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| | The Stella-Holman.com Network is not currently active and cannot accept new posts | | Inspiring Christian Messages | Views: 1004 | | Feb 04, 2007 12:51 pm | | Inspiring Christian Messages | # | 
Stella Holman | |
Harmony
I try to live in harmony with all in my home, community,
and world.
We see and hear stories of conflict between people and among people; however,
this is not the way life has to be or was created to be. Each of us can be peacemaker
and peacekeeper in our homes, communities, and world.
We all have two great powers available to us: the power of prayer and the power
of our own thoughts. A prayerful mind and prayerful thoughts bring us closer
to an awakening of peace and harmony in our circle of family and friends.
We have the God-given abilities to love and to live in harmony with others.
Living in harmony becomes a reality as we practice being peacemakers and make
conscious choices about the way we live. Let us love one another unconditionally—as
God loves us.
“Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another.
… God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us.”—1 John
4:11-12
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 12, 2007 11:43 am | | Prosperity | # |
Stella Holman | |
Prosperity
Through the all-providing love of God, I am abundantly blessed.
Occasionally an unexpected expense or an urgent need may arise. When this happens, I don’t let myself fall into a cycle of worried thinking. Instead of anticipating further problems, I trust that God is at work at this very moment. I expect that my good will come. Perhaps it already has.
I reflect on what being a beloved child of God means. It means that the Creator of this abundant universe intends for me to be in the here and now. The love of God is continually fulfilling every need I could ever have—even before I am aware of a need. I am provided for and loved. Thank You, God!
“The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs in parched places, and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters never fail.”—Isaiah 58:11
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 12, 2007 11:48 am | | A Simple Life | # |
Stella Holman | | In silent communion with God, I am spiritually enriched. I dont let myself become so busy that I lose touch with simple pleasures.
Through meditation, I relieve any feelings of stress. Even ten minutes spent in the silence makes a positive difference in my day.
When I empty my mind of chatter, my tangled thoughts have the chance to unravel and my intense emotions begin to subside.
Perhaps I choose a specific time in my day, such as my lunch or break time, to enter into conscious union with the Divine. During my meditationin silent communion with GodI am spiritually enriched. Every slow, rhythmic breath brings me to a deeper understanding of my connection with Spirit. Im not thinking or doing. I am being.
Then they were glad because they had quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven.
Psalm 107:30
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 12, 2007 11:59 am | | Don't be a Robot!!! Spend sometime to enjoy life- Be Happy now the future will take care of itself. | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
We should never be so serious in life that we forget to have a good time right where we are. We are to enjoy every day that we are alive and relish the moments that God has given us. The Lord has not made us to go through
all our days as robots doing the same thing day in and day out, but rather He has given us four different seasons that change our surroundings which should alert us to the beauty of His creation.
The Bible declares in Psalm 8:3-4 When I consider Thy heavens, the work of Thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which Thou hast ordained; What is man, that Thou art mindful of him and the son of man, that Thou visitest him
We are to remember that God loves us and He wishes for our Joy to be full. (John 16:24)
I hope you are blessed by today's message to enjoy your life as best as you can today and do not wait for some future event to be happy. Be happy now
and the future will take care of itself..
Be encouraged to enjoy your life. See the good in all things. Laugh more often, think good thoughts, spend time with your family and you will soon find the Joy there is in living life fully.
Taken from Gods Work Ministry Inspirational and Encouragement E-Mail - http://www.Godswork.org
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 13, 2007 3:48 pm | | Which Side Are You On? | # |
Stella Holman | | By David Langerfeld Feb 08, 2007 Which Side Are You On? There was an incredibly large group of people assembled. On one side of the group stood a man, Jesus. On the other side of the group stood another man, Satan. Separating them, running through the group, was a fence. The scene was set, both Jesus and Satan began calling to the people in the group and, one by one, each having ma de up his or her mind, each went to either Jesus or Satan. This kept going on a while, and eventually Jesus had gathered around him a group of people from the larger crowds, as did Satan. But one man joined neither group. He climbed the fence that was there and just sat down on it. Then Jesus and his people left and disappeared. So, too, did Satan and his people. And the man on the fence sat alone. As this man sat there, Satan came back, and appeared to be looking for something that he'd lost.The man said, "Have you lost something?" Satan looked straight at him and replied, "No, there you are. Come with me." "But," said the man, "I sat on the fence. I chose neither you nor Him." "That's okay," said Satan. "I own the fence." "But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15 Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 13, 2007 4:17 pm | | Its All In The State Of Mind! | # |
Stella Holman | | IT'S ALL IN THE STATE OF MIND If YOU think you are beaten, you are; If you think you dare not, you don't; If you think you would like to win, but can't It's almost a "cinch" you won't; If you think you'll lose, you've lost; For out of the world you will find Success begins with a fellows will - It's all in the state of mind. Full many a race is lost Ere even a race is run, And many a cowards fails Ere even his works begun. Think big and your deeds will grow Think small and you will fall behind, Think that you can, and you will; It's all in the state of mind. If you think you are outclassed, you are; You've got to think high to rise; You've got to be sure of yourself before You can ever win a prize. Life's battle doesn't always go To the stronger or faster man; But sooner or later, the man who wins Its the fellow who thinks he can - Author Unknown Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 13, 2007 4:22 pm | | When Will Jesus Be Enough? | # |
Stella Holman | | When Will Jesus Be Enough? Bob Roberts, Jr. When Will Jesus Be Enough? Jesus Wasn't Enough It was honesty time. For the first time in my life, I had to admit that Jesus wasn't enough. I loved Him, and wanted to serve Him, but I was too tied up with the ministry and not enough with Jesus. I was more interested in the "Kingdom of Bob" than the "Kingdom of God". After that initial query, a torrent of other questions flooded my mind. Why wasn't I content? I had the Holy Spirit, the Word of God; I had experienced salvation and joy; I had a beautiful family, a nice place to live. Nothing was really wrong-I just was not as successful as I thought I should be. Why didn't I have the peace I was promising all those people who came to hear me speak? What if this was as good as it gets? Why couldn't I be content? Something was wrong. I realized how much my ego was tied to my personal success. If Jesus was enough, I had to get over my empire and focus on His Kingdom. That day began an interactive love relationship with Christ that has grown into a communion between my heart and His. How Does Jesus Become Enough? If Jesus is enough, what does it mean to know Him intimately and live for Him even when things are difficult? How is your relationship with God going? Are you able to say with a sincere heart that Jesus is enough for you? I've identified some important keys to Jesus becoming enough for our lives, our churches and our world. Get in a position to receive all that He wants to give us When we are not convinced God has given us enough, we will have an incessant need for others to affirm us. We will want others to give us praise. We'll crave money. We'll wish to be viewed as the best, the most talented and the most likely to succeed. Most people never get far beyond their accolades in the high school yearbook. Why? Because they look for what others have to offer to make them feel significant instead of finding their identity in Christ. However, to receive from others, we have to prove ourselves and dance their dance. To be in a position to receive from God, we accept all He has done, just as we are. 1. Let go of our own glory and ego and embrace God's glory God's work must be done in God's way. All our movement is God's work. Sadly, our sense of significance is tied to the fact that we want what we want and how we want it. D.L. Moody said once that Moses lived his life in three phases. "He spent his first 40 years thinking he was somebody, his second 40 years finding out he was a nobody, and his third 40 years discovering what God could do with a nobody!" Is there anything wrong with ambition? No, unless it is self-centered. Philippians 2:3 reminds us, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." (NIV) 2. See Him in every circumstance no matter how painful or difficult Sometimes the things that bring disappointment and brokenness are the very things God has allowed so He can use them. I am convinced had NorthWood continued on successfully with thousands on our rolls in 1992, I would have never been broken and open to seeing what God wanted to do. He certainly wasn't moving in a way I wanted or expected. 3. Prepare to move with God instead of holding onto a name for yourself Many of us would like to be Hebrews 11 kind of people. However, most of them never accomplished their greatest dreams. They moved towards them, and as they did, they achieved more than most ever dream of accomplishing. However, in their lifetimes, they weren't written up in the headlines. Many, if not most, died without anyone affirming them, but God. Scripture says they saw something better (Hebrews 11:39-40). 4. Give Him a lifetime in which to work Jesus really is enough for many, many lifetimes over. If our intimate interaction with God empowers us to begin living that, I wonder how we, the church and the world, will be different? A dream can be accomplished quickly. A vision requires an entire lifetime. Dr. Bob Roberts, Jr. Adapted from Transformation: "How Glocal Churches Transform Lives and the World", by Bob Roberts, Jr., (2006, Zondervan Publishers). Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 13, 2007 4:29 pm | | Have You Planned For A Fruitful Year? | # |
Stella Holman | | He who fails to plan, plans to fail. How to plan for a successful year. To he who has more, more will be given. Basic facts about God. God himself makes plans. Eph 1 v9 Jer, 29. God himself divided time for us into days, months and years. Basic facts about time. Time is a gift from God. We are the stewards of the time God gives us in this next year. Planning involved prioritising. Think in terms of love, Think in terms of responsibility. Think in terms of Fruitfulness. Spiritually a time for God. Sabbatical time (Take a few days off a year for God) Set aside a time for seeking God. Attend Conferences. Family time Marriage time - a few weekends away. Need a special grace to work with your husband/wife. Love each other and make time to communicate at a meaningful level. Plan at least two weeks holiday to spend with the family. Commit time to care for elderly relatives and other close family. Cultivate Love and Friendship. Business and Employment Often this area sets the agenda. It shouldn't. There are more important things for a Christian such as God and Family. Spend time with teenage children, especially at the ages of 11,12 and 13 are especially a vulnerable time for girls. Pray and consult other Christians for wisdom. Set your social engagments in your calendar or you won't have any social engagements at all. Go to Conferences. Networking. Ministry Time - You serve for the Lord. Go time, allot time to go to the mission field, local or internationally, to neighbours, family or friends. Time to practise, training or mentoring. Remember if you fail to plan you plan to fail. Plan for a successful year.
Kind regards
Stella Holman - Ivey Business Services
http://www.iveybusinessservices.co.uk/
http://www.stella-holman.comPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 14, 2007 12:05 pm | | God's Valentine | # |
Stella Holman | | God so loVed the world, That He g Ave His on Ly BegottEn SoN thaT whosever Believeth In Him Should Not perish, But have Everlasting life." John 3:16 Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 16, 2007 12:31 pm | | Surprised by Love | # |
Stella Holman | | Surprised By Love Phil Ware Feb 15, 2007 Surprised by Love Oh, how can I give you up ...? How can I let you go? How can I destroy you ...? My heart is torn within me, and my compassion overflows. ... for I am God and not a mere mortal. (Hosea 11:8-9 NLT) Sentimentalists, don't get your hopes up by this title; this isn't a "chick flick" worthy story. It is, however, about the truth that underlies every single one of those stories that has value. In some ways, what we discover together here is far more important than any other story no matter how sentimental. This is the discovery of truth -- the surprising, experiential, multi-faceted, ever-repeating reality -- about love and all genuine love stories. Love is unpredictable. There you have it. That's it. That's a truth you can bank on! Love is unpredictable. Love does the unexpected. Love is full of surprises. Love is new even in the face of mind-numbing monotony. Love twists when rationality says go straight. Love forges ahead when logic says make a major change. Love doesn't budge when conventional wisdom says run. Love moves like the wind when common sense says "Be still and hide!" Love does the unexpected! O, I know that is not the exact definition of love in Scripture (1 Corinthians 13:4-7 for example). I can't quote a verse as a proof text that really summarizes what I'm saying ... at least not one verse that says it exactly. But I can get you proof. God! Love is unpredictable. God is love. He shows it instead of just saying it. Or better yet, he says it by doing it. He can be tough or tender. He can be patient or pushy. He can rage and he can whisper. He can show his power and he can hide in the quietness of his creation. He can punish and he can suffer under the scourge. He can thunder and he can weep for a dead friend and his sisters. He can demand allegiance, but he can also risk everything to win our hearts. God is not unpredictable. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Yet his actions will always appear a bit unexpected and surprising if we do not humbly recognize that he is driven by one truth that trumps all others ... his love for us ... his gracious, undeserved, and unexpected love for us. That's not to be confused with sappy emotions without gut wrenching sacrifice. It should not be mistaken for spoken intentions without follow through. This love should never be reduced to politically correct sounding speech with hollow character. We've let baby boomer sappiness and TV driven sentimentality replace the real grit and authenticity of true love... unexpected, undeserved, sacrificial love. God will do the unexpected to reach the undeserving ... to reach us. He always has. He always will. That's what his book is about. Even more, that is what his ultimate message, Jesus, is about. And that is what He is at work doing in your life and mine ... even when the unexpected turns of our life leave us ripped up and full of questions. So ... ... will you trust that whatever he is up to in our world, your world, its about finding a way to reach you and your heart even when you can't understand all the why's of life? ... will you join him in his passion to touch everyone -- even the ones most of us can't stand or wouldn't waste time to reach -- and change them by his love? Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 16, 2007 12:35 pm | | Refuge in the Storm | # |
Stella Holman | | Refuge in the Storm The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them." - Psalm 34:7 One afternoon as I sat in a little mountain cabin, preparing for my annual seminar at The Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove, I became aware that it was growing dark outside. The wind picked up, bending the trees double as it roared along the ridge like a jet plane flying terribly off course. Tree branches snapped under the strain, sounding as though some phantom hunter's shotgun was recklessly opening fire. When I looked out the window, I saw a grey curtain sweeping across the little valley, and I knew the rain was coming. It did! Within moments, the cabin was under a deluge that could be likened to perpendicular white water rapids. As the storm unleashed in all of its fury outside the cabin, inside I was snuggled under a blanket, curled up in an easy chair beside a crackling fire, with a cup of hot coffee in my hand and an open Bible on my lap. And I thanked God for a safe, dry, comfortable refuge from the storm. Then I thought of other storms that rage.storms that suddenly burst into my life as a crisis or disaster. Storms that build slowly until they seem to consume and overwhelm ... an unsettling doctor's report ... the deteriorating health of a loved one ... misunderstandings that wound ... deafness that isolates ... worry that overwhelms ... phone calls that erupt into confrontations ... unmet wants to meet what I perceive as needs ... disagreements that lead to painful divisions ... headaches and heartaches and hearsay ... weakness and weariness and busyness that make me vulnerable to the Enemy's attacks ... and so many more. Then God seemed to whisper in my ear, reminding me that He is my Refuge from the storms. He is... ... my Healer in disease, ... my Hope in death, ... my Help in despair ... my Provision in want, ... my Peace in worry, ... my Power in weakness ... my Shield from attack, ... my Solace in grief, ... my Shelter in danger. He is... ... my Hiding Place ... my Harbor ... my High Tower ... my Anchor ... my Answer ... my Fortress ... my Redeemer ... my Rock. So I quietly bowed my head, and thanked God again for my Refuge in the storm. Anne Graham Lotz Posted in the Anne Graham Lotz Newsletter www.annegrahamlotz.com Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 16, 2007 12:48 pm | | Guidance | # |
Stella Holman | | I am wise and free as I let divine light radiate in and through me. The wisdom of God radiates in and through me, shining a revealing light onto my thoughts. In the light of God, there is no lack of understanding. I consider all that concerns me and others with wisdom, kindness, and fairness. As I draw upon divine wisdom, I am shown ways to follow through on all my decisions. This wisdom guides me as I go about doing what I know in my heart is the right thing for me to do. I am wise and free, for the spirit of God lights the way before me. No shadow of doubt can overtake me. Freely I let God guide me, and freely God shares with me the wisdom and knowledge for living a happy and successful life. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.Proverbs 2:6 Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 19, 2007 11:23 am | | Grace is Amazing! | # |
Stella Holman | | Grace is Amazing, When you talk to folks about their favorite Christian hymn, most Christians speak freely and with deep emotion. Songs touch us and reach our hearts in ways that words simply cannot do alone. Because songs of faith are often sung during important and often highly emotional times in our lives, deep feelings surround our favorite selections. However, no hymn has moved people more than "Amazing Grace." There are a number of reasons for this song's power. Let me share several of them for you. First, grace is simply amazing! Many of us can quote the old familiar verse, "For God so loved the world that he gave ..." (John 3:16). Others may point to the longer, but powerful, passage about our bondage to sin being broken by Jesus so we could receive grace through faith" (Ephesians 2:1-10). Of course, there are many other Scriptures that describe God's grace, but the point is still the same: God paid the cost to ransom us from sin because of his great love for us and his desire to have us be his children. We didn't deserve this gift. We can't earn this gift. Grace is given because of God's mercy and power. We simply receive this gift through faith. So a song that champions this incredible grace is going to grip our hearts, and that is exactly what "Amazing Grace" does. Second, the song is regularly sung at funerals and has attached itself to the emotional fabric of our hearts. We associate all sorts of memories of great people we love who were great people of faith with this song. Many of us have been comforted by the words in times of distress, grief, and crisis. In addition, we find the song's melody soothing as we face life's most vicious trials. Third, many of us know the story behind the song. We know that John Newton, the author of the words of "Amazing Grace," had been involved with the slave trade and that Jesus' deliverance of him from a storm at see helped him turn his life around. Once he fully understood that the grace of Jesus was for all people, he was deeply convicted about the awful nature of his sinful participation in the enslavement of thousands of other human beings, many of whom died while being transported under his command. He was not exaggerating when he talked about the grace that "saved a wretch" like him. In his rebellious and sinful state, he had been blinded to the truth and grace of God. He committed himself to helping others find this grace themselves. However, you may not know that this hymn played a powerful role in the life of William Wilberforce. His tireless efforts over 46 years helped end the slave trading done by British subjects in 1807 and ultimately the abolition of slavery in Great Britain and the British colonies in 1833. Wilberforce fought this impossible battle with little impact for nearly twenty years before gaining any traction in public opinion, religious groups, or the halls of Parliament. But, Wilberforce recognized that grace was not given to us cheaply -- it cost the life of the Son of God. He also recognized that God's grace called each of us act in powerful ways for God's grace to transform society in ways that reflect God's character, justice, and mercy. I wanted to share this fourth reason for loving the hymn "Amazing Grace" because I believe it is especially relevant for us in two ways. In the next few days in many theaters, the movie Amazing Grace will be released -- see the website for details http://www.amazinggracemovie.com. This is a movie that is wonderfully acted and powerfully made. It clearly shows the power and influence of Christian faith to bring about social justice and great cultural change against staggering odds and great opposition. I don't often encourage folks to see a movie, but I would encourage you to see this one on the opening weekend if it opens in a theater near you. I believe you will find this movie wonderfully convicting and also powerfully motivating. Christian young people today are leaving our churches in droves because they find church to be irrelevant at best, often contentious with non-Christians in the main, and totally lacking in concern for bigger issues of social justice, poverty, hunger, and modern slavery -- estimates are that there are well over 25 million people enslaved in the world today, most of them children in horrible situations being forced to do despicable and often barbaric things. As churches squabble over internal differences, divide over denominational loyalties, and find themselves absorbed in the cult of media personalities, young people continue to leave in droves. They see few great works being done with commitment and passion that reflect the ministry and sacrifices of Christ. This "cheap grace" is a false grace. I am absolutely convinced that this is partially the result of an impotent and non-biblical grace that has been widely taught. This "cheap grace" as Dietrich Bonhoeffer called it decades ago, is false grace. It calls people to quick and easy formula type of conversion that requires no repentance, no discipleship, doesn't talk about surrendering ourselves to the Cross of Christ, and does little to call people to follow Jesus as Lord. Remember how the apostle Paul described grace: For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them (Ephesians 2:8-10 NKJV). This great passage doesn't end on the truth that we can't earn our salvation. Instead, it goes on to remind us that grace is God's way of working his artistry in us -- we are his his "workmanship." God's grace makes us new so that we can to do something significant by his power to display his glorious grace to others. Put bluntly, grace is not just about saving us FROM the wrath of God, but it is also about saving us FOR God's purposes in the world. The emerging generation of young adults are looking for us to do more than come together in insular buildings and talk about moral conduct and celebrate that we've been saved from what is bad. They are looking for us to hear God's grace call us to the Jesus lifestyle of making real differences in the world around us. This high and holy calling is what we've been remade by grace to do -- God planned in advance as our role in this world. So let's be more than reminded; let's be changed. Like Newton and Wilberforce, let's recognize that God has great things for us to do by his powerful grace so that the world can see the church as Jesus in action in today's world. By Phil Ware Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 19, 2007 12:07 pm | | Where Are You God? | # |
Stella Holman | | The LORD then said to Noah, "Go into the ark, you and your whole family, because I have found you righteous in this generation. Take with you seven of every kind of clean animal... and two of every kind of unclean animal... to keep their various kinds alive throughout the earth. Seven days from now I will send rain on the earth for forty days and forty nights, and I will wipe from the face of the earth every living creature I have made." Genesis 7:1- 4 Can you imagine it? Here's this man Noah, who found favor with God because he was a righteous man; blameless among the people of his time; and the one man who walked with God. He had obediently followed God's instructions in building an ark which took approximately 120 years to build (commentators surmise that the ark was nearly equal in size to the Titanic!). Along with Noah and his family were the animals... 7 of every kind of clean animal... 2 of every unclean. Today there are approximately 18,000 different species of animals. This would mean that the ark may have had 75,000 animals on board! The rains, rather intensely, came for some 40 days and nights. After that, the water rose continually for 150 days. Every living thing that moved on the earth perished - bir ds, livestock, wild animals, and all mankind. Only Noah was left, and those with him in the ark. It took nearly 7 months for the water to subside. Interestingly, God spoke to Noah before he went into the ark (Genesis 7:1-4) but did not do so again until it was time to come out of the ark (Genesis 8:16). For over a year, while the floods rose and then subsided, the Bible does not record that God communicated to Noah. Then God said to Noah: "Come out of the ark, you and your wife and your sons and their wives. Bring out every kind of living creature that is with you-- the birds, the animals, and all the creatures that move along the ground-- so they can multiply on the earth and be fruitful and increase in number upon it." (Genesis 8: 16-17) What do you think Noah was thinking during the year of God's silence? Was he wo ndering if God knew what He was doing? Was he accusing God of being too slow in His timing? Was he complaining about all the work with the animals? Was he bickering with his wife and children as he waited confined within the ark? Was he wondering if he would see dry land again? What do you do when you know you have been obedient to God, but in the midst of waiting for His plan to be fulfilled, He is silent? Do you complain? Do you question the validity of His plan? Do you tell God to hurry up? Do you get so caught up in the mundane that you miss His activity in your life? Do you wonder if His way is right? If you are in the midst of waiting on God, go back to the security of who He is... stand firm in obedience to what He has asked you to do... and wait on His perfect timing. Perhaps your rainbow is right around the c orner! Written by Marji "Mike" Kruger Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Feb 21, 2007 5:26 pm | | Come and take the Happiness Test!!! | # |
Stella Holman | | * "In most of ways, is your life close to the ideal?" And we're to answer with one of the following: A. Strongly agree B. Agree C. Slightly agree D. Don't agree at all Now follow up that first question with these questions. * "Are the conditions of your life excellent?" * "Are you satisfied with your life?" * "Have you gotten important things in life you wanted?" Now take inventory on how you did! Do you look pretty happy? Is there room for a little happiness improvement? Do you look pretty happy? Can I suggest the following ten ways I believe we can be happy: 1. Savor the moment. 2. Take control of your time. 3. Re-program your mind. 4. Leave time for love. 5. Act happy. 6. Don't vegetate. 7. Get moving. 8. Get rest. 9. Give priority to close relationships. 10. Take care of your soul. I think that last one should have been number 1! Faith is always the key. Happiness has always been living our lives, aligning our will with the will of God, and tuning our soul to heaven's grace. Aren't you ready for a little of God's real happiness? Are you presently experiencing a new life? God's word says, "if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" This new life is a free gift of God through faith in Jesus Christ. If you want to know more about this life that only Jesus can give you, Contact me via private message and I'll send you further information.
Kind regards
Stella Holman - Ivey Business Services
http://www.iveybusinessservices.co.uk/
http://www.stella-holman.comPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 02, 2007 6:55 am | | Worry Is No Answer! | # |
Stella Holman | | Worry Is No Answer And He said to His disciples, "For this reason I say to you, do not worry about your life, as to what you will eat; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing." (Luke 12:22-23) All the water in the world However hard it tried, Could never, never sink a ship Unless it got inside. All the hardships of this world, Might wear you pretty thin, But they won't hurt you, one least bit ... Unless you let them in. --Anonymous Are you a worrier? If you're like a lot of people, worry just might be one of the things that makes life miserable. It's not uncommon for people to lose sleep, drop weight, develop "nervous tics," suffer ulcers or other gastric disorders, or get pretty sick in other ways, all from worry. Worry just might be one of the elements that feeds a grand variety of mental and emotional disorders, and thought we don't usually diagnose things this way, worry is the cause of countless spiritual maladies as well. Not long after my wife and I married, we were talking about some events happening in our lives. I shared with her something I had dreamed up while a teenager to help me deal with worry. It goes something like this: "If you do, you will, but if you don't, you won't. If you're not able, you don't have to." I suspect that won't make a bit of sense to anyone but me, but it helps me with a framework for thinking things through and deciding which things are worth my deep concern. As I've thought about that little "ditty" in the years since it came to me as a teenager, I've decided it deserves some deeper thought and explanation. I really believe there are kernels of truth there that can help relieve worry. 1. If you do, you will. Now, perhaps that should be, "If you can, you should," or something like that. The point is simply this: things within your ability are the things you can do. If they are beyond your ability, you can choose either to extend your abilities (a real possibility in many cases), or accept the fact that whatever you're dealing with is one of those things that you cannot change. But, it does encourage action when the capability is present. So, if you're facing something you can effect, do so. If not, accept it. Whatever you do, don't get mired down in a pity-party over things you can't change. 2. If you don't you won't. Perhaps that one should be, "If you can't, you shouldn't." I think I just said this above, but it bears repeating. If something is not within your ability, either expand your ability, or accept reality. 3. If you're not able, you don't have to. Is this getting repetitious yet? If you're not able, you're not able. Do you know how many people beat themselves up over things they are not able to change? Do you know how many people waste time worrying about things they really could change? Perhaps the point is this: if something is within your ability, do something about it. If it's not, try changing yourself first, by developing new abilities, then attacking the problem. Remember one thing above all else -- worry doesn't fix anything. In fact, worry will add an extra burden to any problem. It clouds the mind, wrecks the emotions, and kills the spirit. How does a befuddled, nervous, spiritually dead person accomplish anything worthwhile? You've got to get a handle on worry. Some people seem more prone to worry than others, but it's possible for anyone to reduce the extremes. Legitimate concern can serve as a powerful motivator. The fact that we care deeply about some issue is a positive. Worry, however, paralyzes us, and leaves us impotent. Next time you're tempted to worry, get a grip. Try to figure out if you can do something or not. If so, do. If not, don't. Either way, worry isn't the answer. --------- BillDenton@crossties.org www.crossties.org Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 15, 2007 2:02 pm | | It's About Seeing Us | # |
Stella Holman | | It's About Seeing Us!, by Rubel Shelly
Josh has shared a few stories with me about his friend Jack. He has
come to call him "Professor" Jack. I can understand that venerable
title, given some of the really important things Jack taught him.
Professor Jack is a homeless man in Detroit. In better days, he played
in a band, owned a restaurant, and had a family. Addiction to drugs
took all those things away from Jack. When Josh first met him, Jack was
taking a meal from some church members whose hearts had been convicted
about their need to help the poor. And he certainly qualified.
Jack began to be a tutor and coach to my young friend as the two just
sat and talked. Josh can, in fact, tick off a catalog of things he
learned from Jack. One of the most important lessons came early in the
course.
As with first-rate teachers from Moses to Socrates to Jesus, Jack was
open to questions. So Josh dared to ask him what good-intentioned
people with charitable hearts could do that would really make a
difference for the poor and homeless. "Make us feel real," he said. "We
want to feel like we are real people. See us. Talk to us. Be with us.
Help us feel. It isn't just about feeding us or giving us clothes. It's
about seeing us."
Now there's a lesson that do-gooders like me need to learn! We know
what Jesus taught about visiting the sick, feeding the hungry, and
clothing the naked. And we know that faith without works is dead. So we
send get-well cards or visit hospitals. We donate money and build soup
kitchens. We drop off used clothing. All those are good things.
But what about personal awareness?
But what about personal awareness? What about communicating a person's
worth? What about making her feel valued rather than pitied? And how do
I let someone know he is a human being to me, not a project?
Professor Jack says it is as simple, direct, and difficult as making
eye contact. Spending a little time in conversation. Asking an
occasional question - and really taking what is said to heart.
Okay, so you're not the next Mother Teresa or someone who is going to
give up your warm bed to live among street people in the dead of
winter. Me either! But we can try to keep our giving and caring from
becoming impersonal. We can actually be on-site occasionally. Give time
as well as money. Have a conversation. Show some respect.
It would be a fitting tribute to Professor Jack. He died of an overdose
in December. I'm glad he knew he had been seen before he died.
[Jesus said]
Give what you have to anyone who asks you for it; and when things
are taken away from you, don't try to get them back. Do for others
as you would like them to do for you.
"Do you think you deserve credit merely for loving those who love
you? Even the sinners do that! And if you do good only to those who
do good to you, is that so wonderful? Even sinners do that much!
And if you lend money only to those who can repay you, what good is
that? Even sinners will lend to their own kind for a full return.
