wanted me to do, or have I just selfishly done what I wanted to do--or what I have been taught?' Do I really know this Jesus? I pray every day - at least I say all the right things and hope He'll answer but do I ever pray 'really believing with absolute certainty that He would'? I always give Him an 'out' - I ask and then add 'and may it be according your will' - hah!! That's why, Andrew - the first bit about afflictions gave me pause. I don't feel I have been afflicted - have really had no cause to question or try my faith. I believe in the saying that 'if it doesn't kill you, it'll make you stronger'. It worries me that 'when the tempests blow' (and we all know it will), will I able to withstand? but then there's I Corinthians 10:13 - I know it speaks of temptations but I've always applied it to trials as well...even this tide of financial turmoil has not been a vexation!! Is this really all that I can 'bear'???
OK - so now I'm rambling - but that's where my mind is these days - not really confused but thinking and thinking. That's why I'm reading this book. Prayer is communicating with God and I want this 'passionate prayer' that suggests a deeper, intimate relationship. I just have got to know Him better and I know it is only through prayer. I need to get back to that DAILY communion with Him - studying His word and praying - before anything else of the day distracts.
Well, I guess I best get on with my day - I had a late start! I have to go move some hay - it's not even a half-mile away but I still have to load it onto the truck - either I'm getting old or those bales just get heavier...all this work and all the while I'm wondering why we even have horses!!! LOL! yeah - lots of questions in my life these days!!
ditto, Susan ... God bless this day.
I've started reading this book, "Passionate Prayer". The author writes about herself and I feel like she's writing about me. Like her I've thought of myself as a 'good', diligent Christian. My heart is always seeking to help others, to witness for Christ, and to serve wherever there was a need. I involve myself in many church activities ... I serve on the church and school boards, nominating, social, music, Sabbath (Sunday to most of you) school, worship & praise, & whatever else committees, I've served as youth leader & various children's divisions (being an influence on a life, so to speak), raised funds for disaster relief or 'for those less fortunate than ourselves', play the piano/organ every Sabbath, cooked meals for the ill & disheartened and grieving, bring enough food to church potlucks to serve 10 people when there's just me (well, and lately my husband as well - yayy!), involve myself in volunteer work for the church, school and community. I've always felt that God has blessed me tremendously and the least I can do is share His goodness and His blessings. But am I really serving or living within God's will or is it just part of His will that agrees with my will? Have I fully surrendered my life to Him who surrendered His life for me?
Lately I've been convicted of the thought (in the author's words) 'Have I really been a willing vessel, eager to do what God wanted me to do, or have I just selfishly done what I wanted to do--or what I have been taught?' Do I really know this Jesus? I pray every day - at least I say all the right things and hope He'll answer but do I ever pray 'really believing with absolute certainty that He would'? I always give Him an 'out' - I ask and then add 'and may it be according your will' - hah!! That's why, Andrew - the first bit about afflictions gave me pause. I don't feel I have been afflicted - have really had no cause to question or try my faith. I believe in the saying that 'if it doesn't kill you, it'll make you stronger'. It worries me that 'when the tempests blow' (and we all know it will), will I able to withstand? but then there's I Corinthians 10:13 - I know it speaks of temptations but I've always applied it to trials as well...even this tide of financial turmoil has not been a vexation!! Is this really all that I can 'bear'???
OK - so now I'm rambling - but that's where my mind is these days - not really confused but thinking and thinking. That's why I'm reading this book. Prayer is communicating with God and I want this 'passionate prayer' that suggests a deeper, intimate relationship. I just have got to know Him better and I know it is only through prayer. I need to get back to that DAILY communion with Him - studying His word and praying - before anything else of the day distracts.
Well, I guess I best get on with my day - I had a late start! I have to go move some hay - it's not even a half-mile away but I still have to load it onto the truck - either I'm getting old or those bales just get heavier...all this work and all the while I'm wondering why we even have horses!!! LOL! yeah - lots of questions in my life these days!!
ditto, Susan ... God bless this day.
A lie has speed, but truth has endurance. - Edward J Mohn
Nellie: Don't be so hard on yourself.
In my church life I got to a point where I was frustrated and wondering about my faith too.
The problem was I was working too hard a "jobs" around the church - pot lucks, committees, etc - and not enough at enjoying my spirituality. In other words, I was TIRED! I was missing the main service so that all the food and tables could be prepared for the pot lucks afterword!
Remember Mary and Martha? I eased my way out of a few commitments to take more time for worship and Bible study. I gained back some of my spiritual happiness by doing a wee bit less and asking for more help at the church. Ask and ye shall receive. The burden of Christ (Matt 9) is love.
Maybe you could pray about your commitments and ponder on just how full your plate is. Susan
In my church life I got to a point where I was frustrated and wondering about my faith too.
The problem was I was working too hard a "jobs" around the church - pot lucks, committees, etc - and not enough at enjoying my spirituality. In other words, I was TIRED! I was missing the main service so that all the food and tables could be prepared for the pot lucks afterword!
Remember Mary and Martha? I eased my way out of a few commitments to take more time for worship and Bible study. I gained back some of my spiritual happiness by doing a wee bit less and asking for more help at the church. Ask and ye shall receive. The burden of Christ (Matt 9) is love.
Maybe you could pray about your commitments and ponder on just how full your plate is. Susan
Hi Nellie
May I suggest that you meditate on the Song of Solomon ... enjoy the thoughts He has for you as experessed in the Song ... focus on those thoughts ... what you are experiencing is covered in the Song .... He will lead you to new revelations of Himself and a renewed direction of service.
Just ask Him to lead you through it ... it is a most precious experience...
May I suggest that you meditate on the Song of Solomon ... enjoy the thoughts He has for you as experessed in the Song ... focus on those thoughts ... what you are experiencing is covered in the Song .... He will lead you to new revelations of Himself and a renewed direction of service.
Just ask Him to lead you through it ... it is a most precious experience...
I could use some prayers. I really don't know what to do right now. Everything is a mess and all I feel like is crawling in a corner and crying.
Someone once said to me not to ask God why, but to ask what - what do I do with what He's given me.
I really don't know anymore. I can't even answer that question.
Someone once said to me not to ask God why, but to ask what - what do I do with what He's given me.
I really don't know anymore. I can't even answer that question.
I have a copy of the "gospel" upstairs; will check it out. Not high on my must read first list. The Gospel of Philip made me snooore. Also have the one re Mary Magdalene. Susan