Love your enemies! Do good to them! Lend to them! And don't be
concerned that they might not repay. Then your reward from heaven
will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the
Most High, for he is kind to the unthankful and to those who are
wicked. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is
compassionate. (Luke 6:30-36 NLT)Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 15, 2007 2:47 pm | | The Chess Lesson | # |
Stella Holman | | Gods Work Ministry Inspirational and Encouragement E-Mail
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Dear Friend,
We should never allow ourselves to go through life in ignorance not seeing
the snares and traps that the enemy tries to place in our life's path. We
are to be as the Bible tells us to be sober and vigilant being careful with
what we do in our daily life. There are many instances where people do not
see the traps of the enemy and in effect fall into the pit of his devices
not knowing how to be freed. (Psalm 142:3-7) (1 Peter 5:8-9) (Psalm 86:2-7)
The Lord Jesus Christ who died on the Cross to save mankind from their sins
paid the price once and for all and now all who trust in His finished work
have the privilege of being called a child of God. We receive the benefits
of what the Lord Jesus endured and now have the power of His Blood and
Authority to use His Name to defeat the powers and principalities of the
enemy. Be encouraged to study God's Word to learn who you are in Christ
and stand in who God has created you to be. (Romans 10:9-13) (Ephesians 6:10-18)
I hope this message ministers to your heart to invest in reading and
meditating on the Word of God to better equip yourself to defeat the enemy
and stand victorious through Jesus Christ.
THE CHESS LESSON
My nine-year-old son David plays chess, and plays well. He lives, breathes,
and eats chess. Sure, he only has three chess sets but he has a kind of
radar - chedar? - To find unique chess sets in stores.
Just the other night, he found a set of hand carved chess figurines from
the Alice in Wonderland story at an obscure mall store. They were a mere
$150.00 - each. Doing the math, I figured my spending money for the entire
year would disappear down the rabbit hole. I grumbled like the Mad Hatter,
and suggested we go with the crystal set instead.
If you think chess is a pastime of interest limited to a few gaunt guys who
can't get dates, think again. Chess has a devoted global following. Yes,
there are even chess groupies! Unless you play the game, it would be
tempting to think of chess as the only thing more boring on TV than golf.
Not so, according to chess aficionados.
Did you know that chess has its own magazine, This Week in Chess? The game
can even be played into sudden death overtime. Chess players even compete
for prize money, just like real athletes. And while there is no touchdown
dance, the winner of the match does get the satisfaction of being able to
smirk in the face of his vanquished foe and say, â?oCheckmate. Another game?â?Â
Chess is a game of mental gymnastics, an exercise in logic, daring, and
strategy. The game is not about moving pieces around a checkered board so
much as it is a game of trying to out-think, out-maneuver, and out-play
your opponent. Its winner takes all. The blows hit more precisely and
painfully than that of any contact sport; they hit and bruise the ego.
There is a winner and a loser; just like real life.
Anyway, I really hadn't played the game with any passion in more than a
decade. My son took an interest so my wife and I taught him the basic rules
and maneuvers. He started getting good. The other night, he challenged me
to a spirited match. It took me nearly an hour to defeat him. His skill
level was clearly growing, his confidence unbounded, and his maturing
mastery of the game impressive. It was the first real challenging game he
had ever given me.
I also noticed, and summarily dismissed, the fact that he has been going to
the library and bringing home books on chess. Not just â?oThe History Of...â?Â
variety, but books that outlined specific moves and strategies. I have
never read a strategy book and always enjoyed playing by my wits. It proved
a fatal mistake.
Again, my son challenged me to a game. I warned him that because he was
getting so good, the gloves were off. I told I would play to the finish
with no pointers, I would offer no helpful hints, and I would play with no
mercy. If we were going to compete, from now on it would be for real.
Sometimes, love has to be tough.
Unthinkably, he beat me in three moves!
He used a strategy I had never seen before and he promptly walloped me. And
what was I saying about contact sports? He got up shrieking in unbridled
joy and actually did a victory dance! He didn't follow protocol and say,
â?oCheck mate. Another game?â? No, he said, â?oCheckmate. You lose!â? I realized
my error. I was content to play the game. He played with a lone objective,
to win.
He caught me sleeping. He offered me no pointers, no helpful hints, and no
mercy. I lost.
The Bible says, in 1 Peter 5:8, â?oBe sober, be vigilant; because your
adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may
devour.â? The enemy of our soul has no power over a blood bought child of
God so he uses guile, strategy, temptation, and battle tactics. He plays
to win.
Like my son with his chess strategy books, we need to be meditating in
God's battle book, the Bible, to learn how to use the weapons of our
warfare. These weapons are not carnal but are mighty through God! We are
exhorted in 1 Corinthians 9:24 with this command. â?oDo you not know that
those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a
way that you may obtain it.â?Â
Thank God for grace! I'm off to the library. There is a rematch coming and
this time I will be ready. I will not be a gullible sheep in the light. I
know my opponent's tactics and this time I will be ready for him.
By Bryan HuppertsPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 16, 2007 5:15 am | | Betting On the Wrong Thing | # |
Stella Holman | | Betting On the Wrong Thing
Russ Lawton
Mar 15, 2007
Trust; that's a difficult thing to achieve isn't it? Not only is it difficult to give complete trust to someone or something, it difficult to receive it also. In what or whom do you trust?
Last week I needed to do some work on the third story roof of our house. It takes two ladders plus a climb over the roof to get there. My youngest son came over to give me a hand and we held the ladder steady for each other as we climbed to the different levels. We literally put our lives in the hands of one another.
The problem with life is that far too often folks trust in the wrong things and in the wrong people. They literally "bet their lives" that they can trust in those things or persons. Have you ever bet on a sure thing, one that couldn't possibly fail or let you down?
I heard an amusing story that illustrates what can happen. "It seems that an archaeologist was digging in the Negev Desert in Israel and came upon a sarcophagus containing a mummy. After examining it, he called the curator of a prestigious natural history museum.
"I've just discovered the 3,000 year old mummy of a man who died of heart failure!" the excited scientist exclaimed. The curator replied, "Bring him in. We'll check it out." A week later, the amazed curator called the archaeologist. "You were right about the mummy's age and cause of death.
How in the world did you know?" "Easy. There was a piece of paper in his hand that said, '10,000 Shekels on Goliath'."
King David, (the one who defeated Goliath) wrote these words, "It is better to trust the LORD than to put confidence in people. It is better to trust the LORD than to put confidence in princes." (Psalms 118:8-9, NLT) He also wrote, "Those who trust in the LORD are as secure as Mount Zion; they will not be defeated but will endure forever," (Psalms 125:1, NLT).
In Hebrews 13:5 we read, "For God has said, "I will never fail you. I will never forsake you." Who do you choose to "bet your life on" - on whom will you trust? If you choose some man you will be disappointed some day, some way. Let me encourage you to choose to trust in God, he will never fail or forsake you no matter what!
There is an old hymn that says, "Trust and obey, for there's no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey". Perhaps it time to ask yourself, "in what do I trust?"
Russ Lawson
Messages From The Heart ( www.wclo.net )Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 16, 2007 9:20 am | | Don't Ever Give UP!!! | # |
Stella Holman | | Don't Ever Give Up
by Rick Warren
Jesus told them a story showing that it was necessary for them to pray consistently and never quit. He said, "There was once a judge in some city who never gave God a thought and cared nothing for people. A widow in that city kept after him: 'My rights are being violated. Protect me!'
"He never gave her the time of day. But after this went on and on he said to himself, 'I care nothing what God thinks, even less what people think. But because this widow won't quit badgering me, I'd better do something and see that she gets justice - otherwise I'm going to end up beaten black and blue by her pounding.'"
"Any time there is a delay, you can be sure that two things are going on - your faith is being tested by God and contested by Satan" - Rick Warren
Then the Master said, "Do you hear what that judge, corrupt as he is, is saying? So what makes you think God won't step in and work justice for his chosen people, who continue to cry out for help? Won't he stick up for them? I assure you, he will. He will not drag his feet. But how much of that kind of persistent faith will the Son of Man find on the earth when he returns?" (Luke 18:1-8 MSG)
We don't know what caused her distress, but this widow needed justice and she went looking for it - with no weapon but persistence. Going to the judge's home, she knocked on the unsympathetic man's door repeatedly until he finally gave her what she was seeking.
Is God telling us he'll only answer our prayers if we wear him down? No!
He's reminding us that if a heartless judge can be reached, we can certainly count on our Father - who loves us - to help us.
People ask, "Why aren't my prayers answered sooner? Why keep trying?"
Sometimes, we ask for a small blessing and get no answer - but find out later that God denied us because he wanted to give us something bigger.
I read about a missionary who prayed for eight years for one conversion. None occurred but he kept on praying. One day the whole tribe made their decision together and 12,000 were baptized.
Any time there is a delay, you can be sure that two things are going on - your faith is being tested by God and contested by Satan. Satan wants to discourage you, but God is testing your faith because he knows that faith is a muscle. Waiting develops the muscle.
I read about another missionary named Reese House. While in England, God called him to go to Africa, but he first had to find money for train tickets to London and then money for passage to Africa.
But one day God asked, "What would you do if you had the money?" Reese said, "I'd go to London and then get on a ship to Africa."
God asked, "Am I the source of all your needs?"
"Yes."
"Then go."
So Reese and his wife announced to their church, "We're heading to Africa." They only had enough money to get about 50 miles down the road, but they bought train tickets anyway and went as far as they could. Fifty miles later, they found themselves sitting in the train station, feeling foolish.
But God spoke again to Reese. "If you had the money, what would you do?"
"I'd buy a ticket."
God said, "Get in line." He got in line behind about 18 people and stood there as the line kept getting smaller. Reese had no money and he kept thinking, "Boy, am I going to look dumb when I get up to that ticket desk!"
When there were only two people ahead of him, Reese said, "Lord! I look stupid here!"
And just then, the man in front of Reese turned around and said, "I've changed my mind. I'm not going. Here! You can have my money."
Would it surprise you to hear that it was enough money to get Reese to Africa?
God's timing is perfect. It always is and it always will be! So next time you feel discouraged about a prayer request, don't give up - look up!
This article is adapted from Rick Warren's sermon series, Encouraging Words from God's Word.
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 19, 2007 2:04 pm | | A World of Deception | # |
Stella Holman | | A World of Deception, by Phil Ware
We live in a world of deception. Part of the art of modern advertising
finds much of its allure in deception -- amplifying or exaggerating
certain truths, omitting clear negatives, and creating an artificial
urgency to get us to "need" a product. Our legal systems tend to be
less about truth than about the fine points of law. Recent research has
determined that most people regularly lie in the course of everyday
conversation by exaggeration, hedging, false-bragging, and outright
lying.* The last several years have seen a variety of high profile
"hirings" nullified because of false information given on resumes. We
live in a world of deception.
Most of us have heard the warning of Sir Walter Scott, "Oh what a
tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive." However, at
one time or another, we've found ourselves caught in a web of deception
of our own making. The weeping prophet said it well centuries ago: "The
human heart is most deceitful and desperately wicked" (Jeremiah 17:9).
We are simply just too much concerned about ourselves and not enough
about the hearts of others and the character of God. One of the
clearest proofs of this is our deceitfulness toward others. In
addition, we depend upon our own methods of preservation or acquisition
rather than depending upon God to deliver us through the truth and give
us what we need through our honesty. The consequences of telling the
truth often seem too threatening compared to living a lie or too
limiting if we don't "stretch the truth" to get what we want.
Unfortunately, we seldom anticipate the real cost of our deceit when
the truth finally is known ... and it usually becomes known ... at the
worst possible time.
However, the most dangerous part of the deception is getting away with
it. The lie steals a part of us, depriving those we deceive of seeing
the real us and creating a wedge in our relationship that robs each
side of genuine intimacy. As the web of deceit grows, it touches more
and more aspects of the relationship until the very foundation of the
friendship, marriage, contract, fellowship, or partnership is entangled
in the deceit and the very foundation of the relationship is
threatened. Even if our deceit is never "outed," we are damaged and
become selfish and abusive people who fear no consequence.
No wonder Paul gave the Christians of Asia Minor these guidelines to
root out deceit and bring truth to their lives:
Put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are
members of one body. ... Do not let any unwholesome talk come out
of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up
according to their needs. ... Be kind and compassionate to one
another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you.
(Ephesians 4:25-32)
These inspired words remind us of three complementary principles that
are crucial to the world of truth-telling.
Principle One:
Tell the truth. Don't start the deception. If you have lived in deceit,
then find a way to come clean and live in the truth beginning now. God
is truth. He does not lie. It is not part of his character and he
reminds us that he hates deceptive speech and actions (Proverbs 6:16-19
&Proverbs 12:22).
God wants his people to be Kingdom people!
Principle Two:
The truth you tell needs to benefit the person you are telling. Don't
volunteer truth that hurts unless you have been deliberately deceptive.
This is sometimes called "judicious honesty" and the sensitive practice
of it is hard. You need prayer and the help of a wise, experienced
Christian counselor or close friend to help you know how best to
practice this when long-term deception has been involved and you are
trying to decide if, how, when, and where to share your deception. And
be careful here that "judicious truth" doesn't sink back into "hedging
the truth" to protect yourself and your reputation. Finding the balance
between blowing apart someone's life with "the truth" and hedging the
truth to protect ourselves is not easy.
Principle Three:
When someone confesses to us about their deception, no matter how
agonizing, we must forgive just like you have been forgiven by God.
This may not be easy, but is crucial. Forgiveness is as much commanded
as telling the truth. Jesus' warnings (Matthew 6:12-15;Matthew 18:21-35)
remind us how important the principle of forgiveness is! Again, in
times when a long-term deceit is revealed to us, a close Christian
friend or experienced counselor may be needed to help us proceed down
this road redemptively when the crushing weight of a long-term
deception is revealed.
God wants his people to be Kingdom people -- folks who live his
character and work to redeem what is broken and foul in our world. Who
we truly are is often revealed in how we deal with deceiving others and
dealing with those who have deceived us. Let's commit to be Kingdom
people.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
*Robert Feldman's studies on lying can be found all over the web
through a search or you can just search on lying to see how prevalent
and pervasive it is in every area of life today. Search about lying,
but be forewarned, there is a lot of good, bad, and ugly out there
about lying!
How do you feel about long term lying and deception? What principles do
you believe need to be used when "coming clean" about a lie and
deception? I'd love to hear from you on my blog:
http://blog.heartlight.org/phil/2007/03/deception.html
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 21, 2007 1:40 pm | | Temptation's Lure | # |
Stella Holman | |
Dick Innes
Mar 21, 2007
Temptation's Lure
"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." (1 Corinthians 10:13)
From the back porch of her home a friend noticed a beautiful butterfly with its fragile legs caught in a spider's web. It was flapping its wings wildly trying desperately to escape. Feeling sorry for the butterfly, my friend came closer to see if she could help free it. What she saw, though, was that the harder the butterfly tried to escape, the more it got enmeshed in the spider's web. As gently as possible she helped free it and was delighted when it was able to break free and fly away.
It reminded her of how we can so easily get entrapped by sin. A little dabbling here and a little dabbling there. We put our toe in sin's waters as it were and before we know it we are entrapped in the web of our own actions and emotions. And then, the harder we try to escape and free ourselves, the more enmeshed we become.
The fact is we cannot save ourselves from sin's entrapment and its eternal consequences. Only God can do that. He has provided the only way of escape and that is through his Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave his life to pay sin's penalty. As God's Word says, "By grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God." (Ephesians 2:8)
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me always to seek to follow your ways and not dabble with sin's temptations. Where I have sinned, please forgive me and free me from the entrapments I have got myself into. Above all, I thank you for saving me from sin's eternal consequences and giving to me the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ my Lord. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 23, 2007 1:41 pm | | What Is Your Purpose in Life? | # |
Stella Holman | |
Josh McDowell tells about an executive "headhunter" who recruits corporate executives for large firms. This headhunter once told McDowell that when he interviews an executive, he likes to disarm him. "I offer him a drink," said the headhunter, "take off my coat, undo my tie, throw up my feet and talk about baseball, football, family, whatever, until he's all relaxed. Then, when I think I've got him relaxed, I lean over, look him square in the eye and say, 'What's your purpose in life?' It's amazing how top executives fall apart at that question."
Then he told about interviewing one fellow recently. He had him all disarmed, had his feet up on his desk, talking about football. Then the headhunter leaned over and said, "What's your purpose in life, Bob?" And the executive said, without blinking an eye, "To go to heaven and take as many people with me as I can."
"For the first time in my career," said the headhunter, "I was speechless."
No wonder. He had encountered someone who was prepared. He was ready. His purpose, "To go to heaven and take as many people with me as I can."
What is your purpose in life?
What is your purpose today?
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 26, 2007 9:47 am | | Of Natural Causes | # |
Stella Holman | | Of Natural Causes, by Phil Ware
So accept each other just as Christ has accepted you; then God will be glorified (Romans 15:7 NLT).
Larry died of natural causes the coroner suggested. I balked at the suggestion, because Larry was only 51 years old. Now for some of you, that may seem old, but I'm 52 -- dying of natural causes at 51 didn't seem quite right. But the longer I read the article about Larry's passing, I realized the "natural causes" were not what we usually mean
when someone "dies of natural causes."
Larry's remains were recently found in his house in a skeletal, mummified condition. No one had seen him since Hurricane Rita that had devastated Beaumont, Texas, nearly 18 months ago. The body was found on top of the bed, just like he had gone in to take a nap and never awakened. They are not sure if Larry expired shortly before the hurricane's arrival or shortly afterward. His house had not been
severely damaged, so no one had actually gone inside to check on him and most folks just felt he had left before the approaching hurricane and never returned. A prospective buyer for the house found Larry's body. The house was put up for auction because of unpaid taxes.
Sadly, no one had really missed Larry. Although he had family in the city, he didn't want to see them. His neighbors made assumptions about his absence. Who knows, if someone had been more aware of his status, he might have been found before he died!
Unfortunately we live in a time when we hardly know any of our neighbors anymore. This is true whether we are talking about the neighborhood where we live or the "neighborhood" where we usually sit when we attend church. While we face an epidemic of loneliness in the many developed countries in the world -- and the U.S. seems to be the worst -- most folks are waiting for someone else to reach out and include them. Rather than risking rejection, or interfering, or
involvement, most of us go about our routines and remain relatively anonymous to the folks around us.
So why don't we?
While Larry's death is an extreme example, his death should shock us into a realization that there are lonely people all around us -- maybe even within us -- who need someone to reach out and simply include
them. So why don't we?
I'm going to challenge you to do just that. Look around your
neighborhood and your church, and find people who seem a bit lonely or isolated. Intentionally include them. Encourage folks at your church or within your group of friends to begin to call on one elderly person per week to just check on that person and see how he or she is doing.
Change the neighborhood where you sit at church at least once per month and sit by someone who seems to be alone and find out about that person. Offer to help carry the boxes or assist someone older who needs help with groceries, the garbage can, or other tasks.
What holds you back from reaching out to someone else? What makes it hard to help touch the heart of someone who seems to be alone that you regularly see each week? Why have we become such an isolate culture, as we grow more supposedly "civilized and high tech"?Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 26, 2007 9:50 am | | What Do You Hear? | # |
Stella Holman | | David Langerfeld
Mar 26, 2007
WHAT DO YOU HEAR?
A Native American and his friend were in downtown New York City, walking near Times Square in Manhattan. It was during the noon lunch hour and the streets were filled with people.. Cars were honking their horns, taxicabs were squealing around corners, sirens were wailing, and the sounds of the city were almost deafening. Suddenly, the Native American said, "I hear a cricket."
His friend said, "What? You must be crazy. You couldn't possibly hear a cricket in all of this noise!"
"No, I'm sure of it," the Native American said, "I heard a cricket." "That's crazy," said the friend.
The Native American listened carefully for a moment, and then walked across the street to a big cement planter where some shrubs were growing. He looked into the bushes, beneath the branches, and sure enough, he located a small cricket. His friend was utterly amazed..
"That's incredible," said his friend. "You must have superhuman ears!"
"No," said the Native American. "My ears are no different from yours. It all depends on what you're listening for."
"But that can't be!" said the friend. "I could never hear a cricket in this noise."
"Yes, it's true," came the reply. "It depends on what is really important to you. Here, let me show you."
He reached into his pocket, pulled out a few coins, and discreetly dropped them on the sidewalk. And then, with the noise of the crowded street still blaring in their ears, they noticed every head within twenty feet turn and look to see if the money that tinkled on the pavement was theirs.
"See what I mean?" asked the Native American. "It all depends on what's important to you.."
What's important to you? What do you listen for? Some people say that there is no God, and that He never speaks to us anymore. But perhaps they can't see or hear Him because they aren't listening for Him. They are living for themselves, not for God.
If you are in tune with God, you will be able to notice Him at work in your life and in the world - and you'll be able to hear Him when He speaks.Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 26, 2007 9:55 am | | Betting on the Wrong Horse!, | # |
Stella Holman | |
Trust is difficult to achieve, isn't it? Not only is it difficult to give complete trust to someone or something, it difficult to receive it, also.
In what or whom do you trust?
Last week, I needed to do some work on the third story roof of our house. It takes two ladders plus a climb over the roof to get there. My youngest son came over to give me a hand. We held the ladder steady for each other as we climbed to the different levels. We literally put our lives in the hands of one another.
The problem with life is that far too often, folks trust in the wrong things and in the wrong people. They literally "bet their lives" that they can trust in those things or persons.
Have you ever bet on a sure thing, one that couldn't possibly fail or let you down? Yeah, me, too!
I heard an amusing story that illustrates what can happen.
It seems that an archaeologist was digging in the Negev Desert in Israel and came upon a sarcophagus containing a mummy. After examining it, he called the curator of a prestigious natural history museum. "I've just discovered the 3,000 year old mummy of a man who died of heart failure!" the excited scientist exclaimed.
The curator replied, "Bring him in. We'll check it out."
A week later, the amazed curator called the archaeologist and said, "You were right about the mummy's age and cause of death. How in the world did you know?"
"Easy! There was a piece of paper in his hand that said, '10,000 Shekels on Goliath.'"
In whom will you place your trust?
King David, the one who defeated Goliath, wrote these words:
It is better to trust the LORD than to put confidence in people. It is better to trust the LORD than to put confidence in princes.
(Psalms 118:8-9 NLT)
David also wrote the following:
Those who trust in the LORD are as secure as Mount Zion; they will
not be defeated but will endure forever. (Psalms 125:1)
The Bible reminds us of this truth: "For God has said, 'I will never fail you. I will never forsake you'" (Hebrews 13:5). But, do we really believe it?
On what have you chosen to bet your life? In whom will you place your trust?
If you choose some mere mortal human, you will be disappointed ... sooner or later, someday in some way. So let me encourage you to choose to trust in God. He will never fail or forsake you no matter what!
An old hymn reminds us to "Trust and obey, for there's no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey." Perhaps it is time to ask yourself: "In whom do I trust?"
by Russ LawsonPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 26, 2007 1:12 pm | | A SHOWER A DAY | # |
Stella Holman | |
I always love to start the morning off with a nice, long shower. Now, I am not talking about a shower with soap, hot water, and shampoo even though I love those too. The shower that I am talking about is the kind that takes
place on the inside. The shower that I am talking about is the kind that takes place in the heart, mind, and soul. It is a shower that is best taken daily, all day long, and everyday of our lives. It is a shower of love,
joy, and goodness that all of us can enjoy.
I always start my own shower off with a huge thank you to God. I thank God for the day, for my life, for my family, for my friends, for my pets, and for the countless blessings I am given. I give thanks for health and
happiness, nature and beauty, and love and joy. Giving thanks to God always leaves me feeling good, clean, and happy inside.
I don't stop there, though. I keep my shower of delight going by seeing the good all around me. I see it in the world, in the people I know, and in my own heart, mind, and soul. I see it and choose it and welcome it into me.
I take in all the goodness, love, joy, peace, happiness, and light that I possibly can. I fill myself to overflowing with all the wonderful blessings of life, because this is what I want to share with the world.
You see, my shower of love, joy, goodness, and delight wouldn't be complete if I didn't shower it on others as well. I shower these blessings on others with every smile I smile, hug I give, helpful thing I do, kind word I say,
and happy thought I write. Nothing gives me greater fulfillment than to shower these things on everyone everywhere.
You too can shower your life and the lives of others with love, joy, goodness, and God. It is up to you. Just remember, though, a shower a day keeps the misery away.
By Joseph J. Mazzella
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 26, 2007 5:28 pm | | re: A SHOWER A DAY | # | 
Mirdza Hayden | | Thanks for all your christian meditations. No that I have joined your network, I will be looking forward to reading them every time you post them.
Live healthy and God bless you greately!
Mirdza
Active Wellness Revolutionist
http://www.MirdzasHealthSite.com
Young Living Essential Oils: http://www.youngliving.org/mirdza2Private Reply to Mirdza Hayden | | Mar 26, 2007 5:30 pm | | God wants us to acheive complete wellness | # |
Mirdza Hayden | | It is very important to achieve wellness in every aspect of our lives: Physical, Mental, Spiritual, Family, Social and Financial.
1. PHYSICAL HEALTH: God created us and the Bible says that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit (I Cor. 6:19-20) Therefore, God wants us to take care of our physical bodies and he is willing to help us get into shape and live a healthy lifestyle.
Physical fitness requires discipline. Everyday we make choices that will affect our health and physical well-being. We need to learn to eat properly and exercise on a regular basis if we truly want to live a healthy life. We don’t know how long we will live, but we can definitely decide on the quality of life we will live by the decisions we make everyday.
2. MENTAL HEALTH: Our mental health is dependent on getting the proper nutrition. Not only should be get the vitamins and minerals from the foods we eat, but we must also take good supplements that will help increase oxygen and blood flow to the brain, you're properly nourishing your brain. One of the greatest threats to health in our fast-paced society is the highly processed, chemical-, fat-, and sugar-laden foods eaten on a daily basis. It affects us not only physincally, but also mentally! When choosing a supplement to take, though, make sure you choose one made with WHOLE FOODS. I highly recommend those offered by Young Living Essential Oils. Young Living creates food products similar to those eaten by people who live to an old age, while remaining healthy, alert, and self sufficient. All food products contain nutrient-dense, natural, whole ingredients and are free of sugars and artificial sweeteners.
3. SPIRITUAL HEALTH: Believing in God and having a personal relationship with Him is very important. It helps us achieve a much higher level of peace in our lives, in spite of all the struggles that we face everyday. Personally, I know I wouldn't be able to enjoy life without God being the center of my life!
4. FAMILY HEALTH: Good family health comes from good relationships. You can only achieve a good relationship with your family if you spend quality time with the members of your family. Unfortunately, many families today are struggling to be able to spend some quality time together. The cost of living is so high that sometimes people need to have two jobs in order to make ends meet and pay the bills. However, you can choose to have only one parent work outside the home and the other parent can stay home with the kids and maybe start their own homebiz, if necessary. There are some good companies out there that can help you achieve that goal, and it might end up that it becomes a Family Business.
5. SOCIAL HEALTH: As with good family health, social health comes from having good relationships with people outside our immediate family, t.i, your friends. As you achieve good family and financial health, good social health will follow close behind.
6. FINANCIAL HEALTH: To be financially healthy means more than just paying the bills and, perhaps, having a little extra cash left over. It means that we don't have to worry about a job loss or pay cuts, when our work doesn't take too much time away from our family, and we're on our way to being debt-free. It seems a mission impossible to achieve, but it can be done. It is only a matter of commitment, hard work and dedication to get there. Again, I would recommend working at least part-time on a home business opportunity, around your current schedule at first. Starting your own business in an area that you are passionate about is a great investment!
Live healthy! Enjoy the life God has given you and make sure you take care of every part of your health: physical, mental, spiritual, social, family and financial.
Mirdza
Active Wellness Revolutionist
http://www.MirdzasHealthSite.com
Young Living Essential Oils: http://www.youngliving.org/mirdza2Private Reply to Mirdza Hayden | | Mar 26, 2007 6:09 pm | | re: re: A SHOWER A DAY | # |
Stella Holman | | Thank you for your postings Mirdza. You have inspired me to continue:-)
I have just graduated at our church for "Word & Spirit Bible School, completed a two year course in Systematic Theology and Ministry subjects.
I will be submitting my own work eventually, writing about what the Lord lays on my heart.
Blessings to you all.
Stella:-)
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 26, 2007 6:52 pm | | re: re: re: A SHOWER A DAY | # |
Mirdza Hayden | | That is awesome! Congratulations! May God bless your ministry greately!
Mirdza
Active Wellness Revolutionist
http://www.MirdzasHealthSite.com
Young Living Essential Oils: http://www.youngliving.org/mirdza2Private Reply to Mirdza Hayden | | Mar 28, 2007 4:22 pm | | GRANDMA's THIMBLE | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
It is the greatest blessing to have fond memories of our friends and loved ones that bring back emotions that brighten up our day. Many people can attest to the fact that time really does fly by and before we know it, we
who were just children yesterday are now adults going towards middle-age and soon old age. It is for this reason that we should never take for granted the special time that we have with our grandparents, parents, siblings, cousins and friends. We are to enjoy the time that we have with
each other showing our love and care for one another as God has intended from the beginning of Creation. Be encouraged to slow down and enjoy this day to its fullest with those who mean so much to you. (Nehemiah 8:10)
I hope this message ministers to your heart to spend time with those whom you love making memories that will last a lifetime.
GRANDMA's THIMBLE
I marvel at the way God knows when to send a special gift of encouragement our way at just the right time! It might be in a dream, a lost letter, a memory, something found that we'd forgotten about, something in His Word, or during a devotional that really speaks to us.
My grandmother was from a town in the thumb area of Michigan. Summer after summer, I enjoyed staying with my grandparents as a young child. I was from the city and loved the small town they lived in. People knew everyone, their kids, their pets, their ancestors.
The bond with them continued to grow as I grew and they got older. Grandma was always using her hands for something exciting. She would make little sandwiches and we'd have tea parties, plant flowers and carefully tend them. She'd knit afghans for her grandchildren as well as make beautiful
quilts for each one.
I remember the small thimble she would use while doing her needle work.
Placing her thimble on her finger she'd remark, â?oI wouldn't want to sew without one.
A few years ago, when Grandma left this earth for her new residence in heaven, I bid farewell to a loving Grandmother. How quickly our lives can change. We had tea together a couple of months earlier, on her 91st birthday.
I missed her very much, but I noticed it most on my birthday, because there was no card from Grandma. She'd never forgotten my birthday!
On one particular birthday, when I was feeling a little low and a lot older, something happened to make me feel like she was sharing that special day with me.
I was arranging some colorful pillows that she had made, and suddenly I felt something inside one pillow, it was small and hard. I moved the object to a seam that I carefully opened, and to my delight out came a tiny silver thimble!
How happy I was to find something that had been a part of her. Not realizing it had fallen off her finger, I pictured her sewing it in that little pillow that I just happeneded to fluff, to place on my bedspread that day. I carefully laid the thimble along side the others I've collected
over the years, where I could continue to see the gift God chose to reveal to me.
What a precious memory of a very special lady who somehow, I knew, was laughing in delight at sewing her thimble inside my pillow.
I heated the tea kettle and made some tea, using my best china, as Grandma always did, and enjoyed my tea and Grandma's thimble. What a wonderful birthday that was!
By Diane Dean WhitePrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 28, 2007 4:35 pm | | The Real Coach! | # |
Stella Holman | | When I was growing up, I played a lot of baseball. All day long. At parks, playgrounds, in the street, it didn't matter where. I just loved it. But one year I didn't have a lot of fun. It was my team. We always came in third. Other teams would change positions, get better or worse, but not us. We were always the same, and I was miserable.
We didn't have a cool name like the Yankees . They had great looking uniforms, new equipment, and strutted around like they knew they were good. We, on the other hand, were the... are you ready for this?... Pilots. Yep. Strikes fear in your heart, doesn't it? "Now coming to bat... the Airplane Drivers." It's just not the same. There's no major league team called the Pilots. We happened to live close to the airport, but could we be the Awesome Fighting Jets? Noooooo. We were the Pathetic Pilots.
Our coach was interesting, too. He didn't seem to care that much about winning. Instead, he made sure every player got in the game, regardless of how bad they were. Sure he took us out for hotdogs and hamburgers, had parties at his house, patted us on the back, and showed us how to mprove... but he wasn't like the Yankees coach. That guy was a real coach, barking orders and doing what it took to win. He even wore a uniform like his team, not like the Army fatigues our guy showed up in half the time.
One year we ended the season playing the Yankees . They had not lost a single game. We, of course, were heading for third place. To make matters worse, I was called on the pitch. Now I was pretty good, but hey, these were the Yankees. I only remember a few things about that game. There was one batter who hit a home run every time he came up. Every time. I felt humiliated. Another actually yelled how bad my pitching was while he was batting. Turned out not to be a wise move. The next pitch hit him square in the side. I honestly didn't mean to do that, but somehow there seemed to be justice in it.
But the most important thing I remember happened after the game. You see, against all odds and everything that made sense, we actually won. I still don't know how exactly, but even with their slugger, we ended with more runs...and I had pitched the entire game. The Pilots beat the Yankees ! As our team was jumping around like idiots, I saw the Yankees coach take his team to a nearby oak tree and sit them down. Then he began screaming at them for having lost to such a sorry team as the Pilots. They would still be in first. They would still win the championship. But he was tearing them up.
Then I looked at our Army sergeant. He was patting guys on the back, hollering with his team, and doing what he always did... building us up and having fun. It was then I realized something. The guy I had thought was the real coach wasn't a coach at all. The real coach was someone who had been with me the whole season. He was there to lift me up when I was down, and he would have, if I had given him a chance. But I hadn't recognized him as the real coach. And now, it was like seeing him for the first time.
Reminds me of my relationship with God. There have been times when I sought a God who assured me that all my wishes and dreams would come true, one who would get me out of every bad situation, who wouldn't let anyone be sick or die, who would bring me happiness. I looked for a God who could give me heaven on earth, with no sorrows, no pain... right now. But the God of the Bible? Sure He came to earth, suffered and died for all the wrongs I've committed, and has prepared a special place so that after my earthly death I can be with Him forever... but none of that seemed to mean as much.
I was looking for the wrong person. I was so focused on my desires that I didn't recognize the real God What I wanted was a Supplier to use; what He gave me was a Savior to serve.
Do you know God? Is Jesus real to you? How do you describe Him? Does it match what's in the Bible? Or do you cling to an image that seems better? Perhaps we too often find Jesus asking us as He did Philip, Don't you know me, even after I have been among you such a long time? (John 14:9)
Take care and be God's,
Chuck Graham
"Ciloa - Christ is Lord of All"Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 28, 2007 4:57 pm | | Silly Love Songs | # |
Stella Holman | | Despite my love for Paul McCartney's post-Beatles work with Wings, I have to agree with John Lennon on this one: the world is full of silly love songs. Romantic love is the most overplayed sentiment in music, especially when it tries way too hard to be sentimental.
In fact, that's my definition of the popular slang word "cheesy." My kids hear me use that term all the time and last year they finally asked me for a definition. After much thought (it's actually quite difficult to define), here's what I came up with: "cheesy" refers to any extreme
effort to be sentimental. (Of course, then I had to define
"sentimental"!)
But, I believe that definition applies to what Lennon was referencing when, upon the Beatles breakup, he lamented that Paul only wanted to fill the world with "silly love songs." Words which Paul, of course, adopted into a song titled just that. (And I actually like that song.)
But even so, John was right. And the trend towards silly and cheesy love ballads hasn't stopped in the 37 years since he made that statement.
For those of us already married, though, we know that most of those songs simply do not reflect reality. Most of those songs are only concerned with the immature efforts to woo some woman or saddle some stud. But, the truth is that it's after the wedding bells chime that the real adventure begins. And few songs are able to capture the ongoing "what now?" of marriage. Few songs are able to articulate how
marriage is perhaps the most difficult, and yet promising, relationship we can experience.
I have found one such song, however. Unfortunately, the music of this song is incredibly cheesy. So cheesy, in fact, that it's been used in hundreds of commercials and most of us cringe, or laugh, whenever we hear the melody. But then we miss the words.
And I believe the words of this song are ridiculously profound. They are able to express the essence of what I believe marriage is all about: a long, daring,
difficult journey of two people's personal growth so intertwined that they can actually, occasionally, experience life as one.
Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the masterpiece of one-hit wonder Dan Hill, "Sometimes When We Touch" (cue the strings):
You ask me if I love you
and I choke on my reply
I'd rather hurt you honestly
than mislead you with a lie
And who am I to judge you
in what you say or do
I'm only just beginning
to see the real you
Right from the opening verse, we hear that this song is different. "I'd rather hurt you honestly than mislead you with a lie"? Are you kidding me? That's one of the most integrity-filled statements I've ever heard, and it the type of courageous honesty that every relationship needs. No
wonder none of us ever say it. Over and over, we choose to avoid any pretense of voluntarily hurting our spouse. We're reticent to tell them when they've got bad breath, much less be honest with them about our feelings. I once worked with a client who would nag her husband to near death, but would never dare tell him he's fat. "That's just rude," she
would say. But it's not rude to hide your disdain for his body and leave him wondering why you won't have sex with him anymore?
The truth is that our spouses usually already know when we have negative or wavering feelings toward them. And when we have the courage to say it out loud, we communicate something far greater than the hurtful words -- we communicate that we don't want to have those feelings remain the status quo. Saying "I don't like you right now"
also communicates "and I don't like that I don't like you." And that can be the beginning point to remarkable growth in your relationship.
And sometimes when we touch
the honesty's too much
and I have to close my eyes and hide
I want to hold you till I die
till we both break down and cry
I want to hold you till the fear in me subsides
Here's the cheesy chorus we all recognize. Again, because of the ripeness of the melody it is so easy to miss the words. But here we have an appreciation for the true intimacy we both crave and fear at the same time. Sometimes -- not every time -- but sometimes, getting close to our spouse triggers an insecurity that can be terrifying.
Marriage has a way of exposing us nakedly, warts and all, before another person and before ourselves. And that type of honesty is not usually comfortable, and not usually something we seek.
Getting close to someone can bring us companionship, acceptance, and even lead us to the ecstatic thrill of orgasm while in the arms of the person we cherish more than any other on the earth. Getting close can also, however, bring us face to face with our partner's flaws, our own
inadequacies, and the mountainous anxiety we feel about how much of our lives we've entrusted to this union. That's why we sometimes try to connect and hide at the same time. Think about it. How often do you close your eyes during any embrace with your spouse? When you hug?
Kiss? Make love?
We so often close our eyes during any kind of embrace because the honesty of intimate connection is "too much," and we "have to close [our] eye[s] and hide." Sometimes we seek the touch without the intimacy; we end up connecting with our genitals in order to avoid connecting with our eyes. That's because it is sometimes easier to copulate with parts of ourselves than openly communicate with all of
ourselves.
At times I'd like to break you
and drive you to your knees
At times I'd like to break through
and hold you endlessly
At times I understand you
and I know how hard you try
I watched while love commands you
and I've watched love pass you by
At times I think we're drifters
still searching for a friend
a brother or a sister
but then the passion flares again
Marriage is not a relationship built for the short term. It is more like a marathon requiring incredible endurance and persistence, despite the wide variety of feelings and experiences along the way. And the best marriages are the ones unafraid to feel all those feelings, and even acknowledge them once in a while. And that's what the song does here. Who among us hasn't wanted to vindictively break our spouse and drive him/her to their knees? In the heated exchanges of emotional reactivity, who hasn't felt this: "I cannot ever win with you!"
Such an experience can be tremendously powerful.
As if it were a battle in the first place. Have you ever heard the story about the two campers in British Columbia, Canada? They're sitting around the campsite when a grizzly bear wanders up near them.
Beginning to freak out, one starts to put on his running shoes. "Dude!" whispers the other one. "What are you doing? You can't outrun a grizzly bear!" You can guess the response: "Man, I don't have to outrun the bear!" In relationship battles it is easy to just care about winning,
regardless of who loses.
What I especially love about this bridge in the song, though, is the repeated phrase that begins each thought. "At times" we do want to break down our partners, while "at times" we want to embrace them forever. "At times" it does feel like we're just roommates, or siblings, just looking for someone to help us feel a little less alone.
And then "at times" that strange desire for deeper connection erupts from within, leading us toward each other in ways far beyond mere friendship.
And sometimes when we touch
the honesty's too much
and I have to close my eyes and hide
I want to hold ya till I die
till we both break down and cry
I want to hold you till the fear in me subsides
The greatest thing you can do for your marriage is focus on yourself, learning to calm your own anxiety as you pursue greater connection with your spouse. This means moving away from the mutual needs-meeting matchup so often highlighted as the ideal marriage, where we become responsible for propping one another up. It means moving towards a model that sees a great marriage as occurring between two strong,
separate selves who choose to be together as one.
Dr. David Schnarch has a remarkably simple, yet remarkably scary, exercise for couples wanting to grow themselves up in this way. He counsels people toward "hugging till relaxed." This involves holding your partner in your arms in such a way that neither one of you is supporting the other -- either one of you could let go and neither one
of you would fall. In such an embrace you are capable of strong emotional and physical connection, and yet you are each standing on your own two feet the whole time. The key is to resist the urge to make sure your spouse feels comfortable, or making sure your spouse is "there for you" as you begin to relax. The key is to focus on yourself,
concentrating on finding your peace within as you embrace the one you hold dearest.
Such an experience can be tremendously powerful in teaching us that even in the midst of close connection, our emotional responses are still up to us. It is not my spouse's job to calm my fears and ease my anxieties by telling me what I want to hear, or making promises to me about loyalty or security. It is my job to say yes to my marriage as it
forces me to examine myself, calm my own fears, and boldly pursue the types of conversations, connections, and yes, copulation I really crave. I don't want to run from you in order to feel safe; I don't want to "trust" you to make me feel stable. I want to hold you till the fear in me subsides.
So there you have it, folks, a cheesy love song unlike most others, one that actually calls us into authentic, integrity-filled relationships.
Yes, the song is incredibly cheesy. It is, in many ways, one of John Lennon's hated "silly love songs."
But what's wrong with that?
by Hal RunkelPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 29, 2007 8:13 am | | re: Silly Love Songs | # |
Mirdza Hayden | | I personally like love songs. I am a romantic at heart. Some make me cry, some make me laugh, some simply just make me smile as I think of my husband. I guess you have to be a romantic at heart to enjoy love songs.
Mirdza
Active Wellness Revolutionist
http://www.MirdzasHealthSite.com
Young Living Essential Oils: http://www.youngliving.org/mirdza2Private Reply to Mirdza Hayden | | Mar 29, 2007 11:47 am | | Beautiful Feet | # |
Stella Holman | | The only feet I have ever admired are those that belong to babies or very young children. For the most part, I think adult feet are ugly.
They have a right to be. Most of us, especially women, abuse them with shoes that don't fit correctly or have inadequate arch support. Many years ago, my husband worked in a shoe store and he says it always amazed him when some women would shove their feet into shoes that were obviously too small.
Not me. You won't catch me in uncomfortable shoes. Once, my mother bought me a pair of shoes to wear to a cousin's wedding. For some reason I don't remember now, I didn't try them on until the day of the wedding. They were too small and so painful that now, almost 20 years later, the only thing I can remember about the day my cousin said, "I
do!" was how much my feet hurt.
Ugly feet are hereditary in my family. Once, when all the women on my father's side were together, we took off our shoes to show those who married into our family what their children's feet might look like. I could tell by the looks on their faces that they thought we were kidding. However, when we took off our shoes, there was no denying the
similarity. "How do they get that way?" they asked. "Genetics," we all replied in unison. "Admire your children's feet when they are babies because one day they may look like this," my aunt advised.
I remember my grandmother saying, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." But when it comes to feet, I didn't believe that anyone could possibly find my feet attractive. I am so self conscious about them that I never wear sandals, flip flops, or open-toed shoes. No sirreee. I want those ugly puppies covered up as much as possible.
I didn't believe that anyone could possibly find my feet attractive.
Last week, I was reading my Bible and I came upon a verse that I didn't remember. Paul quotes the Old Testament when he says, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news" (Romans 10:15 NLT).
My mouth dropped open in amazement. The message was loud and clear. If I am a Christian and I am bringing the good news to others, I have beautiful feet! I slipped my shoes off and looked at the same twisted toes and huge bunions that I've looked at for the last several years.
They definitely didn't look beautiful to me, but if God thinks they are beautiful ... I know they are.
When my brother was a little boy my mother looked at his hands one day and told him he had beautiful hands. "No they're not," he argued. "Oh yes they are," she replied gently. "The things they can do are beautiful."
And that's the way it is with feet. No matter what they look like, when they help us carry the message that Jesus Christ came to this earth and died for our sins, that He arose victorious from the grave, and that He's coming back for us one day, then our feet our beautiful indeed.Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Mar 29, 2007 9:07 pm | | re: GRANDMA's THIMBLE | # |
Mirdza Hayden | | It truly is amazing how we recieve little gifts of encouragement when we most need them. It's definitely not coincidence - it is God's way of showing he loves and cares for us, for sure.
Thanks for sharing!
Mirdza
Active Wellness Revolutionist
http://www.MirdzasHealthSite.com
Young Living Essential Oils: http://www.youngliving.org/mirdza2Private Reply to Mirdza Hayden | | Apr 05, 2007 1:35 pm | | When Does Day Begin? | # |
Stella Holman | | You probably get discouraged about events in the news too. Terrorism.
Family violence. Unemployment. Economic uncertainty. Some of the scary news may even be closer to home than the newspaper. Health problems. Damaged personal relationships. Friction among people in your church. It can be discouraging.
And just whose responsibility is it to make things better? If your first thought is God, I would not propose to correct your answer. I would only remind you that God acts in this world through human agents.
There is an old Hasidic story about a rabbi and his students. As they walked along one day, he asked, "How can we know the hour of dawn -- the time at which the night ends and the day begins?"
There is so much darkness.
No one ventured an immediate answer, so they continued to walk. Then one of the rabbi's disciples offered something. "Is it when you can look from some distance and distinguish between a wolf and a sheep?"
"No," said the rabbi. And they continued to walk. "Is it when there is light enough to distinguish between a grapevine and a thorn bush?" ventured another student. "No," said the rabbi. There was a long silence. "Please tell us the answer to your question," said one. "How is it possible to know the precise time at which the dawn has broken?"
"The dawn comes for each of us," said the wise old teacher, "when we can look into the face of another human being and -- by virtue of the light that comes from within us -- recognize that even a stranger is our brother or sister. Until then, it is night. Until then, the night is still with us."
Self-centered lives are cramped, provincial, and sad. It is only those souls large enough to live for others that are expansive with joy and bright with love. Love is, in fact, the only spiritual power great enough to overcome the selfishness that seems to be instinctive to being alive.
There is so much darkness. Let's pray for the dawn to come.
Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily; your righteousness shall go before you, the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard (Isaiah 58:8 RSV).
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From Heartlight (c) 2007 Used by permission. From Rubel Shelly's "FAX of Life" Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 05, 2007 1:41 pm | | The Empty Egg | # |
Stella Holman | | Jeremy was born with a twisted body and a slow mind. At the age of 12 he was still in second grade, seemingly unable to learn. His teacher, Doris Miller, often became exasperated with him. He would squirm in his seat, drool, and make grunting noises. At other times, he spoke clearly and distinctly, as if a spot of light had penetrated the darkness of his brain. Most of the time, however, Jeremy just irritated his teacher.
One day she called his parents and asked them to come in for a consultation. As the Forresters entered the empty classroom, Doris said to them, "Jeremy really belongs in a special school. It isn't fair to him to be with younger children who don't have learning problems. Why, there is a five year gap between his age and that of the other students."
Mrs. Forrester cried softly into a tissue, while her husband spoke. "Miss Miller," he said, "there is no school of that kind nearby. It would be a terrible shock for Jeremy if we had to take him out of this school. We know he really likes it here." Doris sat for a long time after they had left, staring at the snow outside the window. Its coldness seemed to seep into her soul. She wanted to sympathize with the Forresters. After all, their only child had a terminal illness.
But it wasn't fair to keep him in her class. She had 18 other youngsters to teach, and Jeremy was a distraction. Furthermore, he would never learn to read and write. Why waste any more time trying?
As she pondered the situation, guilt washed over her. Here I am complaining when my problems are nothing compared to that poor family, she thought. Lord, please help me to be more patient with Jeremy.
From that day on, she tried hard to ignore Jeremy's noises and his blank stares. Then one day, he limped to her desk, dragging his bad leg behind him.
"I love you, Miss Miller," he exclaimed, loud enough for the whole class to hear. The other students snickered, and Doris' face turned red. She stammered, "Wh-why that's very nice, Jeremy. N-now please take your seat."
Spring came, and the children talked excitedly about the coming of Easter. Doris told them the story of Jesus, and then to emphasize the idea of new life springing forth, she gave each of the children a large plastic egg. "Now," she said to them, "I want you to take this home and bring it back tomorrow with something inside that shows new life. Do you understand?"
"Yes, Miss Miller," the children responded enthusiastically - all except for Jeremy. He listened intently; his eyes never left her face. He did not even make his usual noises. Had he understood what she had said about Jesus' death and resurrection? Did he understand the assignment? Perhaps she should call his parents and explain the project to them.
That evening, Doris' kitchen sink stopped up. She called the landlord and waited an hour for him to come by and unclog it. After that, she still had to shop for groceries, iron a blouse, and prepare a vocabulary test for the next day. She completely forgot about phoning Jeremy's parents.
The next morning, 19 children came to school, laughing and talking as they placed their eggs in the large wicker basket on Miss Miller's desk. After they completed their math lesson, it was time to open the eggs. In the first egg, Doris found a flower. "Oh yes, a flower is certainly a sign of new life," she said. "When plants peek through the ground, we know that spring is here." A small girl in the first row waved her arm. "That's my egg, Miss Miller," she called out.
The next egg contained a plastic butterfly, which looked very real. Doris held it up. "We all know that a caterpillar changes and grows into a beautiful butterfly. Yes, that's new life, too." Little Judy smiled proudly and said, "Miss Miller, that one is mine."
Next, Doris found a rock with moss on it. She explained that moss, too, showed life. Billy spoke up from the back of the classroom, "My daddy helped me," he beamed.
Then Doris opened the fourth egg. She gasped. The egg was empty. Surely it must be Jeremy's she thought, and of course, he did not understand her instructions. If only she had not forgotten to phone his parents. Because she did not want to embarrass him, she quietly set the egg aside and reached for another. Suddenly, Jeremy spoke up. "Miss Miller, aren't you going to talk about my egg?"
Flustered, Doris replied, "But Jeremy, your egg is empty." He looked into her eyes and said softly, "Yes, but Jesus' tomb was empty, too."
Time stopped. When she could speak again, Doris asked him, "Do you know why the tomb was empty?" "Oh, yes," Jeremy said, "Jesus was killed and put in there. Then His Father raised Him up."
The recess bell rang. While the children excitedly ran out to the schoolyard, Doris cried. The cold inside her melted completely away.
Three months later, Jeremy died. Those who paid there respects at the mortuary were surprised to see 19 eggs on top of his casket, all of them empty.
David LangerfeldPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 06, 2007 9:00 am | | re: The Empty Egg | # |
Mirdza Hayden | | What a powerful story! Thanks for sharing =)
As we remember the death of our Lord today, let's thank him for dying in our place and let us be grateful that his death is not the end of the story. Let's remember that on Easter he rose again and is now preparing a home for all of us who believe in Him.
God bless you all!
Mirdza
Active Wellness Revolutionist
http://www.MirdzasHealthSite.com
Young Living Essential Oils: http://www.youngliving.org/mirdza2Private Reply to Mirdza Hayden | | Apr 12, 2007 10:56 am | | The Star in the Window | # |
Stella Holman | | During World War I, families with a son in the war would place a star in the window. A man was walking along with his grandson when his grandson asked "Why do all these homes have stars in the windows?" The grandfather explained to the son what the star symbolized.
They walked along and every time they passed a home with a star in the window the boy would smile and clap his hands together. Then the boy pointed up to the sky and pointed to a star. "Look," he said. "God must have given his son too!"
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begottten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
By David LangerfieldPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 14, 2007 11:39 am | | The Quilt of Holes | # |
Stella Holman | | As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls. Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles. An angel sat before each of us, sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life
As my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares were. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult - the challenges and temptations I was faced with in everyday life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all.
I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune.
I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened. My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air.
Finally, the time came when each life was to be displayed - held up to the light and the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been.
My angel looked at me and nodded for me to rise. My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter, but there had also been trials of illness and wealth and false accusations that took from me my world as I knew it.
I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.
Now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was. I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light.
An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes. Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes, creating an image - the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said, "Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles. Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you."
May all our quilts be threadbare and worn, allowing Christ to shine through!
By David LangerfeldPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 14, 2007 11:45 am | | Saved at Sea | # |
Stella Holman | | A wealthy family decided to rent a yacht for their upcoming vacation. The father had no experience in sailing, but as everything in life seemed to come easy to him, he boasted that this too should be no problem.
The family loaded everything they needed for their world-wide cruise; clothes for every occasion, make-up, fancy jewelry and the finest perfumes, since, one never knows what kings, queens or heads of state may greet them at each port.
Living in such opulence was nothing new to the Van Dyke family. Both parents were raised with the proverbial silver spoons in their mouths; attended to by nannies, butlers and grounds-keepers, and they raised their two children in the same lap of luxury.
What should have been a pleasure cruise began to slowly turn in to a nightmare after only a few days at sea. The radio died, but always expecting the best, Mr. Van Dyke ignored the loss of this necessary communication which would have also allowed him to hear of the impending storm they were approaching. Before long, the white yacht was being rocked by massive waves, and pummeled by bullets of rain.
"Not to worry," said Mr. Van Dyke calmly. "Let's just tie down our valuables. We wouldn't want to lose anything important!"
Mrs. Van Dyke took a silk sash from her bathrobe, wrapped it around her large ivory jewelry box, then tied the box to the post of her bed hoping no ring, necklace or bangle would shift out of place. The Van Dyke children, Martha and Ben, gathered up all their toys and electronic game equipment, and placed them in a wooden chest. "Wouldn't want anything to happen to my XBox!" exclaimed ten-year-old Ben.
Just as Mr. Van Dyke was pondering what valuable he should be most concerned with, a towering wall of water smacked their vessel so hard, the yacht fell to its side. Immediately, the ship began taking on water, and there was nothing anyone could do to stop it. "We need to get off the boat! It's going to sink!" yelled Mr. Van Dyke. In the blink of an eye another massive wave came and washed the entire family into the dark waters of the raging sea. As they fought to stay afloat, Mr. And Mrs. Van Dyke frantically tried to get to Martha and Ben, who not only did not know how to swim, but who also were not wearing life-jackets.
Terror gripped the entire family. For the first time in his life, Mr. Van Dyke, the typically over-confident and self-centered business executive, was now helpless and unsure what next to do. As his children's small bodies slipped under the turbulent water, Mr. Van Dyke cried out a blood-curdling scream of, "Dear God! Please!"
Seeing her children being swallowed up by the waves, Mrs. Van Dyke dove under the water where her little ones were, and pushed them back to the surface. Suddenly, Mr. Van Dyke noticed something floating; a plank of wood from the children's toy box. "Grab tight to the plank!" He shouted. "Don't let go!"
While the sea began slowly to calm, all that remained of their yacht was the tip which had yet to be swallowed up. Martha began to cry. "I don't want to die, Mommy!"
"I don't want to die either, dear," replied Mrs. Van Dyke, as every muscle in her body ached from treading water so long. The Van Dykes knew the situation was very grave, and that there was a chance their family would not come out of this alive.
"I would like us to pray," said Mr. Van Dyke as he too struggled to stay afloat.
"But we have never prayed before, Daddy," whimpered Ben as his tiny body shivered from the cool waters.
"I know we haven't, and that was a terrible mistake I made," said Mr. Van Dyke. "I guess I was so busy with other things I thought were important. Now I can see they really weren't."
"What your father is trying to say, dear, is all that is important is you!" cried out Mrs. Van Dyke as she began to flounder in the sea; her arms beginning to give out.
"Your mother is right. It was a big mistake, and I hope you and God will forgive me," replied Mr. Van Dyke inadvertently swallowing a gulp of salty sea water. His arms were so weary from treading the thick waters. "Martha and Ben, promise me that no matter what happens, you will not let go of the plank. Also promise me that in your life as you grow older, you will put God first, then family."
"We will, Dad. We promise," said Martha and Ben in unison their little knuckles white from holding onto the plank so tightly.
"Then let's pray," said Mr. Van Dyke as he lead his family in prayer for the first time.
[Hours later]
"Mr. Van Dyke? Can you hear me yet, Sir?" whispered the voice of a woman clad in white.
Slowly, his eyes opened, and while confused of his whereabouts, Mr. Van Dyke's first thought went to his wife and children.
"It's OK, Sir. Your family is safe and all on dry land here in the Coast Guard hospital," reassured the nurse. "Your rescuers were able to salvage a few things from the yacht, and here is one of them I thought you might like."
The nurse held Mrs. Van Dyke's ivory jewelry box.
Mr. Van Dyke took it in his weak hands, and upon opening it, saw that it was still intact. Looking at the nurse he said, "You know, I paid millions of dollars for the contents of this box."
Upon closing the lid, he replied, "Give this to the hospital. I don't need it. I already have everything truly valuable I need."
Spiritual Application: The above story is purely fictional, yet for many of us, it is reality that a relationship with God is pushed to the back burner of our lives, and like Mr. Van Dyke, replaced with other things which seem important, but really are not. The Van Dykes realized this in time, and thankfully, had a second chance to begin anew, but how many people go to their grave without even considering God and their spiritual welfare?
My dear friends, do not put off 'till tomorrow what you can do today. It is never too late to start anew!
Contributed by Melanie Schurr (Copyright (c)2005 Melanie Schurr)
Melanie Schurr is author of "Ecstatic Living: A Christian Marriage Manual and Life-Guide", "Son Salutations" and "Daily Contemplations", which are a collection of read-one-a-day modern inspirations. For more information, visit www.MelanieSchurr.comPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 14, 2007 12:17 pm | | A Tradition Like No Other | # |
Stella Holman | | The person who loves golf, particularly The Masters Golf Championship, will recognize those words as the Jim Nantz' description of the CBS coverage of the tournament. For several years, the ads begin running in late February leading up to the first week in April when the greatest
golfers in the world assemble in Augusta, Georgia, to compete in the greatest golf tournament in the world. The Masters Championship is not only a tradition in itself, but the tournament is full of traditions.
The tournament traditions include the ceremonial legends of the game serving as honorary starters by teeing off early on the first day of the tournament. This year Arnold Palmer hit the first drive. Of course the green jacket is a tradition like no other. The fact that the tournament is often decided on the back nine on Sunday afternoon has become a tradition. Amen Corner is a tradition. The beauty of the azaleas and dogwoods is a tradition. Skipping the ball across the water
on the 16th hole during practice rounds has become tradition that results in boos from the crowd if a golfer chooses not to participate.
For many patrons, planting themselves by the 16th green or the 18th green is a tradition. Hearing Pat Summerall say, "CBS Sports proudly presents the Masters!" to introduce the broadcast is a tradition.
Traditions are important in most areas of our lives. Our schools use traditions to build school spirit. There are winning traditions and losing traditions with sports teams. Families have food traditions, vacation traditions, holiday traditions, wedding traditions, anniversary traditions, and birthday traditions. Churches have traditions. Even those who vow to be non-traditional develop their own set of traditions. As best we can, we try to preserve our traditions.
The Masters: a tradition like no other. You don't mess with the traditions of the Masters. Those who run the tournament do all within their power to preserve the traditions of the Masters Tournament.
Some traditions are easily accepted as traditions and can be changed or rejected or ignored with no risk of penalty. Then, there are those traditions worth fighting to preserve. When it comes to your life, what is the tradition that is like no other?
Allow me to offer a suggestion based on what Jesus said:
They change how we live!
Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and soul, and mind, and strength. Love your neighbor as yourself.
When Jesus was asked what He considered as most important, this was His response (Matthew 22:34-40). These are often called "The Greatest Commands."
To adopt something like this as our "tradition like no other" will revolutionize our lives. Most of the traditions we hold onto will determine some of our direction and many of our actions. But to adopt "The Greatest Commands" as our greatest tradition, will alter the course of our futures. Nothing will be the same. These commands change how we treat people. They change how we think. They change how we worship. They change how we live. Now that's a tradition like no other.
Lord willing, I can look forward to the first weekend in April for years to come. I'll look forward to watching the Masters and enjoy hearing Jim Nantz say, "The Masters, a tradition like no other." Of greater importance, however, are the words of the Master that I hope to drive the course of my life, all the days of my life.
A life of love lived for the Master. Now that's truly "a tradition like no other!"
by Tom NorvellPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 14, 2007 12:22 pm | | Cutting Corners, | # |
Stella Holman | | Even though we all know better, something about us continues to make us suckers to the idea of cutting corners and finding a quick fix. So entrepreneurial hucksters regularly come along with ideas that bring in
millions. Then they move on and leave no forwarding address.
Western obsession with weight and appearance makes us particularly susceptible to claims about products that promise fitness without effort, weight loss without sweat. One company made big money selling anti-cellulite sneakers. Others tout muscle stimulation and weight-loss water. People love to think they've found an easy way to their goals.
Health and fitness experts tell us good eating habits combined with regular exercise is the best way to slim down. One requires self-discipline, and the other is work. Who wants to pay the price, if there is a no-strain, no-pain alternative? Who doesn't want to think there is an easier way?
In other contexts, it is the person who deceives himself into thinking he can continue to drink after a couple of DUIs and a job loss. It is the one who tells herself that an "innocent flirtation" at the office means nothing. It is parents who refuse to take seriously their child's brush with the law. It is a family trying to get all it wants with
credit cards instead of saving money over time. It is the person who won't own up to responsibility and apologize for betraying a confidence and hurting a friend.
Want to know why counseling doesn't work for many troubled marriages?
It turns up areas of the relationship that need work over time. But, immature and selfish people want a magical quick fix.
Perseverance, over time, in pursuit of a noble and worthwhile goal!
Know why some companies fail? It will take too much hard work over too long a period of time to correct problems, replace ineffective people, and penetrate new markets. Lacking a quick fix, there is bankruptcy.
Want to know why once-thriving churches die? Somebody gets hooked on the notion that spirituality is a new program or gimmick rather than fruit-bearing by the gentle presence of the Holy Spirit. So members go church-hopping again.
One of the virtues that gets too little attention these days is persistence. Not stubbornness. Not pig-headedness and inflexibility. But perseverance, over time, in pursuit of a noble and worthwhile goal.
It is interesting that the Bible places perseverance midway between struggle and character. There's just no shortcut from one to the other.
And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character,
hope. (Romans 5:2-4 NIV)
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(c) 2007 Used by permission. From Rubel Shelly's "FAX of Life"
printed each Tuesday. See Faith Matters for previous issues of
the "FAX of Life."Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 14, 2007 12:30 pm | | Forever Stamps? | # |
Stella Holman | | A number of years ago, a colleague of mine complained about all of her bills. She had a stack of them, ready to be mailed. She then complained about the price of postage stamps, and having to lick them. She also made a point of telling me that even though the post office offered a variety of stamps, that she just used the plain, ordinary regular ones.
She resented paying bills in the first place, and her creditors would be receiving her checks with those stamps. I thought that her ranting about this was a little silly, and gave her my opinion. From my perspective, as long as I was spending the money on a stamp, I might as well purchase a pretty, colorful, commemorative one. I didn't care who
(i.e. creditor, friend) would be the recipient of my snail mail, but it would have a pretty stamp.
The stamps that I currently have are the "Love" stamps -- the ones with the Hershey's kiss, wrapped in silver foil. Perhaps the individual who receives something from me will be uplifted, amused, or get the urge for a little chocolate! I hope that the stamp will spread a little sunshine into someone's life.
We have been bought with a "forever" price!
Did you hear that the U.S. Post Office will once again be raising the price of a first class postage stamp? It's now 39 cents, but on May 14th, it will be 41 cents. We'll either have to purchase the higher priced ones, or get some of those 2 cent stamps to place with it.
There's another stamp that's been issued - it's called the "Forever" stamp. Those stamps, with the Liberty Bell, will give customers a chance to lock in the price -- no matter how much the rates rise in the future. I wonder how many Americans will take advantage of that deal.
Forever is quite a concept to grasp, isn't it? It makes me think of eternity -- that will be a long time for us up there! Thinking along those lines, we belong to God. We have been bought with a "forever" price - with His blood. Let's live in a way that will bring glory to Him . a stamp of approval.
Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received by God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your body (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NIV).
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(c) 2007 Katha Winther From her book As I Was Saying, all rights reserved.Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 16, 2007 12:07 pm | | re: Saved at Sea | # |
Rachel Falade | | Hi Stella
I just read the message.This is exactly the same message that is written in the book of Ecclesiastes.
Thanks for the message Private Reply to Rachel Falade | | Apr 16, 2007 1:22 pm | | I Hold A Clear Title | # |
Stella Holman | | Some years ago radio evangelist Charles E. Fuller announced that he would speak the following Sunday on "Heaven."
It was to be broadcast on radio. During that week he received a letter from an elderly gentleman who was very ill. Here is part of that letter:
"Next Sunday you are to talk about 'Heaven.' I am interested in that land because I have held a clear title to a bit of property there for over 55 years. I did not buy it. It was given to me without money and without price. But the donor purchased it for me at a tremendous sacrifice. I am not holding it for speculation since the title is nontransferable. It is not a vacant lot.
"For more than a half-century I have been sending material out of which the greatest architect and builder of the universe has been building a home for me, which will never need to be repaired because it will suit me perfectly, individually, and will never grow old.
"Termites can never undermine its foundation for it rests upon the Rock of Ages. Fire cannot destroy it. Floods cannot wash it away. No locks or bolts will ever be placed upon its doors, for no vicious person can ever enter that land where my dwelling stands, now almost completed and ready for me to enter it and abide in peace eternally without fear of being ejected.
"There is a valley of deep shadow between the place where I live in California and that to which I shall journey in a very short time. I cannot reach my home in the City of God without passing through the dark valley of shadows. But I am not afraid, because the best friend that I have ever had went through the same valley alone, a long, long, time ago and drove away all the gloom. He has stuck by me through thick and thin since we first met and became acquainted 55 years ago, and I hold His promise in printed form, never to forsake nor to leave me alone. He will be with me as I walk through the valley of shadows, and I shall not lose my way when He is with me.
"I hope to hear your sermon on "Heaven" next Sunday from my home, but I have no assurance that I shall be able to do so. My ticket to heaven has no date marked for the journey... no return coupon... and no permit for baggage. Yes, I am ready to go and may not be here while you are talking next Sunday, but I shall meet you there some day."
By David Langerfeld
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 16, 2007 2:08 pm | | re: re: Saved at Sea | # |
Stella Holman | | Hi Rachel
Well good of you to spot that! I never. Do you like reading the Old Testament?
Blessings
StellaPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 24, 2007 5:07 am | | Get Back Up | # |
Stella Holman | | David Langerfeld
Apr 23, 2007
"David arose from the ground." 2 Samuel 12:20
Look at David: standing on his balcony looking the wrong way at another man's wife. Then follows a night of sin, an unplanned pregnancy, a failed cover up, a pre-meditated murder, a royal wedding, a public exposure and a dying child.
It doesn't get much worse. Covered in sackcloth and ashes he lies on the palace floor pleading for the life of the newborn child. For a whole week he cries, then it's over. "Is the child dead?" he asks. Yes. Listen: "David arose from the ground, washed, anointed himself, and changed his clothes; then he came into the house of the Lord and worshipped."
Facing circumstances he couldn't change, receiving forgiveness he couldn't earn, learning a lesson he'd never forget, David closed the book and moved on. In Psalm 51 he prays, "Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. Create in me a pure heart, O God." (Psalm 51:9-10 NIV) And God answered his prayer. Listen: "I will sing of Your strength, in the morning I will sing of Your love; for You are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble." (Psalm 59:16 NIV)
No doubt about it, our sin offends God. But our unwillingness to repent and receive His forgiveness offends Him even more! And that's what we do when we remain stuck in our failures. God never intended such a waste of life! The way to honor God after any failure is to get back up, corrected and redirected, and carry the message of His grace to others who've failed!
Posted at http://www.ucb.co.uk
UCB is a Christian media ministry formed to promote the good news of the Kingdom of God. Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 24, 2007 5:09 am | | Four Open Secrets About the Rest of Your Life | # |
Stella Holman | | Tell a child you have a secret and you have his undivided attention. All of us children---big and little, young and old---love secrets; love to hear them, love to tell them. Today, I am opening the vault and revealing four of the best-kept secrets in the Kingdom of God.
Secret #1 - God has big plans for you.
Jeremiah 29:11 says it best. "I know the plans I have for you: plans for your welfare and not for calamity, to give you a future and a hope." His plans for us fall into two categories---earthly and heavenly.
Secret #2 - He is not going to tell you what they are.
In His compassion, God makes big plans for us. In His wisdom, He does not tell us what they are. He protects us from knowledge of the future for two reasons.
(1) We could not handle it.
(2) We would mess it up.
Suppose you found out that your brothers were going to fake your death and sell you into slavery, and that you would end up forgotten and forsaken in a foreign prison for years. Who could handle such news? Most of us would grieve over such a future and grow bitter toward our brothers and angry at
God. In the Old Testament book of Genesis, Joseph experiences precisely such a fate.
Suppose the Lord told you that one day you would become the king's second-in-command and live in power and luxury for the rest of your life. Who could handle news like that without becoming distracted? This too is the story of Joseph in Genesis.
Scripture promises the Lord will not put more on us than we can bear. One way He does that is by withholding details about our future. The burdens would rob us of our joy and threaten to destroy us in advance, while the blessings would distract us from our responsibilities of the moment.
Secret #3 - God is working on His plans this very moment.
He is getting you ready for the future and getting the future ready for you. Jesus said, "I go to prepare a place for you. If I go away, I will come again and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there you may be also." (John 14:1-6) He is getting Heaven ready for us. He is getting us ready for Heaven.
One way God prepares us for future challenges is by giving us difficulties and hardships. He strengthens us the same way a personal trainer builds our muscles: by laying on stress. "It is good for me that I was afflicted," the psalmist said, "that I might learn thy statutes." (Psalm 119:71) That's how
it works.
Secret #4 -- Your job is to be faithful today
Bloom where you are planted, as the saying goes. The way to be ready for tomorrow's opportunities is to do our job today, no matter how insignificant or routine.
Writing in the Spring 2003 issue of "Columns," the alumni magazine of Louisiana College, Curt Iles pays tribute to science professor Charles Cavanaugh. Early in Curt's sophomore year, he paid Cavanaugh a visit to tell him he planned to drop chemistry.
"Prof," said the 19-year-old, "I thought it was God's will for me to become a science teacher. I enjoyed the biology classes you taught last year. But chemistry is killing me. That little rural high school I attended did not prepare me for this. I failed the test yesterday and I am not going to be able to pass this course. So, I plan to drop chemistry. Maybe God will have something else for me since I can't be a science teacher. I need to find His will."
Suddenly, the professor cut him off. "God's will? God's will? Son, I'll tell you what God's will is for you! Get in there, go to work, and pass chemistry. That's what God's will is for you!" And he stormed out of the office. Curt sat there in shock. Finally, realizing the professor was not returning, he went back to his dormitory. That night, he studied chemistry, and the next day, made a D on the test. At least, it was passing.
"That day," Curt Iles writes, "I decided that nothing was going to stop me from achieving my goal of teaching. I was going to pass this course or die trying." A month later, the chemistry professor said, "Iles, what's happened to you?" He was a student with a purpose.
Before leaving the disciples, Jesus began to prepare them for the future. Peter listened, absorbed all he could, then turned to the apostle John. "Lord," he said, "what about him?" Jesus said, "What is that to you? You follow me." (John 21:22)
God has big plans for you. He is mercifully not going to tell you what they are. At this moment, He is at work getting you ready for them and them ready for you. Your job is to do the work He has put on your plate today.
---------------------------------
Joe McKeever
www.JoeMcKeever.comPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 29, 2007 11:07 am | | Patience in Prayer | # |
Stella Holman | | When the idea is not right, God says, "NO".
No - when the idea is not the best.
No - when the idea is absolutely wrong.
No - when though it may help you,
It would create problems for someone else.
When the time is not right, God says, "SLOW".
What a catastrophe it would be if God answered every prayer at the snap of your fingers.
Do you know what would happen?
God would become your servant, not your master.
Suddenly God would be working for you instead of you working for God.
When you are not right, God says,"GROW".
The selfish person has to grow in unselfishness.
The cautious person must grow in courage.
The timid person must grow in confidence,
The dominating person must grow in sensitivity.
The critical person must grow in tolerance.
The negative person must grow in positive attitudes.
The pleasure-seeking person must grow in compassion for suffering people.
When everything is all right, God says,"GO".
Then miracles happen:
A hopeless alcoholic is set free.
A drug addict finds release.
A doubter becomes a child in his belief.
Diseased tissue responds to treatment, and healing begins.
The door to your dream suddenly swings open and there stands God saying, "GO!".
Remember:
God's delays are not God's denials.
God's timing is perfect.
Patience is what we need in prayer.
Joe Gatuslao at InspirationDaily (inspirationdaily@yahoogroups.com)
Posted at "Christian Voices" (www.ChristianVoicesWorldwide.com)Private Reply to Stella Holman | | May 03, 2007 12:56 pm | | Who's Packed Your Parachute? | # |
Stella Holman | |
Charles Plumb, a US Naval Academy graduate, was a jet fighter pilot in Vietnam. After 75 combat missions, his plane was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile. Plumb ejected and parachuted into enemy hands. He was captured and spent six years in a communist Vietnamese prison. He survived the ordeal and now lectures on lessons learned from that experience.
One day, when Plumb and his wife were sitting in a restaurant, a man at another table came up and said, "You're Plumb! You flew jet fighters in Vietnam from the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. You were shot down!"
"How in the world did you know that?" asked Plumb. "I packed your parachute," the man replied.
Plumb gasped in surprise and gratitude. The man pumped his hand and said, "I guess it worked!" Plumb assured him, "It sure did. If your chute hadn't worked, I wouldn't be here today."
Plumb couldn't sleep that night, thinking about that man. Plumb says, "I kept pondering what he might have looked like in a Navy uniform - a Dixie cup hat, a bib in the back, and bell bottom trousers. I wonder how many times I might have seen him and not even said good morning, how are you or anything because you see, I was a fighter pilot and he was just a sailor."
Plumb thought of the many hours the sailor had spent on a long wooden table in the bowels of the ship, carefully weaving the shrouds and folding the silks of each chute, holding in his hands each time the fate of someone he didn't know.
Now Plumb asks his audience, "Who's packing your parachute?" Everyone has someone who provides what they need to make it through the day. Plumb also points out that he needed many kinds of parachutes when his plane was shot down over enemy territory - he needed his physical parachute, his mental parachute, his emotional parachute, and his spiritual parachute. He called on all these supports before reaching safety.
Sometimes in the daily challenges that life gives us, we miss what is really important. We may fail to say hello, please, thank you, congratulate someone on something wonderful that has happened to them, give them a compliment, or just do something nice for no reason.
His experience reminds us all to prepare ourselves to weather whatever storms lie ahead. As you go through this week, this month, this year... recognize the people who pack your parachute!
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. (1 Thes. 5:11)
Charles Plumb
May 2, 2007
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | May 03, 2007 3:06 pm | | Coming Alongside Our Kids | # |
Stella Holman | | "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great crowd of witnesses, let us strip off every sin and weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterward. Now he is seated in the place of highest honor beside God's throne in heaven. Think about all he endured when sinful people did such terrible things to him, so that you don't become weary and give up." (Hebrews 12:1-3)
The 1992 Olympics in Barcelona featured one of the most memorable moments of sports history.
Derek Redmond of Great Britain was on the way to fulfilling a lifetime dream, that of winning a gold medal in the Olympics. He had earned a spot in the semifinals of the 400-meter race, and as the gun sounded to start the race, Derek got off to a great start. He was running the race of his life, and the finish line was in sight, when suddenly he felt a stab of pain in his right leg. He pitched face-first to the track with a torn hamstring. The race was over for Derek.
He struggled to his feet before the medical team could reach him. Though every runner had passed him, he began hopping forward, tears of pain and disappointment streaking his face, determined to finish the race. Suddenly, a man plowed through the security guards on the sidelines and ran onto the track.
He raced up to Derek and hugged him. "You don't have to do this," Jim Redmond told his weeping son. "Yes, I do," Derek answered. "Well, then," his father said, "we're going to finish this together."
Derek's father gripped his son around the shoulders, and they faced the finish line, resolutely waving off the security men who hovered about them. They limped and hopped together, Derek's head sometimes buried in his father's shoulder, and stayed in Derek's lane all the way to the end.
The watching crowd gaped at first at the unusual scene. Then, one by one, they rose to their feet, and began cheering and crying at the son's determination and the father's support.
How many times have I stayed in the stands when I should have run onto the track to support my kids? Too many, I must confess. But becoming a refuge to my children will mean running to their side, not to carry them, but to come alongside them when they face hurt and disappointment. It will mean saying, "We're going to finish this together." It will mean enduring the stares of the crowd and ignoring the cries of critics. It may be personally risky, it may be professionally unwise, but it will be worth it to hear my kids say, "Thanks, Dad, you're my defender."
Maybe you've been there. Without warning, everything you've planned for and worked hard for your entire life came crashing down at your feet. Maybe it was a disaster,a force of nature, that destroyed your physical home. Maybe it was a divorce that destroyed your family home. Maybe you were terminated from a job with undue notice and for no apparent reason. The race that you had prepared to run ended as abruptly as Derek Redmond's race, and it seemed the whole world passed you by. Your life lay in pieces, and the thought of quitting loomed before you as the only feasible alternative. Who could blame you?
But, like Derek Redmond, you decided to finish the race. Why? You had no chance of winning. You had no chance of fulfilling the dream you had set out to accomplish. But, determinedly, you began to place one foot in front of the other. Suddenly, someone burst through the crowd and came alongside you. It was your heavenly Father.
"We'll finish this together," he says, as he wraps his arm around your shoulder and limps forward with you to the finish line.
And as you hobble, side-by-side, the air is electrified as the audience is enthralled. Rising to their feet, a low rumble begins to form above the clapping of hands. Their applause - an inadequate expression of praise for such a meritorious event -- is muffled by the stomping of their feet. The sound rises to a fever-high pitch as together the Father and son cross the finish line.
The Father, the Son, the decision, the determination.
"I will never fail you. I will never forsake you." That is why we can say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper, so I will not be afraid." (Hebrews 13:5-6)
-------------------------
From The Heart of a Father, a compilation of great stories about fathers, edited by Wayne Holmes.Private Reply to Stella Holman | | May 07, 2007 1:11 pm | | The Hut | # |
Stella Holman | | Encourager Classic: The Hut
The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him, and 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 him from the elements and to store his few possessions.
But then one day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, the smoke rolling up to the sky. The worst had happened - everything was lost. He was stunned with grief and anger.
"God, how could you do this to me!" he cried. Early the next day, however, he was awakened by the sound of a ship that was 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.
It is 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 pain and suffering. Remember, next time your little hut is burning to the ground ----it just may be a smoke signal that summons the grace of God.
For all the negative things we have to say to ourselves, God has a positive answer:
You say: "It's impossible"
God says: All things are possible (Luke 18:27)
You say: "Nobody really loves me"
God says: I love you (John 3:16 & John 13:34)
You say: "I can't go on"
God says: My grace is sufficient (II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: "I can't figure things out"
God says: I will direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5-6)
You say: "I can't do it"
God says: You can do all things (Philippians 4:13)
You say: "I'm not able"
God says: I am able (II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: "It's not worth it"
God says: It will be worth it (Roman 8:28)
You say: "I can't forgive myself"
God says: I FORGIVE YOU (I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: "I can't manage"
God says: I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19)
You say: "I'm afraid"
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (II Timothy 1:7)
You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated"
God says: Cast all your cares on ME (I Peter 5:7)
You say: "I don't have enough faith"
God says: I've given everyone a measure of faith (Romans 12:3)
You say: "I'm not smart enough"
God says: I give you wisdom (I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: "I feel all alone"
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5)
David Langerfeld
May 7, 2007Private Reply to Stella Holman | | May 07, 2007 1:45 pm | | Filled with Compassion | # |
Stella Holman | | He left home as a rebellious teenager who knew better than anyone how to live his life. The months prior to his departure were filled with numerous heated discussions about who was in charge. After one particularly ugly encounter he left. He took a few of his belongings. The next time they heard from him he had joined the military. He came home only for a few days before being shipped overseas. The visit was tense and filled mostly with awkward times when no one knew what to say. Before they figured it out, he was gone.
His parents waited anxiously to hear from him. They received a few short letters, an email now and then, and every few months they would get a phone call mainly telling them he was okay.? Then, one day he called. This time he sounded different. Something had changed. Dad, Mom, I'm sorry. I'm ready to come home.?
As the ship was making it's way into port, the sailors were lining the deck and families covered the dock. Cheers. Waves. A band played. One by one they came off the ship searching the crowd for a familiar face. When he stepped off his parents spotted him long before he saw them. They worked their way through the crowd never taking their eyes off of him. Finally they reached him. They embraced him. He tried to talk and explain that he realized how he had treated them, but they were not listening. They were too busy enjoying the moment they had longed for. He was home. He was really home.
She took off one day without warning. They had no idea where she was. For months her parents wondered and prayed and feared the worse. She did called a few times to let them know where she was, but would not say much about what she was doing, and would have nothing to do with talk of coming home. So, they waited. They prayed. Then, late one night the phone rang. A tearful voice on the other end said, Dad, can I come home?? Arrangements were made to get her a plane ticket that night. By early morning she was in the air, and they were on the way to the airport. When she stepped into the area of the terminal where passengers were greeted she saw her folks and began to cry. They ran to her and she fell into their arms sobbing. She tried to explain and she tried to apologize, but they said, We have plenty of time for that. Right now just let us hold you and get you home where you belong.?
Her husband found someone else he loved more. She was someone who made him happy. Someone who made him feel good about himself. So he left. The divorce was ugly. The struggle was intense. He was gone. She had to pick up the pieces, deal with her anger, and rebuild her life. Her friends said, Move on. Forget about him. He doesn't know what he's losing.? Part of her wanted to do that, but a bigger part wanted to wait, and something deep inside said, Give him time.? She did. She waited. She prayed. She moved forward. She was doing well . . . considering the circumstances. Getting back on her feet. Then, he called. ?Honey. I?m so sorry. Can we talk?? She dropped the phone and melted on the floor. When she collected herself she picked up the phone and said, I've dreamed of this moment. I love you. Please come home.?
His wife said she had lived his dream long enough. Now it is time for her to do what she?s always wanted to do. So, she left. She lived it up. She did everything thing she had always wanted to do and had never had the opportunity to do. She was free. She was carefree. She was on her own. He waited. He took care of the kids. He maintained the house. He prayed. He asked God to protect her until she came around. When all things logical told him to give up on her, he held on believing that one day she'd come home.
Then, one night as he made the rounds turning out the lights, checking the locks, he paused another time to look out the front window at the driveway. That's when he saw her. Sitting in her car. He burst out the front door and ran to her car. He opened her door and pulled her into his arms. She wept as he hugged her and kissed her and said, I'm so glad to see you. I love you. I'm so glad you are home.?
Maybe these stories sound too good to be true to you. These things only happen in fairy tales, you say. Well, before you write it off completely consider this:
But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. (Luke 15:20 NIV)
Are you waiting for someone to come home? Keep waiting. Keep praying. Keep your heart open. ?
Are you wondering what it would be like to go home but afraid you won?t be welcome? Go home.
Have you walked away from the Lord and now wish you could go back? Go back.
By Tom NorvellPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | May 07, 2007 2:29 pm | | re: Filled with Compassion | # |
Mirdza Hayden | | Great stories. The love of our parents is truly amazing. Though we sometimes take that love for granted, they never stop loving us.
Thanks for sharing the stories!
Mirdza
Active Wellness Revolutionist
http://www.MirdzasHealthSite.com
Young Living Essential Oils: http://www.youngliving.org/mirdza2Private Reply to Mirdza Hayden | | May 15, 2007 3:21 pm | | The Trumpet Player | # |
Stella Holman | | In high school my career aspirations were to be a professional tennis player or trumpet player. This was before reality set in. I played tennis for eight hours every summer day, and three times a week during the school year. And I practiced the trumpet every day. I studied with the principal trumpet player in the Houston Symphony Orchestra. And I had visions of grandeur.
My trumpet hero was Doc Severinson. If you remember him, you're old (like me). He was the band leader on Johnny Carson's The Tonight Show, and an amazing musician. I once heard him say of his trumpet regime: if I miss one day of practice, I know it; if I miss two days, the band knows it; if I miss three days, the world knows it. My thought was: if he needs to practice every day, how much more do I. I was right.
Would it surprise you to learn that the Lord Jesus Christ had to spend time every day alone with his Father? That the secret to his spiritual power over Satan and his demons came from his extended times of solitude? Think of it--the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the eternal Son of God himself, had to meet with his Father every day. And for extended periods of time regularly.
Luke 6:12: "One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God." Matthew 14:22-23: "Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone." For how long? "During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake" (v. 25). This was 3 a.m. Jesus prayed for nine hours. When did you last pray for one?
Today's devotional is not about guilt. It is meant to encourage us to adopt the spiritual strategy guaranteed to give us victory over the enemy. It is a strategy available to every single Christian--no seminary degrees or ordination needed. It's a simple matter of priorities.
Martin Luther said, "If I fail to spend two hours in prayer each morning, the devil gets the victory through the day." If the founder of the Protestant Reformation needed time with God to win spiritual victory, what of us? If God himself would model this discipline, and his Son would practice it daily without fail, don't we need it also?
Copyright © 2002. James C. Denison.
Teaching Pastor, Park Cities Baptist Church, Dallas, TX
www.godissues.org/articles/pages/SubscriptionsPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | May 15, 2007 3:25 pm | | Proving Them Wrong | # |
Stella Holman | | Everyone suffers an occasional rejection. Some high school seniors don't get into their college of choice. Many a college graduate doesn't get the dream job he or she had counted on. Suitors are turned down. Social slights abound.
Some people so internalize the rejections they encounter that they become paralyzed by life. They abandon their dreams. They settle for less than God intended with their lives. They give up and resign themselves to mediocrity. They allow the judgments other people pass on them to define them. What a shame!
Imagine the difference that would have been made in our world if certain people had accepted others' rejection of them as the final word on their worth. Beethoven's music teacher said he was "hopeless" at composing. The Wright brothers were ridiculed for their dream of a flying machine. Albert Einstein was feared to be mentally retarded as a child. Martin Luther King was born to a culture that had institutionalized racism to make people like him "stay in their place."
You've no doubt seen pictures of Michelangelo's David. Maybe you've stood in front of it and marveled at its flawless lines. Many judge it to be the world's most perfect piece of sculpture. The torso of the biblical hero who went from shepherd boy to King of Israel is rendered in exquisite detail. Down to the muscle contraction etched on his forehead, it seems almost ready to come alive.
The masterpiece that is David was carved from a single block of marble that two other artists had already discarded for its imperfections! And so it might have been with the historical figure himself. When God sent his prophet to anoint the next king for Israel, neither Samuel nor the family patriarch to whom God had sent him considered David to be in the running. He wasn't even invited in from the fields to meet the visiting holy man. He was, after all, just a boy tending sheep.
The David story contains this marvelous line: "The Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). Just as Michelangelo would later see possibilities for a flawed block of marble others had discarded, God saw possibilities for a raw young man for whom others appear not to have forecast greatness.
A rejected marble block in Michelangelo's hands yielded artistic brilliance. A slighted youth in God's hands became the legendary King of Israel. So why should you let life's slights and rejections define you? In the hands of The Master, you still have infinite possibilities before you to prove the critics wrong.
Rubel Shelly
"The Fax of Life"
www.rubelshelly.comPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | May 15, 2007 4:13 pm | | Surprised By God | # |
Stella Holman | | If I could give a synopsis of my testimony it would be "Surprised by God". Thirty-seven years ago I really had no spiritual interest. I had been selected as one of 30 high school students from Louisiana to study at the United Nations in New York City. I entered an international oratorical contest there and was awarded “Most Outstanding Youth Speaker” in North America.
I traveled throughout the United States and Canada the next year speaking about the necessity of peace in the world. But there was one major problem. I had no peace in my own heart. I found myself trying to fill that vacuum in my life with alcohol, immorality and a quest for power. But nothing seemed to work.
That’s when I was surprised by God.
My girlfriend’s parents strongly encouraged us to go to church one evening. Even though I wasn’t seeking God, He was seeking me. As I listened to speaker talk about my need for Christ, his message pierced my heart. I responded in faith by opening my heart to Jesus. He came into my life and changed me completely.
Some of my friends said, “Tippit, I’ll give you two weeks and you’ll be back to the same old life.” Well, thirty years have passed now, and I have to say that I love Jesus now more than I’ve ever loved Him.
He not only surprised me. But He’s also kept me. I never dreamed that in the next thirty-seven years, God would place me in stadiums and sports arenas on every inhabited continent. He has allowed me to bring hope to a lost and dying world.
I’ve walked into the middle of a revolution. I’ve been arrested three times, and I’ve walked into the middle of a war and proclaimed God’s love.
During those early days, God was preparing me to go into nations with the message of His love for a lost and dying world that desperately needed Him. He surprised me as a high school student with the gospel. Since then I’ve never been the same. The Christian life has been one great adventure. It’s been one surprise after another.
Have you ever been surprised by God? He once said to the Psalmist, “Be still and KNOW that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations.” Be still in the quiet place and listen to God’s voice. You may be surprised.
__________________________
Sammy Tippit Ministries
www.sammytippit.orgPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | May 22, 2007 6:20 pm | | The Beggars Rags | # |
Stella Holman | | A beggar lived near the king's palace. One day he saw a proclamation posted outside the palace gate. The king was giving a great dinner. Anyone dressed in royal garments was invited to the party.
The beggar went on his way. He looked at the rags he was wearing and sighed. Surely only kings and their families wore royal robes, he thought. Slowly an idea crept into his mind. The audacity of it made him tremble. Would he dare? He made his way back to the palace. He approached the guard at the gate. "Please, sire, I would like to speak to the king."
"Wait here," the guard replied. In a few minutes, he was back. "His majesty will see you," he said, and led the beggar in.
"You wish to see me?" asked the king.
"Yes, your majesty. I want so much to attend the banquet, but I have no royal robes to wear. Please, sir, if I may be so bold, may I have one of your old garments so that I, too, may come to the banquet?" The beggar shook so hard that he could not see the faint smile that was on the king's face.
"You have been wise in coming to me," the king said. He called to his son, the young prince. "Take this man to your room and array him in some of your clothes."
The prince did as he was told and soon the beggar was standing before a mirror, clothed in garments that he had never dared hope for. "You are now eligible to attend the king's banquet tomorrow night," said the prince. "But even more important, you will never need any other clothes. These garments will last forever."
The beggar dropped to his knees. "Oh, thank you," he cried. But as he started to leave, he looked back at his pile of dirty rags on the floor. He hesitated. What if the prince was wrong? What if he would need his old clothes again. Quickly he gathered them up.
The banquet was far greater than he had ever imagined, but he could not enjoy himself as he should. He had made a small bundle of his old rags and it kept falling off his lap. The food was passed quickly and the beggar missed some of the greatest delicacies.
Time proved that the prince was right. The clothes lasted forever. Still the poor beggar grew fonder and fonder of his old rags. As time passed people seemed to forget the royal robes he was wearing. They saw only the little bundle of filthy rags that he clung to wherever he went. They even spoke of him as the old man with the rags.
One day as he lay dying, the king visited him. The beggar saw the sad look on the king's face when he looked at the small bundle of rags by the bed. Suddenly the beggar remembered the prince's words and he realized that his bundle of rags had cost him a lifetime of true royalty. He wept bitterly at his folly. And the king wept with him.
We have been invited into a royal family - the family of God. To feast at God's dinner table, all we have to do is shed our old rags and put on the "new clothes" of faith which is provided by God's Son, Jesus Christ. But we cannot hold onto our old rags. When we put our faith in Christ, we must let go of the sin in our life, and our old ways of living. Those things must be discarded if we are to experience true royalty and abundant life in Christ.
Food For Thought
What are you holding on to from your life before knowing Jesus? Whatever it is, get rid of it! God will give you everything you need ... you don't need to rely on the world to satisfy you anymore! Have a wonderful day!
David Langerfeld
May 22, 2007Private Reply to Stella Holman | | May 23, 2007 2:55 pm | | Have you every fanced being a Lion Tamer? | # |
Stella Holman | | David Langerfeld
May 17, 2007
Be a Lion Tamer
A first grade teacher seated her students in a circle. She asked them what they wanted to be when they grew up. One by one, each child got up and announced, "I'd like to be a nurse like my mother," or "I want to be a banker like my father," or "I want to be a teacher like you, Miss Smith."
The last child to speak was the most shy and timid little boy in the class. He said, "When I get big, I'm going to be a lion tamer in the circus. I'm going to face those animals with my whip and chair and make them leap through hoops of fire and obey all of my commands." Seeing the disbelieving looks on the faces of his classmates that he could ever act so boldly or bravely, he was quick to reassure them, "Well, of course, I'll have my mother with me."
We are sometimes shy and timid about standing up for Christ in the midst of an immoral society. We keep quiet when we ought to speak up. We cower when we ought to take a stand. Where do we get the inner strength to be bold and brave? Only through the assurance that we have Christ by our side.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Phil. 4:13).
With that knowledge, take courage today to do something for God that you've been hesitant to do.Private Reply to Stella Holman | | May 23, 2007 2:58 pm | | We had to Celebrate | # |
Stella Holman | | "'My son, the father said, 'you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.'" (Luke 15:31-32NIV)
Sometimes we just need to celebrate and be glad.
When the lost son or daughter comes home, we need to celebrate.
When the wayward husband or disobedient wife comes home, we need to celebrate.
When a child graduates, we need to celebrate.
When we get the job, we need to celebrate.
When your child is baptized, we need to celebrate.
When our team wins, we need to celebrate.
When we have another anniversary, we need to celebrate.
When a baby is born, we need to celebrate.
When we pass the test, we need to celebrate.
When the test results come back negative, we need to celebrate.
When the war ends, we need to celebrate.
When the soldiers come home, we need to celebrate.
When good wins over evil, we need to celebrate.
When darkness is overcome with light, we need to celebrate.
When we have a birthday, we need to celebrate.
When we come into the presence of the Almighty God, we need to celebrate.
Some people rarely feel the need to celebrate. No matter what the occasion they find it difficult to relax, drop their defenses, loosen their collar, and celebrate. Any sign of joy beyond the norm is too much. Any expression of joy that does not directly involve them is inappropriate.
The story says, "We had to celebrate and be glad." Paul says again and again, "Rejoice! Rejoice in the Lord always! Rejoice!"
When was the last time you really celebrated? If you cannot remember, then it was too long. Maybe it's time you called your neighbors and friends and celebrated. Maybe it's time you went all out and threw an extravagant party.
If anyone complains, simply say, we had to celebrate.
(By the way, I'd love to come to the party.)
Tom NorvellPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 05, 2007 6:46 pm | | Holding Patterns | # |
Stella Holman | |
Many times, God will allow a painful situation or a painful circumstance in our life to "swallow us up." This season in our spiritual growth is a holding pattern. We can't move to the left or the right. All we can do is sit, like Jonah sat in the belly of that great fish, so God can have our undivided attention and speak to us.
God put Jonah in a holding pattern because He needed to speak to his heart. Jonah was all alone. There were no friends to call, no colleagues to drop by, no books to read, no food to eat, no interferences, and no interruptions. He had plenty of time to sit, think, meditate, and pray.
When we're deep down in the midst of a difficult situation, God can talk to us. When He has our undivided attention, He can show us things about ourselves that we might not otherwise have seen.
A few of God's holding patterns...
1. When you are sick in your physical body and you have prayed, but you're not yet healed, you are in a holding pattern.
2. When you are having problems with your children and you have put them on the altar, but God has not delivered them yet, you are in a holding pattern.
3. When you have been praying for a loved one to return to God, and they have not come back yet, you are in a holding pattern.
4. When you are in a broken relationship and you have given it over to God, but it has not been restored yet, you are in a holding pattern.
5. When the doors slam shut before you can even knock on them, you are in a holding pattern.
When we are deep in the belly of a difficult situation, there are no interruptions. God has our undivided attention. All we can do is sit, think, meditate, and pray. Like Jonah, we cannot run from God, because there are no mountains that are high enough, valleys that are low enough, rivers that are wide enough, rooms that are dark enough, or places that are hidden from Him.
We must remember to praise Him while we're waiting, and remember three things:
1. The pattern has a purpose.
2. The pattern has a plan.
3. The pattern has a process.
So stop struggling and start listening, praying and trusting. He'll keep you right where you are until you can clearly hear Him say, "I love you."
"Father, forgive my unbelief. I know you love me and I will come to see the benefit of everything in my life, even this holding pattern, and the manifestation of my Good is assured through You. You have planned nothing for me but victories and I am ready to receive them regardless of how difficult the path." Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 05, 2007 6:55 pm | | How does your garden grow? | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
The greatest gift that we can give of ourselves is the gift of love. We
will be remembered far longer for the love that was shown towards others
than any other single thing that exists. Our acts of love can be shown in
many ways such as making special time to be attentive to ones needs, giving
a gift for no special reason, saying I love you and showing it to those who
are nearest to our hearts and simply letting people know that we appreciate
them and telling them how much they mean to us. Love implied isn't the
same as love shown, so encourage yourself to make an extra effort to let
your love be made known towards everyone whom you hold dear to your heart.
I hope you are encouraged and challenged by this message to make an extra
effort each day to let the love that is within your heart be shown where
all will be impacted for the better.
HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?
As a young child, upon my bedroom wall hung a poem stating, â?oThe only way
to have a friend is to be one.â? I'm certain I must have read that verse
dozens, if not hundreds of times while laying upon my bed, and yet, it's
simple but profound message continued to grow in my heart throughout my
adult life.
Whether it's friendship, marriage, or another form of loving relations, all
relationships entail a foundation built on the acts of giving and
receiving. As flowers soak up the rays of the sun, and droplets of dew,
offering to man their fragrant and bright blooms, so too does every loving
relationship require the loving gestures of both individuals.
For five years, Tom had his eye on Sandra, a peppy and pleasant young lady
who worked in his office. In the past, when Tom's schedule wasn't as
demanding, Tom and Sandra shared lunches and spoke to each other often.
Tom promised Sandra many a time he would take her out on a â?oproper date,â?
but as the weeks, then months began to fly by and Tom's schedule became
more hectic, Sandra gave up hope. In Sandra's mind, Tom was disinterested,
so there was no sense in hoping for something that would never happen. A
year later, Sandra announced to her fellow employees that she was engaged
to be married! When Tom heard the news, he was so shocked he turned white
and had to sit down. â?oHow can she do that to me? She should be marrying
me, not him,â? whimpered Tom as a tear fell down his eye.
In that same office building, was employed a middle-aged woman named Helen,
who was a divorced mother of a thirteen year old boy. As Helen sipped her
coffee at her desk, she reflected on the messy argument she and her son had
just before work. This was not their first fight, but the result of years
of lack of communication and neglect. The truth of the matter was that
Helen's son never knew for certain if his mother loved him or not, and this
caused much conflict in their relationship.
The wealthy, elderly owner of the above mentioned building, Mrs. Emily
Hawkins, was on her death bed in the hospital. The doctor notified her
immediate family and friends, knowing they would want to say their final
good-byes. All of Mrs. Hawkins children came, shedding heartfelt tears, but
there were no friends to come because the wealthy Mrs. Hawkins never took
the time to nurture meaningful friendships.
Real Life Application:
What these three stories have in common is all their outcomes could have
come out very differently if only they would have watered their gardens
more carefully. Loving words unspoken, caring gestures never accomplished,
time never given; all of these resulted in seeds of friendship and love
being choked by bitter weeds of neglect, selfishness, fear, and all things
which destroy, rather than build up.
How does your own garden grow?
Is there a special one, two or three flowers you wish to see blossom, and
yet it never seems to grow? Then ask yourself how well you are caring for
that tender bud. Is it being watered with kindness and thoughtfulness? Is
the warmth of love freely administered as does the sun offer it's rays of
light? Are the leaves of the flower pruned and nurtured continually with
the gifts of time, energy, and self?
As I again ponder that verse which sat upon my wall for so many years of
my childhood, it is my hope that, for those people who I â?osayâ? I love, be
they spouse, children, or friend, that I will do my best to let my love,
not be mere lip service, but to let the true heartfelt emotions which fill
my heart, overflow and pour out, so that every blossom may be watered and
never wither. In like manner, may the reality of God pour out into your
own lives, so that your hearts can fully comprehend what is the height,
breath, and width of His love.
By Melanie SchurrPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 06, 2007 1:02 pm | | Don't get too attached | # |
Stella Holman | | When I describe it, you'll be able to visualize it. I'm certainly not the first person who has observed it. But there is a lesson in it we both may have overlooked.
There are some children on a beach. They're playing at the edge of the water. Giggling. Building sandcastles. They seem so intent on the project. You get amused at how meticulous and careful they are with crumbly corners and tiny turrets. The looks on their faces as they screw their mouths around and stick out their tongues in earnest concentration are priceless.
Then a big wave starts to close in! But the kids don't panic. They do the strangest thing. They jump to their feet, scream with excitement, and watch the waves wash away their creations. There is no hysteria. No sadness. No bitterness. Even little children know the fate that awaits sandcastles. So they are neither shocked nor angry when the tide comes in.
You and I should be so wise. The stuff of this world is about as permanent as sandcastles on a beach. Yet we get so caught up in it, defensive over it, and depressed over the loss of it. But God didn't create you for this world. Your destiny is not bound up in cash and bonds, land and houses, fame and monuments. So living to be a hundred years old is far less important than living well - Even if for a relatively short time. Beautifying your body is not nearly as urgent as living with a pure heart before God.
Children know that their castles in the sand are brief joys destined to be taken away by an incoming tide. So they don't fret as the waves approach. They typically watch their creations get swept away without shedding tears.
Everything about this life is so transient. The incoming wave of our mortality is going to sweep it all away. Like sandcastles at the edge of the ocean, nothing we do for the sake of this world can survive. Only what you do here for eternity will last. Only the treasures you send ahead will escape corruption.
What would the loss of your job or business do to you? What if your house were to go up in smoke tonight? What if a pain sent you to the doctor and led to the discovery that you have only a few weeks to live? These things really do happen to people, you know. We are all vulnerable. We are all quite mortal. Everything about our existence here is about as enduring as sandcastles.
Life is God's gift. Revel in every good thing. Enjoy your castles in the sand. Just be careful not to let yourself get unduly attached to any of them.
Rubel Shelley
www.RubelShelly.comPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 12, 2007 1:23 pm | | God So Loved The World | # |
Stella Holman | | "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16, NIV)
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God loved the world so much that He gave is one and only son. God love the people of the world so much ? people of the darkness, people who rejected Him, people who disobeyed Him, people who refused to acknowledge Him, and people who did not even recognize Him ? so much that He allowed His only Son to die so these people could be saved. God loved you and me that much.
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This one statement of God's love for the world becomes the foundation for the life of the Savior and the life of all who choose to follow the Savior. So the question for us is simple: Do we love the world?
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How much do we love the world?
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What would we be willing to sacrifice so that others will be saved?
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Will we offer our bodies as living sacrifices?
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Will we go out of our way to help a stranger in need?
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Will we offer a cup of cold water to someone who is thirsty?
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Will we cross cultural, racial and social barriers to extend a kindness?
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Will we open our doors to whoever seeks the Lord?
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Will we set aside our freedoms as citizens of the Kingdom to make a non-citizen feel comfortable?
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Will we give of our time, our money, our energy, and our talent trusting that the Lord will return it to us overflowing so that others may have an opportunity to know Him?
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Will we remove any barrier that might get in the way of any little one coming to God?
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Will we do whatever it takes to get the message out to as many as possible?
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Will we ? people loved by God, recipients of His gift, and partakers of His Kingdom ? do what He did? Will we love the world enough to sacrifice?
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"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
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It is our turn to love.
Tom
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A Norvell Note ? Copyright 2007. Tom Norvell All Rights Reserved.Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 12, 2007 5:46 pm | | Thanks Dad! | # |
Stella Holman | | Even though my dad passed away 27 years ago, I was incredibly blessed
to have him as my father the years that he lived. He was passionate. He
led hundreds to Christ. He loved to sing and lead worship. Most of all
.. he loved kids ... all age kids ... all kinds of kids ... and they
all knew it.
There was never any doubt in our house that kids were important. Dad
tried to make every ball game and even coached quite a few, too. He
counseled high school and university age students. We had kids of all
ages over at our house all the time. He also took me hunting, fishing,
horseback riding, to Friday night football games, and to dirt track car
races. He threw the ball with me and prayed with me. He was a real dad!
Two powerful memories, however, really stand out in my mind above all
the rest.
The first memory is of my dad, extremely ill and weak, going out to
stop a guy down the street from beating his kid out front of their
house. Other men - physically well and strong men - stayed inside their
homes not wanting to risk involvement. Not my dad. No one should get
away with beating his kid, especially not in public. On dad's watch, no
one did. At that point of my dad's illness, the drunken father could
have killed him, but that was a risk my father took. The well being of
the child was more important to my dad than his own physical safety.
So, dad intervened, protecting the kid until the police arrived on the
scene with the abusive man spewing threats and profanities.
Second memory occurred when I was in middle school. The dad of a friend
got up front at church. He was holding my friend's adopted baby sister.
He told everyone that the home for "unwed mothers" that helped them
adopted this little girl was very short of money and needed help.
Otherwise, they might not make it. My dad wrote a check for more money
than we had in the bank. Somehow we made it financially - actually, my
folks received an unexpected check in the mail the next day. It was
just enough to cover the gift.
So today, as I look toward Father's Day at the end of this week, I'm
thinking of my dad. All this week, we'll share dad-related stories. So
I couldn't help but think of finding a way to help kids out on Father's
day in honor of my dad. Two groups that help kids are very important to
me.
The first group is Christian Homes and Family Services. They have a way
to honor your dad by helping kids who don't have dads. It's an effort I
help get started called Tied to Life. You sign up online and Christian
Homes sends a card as well as a contribution letter telling your dad
that a donation has been made in his honor. The gift goes to help
unborn children find a Christian home. Check out how this all works on
their website: http://www.christianhomes.com/tiedtolife/ It's simple to
do, helps a good cause, isn't that expensive ($20), and most dads love
it! They've even promised to expedite things as much as possible so the
card is there by Father's Day.
I hope and pray you and yours have a great Father's Day.
Another way to help kids is through Compassion International. Our
family helps sponsor a young boy with Compassion and feel like this is
a great way to keep my dad's legacy of loving kids alive today. You can
do this and be part of Heartlight's Compassion International team. Just
go to the Compassion Website.
(Specific web address
http://www.compassion.com/sponsor_a_child/default.htm?referer=Heartlight52051)
You can get more information, sign up to sponsor, or simply check out
their ministry. Sponsoring a child with Compassion is a great way to
get your own children involved in something that blesses others.
I hope and pray you and yours have a great Father's Day. I know I'm
looking forward to mine. Even if you don't choose to do one of the two
things mentioned above to honor your dad this year, I encourage you to
do something that makes a difference that honors your dad!
Oh, and if there is anything you'd like to say about your dad, I'd love
to hear about it on my blog:
http://blog.heartlight.org/phil/2007/06/our_dads.htmlPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 12, 2007 5:51 pm | | I Was a Snob and It Breaks My Heart!!! | # |
Stella Holman | | I got a call last week from a friend of mine from college. It was
strange to hear her voice on my answering machine, yet I recognized it
immediately even though we hadn't talked in over 18 years. Jennifer
wasn't one of my "best" friends in college, but she was someone I
always liked and one of those people you would always remember even if
it had been a long time -- she was and still is just a really neat
girl.
She shared with me that she felt led one day to try and find me, so she
googled my name and stumbled upon our Faithbuilders website. After
talking for a period of time on the phone, she told me that after
reading my journals and devotionals that she had a difficult time
believing that was me. She was just being honest when she shared with
me that it seemed like the person she read about on our website was
completely different than the person she knew in college. She said,
(and I quote) "Well, you were always nice to me, but you weren't always
nice to everyone else."
If God hadn't removed my blinders and redeemed me from the pit of hell
in the last few years, I know I would've been completely defensive when
she shared that with me. She was telling the truth and she was right. I
was a stuck-up snob. I was a legalistic, religious, hypocritical,
self-righteous snob.
So many different things played a part in this snobbish identity. For
sake of time, I won't share them all, but take my word for it, I was a
snob. In college, I thought I was so cool being a member of the Yada
Yada Yada -- not it's real name, but you get the idea -- social club,
which isn't even a club at any other Christian or state University! Yet
in our little club, we somehow defined ourselves as the "most admired
and popular club" on campus. I even dated the tall handsome green eyed
guy from the equivalent Yada Yada Yada guy club, which also wasn't
found anywhere else. I made good grades, was liked by most of my
professors -- except for one which will remain nameless since I really
do think she despised me. I was competitive and a sports-snob, too,
because I hated to lose ... at anything.
However, I remember that I desperately wanted to be a Summer Singer. I
can't tell you that my singing and playing the piano would've earned me
a spot in this prestigious singing group, but I can tell you what the
professor choosing the members of the group told me why I wasn't
chosen: I was a snob. He didn't use those exact words, but he asked me
questions and alluded to situations (one in which I had said something
very cruel to a guy who was directing one of our Spring Sing shows.
This professor gently, yet very clearly, told me as I sat in his office
that I was not chosen for the same reasons Jennifer shared with me on
our phone conversation last week: I was a snob. As I sat in his office,
it's one of the first times in my life that I can actually remember
crying.
Who was I, this "Christian" girl, to think I was better than other
people?
Where did my superior acting, falsely pious, behavior first begin?
I can't tell you exactly. I can, however, tell you how wrong and how
sinful I was then, and still am today when I slip back into that
self-righteous behavior. There are not a lot of things in the Bible
that God says he hates, but he clearly says many times in Scripture
that he hates pride. I was, and sometimes still am, prideful.
The thing that breaks my heart the most is I really did believe that I
had the right to treat people the way I did. How I so desperately wish
I could go back with the knowledge and the love that I have today. How
I wish I could share the love of my heavenly Father, shine the light of
Christ, and treat people with the kindness God has shown me. How I wish
I could go back and develop relationships and friendships with all the
people who I could've encouraged and who I'm sure God wanted to use to
help encourage me ... regardless of the Greek letters ironed across our
club shirts. How sad that I missed out on life-changing relationships
because I was too busy trying to keep myself elevated on the pedestal
of pride. My heart breaks to think how many amazing people God allowed
to cross my path in the last 24 years that I missed knowing and loving
because I thought I had earned a status and a "title" that others just
couldn't quite measure up to.
Why am I sharing with you that I was a snob?
Because I wonder, am I still a snob?
Are you a snob?
How can we do any of this and be a snob?
Are we church snobs, do we think we are better or wiser, or more
"spiritual" than other people because of the name on the concrete sign
in our church parking lot?
Do we say things like, "Oh, she's a really good Christian!" (Is there
really any such thing as a bad Christian).
Are we snobs at our work? Do we treat everyone with the love of Christ
or just the people we feel meet our criteria of worth?
As we walk through the grocery store, or the mall, or the airport, do
we silently judge and condemn people we see because of how they look or
dress?
Do we think because we've been given certain gifts or talents from God
that we have the right to act as if those gifts and talents are
something we have earned?
We are all children of God. Period. God graciously opened my eyes on
November 2, 2000 to the truth -- our identity and our worth are found
only in Him. We are all worthy and equal in his eyes because of His
blood. We are created with different personalities and different
strengths so we can stand together as one, so we can share the love of
Christ to grow the Kingdom of God -- NOT to take part in an elite club
that allows us to feel superior because of the name on our sign.
Our only purpose here on earth is to be the presence of Jesus -- to
act, talk, walk, love and shine Jesus -- in every relationship we have.
But how can we do any of these things if we are snobs? I know I must
have broken God's heart every time I told someone I was a Christian
when my actions represented everything but Jesus Christ.
I thank God for the forgiveness of the Cross. I thank God for friends
like Jennifer who can lovingly speak truth even when it hurts. I thank
God for transforming the lives of his children and allowing us to
remember where we came from in hopes that we can praise God for
changing us and loving us and never leaving or forsaking us -- even
when we were, and sometimes still can be, snobs.
The Lord detests all the proud of heart.
Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.
Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for;
through the fear of the Lord a man avoids evil. (Proverbs 16:5-6
TNIV)
(c) 2007 Kimberli J. Brackett kimberli@thefaithbuilders.netPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 13, 2007 11:23 am | | re: I Was a Snob and It Breaks My Heart!!! | # |
Mirdza Hayden | |
Many Christians do believe they are better than everyone else, unfortunately, just like the Pharisees, yet Jesus has some harsh words for them. Pride is one of the worst sins - Jesus is always speaking against it.
Thanks for sharing! We all need to take a look at ourselves and make sure we are not snobbish and prideful, so that God's love can shine through us.
Live healthy!
Mirdza
Helping People Lead Healthier Lives
http://www.MirdzasHealthSite.comPrivate Reply to Mirdza Hayden | | Jun 14, 2007 3:43 pm | | re: re: I Was a Snob and It Breaks My Heart!!! | # |
Stella Holman | | Thanks Mirdza,
I do love your new picture, what a beautiful view!
Blessings
StellaPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 14, 2007 4:07 pm | | A Gift of God's Love | # |
Stella Holman | | My father has taught me many things, but one thing has stood out time and again- the power of giving.
Fifteen years ago my dad felt compelled to go on a short-term mission trip to Honduras, putting his skills as a builder to work on a medical clinic. While there, he befriended a rag-tag group of children who played near the building site. They captured his heart, especially the 4-year-old boy named Ybor. He was the son of the village prostitute, usually left in the care of his elderly grandfather.
When Dad came home, he left a piece of his heart with a little boy in that seaside village. Over 10 years later, my father returned to Honduras after Hurricane Mitch ravaged the country. Ybor was not forgotten. Dad heard that the boy had been given up for adoption and hoped to meet the young man Ybor must have grown into.
Dad gave a lot of thought to a suitable gift for Ybor. He finally settled on a fully equipped toolbox, remembering how expensive they had been to purchase locally on his previous visit. Dad was unprepared for Ybor's reaction. Ybor grabbed the box and ran back into the little house where he lived with his adoptive family. When he emerged again, his face was wet with tears, as was that of his adoptive mother. She explained that Ybor had just been offered a rare opportunity as an apprentice, but the stipulation was that he needed to provide his own tools. The cost of tools locally was prohibitive, but they had prayed only that morning that God would provide.
God had planted a seed of love in the fertile soil of a giving heart over 10 years before, and it brought the increase just when it was needed most. My dad gave a box of tools, but I'm certain that what he received was more precious- the knowledge that as a giver, he is a powerful instrument of God's love.
Tara PackhamPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 18, 2007 5:55 pm | | Seemingly Unanswered Prayer | # |
Stella Holman | | "When my prayers returned to me unanswered, I went about mourning as though for my friend or brother." (Ps 35:13-14 NIV)
My youngest son has always loved horses. After begging for riding lessons for four years, my wife and I finally caved. He was seven years old at the time. Now, five years later, he is developing into a good rider. When he jumps with his horse however, my heart still skips a beat. If only the fences weren't so tall! Well, 24" is tall to me!
He pays for half of his riding lesson each week by cleaning stalls, and every year he sets aside all of the money he earns raising birds so that he can pay for a partial lease throughout the summer on the horse he rides. It is his dream to one day own an Arabian horse ranch. In fact, you can't spend more than a few minutes with him without him sharing his dream with you!
Let's jump ahead about six years... He has just graduated from high school. He is very excited, for he has finally decided on a career as a surgeon, and he's been accepted into the top school in Canada. But higher education hasn't gotten any cheaper with the years, and his chosen program will cost thousands of dollars per year. He isn't worried however, for he knows that his parents have been setting aside money for his education ever since he was born.
My response will shock him beyond belief: "I'm sorry, son, but the money we set aside has gone for another cause."
"What? You spent all of my University money?"
"Well, remember about six years ago, when you wanted to own your own ranch and raise Arabian horses?"
"Uh . . . But that was just a kid's dream, dad!"
"Well, I took you up on it. I invested all the money I had saved into a ranch in Montana, and have been using the money I would have saved ever since to populate it with a herd of 100 high quality Arabians. Some of them are even black, the rarest color of all! I've even hired a crew of top-notch stable hands."
"You - you bought me a - ranch?"
"Here are your keys, and here's the address. I don't have any money left to pay for University. I hope you understand. Now go on! Your ranch awaits you!"
"But dad, I want to become a surgeon! I want to make a difference in life! I love horses and I still love to ride, but I don't want to become a rancher! What have you done?"
"I tried to fulfill your dreams!"
"How could you have done this to me?"
"But it was your dream for so long!"
"Don't you know that dreams can change?"
When I read the above story to my 12 year-old, he was quite adamant that I should do just that: Take the money we've set aside for higher education and buy him a horse ranch! But childhood dreams do change, and in another few years, he will be more than happy that I didn't!
Friends, the above story is really an illustration of what could happen if all of our prayers were answered. The fact is, if every prayer we ever uttered were to be answered, we would actually be disappointed, not ecstatic!
I don't always know why some of my prayers are answered the way I want them to be and some are not, especially when it is relating to people who are suffering and dying. I do know one thing, however: God always answers our prayers! It just isn't always the way we would like them to be answered!
You see, we don't always know exactly what to pray for: ". . . Because we do not know what to pray for as we should . . ."(Rom. 8:26b), and God always has our best interest at heart. He knows what's best, even when we don't! He answers not according to what we ask for specifically, but according to what will bring ultimate happiness in the long-run. Like David we can exclaim: "I call on the LORD in my distress, and He answers me." (Ps 120:1 NIV)
We need to realize that we only see our true situation dimly: "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." (1 Cor 13:12 NIV). Sin has obstructed our clear understanding, and only when we meet Jesus face to face will we realize that He has always kept the promise He gave us in Rom 8:28: "We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Remember, God always has our best interest in mind. He died so that we could live. He rose up so that we could rise up. He has eternity for us already planned. Remember: "God's gift has restored our relationship with him and given us back our lives. And there's more life to come - an eternity of life! You can count on this." (Titus 3:7-8 The Message)
Eternity with God! Wow! When I contemplate this, the things of life really dim in comparison to His everlasting love! Our temporary life is but a blink of an eye compared to the eternity He has planned for us. The apostle Paul summarizes this idea in Phil. 1:21-24 "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body." NIV
Remember, when we pray, God always hears our prayers, and He always answers them, but not always in the way we want them to be answered. He has our long-term interest in mind, and just like I don't rush out to grant every wish and desire of my boys, just like I look beyond the immediate, God answers our prayers in keeping with our long-term happiness. And just like my boys will one day realize that not giving them every desire of their childish hearts was for their long-term good, we will also see God's loving hand in our seemingly unanswered prayers.
Rob Chaffart
www.answers2prayer.org Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 18, 2007 7:05 pm | | re: Seemingly Unanswered Prayer | # |
Mirdza Hayden | | Wow - what a cool illustration on why God doesn't answer all our prayers. God really does answer our prayers in keeping with our long-term happiness. However, we don't see the big picture, so we don't realize this at the time.
Thanks for sharing the story!
Mirdza
Helping People Lead Healthier Lives
http://www.MirdzasHealthSite.comPrivate Reply to Mirdza Hayden | | Jun 21, 2007 9:31 am | | The Game of S - H - M - I - L - Y | # |
Stella Holman | | My grandparents were married for over half a century, and played their own special game from the time they had met each other. The goal of their game was to write the word "shmily" in a surprise place for the other to find. They took turns leaving "shmily" around the house,and as soon as one of them discovered it, it was their turn to hide it once more.
They dragged "shmily" with their fingers through the sugar and flour containers to await whoever was preparing the next meal. They smeared it in the dew on the windows overlooking the patio where my grandma always fed us warm, homemade pudding with blue food coloring. "Shmily" was written in the steam left on the mirror after a hot shower, where it would reappear bath after bath. At one point, my grandmother even unrolled an entire roll of toilet paper to leave "shmily" on the very last sheet. There was no end to the places "shmily" would pop up. Little notes with "shmily" scribbled hurriedly were found on dashboards and car seats, or taped to steering wheels.
The notes were stuffed inside shoes and left under pillows. "Shmily" was written in the dust upon the mantel and traced in the ashes of the fireplace. This mysterious word was as much a part of my grandparents' house as the furniture. It took me a long time before I was able to fully appreciate my grandparents' game. Skepticism has kept me from believing in true love - one that is pure and enduring. However, I never doubted my grandparents' relationship. They had love down pat. It was more than their flirtatious little games; it was a way of life.
Their relationship was based on a devotion and passionate affection which not everyone is lucky to experience. Grandma and Grandpa held hands every chance they could. They stole kisses as they bumped into each other in their tiny kitchen. They finished each other's sentences and shared the daily crossword puzzle and word jumble. My grandma whispered to me about how cute my grandpa was, how handsome and old he had grown to be. She claimed that she really knew "how to pick 'em."
Before every meal they bowed their heads and gave thanks, marveling at their blessings: a wonderful family, good fortune, and each other. But there was a dark cloud in my grandparents' life: my grandmother had breast cancer. The disease had first appeared ten years earlier. As always, Grandpa was with her every step of the way. He comforted her in their yellow room, painted that way so that she could always be surrounded by sunshine, even when she was too sick to go outside. Now the cancer was again attacking her body. With the help of a cane and my grandfather's steady hand, they went to church every morning. But my grandmother grew steadily weaker until, finally, she could not leave the house anymore. For a while, Grandpa would go to church alone, praying to God to watch over his wife.
Then one day, what we all dreaded finally happened. Grandma was gone. "Shmily." It was scrawled in yellow on the pink ribbons of my grandmother's funeral bouquet. As the crowd thinned and the last mourners turned to leave, my aunts, uncles, cousins and other family members came forward and gathered around Grandma one last time.
Grandpa stepped up to my grandmother's casket and, taking a shaky breath, he began to sing to her. Through his tears and grief, the song came, a deep and throaty lullaby. Shaking with my own sorrow, I will never forget that moment. For I knew that, although I couldn't begin to fathom the depth of their love, I had been privileged to witness its unmatched beauty.
S-h-m-i-l-y: See How Much I Love You.
David Langerfeld
21 June 2007
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 24, 2007 12:48 pm | | Faithful | # |
Stella Holman | | In the country of Armenia, in 1988, Samuel and Danielle sent their young son, Armand, off to school. Samuel squatted before his son and looked him in the eye. "Have a good day at school, and remember, no matter what, I’ll always be there for you." They hugged and the boy ran off to school.
Hours later, a powerful earthquake rocked the area. In the midst of the pandemonium, Samuel and Danielle tried to discover what happened to their son but they couldn’t get any information. The radio announced that there were thousands of casualties.
Samuel then grabbed his coat and headed for the schoolyard. When he reached the area, what he saw brought tears to his eyes. Armand’s school was a pile of debris. Other parents were standing around crying.
Samuel found the place where Armand’s classroom used to be and began pulling a broken beam off the pile of rubble. He then grabbed a rock and put it to the side, and then grabbed another one.
One of the parents looking on asked, "What are you doing?" "Digging for my son," Samuel answered. The man then said, "You’re just going to make things worse! The building is unstable," and tried to pull Samuel away from his work.
Samuel just kept working. As time wore on, one by one, the other parents left. Then a worker tried to pull Samuel away from the rubble. Samuel looked at him and said, "Won’t you help me?" The worker left and Samuel kept digging.
All through the night and into the next day, Samuel continued digging. Parents placed flowers and pictures of their children on the ruins. But, Samuel just kept working. He picked up a beam and pushed it out of the way when he heard a faint cry. "Help! Help!" Samuel listened but didn’t hear anything again. Then he heard a muffled voice, "Papa?"
Samuel began to dig furiously. Finally he could see his son. "Come on out, son!" he said with relief. "No," Armand said. "Let the other kids come out first because I know you’ll get me." Child after child emerged until, finally, little Armand appeared. Samuel took him in his arms and Armand said, "I told the other kids not to worry because you told me that you’d always be there for me!"
Fourteen children were saved that day because one father was faithful.
How much more faithful is our heavenly Father! Whether trapped by fallen debris or ensnared by life’s hardships and struggles, we are never cut off from God’s faithfulness. He is true to His character. He is reliable and trustworthy and can always be counted on.
Deuteronomy 7:9 "Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations…"
1 Corinthians 1:9 - God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.
Psalm 37:28, "For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. They will be protected forever"
By David LangfieldPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 25, 2007 1:32 am | | re: Faithful | # | 
Shoukat Siddique | | Hey Stella,
Its great, really increased the faith, may Lord bless you for this,
it has really made me think that why dont i write something like, i believe that i'ld also write something encourging in near future,
Love and blessings
Shoukat Siddique.Private Reply to Shoukat Siddique | | Jun 25, 2007 6:09 pm | | re: re: Faithful | # |
Stella Holman | | Hi Shoukat ,
I thought that this story was quite touching, really brought tears to my eyes and a lump in my throat.
Please do write and share your experiences with us.
Blessings + kind regards
Stella Holman - Ivey Business Services
http://www.stella-holman.comPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 25, 2007 6:11 pm | | The Pearl Of Great Price | # |
Stella Holman | | A jewelry merchant had a store in a large city, with many beautiful gems in it. Some were quite reasonably priced, and some were very expensive. But there was one stone in the store, a flawless pearl, which was more strikingly beautiful than any other, and this was displayed in its own case located in a prominent location, where everyone who came into the store could gaze at it in awe of its perfection. Many people, rich and poor, would come to that city from far-away places, just so that they could view it. There was no price shown, and most, recognizing its great value, would not even inquire as to the cost of it; but to those who did, the merchant would always answer, "Ah, yes, that one! That one costs everything you have." And no one was willing to pay the price, because it was too great.
Then, one day towards evening in the middle of winter, a beggar came into the store to escape the biting wind and freezing cold. He noticed the pearl in its display case, and, like everyone else, he was fascinated by it, unable to take his eyes off of it. Finally, he approached the merchant and inquired about its cost, and he received the same answer as the rest. The beggar went back to the display case, and spent a long time looking at this object of unique beauty from every angle, until at last he turned around, and taking off his worn overcoat, he handed it to the merchant behind the counter and announced, "I will take it." Without the slightest hesitation, the merchant unlocked the case and gave the pearl to its new owner.
At this point, an even more astonishing thing happened. Asking the beggar to wait, the merchant disappeared into the back room of the store. He came back in a few moments with his own magnificent fur coat draped over one arm, and a key ring in his other hand. With just a hint of a smile on his face, he handed both to the surprised beggar, saying, "You gave me everything you had, and now everything I have is yours." He then put on the beggar's overcoat, opened the door, and vanished into the night.
"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it." -Matthew 13:45-46
By David LangfieldPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jun 25, 2007 6:32 pm | | Judgement Day | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
We who have put our faith and trust in Jesus Christ to be our Lord and
personal Savior have received a gift that will last forever. The Lord
saves us from death to life and from eternal darkness and damnation to His
eternal light and joy. This gift is not meant to be kept to ourselves, but
is to be spread to all people sharing with them the treasures that the Lord
Jesus possesses in Himself. He is the gift that we receive when we come to
Him in repentance and in exchange for our sins, He gives us His forgiveness
and peace that surpasses all understanding. If you know of the joy that I
speak of, then it is a mandate on your life to share with others what you
know in your heart is true. (Philippians 4:7-8) (Romans 10:13-15)
I hope you are both challenged and inspired by today's message to share
the gospel of Jesus Christ with all those who don't know Him in truth and
realize that your intervention if accepted will be appreciated for all
eternity by the receiver.
JUDGMENT DAY
I was standing at the seat of judgment, waiting for my turn
Thinking of the houses and the treasures I would earn
Thinking of how I'd lived my life just as a Christian should
Thinking of how I'd always done what was right and what was good.
I knew that when my turn would come with the Father and the Son
They would look at me and my life and say to me â?oWell Doneâ?
I knew that I was sinless, and my life beyond reproach
I got more excited as my time began to approach.
But just then I looked around and who should I see,
But the lady that I worked with, just down the hall from me
We always passed each other with a wave and a smile
And when the time would allow we would chat for a little while
We would talk about our jobs, our kids, and various little things.
Our conversations always pleasant and laughter it would bring
Just then she looked up, and her teary eyes locked with mine
And my smile faded when I realized she was in the other line
She began to speak the words that broke my heart in two
It pains me now to remember as I share these words with you.
She said â?oWhy didn't you tell me about the God that you do know,
You went to church each week but never invited me to go?
You never told me of his saving mercy, that he died on the cross
And now it is too late for me and my soul's eternally lost
I see you saved yourself and that you are among the chosen few,
But tell me, couldn't you have made an effort, to try and save me too?â?
Just then I sat straight up in bed, my heart pounding in my chest
Thank God it was just a dream, but my spirit still couldn't rest
I realized that I couldn't keep my God a secret among friends
But that I must learn to always share the hope that the gospel lends.
So I encourage you not to wait until it is too late
Go and tell everyone you meet that your God is so, so great!
Author UnknownPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jul 02, 2007 6:35 pm | | Selfishness Destroys a Home | # |
Stella Holman | | [Jesus said] "But those who hear my words and do not put them into
practice are like a man who built a house on the ground without a
foundation" (Luke 6:49 TNIV).
If a brick house is beginning to crack, it's useless to reset the
bricks until the foundation is repaired. And so it is with the family,
if selfishness and immaturity are at the helm of that family. If
husband and wife are fighting, or the children are rebellious, the
foundation has got to be repaired. Before there can be a cure for the
family problems, the mom and the dad in that home have to be solid or
repaired.
Do you have a strong Christian system of values in your home? I'm not
talking about "family values" or "old fashioned values," but values
shaped by the teaching, character, and compassion of Christ!
Is each member mature and unselfish, or are they immature and selfish?
Remember what Paul said about having the attitude or mind of Christ?
Examine the foundational values of your family.
In your relationships with one another, have the same attitude of mind
Christ Jesus had:
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God
something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself
nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human
likeness. And being found in appearance as a human being, he
humbled himself by becoming obedient to death -- even death on a
cross! (Philippians 2:5-8 TNIV)
There's no problem too big to overcome in a family if the foundation of
personal integrity is found in mom and dad ... an integrity built on
the character of Jesus that models unselfishness, sacrifice, and
servanthood.
Builders can make an unstable house look classy ... for awhile. But
eventually a house without a strong foundation is going to fall. So
let's make life work a little better today -- examine the foundational
values of your family and bring them into line with Jesus.
---------
(c) 2007 Paul Faulkner.Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Jul 02, 2007 6:39 pm | | The War on Materialism | # |
Stella Holman | | Then he [Jesus] said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against
all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of
possessions." (Luke 12:15 TNIV)
I hear the term "spiritual warfare" from various quarters. And I don't
always get a consistent read on what people mean by it. As a matter of
fact, I'm pretty sure people aren't very consistent in what they mean
by it.
For myself, I'm less concerned about the view some appear to have that
we humans are helpless pawns in a great cosmic battle between invisible
powers. The spiritual warfare that bothers, seduces, and drags me down
is the kind that goes on in full view. Sometimes it is the brassy, sexy
tease of entertainers to young people. At other times it is the greedy,
selfish feeling that comes over me when I watch a commercial on TV or
buy on impulse in the mall.
Recently I read about a group of people who chose to fight conspicuous
consumerism with their own consumer covenant.
A troupe of environmental activists on the West Coast questioned the
possibility of getting through an entire year without purchasing
anything new. That sounds pretty challenging to me. I frankly doubt I
could pull it off. But the more that group talked about it, the more
enticing the possibility sounded.
At the start of 2006, the ten people who had been talking about it made
a pact to give it a try. They called their mutual challenge "The
Compact" and bound themselves to a move away from shopping sprees and
their allied modern addictions. Other than food, toiletries, underwear,
and health-and-safety items, they lived for an entire calendar year and
bought practically nothing new.
It's hard to hear that we are materialistic!
They discovered how many things were available to them for free at the
public library. Several commented on the pleasure they found in
repairing things rather than simply running to the store to buy
replacements. They took a great deal of delight in sharing things they
already had with one another. Paying down credit cards turned out to be
an unexpected bonus to their year-long experiment. "One of the
byproducts of 'The Compact' is that I now have a completely different
relationship with the things in my life," a 42-year-old man said. "I
appreciate the stuff I have more."
A woman participant reported, "I found that a lot of times there were
things I thought I needed that I didn't need that much." Surprise!
There is more said in the Bible generally and in the teachings of Jesus
in particular about money and greed than about most of the topics
Christians have fought over and churches have divided about. It's
simply hard to hear in a culture that is so materialistic. Maybe it's
time we started to listen.
By the way, those ten are now in the second year of their experiment.
They appear to be enjoying their newfound freedom from compulsive
shopping.
---------
(c) 2007 Used by permission. From Rubel Shelly's "FAX of Life"Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Jul 06, 2007 7:22 am | | Waiting in an Impatient, Stress-Filled World | # |
Stella Holman | | "Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him." (Ps 37:7 NIV)
Have you ever had to wait for someone or something? You go to the store, for example, and you have to stand in the checkout stand. As you impatiently shift your weight from one foot to the other, you begin to wonder why it is that it takes more time to pay for your items than to find them on the shelves! Then the clerk picks up the phone and asks for a price check . . . Grrrrr!!!
What about waiting for your food at a local restaurant? After listening to the squawking of ducks in the back room for 45 minutes, you begin to wonder if you did the right thing by ordering roast duck.
And how about going to the mall to wait for your spouse at an indicated place and time? The line-up of impatient husbands can be heard muttering under their breaths: "Where IS she?" In my case, there is some kind of a cruel reversal of roles: it would be my wife waiting for me!
Is the Bible referring to this kind of waiting when it says, "wait patiently for Him"? And if it does, where can we obtain the necessary patience, if we cannot even tolerate waiting in a checkout line?
All too often, our prayers are not answered because we cannot seem to be able to wait on the Lord. Impatience ravages our souls, and before we know it, we take matters into our own hands, thus missing the opportunity to really experience God in our lives! When David says, "Wait for the LORD and keep his way" (Ps 37:34 NIV), he is encouraging us to NOT take matters into our own hands; but rather, to wait for God to respond! This kind of waiting requires faith: faith that God will really come through, and faith that our own impatience will only mess things up and cause us to miss a golden ppportunity to experience our Heavenly Father.
God's Word indicates that He is quite displeased if we do not have the faith required for Him to answer our prayers: "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." (Heb 11:6 NIV); and "But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord." (James 1:6-7 NIV)
Imagine the following scenario: Your spouse asks you to go to the store for some onions that she won't need until evening. You promise to get them by the indicated time, and you proceed to finish your current project. Two hours later, as you are getting ready to go to the store for those onions, your spouse tells you: "Don't worry! I went and got them myself!"
Such news would disappoint you. It would make you feel like there had been a breach of trust. Especially if your spouse adds to this comment by saying: "I went, because I didn't think I could count on you to get them on time!" You feel like screaming out: "Why ask, if you don't trust me?" And you wonder in the gloomy mood that has suddenly invaded you.
God feels the same way. Why ask Him if we plan to do it our own way anyway? Why ask if we are not ready to wait patiently for His response? Why ask if we do not have faith? Even faith as small as a mustard seed can do miracles: "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." (Matt 17:20 NIV)
Prayer requires faith; faith requires patience; and patience requires waiting upon the Lord. This kind of waiting is not quite the same as waiting to check out at a grocery store. It is more like waiting for a special birthday gift that you know someone has purchased for you. Though you haven't seen the present, you anticipate it. The same is true for prayer. When you ask God for something, you can already anticipate that you have received it. His answer may not be what you expect, but no matter how He answers, you can be assured that in the long run, you will not be disappointed.
"I wait for you, O LORD; you will answer, O Lord my God." (Ps 38:15 NIV)
It is so sad that so many believers utter prayers in the morning and then forget all about their petitions. Some of these may not even notice the answer to their prayers when it actually arrives. Writing down prayer requests and answered prayers is helpful in noticing how faithful God really is. Some requests take time to be fulfilled and some will not seem to be fulfilled until eternity. But one thing we can be sure of: "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." (Heb 10:23 NIV)
Waiting with anticipation can become exciting, especially when you put your trust in the One you are waiting upon!
"Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD. (Ps 27:14 NIV)
Rob Chaffart
Provided by Answers2Prayer
www.answers2prayer.orgPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jul 06, 2007 7:27 am | | The Parable of the Fern and the Bamboo | # |
Stella Holman | | One day, I decided to quit. I wanted to quit my job, to quit my relationships, to quit my spirituality; I even wanted to quit my life. I went to the woods to have one last talk with God. "God", I said. "Can you give me one good reason not to quit?"
His answer surprised me. "Look around", He said. "Do you see the fern and the bamboo?"
"Yes", I replied.
"When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took very good care of them. I gave them light. I gave them water. The fern quickly grew from the earth. Its brilliant green covered the floor. Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo."
"In the second year the Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful. And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo."
"In the third year there was still nothing from the bamboo seed. But I would not quit."
"In the fourth year, again, there was nothing from the bamboo seed. I would not quit."
"Then. in the fifth year a tiny sprout emerged from the earth. Compared to the fern it was seemingly small and insignificant. But just 6 months later the bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall. It had spent the five years growing
roots. Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive. I would not give any of my creations a challenge they could not handle." He said to me.
"Did you know, my child, that all this time you have been struggling, you have actually been growing roots? I would not quit on the bamboo. I will never quit on you! Don't compare yourself to others. The bamboo had a
different purpose than the fern. Yet they both make the forest beautiful. Your time will come," God said to me. "You will rise high".
"How high should I rise?" I asked.
"How high will the bamboo rise?" He asked in return.
"As high as it can?" I questioned.
"Yes." He said, "Give me glory by rising as high as you can. And remember.. I will never leave you, nor forsake you. I will never give up on you. I will never, ever quit on you."
~~~~~~~~~~
Author UnknownPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jul 11, 2007 12:23 pm | | The List | # |
Stella Holman | | THE LIST
One day a teacher asked her students to list the names of the other students in the room on two sheets of paper, leaving a space between each name. Then she told them to think of the nicest thing they could say about each of their classmates and write it down. It took the remainder of the class period to finish their assignment and, as the students left the room, each one handed in the papers.
That Saturday, the teacher wrote down the name of each student on a separate sheet of paper, and listed what everyone else had said about that individual. On Monday, she gave each student his or her list. Before long, the entire class was smiling. "Really?" she heard whispered. "I never knew that I meant anything to anyone!" and, "I didn't know others liked me so much" were some of the comments.
No one ever mentioned those papers in class again. She never knew if they discussed them after class or with their parents, but it didn't matter. The exercise had accomplished its purpose. The students were happy with themselves and one another. That group of students moved on.
Several years later, one of the students was killed in Vietnam and his teacher attended the funeral of that special student. She had never seen a serviceman in a military coffin before. He looked so handsome, so mature. The church was packed with his friends. One by one, those who loved him took a last walk by the coffin. The teacher was the last one to bless the coffin. As she stood there, one of the soldiers, who acted as pallbearer, came up to her. "Were you Mark's math teacher?" he asked.
She nodded: "Yes."
Then he said: "Mark talked about you a lot."
After the funeral, most of Mark's former classmates went together to a luncheon. Mark's mother and father were there, obviously waiting to speak with this teacher. "We want to show you something," his father said, taking a wallet out of his pocket. "They found this on Mark when he was killed. We thought you might recognize it."
Opening the billfold, he carefully removed two worn pieces of note paper that had obviously been taped, folded and refolded many times. The teacher knew, without looking, that the papers were the ones on which she had listed all the good things each of Mark's classmates had said about him. "Thank you so much for doing that," Mark's mother said. "As you can see, Mark treasured it."
All of Mark's former classmates started to gather around. Charlie smiled rather sheepishly and said, "I still have my list. It's in the top drawer of my desk at home."
Chuck's wife said, "Chuck asked me to put his in our wedding album."
"I have mine too," Marilyn said. "It's in my diary."
Then Vickie, another classmate, reached into her pocketbook, took out her wallet and showed her worn and frazzled list to the group. "I carry this with me at all times," Vicki said, and without batting an eyelash, she continued: "I think we all saved our lists."
That's when the teacher finally sat down and cried. She cried for Mark and for all his friends who would never see him again. The density of people in society is so thick that we forget that life will end one day, and we don't know when that one day will be.
So please, tell the people you love and care for, that they are special and important. Tell them, before it is too late..
Hebrews 3:13 "But exhort one another daily, while it is called Today"
Author unknownPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jul 11, 2007 1:22 pm | | Someone To Pour Your Life Into | # |
Stella Holman | | Howard Hendricks, author and professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, suggests that every person should seek to have three individuals in their life: a Paul, a Barnabas, and a Timothy.
A Paul is an older person who is willing to mentor you, to build into your life. Not someone who's smarter or more gifted than you, but somebody who's been down the road. Somebody willing to share their strengths and weaknesses - everything they have learned in the laboratory of life. Somebody whose faith you'll want to imitate.
A Barnabas is a soul brother, somebody who loves you but is not impressed by you. Somebody to whom you can be accountable. Somebody who's willing to keep you honest, who's willing to say, "Hey, man, you're neglecting your wife, and don't give me any guff!"
A Timothy is a younger person into whose life you are building. For a model, read 1 and 2 Timothy. Here was Paul, the quintessential mentor, building into the life of his protégée - affirming, encouraging, teaching, correcting, directing, praying.
Do you have these three guys in your life?
Proverbs 12:15 - The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.
Ephesians 5:15-16 - Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.
Psalms 90:12 - Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom
By Howard HendricksPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jul 12, 2007 2:59 pm | | Inspiration and Encouragement | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
I hope you are doing well and are in the best of health. I am doing very
well and simply continuing on the path that God has lain on my heart. I
receive many responses to the messages that we send and I am continually
surprised and thankful for the blessings that are being bestowed upon God's
people around the world. Only the Lord can minister His grace to so many
people and lead them to read the right message at the right time so that
they know God has not left their side. I give all the glory and honor to
the Lord because it is by His Spirit that people are being blessed and
encouraged to never give up or lose their hope.
The Lord has impressed upon my heart to write a message on responsibility
and consequence. We must always keep in mind that God has placed us on the
earth for a specific time and reason. None of us are here by chance or
accident, but have been ordained for this time to fulfill God's plan for
our life. The Bible says that God declares the end from the beginning.
Before He starts anything, God finishes it first to ensure it is perfected and right for His purposes. This message on responsibility and consequence
is meant to encourage you to be the vessel in which God can work through to
get His message of love and salvation to the ends of the earth. (Isaiah 46:10)
I recently received a response from one of our members in New Zealand who told of how he was inspired by one of our messages to get in contact with
someone who was dying of cancer who he did not really know too well. Theman with cancer was the soccer coach of our reader's son. The message
spoke so strongly to his heart that he went that day along with his son to
visit the man in the hospital. They spent a few hours together talking,
but before the man and his son were to leave, he shared the gospel of the
Lord with the sick man and soon after led him to the Lord. The man was
not a Christian, but after accepting the Lord as his savior, his Eternity
was forever secured. Two weeks after our reader's visit, the man with
Cancer whose name is Kerry passed away.
This is where the responsibility and consequence will begin to make sense
to you in this message. Without our knowledge, the Lord is continually
using what we do to impact the lives of others around the world. By sending
a simple message of encouragement and inspiration to our ministry member,
a man dying with cancer who I would have never known received the good news
of the gospel and will spend eternity in heaven. If I had never taken the
responsibility of this ministry to share the goodness of God, our reader
may have never felt the inspiration to visit that man in the hospital.
The consequence of the sick man's eternity may have been forever changed.
The point of this message is for us to take seriously the responsibility
that God has placed within our hands. What we do with the responsibility
that God has placed upon our life will have direct consequences with people
whom we will never know. (1 Peter 5:8-9) (Philippians 2:2-11)
We must be vigilant with our words of encouragement, affirmation and praise
letting others know of their importance and the effect that they can have
on others around them. (1 Thessalonians 5:11-15) (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)
The Bible says that we are a shining light before all men that is meant to
glorify our Father in heaven. Never believe the lie that you are not
important or don't have the ability to impact others for the better. You
are a mighty warrior for God and have been equipped to change this world
and leave a mark that can never be erased. (Matthew 5:14-16) (Ephesians 6:10)
Believe in yourself as God believes in you and know that you are able to
make a positive impact upon society where multitudes will be made better
because of you.
Read and meditate on these scriptures:
Romans 10:13-15 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall
be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed?
and how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? and how
shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they
be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach
the Gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things
Exodus 4:10-12 And Moses said unto the LORD, O my Lord, I am not eloquent,
neither heretofore, nor since Thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am
slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. And the LORD said unto him, Who hath
made man Is mouth or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the
blind have not I the LORD Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth,
and teach thee what thou shalt say.
Jeremiah 1:4-8 Then the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Before I
formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of
the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.
Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. But
the LORD said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that
I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. Be not
afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD.
Matthew 10:18-20 Jesus declares And ye shall be brought before governors
and kings for My sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. But
when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for
it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is
not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.
All of these scriptures can be found in the King James Version Bible.
If you'd like to read the message that inspired our reader to visit the man
with cancer, please click on this link. At the end of our Ministry message
I will attach the response I received from our member after his visit with
the man in the hospital. http://www.Godswork.org/responsibilty.htm
In Christs Love and Service,
Dwayne Savaya
Gods Work MinistryPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Jul 13, 2007 4:36 pm | | The Doctor and the Apple | # |
Stella Holman | | It is said that at the University of Chicago Divinity School each year they have what is called "Baptist Day." On this day each one is to bring a lunch to be eaten outdoors in a grassy picnic area. Every "Baptist Day", the school would invite one of the greatest minds to lecture in the theological education center.
The story is that one year they invited Dr. Paul Tillich. Dr. Tillich spoke for two and one-half hours "proving" that the resurrection of Jesus was false. He quoted scholar after scholar and book after book. He concluded that since there was no such thing as the historical resurrection, the religious tradition of the church was groundless, emotional mumbo-jumbo, because it was based on a relationship with a risen Jesus, who, in fact, never rose from the dead in any literal sense. He then asked if there were any questions.
After about 30 seconds, an old, dark skinned preacher with a head of short-cropped, woolly white hair stood up in the back of the auditorium.
"Doctor Tillich, I got one question," he said as all eyes turned toward him. He reached into his sack lunch and pulled out an apple and began eating it.
"Doctor Tillich"... CRUNCH, MUNCH... "My question is a simple question," CRUNCH, MUNCH. "Now, I ain't never read them books you read..." CRUNCH, MUNCH "...and I can't recite the Scriptures in the original Greek"... CRUNCH, MUNCH..." I don't know nothin' about Niebuhr and Heidegger"... CRUNCH,MUNCH... He finished the apple.
"All I wanna know is: This apple I just ate... was it bitter or sweet?"
Dr. Tillich paused for a moment and answered in exemplary scholarly fashion: "I cannot possibly answer that question, for I haven't tasted your apple."
The white-haired preacher dropped the core of his apple into his crumpled paper bag, looked up at Dr. Tillich and said calmly, "Neither have you tasted my Jesus."
The 1,000 plus in attendance could not contain themselves. The auditorium erupted with applause and cheers. Dr. Tillich thanked his audience and promptly left the platform.
Have you tasted Jesus?
"Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him." Psalm 34:8 Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Jul 16, 2007 11:08 am | | I Take It Back! | # |
Stella Holman | | Solomon said, "What is wrong cannot be made right. What is missing
cannot be recovered." (Ecclesiastes 1:15, New Living Translation) The
NIV says it this way, " What is twisted cannot be straightened; what
is lacking cannot be counted." How true are his words How difficult
to hear and accept the wise man's words. How we wish the words were
not true.
"I take it all back. If I could . . . I would."
"I never meant to hurt you."
"I wish I would have listened to you."
"I had no idea how much damage my words could have on people."
"If only . . . "
Can you hear the pain and regret in those words? For most of us we
don't need to hear the words, we know it first hand. We've said those
words. We've cried those tears of regret, and we spent those
sleepless nights of hopelessness. We know it all too well.
We wish we could take away the words, the actions, the comments, the
hurt, the sadness, and the guilt the guilt that comes after the fact.
When it's too late. We all know the feeling of wishing we had heeded
James' words, My dear brothers, take note of this: "Everyone should
be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry . . .
" (James 1:19, NIV). Way too often we reverse the order of things.
Then, when it is too late, we must live with the consequences.
That's when we need to be reminded of the God who loves us and shows
kindness toward us.
God makes everything come out right;
he puts victims back on their feet.
He showed Moses how he went about his work,
opened up his plans to all Israel.
God is sheer mercy and grace;
not easily angered, he's rich in love.
He doesn't endlessly nag and scold,
nor hold grudges forever.
He doesn't treat us as our sins deserve,
nor pay us back in full for our wrongs.
As high as heaven is over the earth,
so strong is his love to those who fear him.
And as far as sunrise is from sunset,
he has separated us from our sins.
As parents feel for their children,
God feels for those who fear him. (Psalm 103:6-13, The Message)
This week, let's try to live so that at the end of the week we don't
have to say, "I wish I could take that back."
I'll pray that we will. I hope you'll join me in that prayer.
Tom
A Norvell Note (c) Copyright 2007. Tom Norvell All Rights Reserved.Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Jul 16, 2007 11:19 am | | re: I Take It Back! | # | 
JoJo Tabares | | That's why I teach communication skills.
"An offended brother is more unyielding than a fortified city, and disputes are like the barred gates of the citadel." Proverbs 18:19
JoJo Private Reply to JoJo Tabares | | Jul 25, 2007 12:42 pm | | The Duck and the Devil | # |
Stella Holman | | There was a little boy visiting his grandparents on their farm. He was given a slingshot to play with out in the woods. He practiced in the woods; but he could never hit the target. Getting a little discouraged, he headed back for dinner.
As he was walking back he saw Grandma's pet duck. Just out of impulse, he let the slingshot fly, hit the duck square in the head and killed it. He was shocked and grieved!
In a panic, he hid the dead duck in the woodpile; only to see his sister watching! Sally had seen it all, but she said nothing. After lunch the next day Grandma said, "Sally, let's wash the dishes"
But Sally said, "Grandma, Johnny told me he wanted to help in the kitchen." Then she whispered to him, "Remember the duck?" So Johnny did the dishes.
Later that day, Grandpa asked if the children wanted to go fishing and Grandma said, "I'm sorry but I need Sally to help make supper." Sally just smiled and said, "Well that's all right because Johnny told me he wanted to help" She whispered again, "Remember the duck?" So Sally went fishing and Johnny stayed to help.
After several days of Johnny doing both his chores and Sally's; he finally couldn't stand it any longer. He came to Grandma and confessed that he had killed the duck. Grandma knelt down, gave him a hug and said, "Sweetheart, I know. You see, I was standing at the window and I saw the whole thing, but because I love you, I forgave you. I was just wondering how long you would let Sally make a slave of you."
Thought for the day and every day thereafter? Whatever is in your past, whatever you have done... and the devil keeps throwing it up in your face (lying, cheating, debt, fear, bad habits, hatred, anger, bitterness, etc.)...whatever it is ... You need to know that God was standing at the window and He saw the whole thing. He has seen your whole life. He wants you to know that He loves you and that you are forgiven. He's just wondering how long you will let the devil make a slave of you.
The great thing about God is that when you ask for forgiveness; He not only forgives you, but He forgets. It is by God's grace and mercy that we are saved. Go ahead and make the difference in someone's life today. Share this with a friend and always remember:
God is at the window!
By David LangfieldPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Aug 06, 2007 8:17 am | | MY GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
In this life we have much to be thankful for, but we sometimes lose focus of our blessings and look more on the temporary trials that come before us.
We must be diligent with our actions of praise and thanksgiving and not allow the enemy to infiltrate our mind causing us to murmur and complain about the trials of life.
If we look at those less fortunate than we are,we will quickly see our many blessings that were otherwise forgotten.
We are on this earth to love God and love others as we love ourselves and be an example of Christ's love towards those around us. Be encouraged to see your many blessings and make an effort to be helping towards those less fortunate than you. In helping others, you will benefit more than the
recipient. (John 13:34-35) (Galatians 6:1-2) (1 John 4:10-13) (Acts 20:35)
I hope today's message ministers to your heart to help those less fortunate than you are because in doing so you will be made better by helping others get better.
Back in my younger years, when I was an 8th grader in Junior High School (what they now call Middle School), I got the opportunity of a life time...although at 14 years of age you often don't realize things like that at the time.
One day one of the teachers came around to all of our Study Halls (that's where you went to do your homework so you didn't have to do it at home), and asked if any of us students would be interested in donating some of those Study Halls to doing something helpful.
Being thoroughly bored with Study Halls and preferring to do my homework at home in the privacy on my Dining Room with the doors closed, I of course volunteered, and to this day am glad that I did!
From this point on, during one of my Study Halls on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, I would join the Home Economics teacher in working with the mentally challenged with eaching them some aspect of how to prepare their dinner.
Some students would work with these kids by taking them food shopping (in a classroom setting of course), and others would work with them on how to budget and know how much money they would need to pay for their groceries,
and still others, like myself, would actually teach them how to prepare simple meals.
Now many others in the school would laugh at these mentally challenged students, but if they could have spent one meaningful class with them, they would have seen so much more and learned a lot themselves...I know I
surely did!
The joy these students took in the simplest of accomplishments would bring tears to your eyes. They seemed so grateful for any kind of help you would give them, and because you were helping them...they were your friends for
life!
Well, the three Study Halls a week sped by so quickly and were the highlight of my days there at Bennet Junior High School, and finally it was June...and yes, back then we went to school until the end of June usually.
Darn those snow days!! Snow days were the days you had to miss school because it snowed and then had to make them up at the end of the school year.
So, one day, close to the end of the school year in June, I was called from one of my classes, right before lunch time and was given the surprise of my life.
Barbara, a pretty blonde haired girl came and got me
and took me by the hand, which did cause many stares by the other students, but the heck with them anyway. Barbara led me to the Home Economics class where I had been helping to teach the students how to cook.
As we approached the class, I could smell the aroma of food and I knew theywere up to something. When the door opened up, there in a neat organized fashion were 12 desks all shoved together to form a large dinner table. In
front of each chair was a setting of a dinner plate, silverware and a glass and a napkin...all compliments of Barbara, as this was her offering to the
banquet I was about to enjoy!
Dinner consisted of some Pillsbury dinner rolls and butter, spaghetti and meat sauce, and Hi-C fruit drink. I was in total awe of what these wonderful kids did, all to show me what they had learned and to thank me
for helping them along.
This was a learning experience for all of us, but I think I was the luckiest of all, for I had the golden opportunity to see that each and every one of us here on this earth was a caring and contributing human being, and while some of us may have more intelligence than others
...others may have more patience, and more appreciation of the simpler things in life.
To this day, I have never forgotten that wonderful experience and am thankful that I was able to participate in the program which led me to later on continue to do work with mentally challenged adults on into my
adulthood.
Remember, life is what you make of it, as my Mother use to say, and you can complain about life and think that it's not fair, or you can see things as they really are and appreciate the simple things...and for that, you will
be a whole lot happier my friend...
Author UnknownPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Aug 10, 2007 7:42 am | | The Messenger | # |
Stella Holman | | God, grant me the Serenity to accept the people I cannot change, the Courage to change the one I can, and the Wisdom to know it's me !!!
The next time you feel like GOD can't use you, just remember . . .
Noah was a drunk
Abraham was too old
Isaac was a daydreamer
Jacob was a liar
Leah was ugly
Joseph was abused
Moses had a stuttering problem
Gideon was afraid
Samson was a womanizer
Rahab was a prostitute
Jeremiah and Timothy were too young
David had an affair and was a murderer
Elijah was suicidal
Jonah ran from God
Job went bankrupt
John the Baptist ate bugs
Peter denied Christ
The Disciples fell asleep while praying
Martha worried about everything
The Samaritan woman was divorced - more than once
Zaccheus was too small
Paul was too religious
Timothy had an ulcer . . . AND
Lazarus was dead!
No more excuses now. God can use you to your full potential.
Besides, you aren't the message -- you are the messenger.
By David LangfieldPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Aug 10, 2007 7:48 am | | Letting God Carry Us | # |
Stella Holman | | Undoubtedly you've heard the old story of a man who died, went to heaven, and stood with his Lord looking back over his life on earth. His story appeared to him as footprints in the sand of a beach, traveling through the events of his life. But he noticed that during the hard times there was only one set of footprints in the sand. And so he turned and said, "Lord, why was it that, when I needed you most, you left me to myself?" And his Lord said, "My child, I love you and would never leave you. When there was only one set of footprints in the sand, it was then that I carried you."
It's a beautiful story. But there's a problem: it's hard to carry someone who won't let us carry him, who won't let someone help, who insists on walking the way alone.
We have learned this week that our Shepherd will guide and protect us as he walks with us through suffering to the other side. But a shepherd can guide only those sheep who will follow. The sheep must choose to stay at his side, under the protection of his rod and staff, in his presence. The shepherd's staff is only eight feet long. They must stay close to him. This can be a hard choice to make on hard days.
Suffering can make us self-sufficient. We pull ourselves up by our bootstraps and refuse to be defeated. We decide we can beat this thing. We work harder, run faster, climb higher, determined we will win. We can run ahead of God and expect him to follow. But he may not. The sheep can't make it through this valley themselves. The wolves and the thieves and the thorns and the cliffs will get them every time. Self-reliance is a sure prescription for disaster.
And suffering can make us angry as well. If he's such a great shepherd, why did he lead us into this valley? Why are we here? Why should we trust him any longer? I've known people over the years who let hard times drive a wedge between them and God so that they never trusted him again. "If God is real, why did I get cancer? Why is there war? Why did my daughter die?"
In the valley, we must choose whether or not we will go to God, trust in God, depend on God or ourselves. Has a hard day come between you? Are you a sheep out ahead of the shepherd, going your way and asking God to bless it, self-reliant and self-sufficient? How long since you asked God's help with your work, or family, or problem? James 4:8 promises that if we draw close to God, he will draw close to us. The hardest days can bring us closest to God. But the choice is ours. Choose wisely this morning.
Dr. James Denson
Copyright © 2007. "God Issues" All rights reserved.
To subscribe to God Issues, go to: www.godissues.org/articles/pages/SubscriptionsPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Aug 10, 2007 7:52 am | | Kyle's Story | # |
Stella Holman | | One day, when I was a freshman in high school, I saw a kid from my class walking home from school. His name was Kyle. It looked like he was carrying all of his books. I thought to myself, "Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday? He must really be a nerd." I had quite a weekend planned - parties and a football game with my friends tomorrow afternoon - so I shrugged my shoulders and went on.
As I was walking, I saw a bunch of kids running toward him. They ran at him, knocking all his books out of his arms and tripping him so he landed in the dirt. His glasses went flying, and I saw them land in the grass about ten feet from him. He looked up and I saw this terrible sadness in his eyes. My heart went out to him. So, I jogged over to him and as he crawled around looking for his glasses, I saw a tear in his eye. As I handed him his glasses, I said, "Those guys are jerks. They really should get a life."
He looked at me and said, "Hey thanks!". There was a big smile on his face. It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude. I helped him pick up his books, and asked him where he lived. As it turned out, he lived near me, so I asked him why I had never seen him before. He said he had gone to private school before now. I would have never hung out with a private school kid before.
We talked all the way home, and I carried his books. He turned out to be a pretty cool kid. I asked him if he wanted to play football on Saturday with me and my friends. He said yes. We hung out all weekend and the more I got to know Kyle, the more I liked him - and my friends thought the same of him.
Monday morning came, and there was Kyle with the huge stack of books again. I stopped him and said, "Hey man, you are gonna really build some serious muscles with this pile of books everyday!" He just laughed and handed me half the books.
Over the next four years, Kyle and I became best friends. When we were seniors and began to think about college. Kyle decided on Georgetown, and I was going to Duke. I knew that we would always be friends, that the miles would never be a problem. He was going to be a doctor, and I was going for business on a football scholarship. Kyle was valedictorian of our class. I teased him all the time about being a nerd. He had to prepare a speech for graduation. I was so glad it wasn't me having to get up there and speak.
Graduation day, I saw Kyle. He looked great. He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school. He filled out and actually looked good in glasses. He had more dates than me and all the girls loved him! Boy, sometimes I was jealous. Today was one of those days. I could see that he was nervous about his speech. So, I smacked him on the back and said, "Hey, big guy, you'll be great!"
He looked at me with one of those looks (the really grateful one) and smiled. "Thanks," he said.
As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began. "Graduation is a time to thank those who helped you make it through those tough years. Your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach... but mostly your friends. I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them. I am going to tell you a story."
I just looked at my friend with disbelief as he told the story of the first day we met. He had planned to kill himself over the weekend. He talked of how he had cleaned out his locker so his mom wouldn't have to do it later and was carrying his stuff home. He looked hard at me and gave me a little smile. "Thankfully, I was saved. My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable."
I heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told us all about his weakest moment. I saw his mom and dad looking at me and smiling that same grateful smile. Not until that moment did I realize it's depth.
Never underestimate the power of your actions. With one small gesture you can change a person's life.
God puts us all in each other's lives to impact one another in some way. Share the love of Jesus Christ with each person you meet today. There's another Kyle out there somewhere who needs your frienship.
David Langerfeld
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Aug 10, 2007 7:56 am | | The Baked Bible | # |
Stella Holman | | Several hundred years ago the people of Bohemia were forbidden to possess
or to read the Bible by the Emperor of Austria, to which country Bohemia
then belonged. Nevertheless, many of the people did have Bibles and refused
to give them up.
So soldiers were sent out to search the houses and take any Bible which
might be found. When the people of any village heard that the soldiers
were coming, they made haste to hide their Bibles in some secret place.
Consequently, although the soldiers searched the houses thoroughly and
roughly, many Bibles were not found.
One day the report came to a house that the soldiers were on their way.
There was only a young girl there, and she was kneading dough for bread.
On hearing the breathless whisper of the sentinel, the quick-witted girl
spread out her dough, placed the Bible in the center and, quickly doubling
the dough over it, put it into a big pan and slipped it into the oven.
When the soldiers arrived a few minutes later, she met them at the door,
and in answer to their demand for the Bible, calmly told them to search
and see if there was one in the house. They looked into every corner of
the cottage but found none. When they opened the stove door, they saw only
a large loaf of bread baking.
Years afterward the grandson of the heroine of this story came to America
and settled in northwestern Ohio. He brought with him the Bible which his
grandmother had saved from the soldiers. It had been carefully kept as a
relic of days which, fortunately, are no more.
The Holy Bible is a perfect Book from our perfect God. It is His love
letter to us. Here the Father plans, the Son executes, the Spirit
operates. The way of salvation is given; Heaven is revealed; Hell is
described. The cross is its center, eternal life its fruition and God's
glory its end. By it the soul is cultured, the mind enlightened, the
memory enriched and the heart established.
The Bible is the traveler's guide, the pilgrim's staff, the warrior's sword
and the fighter's shield. It is the telescope of faith, the microscope of
conscience, the mirror of Christ's face and the casket (or jewel box) of
God's grace. It is food for the heart-hungry, drink for the soul-thirsty,
medicine for the sin-sick and life for the spiritually dead.
Read it to be godly; use it to be fruitful; believe it to be faithful;
trust it to have peace. God has magnified His Word above His great name,
and has commanded that it be preached and practiced. It is His standard of
judgment. By it all are wooed and waned, saved or doomed. Read it in the
company of the Author. Be a Bible-read, Bible-fed Christian. It covers the
course of time between two eternities and will live forever.
Author UnknownPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Aug 10, 2007 8:34 am | | How to Handle Criticism | # |
Stella Holman | | Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be
afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with
you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9 TNIV).
People who dream big dreams and proceed to put legs under them are
always open to criticism. Some people don't grasp the dream. Others are
jealous because they didn't have it first. And, I have come to suspect,
there are some people who think their task in the world is to tear down
the dreams of others.
You have a dream, don't you? It is a given, then, that you will face
your share of criticism. What should you do about it? If it is a
legitimate criticism, learn from it.
The people and corporations that fail are the ones so thin-skinned they
cannot hear valid complaints. A true friend will take the risk of
speaking the truth because he cares about you. A legitimate complaint
about some product or service can be an insight for improving it. If
the criticism is mistaken or mean-spirited, rise above it.
Maintain the high ground under fire. There is no victory worth winning
that comes from picking up the mud thrown at you and slinging it back.
If you must respond, just use facts. Try never to give in to the
temptation to get even or to respond in kind. Jesus is the perfect
example of turning the other cheek and returning good for evil. When
you are criticized, hold fast to your dream and continue pursuing it.
Critics win if you forsake the quest for it to fight them. Your best
answer will always be to see your task through to completion. Theodore
Roosevelt had a credo about the criticism leaders take for their daring
and boldness:
Hold fast to your dream and continue pursuing it.
It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the
strong man stumbled or where the doer of deeds could have done them
better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena;
whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives
valiantly; who errs, and comes short again and again, because there
is not effort without error and shortcoming; who does actually try
to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion,
and spends himself in a worthy cause; who, at the worst, if he
fails, at least fails while daring greatly.
Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs
even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor
spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they live in the
gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.
Today presents the chance to so something significant. Don't let
critics turn you aside from doing your duty, finishing an open task,
and pursuing your dream.
From Rubel Shelly's "FAX of Life"Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Aug 10, 2007 8:41 am | | Taking Note of a Hero's Death | # |
Stella Holman | | Give to everyone what you owe: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor (Romans 13:7 TNIV).
Perhaps heroes are a special breed, but I don't really think so. They are decent people who do bold, honorable, or courageous things when put under extreme pressures. They do under duress what has been ingrained in their normal life routines. Take Chuck Lindberg as an example.
Mr. Lindberg is not to be confused with the famous aviator. He was a Marine during World War II, and only within the past few years has the story of his heroism been widely told. Lindberg was in the group of Marines who helped raise the first American flag on Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima.
If you have mental images of the famous flag-raising that became the model for the Marine Corps Memorial statue in Arlington, Virginia, Lindberg isn't one of the figures in it. That scene was actually the second flag-raising on Iwo Jima. The second one came some four hours after the one Lindberg shared.
Only in 1995 did the Marine Corps set the record straight. On the morning of February 23, 1945, Mount Suribachi was captured by the Leathernecks. Corporal Lindberg, 24, and five other Marines raised an American flag on a long pole they found after fighting their way to the
top of the mountain. The scene was photographed by Sergeant Lou Lowery.
About four hours later, the iconic photo by AP photographer Joe Rosenthal was taken with a larger flag.
Chuck Lindberg was a hero that day -- along with others who did not raise flags, get photographed, or even survive the battle. Both he and they were doing something courageous under extraordinary conditions.
They were pursuing a cause they believed was noble and just, and they acted with the sort of honor and bravery that had been instilled in them.
Anyone today who wants to be a hero must practice for the role.
Anyone today who wants to be a hero must practice for the role. You practice for being heroic by being honest and keeping your word, telling the truth and fulfilling commitments, being on time and doing your job, spending time with your children and teaching them how to treat their other parent respectfully, aging gracefully and battling
cancer, paying your bills and treating others with respect.
People who train to live this way under ordinary circumstances are the ones who act with decency, integrity, boldness, and bravery when the chips are down.
I really don't mean to be cynical, but it bothers me that we are more into Paris Hilton's stint in jail than the death of someone such as Chuck Lindberg. We produce more "stars" than good examples. We hold TV competitions for idols and pin-ups and make fun of the honest soul who returns a briefcase undisturbed or gives back the extra change a befuddled clerk hands across the counter.
Chuck Lindberg moved to the Twin Cities and became an electrician after the war. For years, lots of people thought he was either delusional or lying about helping raise that first flag. Then the record was finally clarified.
The last surviving flag-raiser of Iwo Jima died on June 25, just two days short of turning 87. Thank you, Mr. Lindberg, for your heroism -- and for causing the rest of us to think about what it takes to be heroes in our circumstances.
---------
(c) 2007 Used by permission. From Rubel Shelly's "FAX of Life"
printed each TuesdayPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Aug 15, 2007 10:17 am | | Daniel in the Lion's Den | # |
Stella Holman | | "So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the lion's den. The king said to Daniel, 'May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!'" (Daniel 6:16)
No question, Daniel got a rough deal. He was set up by jealous, lesser men who wanted him out of the way. It seemed like they succeeded, except for one thing they overlooked: Daniel's trust in God.
The interesting thing, however, about Daniel being thrown into the den of lions is that God didn't deliver him out of the den before Daniel found deliverance in it. Imagine if Daniel had fought against being thrown into the den (which he would have been justified in doing) and gone into the den fighting against it every inch of the way, chances are the lions would have torn him to shreds before he hit the bottom. But Daniel didn't. He accepted his lot and trusted his life to God who shut the lion's mouths.
On more than one occasion I have asked God that if I am not going to be delivered out of my "lion's den" (naming the frustrating situation I'm in), would he please deliver me in it.
Sometimes, like Daniel, God has a lesson for us to learn in our present difficult situation and before he delivers us out of it, like Daniel, we need to find deliverance in it.
By David LangfieldPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Aug 15, 2007 10:33 am | | Share the Passion | # |
Stella Holman | | Christian Outreach Centre European Conference - held in Portslade, East Sussex from 30 July to 03 August 2007.
We had a very enjoyable week, getting up at 6.30am every day, leaving our home at 7.20am to pick up another friend and then the travelling to Portslade in the peak morning traffic. We were very blessed with the weather, after the Electives had finished at 1.45pm, we were able to go and sit in the sun at the Hove Lagoon, a lovely park with activities for various ages!
Evening sessions started at 7pm and went on until about 10pm, then we drove back home and got to bed at approx 12 midnight.
The Conference entitled "People of Passion" is about our Passion for Jesus and seeing the Revival in the UK and the World.
Conference Speakers were:
Canon Andrew White:
Who is the president of the Foundation for Relief and Reconcillation in the Middle East.
Canon Andrew's passion for the people in Iraq was very powerful, he told us how he loved the people and despite being told by many people who thought that they had heard from God to tell him now to continue with his ministry work, he stated he knows that it is his calling to continue.
His message was based on the scriptures in the Old Testiment - Daniel in the Lions's Den. See previous message
The message to us is that the God we serve will continue to save us from all of our trials and tribulations if we keep close to him.
Do not be afraid - do not fear - set you mind to gain understanding and humble yourself to God. Daniel 10 v 12.
Have the courage to go into the places that others won't attempt to go, we can then transform society. We have to serve where God has placed us. We need to be in serious leadership positions.
Remember the pray from Mother Teresa - Do It Any Way!
In unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.
What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.
Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.
In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.
-this version is credited to Mother Teresa
Our Passion for God will change us into the likeness of Jesus, then we can change the world.
Blessings + kind regards
Stella Holman - Ivey Business Services
http://www.stella-holman.comPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Sep 16, 2007 10:23 am | | Trust | # |
Stella Holman | | A new school Principal was checking over his school on the first day. Passing the stockroom, he was startled to see the door wide open and teachers bustling in and out, carrying off books and supplies in preparation for the arrival of students the next day. The school where he had been a Principal the previous year had used a check-out system only slightly less elaborate than that at Fort Knox.
Cautiously, he asked the school's long time Custodian, "Do you think it's wise to keep the stockroom unlocked and to let the teachers take things without requisitions?"
The Custodian looked at him gravely and said, "We trust them with the children, don't we?"
Trust. A simple and short word, but one that implies so much. If I trust someone in one area, but not in another, have I really trusted them? Can trust be area specific? I know confidence can be, but trust implies the whole package.
How do you trust God? Do you, as many people do, trust Him for your salvation, but you don't trust Him to take care of your daily needs? Do you trust Him to forgive you of your sins, but not to help you in personal areas that you lift to Him in prayer? In other words, do you trust the Lord for the big things, but doubt Him (distrust) for the relatively little things?
We need to make a decision right now! Do you trust God for EVERYTHING or do you pick and choose where you trust Him? How does God want you to trust Him? I'm so glad that God forgave me of ALL my sins, not just the ones He thought about, rationalized, and made a decision based on my life experience or my worthiness.
God can be trusted in ALL things; we need to show Him that we trust Him in ALL areas by giving Him our WHOLE life, not just certain areas.
" Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding. In ALL your ways acknowledge him, and He will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
By David LangerfieldPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Sep 16, 2007 10:25 am | | The Reef | # |
Stella Holman | | The Great Barrier Reef stretches 1,800 miles from New Guinea to Australia. Tour guides regularly take visitors to view the reef. On one tour, the guide was asked an interesting question. "I notice that the lagoon side of the reef looks pale and lifeless, while the ocean side is vibrant and colorful," a traveler observed. "Why is this?"
The guide gave an interesting answer: "The coral around the lagoon side is in still water, with no challenge for its survival. It dies early. The coral on the ocean side is constantly being tested by wind, waves, storms -- surges of power. It has to fight for survival every day of it's life. As it is challenged and tested it changes and adapts. It grows healthy. It grows strong. And it reproduces." Then he added this telling note: "That's the way it is with every living organism."
That's how it is with Christians! Challenged and tested, we come alive! Like coral pounded by the sea, we grow! Physical demands can cause us to grow stronger. Mental and emotional stress can produce tough-mindedness and resiliency. Spiritual testing can produce strength of character and faithfulness. So, when you have problems - no problem! Just tell yourself, "There I grow again!"
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." James 1:1-2, 12
By David LangerfieldPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Sep 16, 2007 10:28 am | | The Butterfly Principle | # |
Stella Holman | | "The Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt, so that he pursued the Israelites, who were marching out boldly." (Exodus 14:8)
Overprotective parents do their children a great injustice. The caterpillar that lies inside the cocoon will never become the beautiful butterfly if someone cuts open the cocoon prematurely. It is the struggle itself that allows the butterfly to emerge as a strong, new creature of nature.
God understands how necessary this process is. That is why we are allowed to experience difficult, often life-changing events. He even orchestrates them-all for our benefit. What the Israelites thought was a cruel joke when Pharaoh sent troops to pursue them after they had been freed and penned against the shore of the Red Sea became the stage for the most publicized miracle of all time-the parting of the Red Sea. Generation after generation has heard this incredible story of deliverance. God puts us against the "Red Seas" in order to show His power in and through us. If we do not know God can deliver, then we can never learn to trust Him. Circumstances that go beyond our capabilities of solving them place us at God's complete mercy. This is how He likes it.
Do not fear the calamity that comes your way. If you are faithful to Him in the test, you will see God's power manifested like never before. Just as the Israelites were able to sing a song of deliverance, you too will have your own testimony of the Lord's faithfulness; and you will be able to recall it for others to build your faith and theirs.
Os Hillman
TGIF - "Today God Is First"
To subscribe to TGIF, go to: www.TodayGodIsFirst.com
To contact Os Hillman, send an email to: oshillman@marketplaceleaders.org
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Sep 17, 2007 1:05 pm | | God knows | # |
Stella Holman | | When you are tired and discouraged from fruitless efforts...
God knows how hard you have tried.
When you've cried so long and your heart is in anguish...
God has counted your tears.
If you feel that your life is on hold and time has passed you by...
God is waiting with you.
When you're lonely and your friends are too busy even for a phone call...
God is by your side.
When you think you've tried everything and don't know where to turn...
God has a solution.
When nothing makes sense and you are confused or frustrated...
God has the answer.
If suddenly your outlook is brighter and you find traces of hope...
God has whispered to you.
When things are going well and you have much to be thankful for...
God has blessed you.
When something joyful happens and you are filled with awe...
God has smiled upon you.
When you have a purpose to fulfill and a dream to follow...
God has opened your eyes and called you by name.
Remember that wherever you are or whatever you are facing...
~ GOD KNOWS ~
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Sep 18, 2007 6:20 pm | | Just Ask | # |
Stella Holman | |
I recently heard John Eldridge (author of Sacred Romance, Wild At
Heart, Waking the Dead, and other works) speak to a large group of
counselors. His message was simple: Ask. Specifically, ask God.
Before you assume you know what to do in a certain situation, ask
God. Before you assume you know what that person sitting across from
is thinking and feeling, ask God. Before you assume you know what
your next step in treatment will be, ask God.
Good advice for counselors. Good advice for normal people too.
For instance, before you tear into your teenager because it appears
they have been disobedient, ask God to help you respond to this child
you love with all your heart in the way He wants you to respond.
Before you rush into the office ready to express how unhappy you are
in the work place, ask God how He wants you to speak to your boss.
Ask God what He wants you to say. Ask God to show you what your boss
needs from you.
Before you make a rash decision in your anger and frustration. Ask
God to help you calm down, ask God to remind you of times when you
angered and frustrated other people.
Before you fuss at the lady behind the desk ask God to remind you of
times when people have shown you patience. Ask God remind you what
patience looks like.
Before you quit ask God what He wants you to do.
Before you change jobs ask God what He wants.
Before you get married ask God who He wants you to marry.
Before you file for divorce ask God what He can do.
Before you lose your temper ask God how He would have you respond.
Before you treat someone with unkindness ask God to give you new words.
Before you tell someone how to run their life ask God to give you the
words, or ask Him close your mouth.
Before you assume you know how you should handle the difficult
situation ask God to tell you how He wants you to handle the situation.
Before you assume you know all there is to know about all there is to
know ask God.
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and
the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he
who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or
if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though
you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much
more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!
So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you,
for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." (Matt 7:7-12 NIV)
Before you go too far into the day ask God.
Tom
A Norvell Note (c) Copyright 2007. Tom Norvell All Rights Reserved.
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Sep 18, 2007 6:23 pm | | Perseverance | # |
Stella Holman | | A lot of things have been said about the value of perseverance. We all
know the good old fable about the tortoise and the hare. And the great
preacher Charles Spurgeon once said, "The snail would never have made
it on the ark, except through long perseverance!" Winston Churchill led
an entire nation through World War II with his grim determination to go
on to the end and never surrender or give up.
The book of James puts it this way, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers
and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know
that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance
finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking
anything" (James 1:2-4 TNIV).
The crown comes after persevering through the fight!
An apostle of Jesus speaks about persevering when he says, "I have
fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the
Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day -- and not only
to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing" (2 Timothy
4:7-8).
The crown comes after persevering through the fight and the race.
Perseverance will make life work better for you today, so with God's
help, I want to encourage you to "keep on keeping on."
---------
(c) 2007 Paul Faulkner.
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Sep 24, 2007 9:56 am | | HE IS THE GREAT I AM! | # |
Stella Holman | | He is the First and Last, the Beginning and the End!
He is the keeper of Creation and the Creator of all!
He is the Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times.
He always was, He always is, and He always will be...
Unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and never Undone!
He was bruised and brought healing!
He was pierced and eased pain!
He was persecuted and brought freedom!
He was dead and brought life!
He is risen and brings power!
He reigns and brings Peace!
The world can't understand him,
The armies can't defeat Him,
The schools can't explain Him, and
The leaders can't ignore Him.
Herod couldn't kill Him,
The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, and
The People couldn't hold Him!
Nero couldn't crush Him,
Hitler couldn't silence Him,
The New Age can't replace Him, and
Maury can't explain Him away!
He is light, love, longevity, and Lord.
He is goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.
He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure.
His ways are right, His word is eternal,
His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me.
He is my Redeemer, He is my Savior,
He is my guide, and He is my peace!
He is my Joy, He is my comfort,
He is my Lord, and He rules my life!
I serve Him because...
His bond is love,
His burden is light, and
His goal for me is abundant life.
I follow Him because He is...
the wisdom of the wise,
the power of the powerful,
the ancient of days,
the ruler of rulers,
the leader of leaders,
the overseer of the overcomers and
the sovereign Lord of all that was and is and is to come.
And if that seems impressive to you, try this on for size...
His goal is a relationship with ME!
He will never leave me,
Never forsake me,
Never mislead me,
Never forget me,
Never overlook me, and
Never cancel my appointment in His appointment book!
When I fall, He lifts me up!
When I fail, He forgives!
When I am weak, He is strong!
When I am lost, He is the way!
When I am afraid, He is my courage!
When I stumble, He steadies me!
When I am hurt, He heals me!
When I am broken, He mends me!
When I am blind, He leads me!
When I am hungry, He feeds me!
When I face trials, He is with me!
When I face persecution, He shields me!
When I face problems, He comforts me!
When I face loss, He provides for me!
When I face Death, He carries me Home!
He is everything for everybody, everywhere, every time, and every way.
He is God,
He is faithful.
I am His, and He is mine!
My Father in heaven can whip the father of this world.
So, if you're wondering why I feel so secure, understand this...
He said it and that settles it.
God is in control,
I am on His side, and that means all is well with my soul.
Every day is a blessing - for GOD Is!
By David Langfield
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Oct 15, 2007 6:41 pm | | MIDLIFE CRISIS | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
No matter how old we may sometimes feel the Lord has us alive in this day
for a reason and a purpose. Never believe the lie that your best days are
behind you because you have this day and the days ahead to impact your
family, neighborhood, state and world for the better. The Bible says that
we are more than conquerors through Christ and no weapon formed against us
will prosper. We have the ability within us to go out and make great
changes where both our life and the lives of those around us will be made
better because of our choice to move forward and live as God has intended.
Be encouraged to renew your mind and allow your spirit to be revitalized
and see yourself enjoying life, helping others, creating beautiful memories
and simply making God proud by opening yourself to be used of Him. The
Lord is searching for vessels. Make yourself available to Him today.
(Acts 26:16) (Psalm 37:23-27) (Romans 8:37) (Isaiah 54:17) (Isaiah 6:8)
I hope this message both inspires and challenges your heart to living your life no matter how young or old you may be. The Lord has you on this earth for a purpose and it is your duty to seek Him and search Him
for that purpose to be made clear. (Jeremiah 29:12-13)
MIDLIFE CRISIS
A glance in the mirror. Simple. Yet altering somehow.
I am not the child I once was - yet I can still see him there - bright - happy - outgoing.
But wait, I pause to truly see the me I am today - lines and crevices mar
the unspoiled face of childhood mirroring the many paths I could have chosen.
I am not sixteen, I am not twenty, and I am no longer thirty-five. Time has marched across my features and I can scarcely remember the Never Neverland of childish imaginings.
Yet as I continue to gaze in the reflection I see the features of family
older and wiser in the shape and contour of my face. These family members
gaze at me knowingly and understand the path I tread. A few of these family
members remain while others reside in my memory only.
One day these gathered in my mind will be the stuff of legend with a bit
of fable thrown in. Family stories will be passed along to those who never
knew the flesh and blood reality. Given enough time most will be forgotten.
This chance encounter with the me in the mirror brings about a mid-life
crisis of sorts. And I find myself needing to make a choice.
I can attempt to mimic the me I recall in faulty memory or I can attempt
to honor the memory of those I have known by being more like them. Yet
neither choice seems entirely agreeable.
Perhaps there is another choice.
The good old days are often the best of memories sifted often and
embellished with time. The future holds much - promise, dreams, adventure,
danger, new generations who do not see eye to eye with the past, declining
health, perhaps loss of job, loss of memory and loss of my spouse.
My life is neither at the beginning and it may not be at the end. God delights in the heart of a child, so I choose that heart - God delights in maturity, so I chose this path.
God gave Moses his greatest assignment at the age of 80, Abraham became a
parent at 100, Paul and John wrote significant words later in life.
Through aches and pains - flesh thorns and heartache God used these men.
I will not cower at the thought of the coming years. I want to run eagerly
to my Savior's side and take His assignments gladly. I want to do so willingly.
Rather than looking back at the way things were, I want to look ahead to
the way things could be. I want the heart of a child and the maturity of a
wise man. I want to greet each day with a willingness to pursue the
adventure called life. I won't do it by acting like someone half my age -
I will do it with the help of an ageless God who loves me and understands
that I am created from dust.
I will associate with younger people - I will need to know what they think
and how they see their world. I will surround myself with older people - I
will need the wisdom they can offer. And I will not contribute one dime to
the widening of the generation gap.
The me in the mirror is not what I once was. The me in the mirror is not
the final word on who I will become. The me in the mirror is simply a
reflection of today - a day that the Lord has made for my enjoyment and,
more importantly, His purpose.
I walk away from the mirror with a smile on my face. I have things to do - crisis averted!
By Glenn A. HascallPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Oct 15, 2007 6:43 pm | | NOBODY MADE IT | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
The Lord in His infinite wisdom has created the heavens and the earth and
all that is within them, yet many people trust in the theory that all
things came together by chance to work together in perfect harmony. It is
like saying a Rolex watch with all its many gears, springs and intricate
pieces all came to be by chance and happened to fit perfectly together to
work in harmony and function without flaw. This is a ridiculous theory,
yet some people believe that about this world and all that is within it.
Common sense tells me that if there is a building, then there is a builder.
If there is a painting, there is a painter. If there is creation, then
there is a Creator. Be encouraged to believe God and not the nonsense of
man. He is the Supreme Being who has created us all for His good pleasure.
(Genesis 1:1-2:3) (Jeremiah 33:2-3) (Isaiah 45:18) (Romans 3:4) (Ephesians 1:5)
I hope this message encourages your heart to trust the Lord in every area
of your life and know that He is the One who has made us and not we ourselves. The Lord deserves the Glory, Honor and Praise for everything He has done.
NOBODY MADE IT
Many years ago Sir Isaac Newton had an exact replica of our solar system
made in miniature. At its center was a large golden ball representing the
sun, and revolving around it were small spheres attached at the ends of
rods of varying lengths. They represented Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, and
the other planets. These were all geared together by cogs and belts to
make them move around the "sun" in perfect harmony.
One day as Newton was studying the model, a friend who did not believe in
the biblical account of creation stopped by for a visit. Marveling at the
device and watching as the scientist made the heavenly bodies move on
their orbits, the man exclaimed, "My, Newton, what an exquisite thing! Who
made it for you?" Without looking up, Sir Isaac replied, "Nobody."
"Nobody?" his friend asked. "That's right! I said nobody! All of these balls and cogs and belts and gears just happened to come together, and wonder of wonders, by chance they began revolving in their set orbits and with perfect timing."
The unbeliever got the message! It was foolish to suppose that the model
merely happened. But it was even more senseless to accept the theory that
the earth and the vast universe came into being by chance. How much more
logical to believe what the Bible says, "In the beginning, God created the
heaven and the earth." The Word also declares, "The fool hath said in his
heart, There is no God". (Psalms 14:1)
Addendum - Genesis 1:1 "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth."
Author UnknownPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Oct 18, 2007 1:28 pm | | A WORKING HOLIDAY | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
It is important in life that we continue on and stay productive no matter the trials or hardships that come near to us. We are to have the attitude of praise and thanksgiving and see that no matter how tough our situation may be right now, there is someone else suffering far greater than we will ever know. Be encouraged to see that you are the blessed one who has much to be grateful for even in this present time of hardship. See every situation of hardship as an opportunity to better yourself and in time when you look back on your past trials; you will see them as steppingstones to greener pastures. (Psalm 121:1-8) (2 Corinthians 4:8-11) (Romans 8:28)
You will find yourself grateful for the trials and tribulations that came your way, because they made you stronger, wiser and better than you were before. Praise God, who knows all things at all times in all situations.
Trust Him with your life and know that He will never leave your side.
I hope this message encourages your heart to continue on in the midst of your heartbreak and proclaim that all things will work together for your good because you love God and are called according to His purposes.
A WORKING HOLIDAY
The grocery store is common ground for most of us. The difference is the
uncommon stories we carry in our hearts as we go about the business of
shopping for our daily bread.
On my last visit to the local grocer, an elderly lady said, Excuse me, and asked if I knew where she could find the ground pork. As I helped her scout the meat cooler, she told me she needed the pork to make her annual meat pies.
I'm making them early this year. My two children and their families are going away for Christmas.
Our search for the pork slowed down as our conversation progressed. Her husband, Jack, had passed away in the spring. The children wanted to cancel their holiday vacation and stay home, but she insisted they go, and made Christmas plans of her own.
I'm not having a tree or putting up decorations. I've had more good Christmases than any one person could ever hope for. This year, I'm giving back.
The week before Christmas, she's going to help a couple of organizations distribute food and gift baskets to the needy. On Christmas Day, she's going to serve food at the Downtown Mission. Her eyes were firm and clear as she spoke. No sign of the sadness you'd expect to see in the eyes of a
person about to spend their first Christmas alone after forty-one years of marriage. I soon found out why.
I'm giving my own self as a Christmas present this year,†she announced, and promptly burst into laughter. The sound of it was contagious. I laughed with her.
Then, making me privy to a delightful conspiracy, she whispered, Everyone pats my hand and feels sorry for me. They think I'll be all alone, and that
Jack won't be with me. look at the sparkle in her eyes, and I knew Jack had never left.
He's had it pretty easy these last six months,†she explained, While he's been resting on his laurels and shootin' the breeze, I've continued to work
my way through the days. Look at me right now, trudging through the grocery store looking for pork.
Another round of laughter ensued.
Fair's fair. I'm putting Jack to work over the Christmas holidays.
We found the pork, eventually, and parted company.
So much love, life and laughter in one little lady - the memory of our encounter will stay with me always.
I thought of her husband as I stood in the check-out line, and stifled a sudden urge to laugh. I hope you're getting plenty of rest Jack. You're
definitely working this Christmas.
By Terri McPherson
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Oct 20, 2007 7:32 pm | | A MOUNTAIN OF LAUNDRY | # |
Stella Holman | | My husband and I became foster parents after we had been married for two
years. Our first placement was two little boys, brothers, who we adopted
after they were with us for eighteen months. When our boys were two and
three, we were asked to take one and three-year-old sisters into our home.
For the following two years we had our own little in-house, full-time daycare.
After the girls had been with us for about six months, I attempted to get
involved in a Bible study group at our church. One thing or another always
seemed to prevent me from attending. I was feeling a little discouraged,
but I'd purchased devotional tapes and a study guide and thought I could
keep up with the Bible study by myself at home.
One afternoon, after I'd put the children down for their naps, I tackled a
mountain of laundry that had piled up on the sofa and needed folding. As
I was folding, I began discussing my plight with the Lord. “You know,
Lord, I've started attending this Bible study and I'm trying to find time
for You and everything I need to do, but I just can't seem to find any
time. I've tried getting up before daylight, but one of the kids always
hears me and gets up wanting my attention and by bedtime I'm exhausted. I
guess I could do them during naptime, but that's the only time I have to
get caught up with the housework…mainly the laundry. I seem to be able to
keep up with most everything but this laundry! Well, I guess You know all
about it. You gave me all of these little kids to care for and You know
they need clean clothes to wear. You know how much work this takes and I
know You understand.”
The following Sunday my husband and I were sitting in Sunday School class
waiting for the teacher to begin, when our family's adopted grandmother,
Betty, came and sat down beside me. Betty is a widow who has raised five
children. She's a wonderful woman who's always helping someone, and had
personally blessed our family on many occasions, but I was totally
unprepared for what she had to say on that particular day!
She leaned toward me and said, “I have a proposition for you.”
My curiosity was aroused. “O.K., what is it?” I answered back.
She sweetly and softly replied, “I really think this is the Lord, but would
you let me do your laundry?”
As I sat gaping at her with my mouth hanging open, my mind was racing
trying to think who I could have told about my laundry situation. I knew
I hadn't mentioned it to anyone, not even my husband, Rodney. “Do you know
how much laundry I have?” I whispered back as my eyes started to fill.
“Honey, I've raised five children and I know how much laundry you have,”
was her response. Then she continued, “You know, what you and your husband
are doing raising these little children is wonderful, but I know it's hard
work. I'm an old woman and I don't watch other people's children anymore,
but I can do your laundry. You just have Rodney drop it off on his way to
work, and pick it up on his way home. I'll wash it, dry it, iron it, fold
it; whatever is needed.”
Shame on me, because the whole time she was speaking, I was thinking, “Oh,
Lord, not the underwear! I can't send our underwear to someone else to do!”
Betty was still talking, “Last week I noticed you up on the platform during
praise and worship and you looked very tired. I was thinking about you all
week and then I felt the Lord telling me to, `Ask Ronni if she'll let you
do her laundry,'” then she finished with, “Now, don't you rob me of this
blessing!”
At the time I didn't know how to respond. Not wanting to hurt Betty's
feelings, I let her know I would think about her offer. Even though I had
poured out my heart about how difficult it was to keep up and how I missed
my devotional time with Him, I was unprepared for God to actually do
something about it. He had given me the task of caring for these little
ones and I was a little put out that He'd taken me seriously when I said I
was having trouble keeping up. So I thought, “If I just get a little more
organized, I can take care of this myself.”
As I walked in and surveyed the laundry room a couple of weeks later, I
sagged against the washer. The mountain of laundry hadn't diminished a
bit with my efforts to take care of things myself. As a matter of fact,
it was now bigger than ever. “Well, Lord,” I said, “I guess I could send
everything but the underwear.”
Very clearly, I heard that still small voice say, “When I ask you for your
dirty laundry, I want all of it, even the underwear.”
That's when I broke. That mountain of laundry now represented the mountain
of pride in my life. Who was I to look disdainfully on a gift offered in
love?
As I picked up the phone, my eyes were filling with tears and when I heard
sweet little Betty's voice on the other end, my own voice shook as I said,
“Betty, do you still want to help me with my laundry?”
My tears quickly turned to laughter at her ready response of, “Bring it on
over, Honey, bring it on over!”
Our clothes were never cleaner, brighter, or less wrinkled than during the
almost two years that Betty faithfully and lovingly did our laundry. Then
when our little foster daughters were placed in their “forever home”
through adoption, we both knew it was time for me to resume the task, and
although she no longer does our laundry, our friendship remains strong.
She laughed one day when I told her I wanted to be just like her when I
grew up. I still do.
By Ronni Wintermote
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Oct 24, 2007 7:07 pm | | Run with Intent | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
The Lord has placed great dreams and aspirations within each of our hearts that are meant to be realized and fulfilled. We must remember that God does not create anything without a reason and purpose behind it. Our life is proof that we are on the earth to accomplish that which is pleasing to the Lord. The Bible says that God declares the end from the beginning.
Never believe the lie that you have no purpose or talent because the Lord created you to fulfill a need that is to be met. Believe in yourself just as God believes in you and run your race with a quiet confidence knowing that God is running right beside you. (Isaiah 46:10) (Deuteronomy 28:12-14)
I hope you are encouraged by this message to see that your life can positively impact your city, country and even this world.
RUN WITH INTENT
Buckminster Fuller once said, “The minute you choose to do what you really want to do it's a different kind of life.” And it's not about what you're getting Paid to do! If you want to live abundantly, decide what you really want and figure out a way to do it. Be clear and live with intent.
You may have heard of Fred Lebow. Fred complained to his doctor that he lacked energy. His doctor advised him to take up running in order to increase his stamina. He fell in love with it! He was 39 years old when he entered his first race -- and did horribly. He beat only one other contestant...a 72-year-old man. But he loved it!
Fred decided what he really wanted to do -- and he did it in his spare time. He joined the New York Road Runners Club and organized New York City's first marathon race. But what Fred truly wanted to do, even more than run, was to bring people together. And that is what he did. He believed that anybody should be able to run -- people of all ages, any background, professional or amateur, and of any country. Today, more than 28,000 people of all backgrounds and nationalities compete in the NYC Marathon.
Not everyone in New York was excited about people running through their neighborhoods. Fred was approached by a youth gang that warned him that nobody had better run through their turf. “That's great,” Fred enthused.
“I need someone to protect the runners in your area, and you look like just the fellows to do it.” He gave them each a hat, shirt and jacket and that year, when the marathon went through their neighborhood, these young men proudly guarded the runners along their way.
Fred decided what was truly important to him and he found a way to do it.
He lived with intent. That single decision made his life remarkably different.
In 1990, Fred Lebow found he had a brain tumor. In 1992 he ran his final race. He crossed the finish line holding the hand of his friend and Norwegian Olympic medallist, Grete Waitz. A bronze statue was created of Fred in his running clothes, checking his watch. It is now placed at the finish line of every race. Fred died in 1994. But as one sports writer said, “Fate handed him a short race. With his gall, with his love of life, Fred Lebow turned it into a marathon.”
Fred would say that it's not about how long you live, but how you run the race of life. Do you run it with intent?
By Steve Goodier
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Oct 24, 2007 7:47 pm | | Just Beyond My Vision | # |
Stella Holman | | As I drove along the highway on the brow of one of the mountains near us I would occasionally look to my left catching a glimpse of the view. Occasionally there would be a break in the tree line and I could see for miles across the valley below, but most of the time the view was just beyond my vision. The brief glimpses left me wanting more. But, not enough to stop the car. I wanted to see the whole view but traveling at 55 MPH on a highway with a schedule to meet did not allow time for seeing the beauty of view.
As we travel through along life's highway we often settle for only a glimpse of what is, and what could be. We have places to go. We have people to see. We have things to do. We know, or at least we sense, that to off to our left or to our right there is something more, something spectacular, something that would probably be worth our time and effort, but we often fail to take it in. We are satisfied with it being just beyond our vision.
When we think about a career we know that there is potentially something out that will thrill us, something that will excite us, something that will make us feel alive. That something is the life that God intended us to live. But, we are in a hurry. We want to get on with life, so we settle for what is convenient by rationalizing that what could be is just beyond us.
We look at other marriages and long for their level of intimacy, those skills in communication, and a relationship that provides that degree of satisfaction. We admire their friendship. We marvel at how they seem to be on the same wavelength all the time. Yet, we are unwilling to sacrifice our pride, relinquish our control, or tear down our walls. We resolve that we are asking for too much and that we should be content and comfort ourselves with the thought that it could always be worse.
In the quiet times of our day we secretly fear that we are losing connection with our children. We're busy. They're busy. The boss is pressuring us to do more while our heart is calling us to take some time off. We know we have it in us to be a great dad, but we realize that would mean making some drastic changes in how we do work, how we do family, and how we do life. So, we watch as our children grow older and further from us, but we comfort ourselves by saying that is just the way life is in this busy world.
We hear about churches that are growing, thriving, reaching the masses, communicating the good news, and ministering to their community. We evaluate our talent pool and gift sets and realize we could do that. We have that same potential. We talk in terms of what God could do and how He could lead us to new levels of ministry. But the possible dangers, the financial commitments, and potential for criticism scare us into believing that God is satisfied with us like we are.
For three years Jesus walked with His disciples showing them a new way of living, illustrating a new way of loving, and demonstrating a new way interaction with people. He gave His followers a vision that was just beyond what they knew as their reality. He believed in them and gave them confidence assuring them that He would be with them all the way. They believed it. They were ready. They dropped everything and followed Him. When He died they went back to life as usual. Then He came back. Their eyes were opened. They saw the complete vision.
They died for their conviction to share their vision of God.
Are you about to settle for just a glimpse of what could be? Have you resolved that where you are and who you are in life is good enough?
Or, is there a yearning for something more? Is there a sense that God is inviting you to slow down, to take a moment, to pull off the road to take in the spectacular view from the top of the mountain?
"I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father." (John 14:12 NIV)
God has something to show you. It may be just beyond your vision.
Take it in. Enjoy the view.
Tom
A Norvell Note (c) Copyright 2007. Tom Norvell All Rights Reserved.
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Nov 06, 2007 4:05 pm | | Regret City | # |
Stella Holman | | I had not really planned on taking a trip this time of year, and yet I found myself packing rather hurriedly. This trip was going to be unpleasant and I knew in advance that no real good would come of it. This is my annual "Guilt Trip."
I got tickets to fly there on "WISH-I-HAD" airlines. It was an extremely short flight. I got my "baggage," which I could not check. I chose to carry it myself all the way. It was loaded down with a thousand memories of "what might have been."
No one greeted me as I entered the terminal to the Regret City International Airport. I say international because people from all over the world come to this dismal town. As I checked into the "Last Resort" Hotel, I noticed that they would be hosting the year's most important event... the annual "Pity Party."
I wasn't going to miss that great social occasion. Many of the towns leading citizens would be there. First, there would be the "Done" family; you know, "Should Have," "Would Have" and "Could Have." Then came the "I Had" family. You probably know old "Wish" and his clan. Of course, the "Opportunities" family; "Missed and Lost," would be present. The biggest family there would be the "Yesterday's."
There are far too many of them to count, but each one would have a very sad story to share. Of course, "Shattered Dreams" would surely make and appearance. "It's Their Fault" family would regale us with stories (excuses) about how things had failed in their life. Each story would be loudly applauded by the "Don't Blame Me" and "I Couldn't Help It" committee.
To make a long story short, I went to this depressing party, knowing full well there would be no real benefit in doing so. And, as usual, I became very depressed. But as I thought about all of the stories of failures brought back from the past, it occurred to me that this trip and subsequent "pity parties" COULD be canceled by ME!
I started to realize that I did not have to be there. And I didn't have to be depressed. One thing kept going through my mind, I CAN'T CHANGE YESTERDAY, BUT I DO HAVE THE POWER TO MAKE TODAY A WONDERFUL DAY. I can be happy, joyous, fulfilled, encouraged, as well as being encouraging.
Knowing this, I left Regret City immediately, and didn't leave a forwarding address. Am I sorry for mistakes I've made in the past? YES! But there is no way to undo them. So, if you're planning a trip back to Regret City, please cancel all those reservations now. Instead, take a trip to a nice place called: "Starting Again."
I like it so much that I made it my permanent residence. My neighbors, the "Been Forgiven" and the "We're Saved" are so very helpful. By the way, you don't have to carry around the heavy baggage anymore either. That load is lifted from your shoulders upon arrival. Just thank God for salvation.
If you need directions, just look in your Bible and enter by "Grace Way." No taxes or other cost. God's Son paid the price, in full, for all sins and transgressions, a long time ago. Look me up if you're ready for a total change in your life. I now live on "His Will Way."
Sincerely, "Born Again."
Author Not knownPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Nov 08, 2007 12:06 pm | | A BOYS RACE PRAYER | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
We should never be too hard on ourselves when we fall short at a certain task. We must remember that God's strength is made perfect in our weakness and when we fall short at times, the Lord is the One will lifts us up and places our feet on solid ground letting us know that we are not failures.
It is the Lord who forgives and makes clean and He has given us His Word showing us that we are mighty warriors through Christ. Rest in the Lord's strength and do the task that has been laid on your heart confident that the outcome will be to the glory of God. (2 Corinthians 12:9) (Philippians 1:6)
Whatever task has been assigned to you, do it heartily as to the Lord and not to men and of the Lord you will receive a righteous reward. The Bible says that God pities us as a father pities his child. Always keep in mind
that God loves you and gave Himself so that you may live Eternally. He is cheering you on and wishes for your great success. Believe it and receive it for yourself today. (Colossians 3:23-24) (Psalm 103:13) (Ephesians 6:10)
I hope this message encourages your heart to stay determined in fulfilling your dreams knowing that God wishes for your success and complete victory in life.
A BOYS RACE PRAYER
My son Gilbert was eight years old and had been in Cub Scouts only a short time. During one of his meetings he was handed a sheet of paper, a block of wood and four tires and told to return home and give all to "dad". That
was not an easy task for Gilbert to do. Dad was not receptive to doing
things with his son. But Gilbert tried. Dad read the paper and scoffed at
the idea of making a pine wood derby car with his young, eager son. The
block of wood remained untouched as the weeks passed. Finally, mom stepped
in to see if I could figure this all out.
The project began...
Having no carpentry skills, I decided it would be best if I simply read
the directions and let Gilbert do the work. And he did. I read aloud the
measurements, the rules of what we could do and what we couldn't do. Within
days his block of wood was turning into a pinewood derby car. A little
lopsided, but looking great (at least through the eyes of mom). Gilbert
had not seen any of the other kids' cars and was feeling pretty proud of
his "Blue Lightning," the pride that comes with knowing you did something
on your own.
Then the big night came. With his blue pinewood derby in his hand and pride
in his heart, we headed to the big race. Once there my little one's pride
turned to humility. Gilbert's car was obviously the only car made entirely
on his own. All the other cars were a father-son partnership, with cool
paint jobs and sleek body styles made for speed.
A few of the boys giggled as they looked at Gilbert's, lopsided, wobbly,
unattractive vehicle. To add to the humility Gilbert was the only boy
without a man at his side. A couple of the boys who were from single
parent homes at least had an uncle or grandfather by their side, Gilbert
had "mom".
As the race began, it was done in elimination fashion. You kept racing as
long as you were the winner. One by one the cars raced down the finely
sanded ramp. Finally it was between Gilbert and the sleekest, fastest
looking car there.
As the last race was about to begin, my wide eyed, shy eight year old
asked if they could stop the race for a minute, because he wanted to pray.
The race stopped. Gilbert hit his knees clutching his funny looking block
of wood between his hands. With a wrinkled brow he set to converse with
his Heavenly Father. He prayed in earnest for a very long minute and a
half. Then he stood, smile on his face and announced, "Okay, I'm ready."
As the crowd cheered, a boy named Tommy stood with his father as their car
sped down the ramp. Gilbert stood with his Father within his heart and
watched his block of wood wobble down the ramp with surprisingly great
speed and rushed over the finish line a fraction of a second before
Tommy's car.
Gilbert leaped into the air with a loud "Thank you" as the crowd roared in
approval. The Scout Master came up to Gilbert with microphone in hand and
asked the obvious question, "So you prayed to win, huh, Gilbert?"
To which my young son answered, "Oh, no sir. That wouldn't be fair to ask
God to help me beat someone else. I just asked Him to make it so I didn't
cry if I lost."
Children seem to have a wisdom far beyond us. Gilbert didn't ask God to
win the race, he didn't ask God to fix the out come, Gilbert asked God to
give him strength in the outcome. When Gilbert first saw the other cars he
didn't cry out to God, "No fair, they had a fathers help." No, he went to
his Father for strength.
Perhaps we spend too much of our prayer time asking God to rig the race,
to make us number one, or too much time asking God to remove us from the
struggle, when we should be seeking God's strength to get through the
struggle.
"I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." Philippines 4:13
Gilbert's simple prayer spoke volumes to those present that night. He
never doubted that God would indeed answer his request. He didn't pray to win, thus hurt someone else; he prayed that God supply the grace to lose with dignity.
Gilbert, by his stopping the race to speak to his Father also showed the crowd that he wasn't there without a "dad", but His Father was most definitely there with him. Yes, Gilbert walked away a winner that night,
with his Father at his side.
By Peggy PorterPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | Nov 22, 2007 3:01 pm | | Thankfulness | # |
Stella Holman | | By
Jamie Shell and Brent Nidiffer
Nov 22, 2007
Thankfulness
A good king in Spain known as Alfonso XIX learned that the boys who served in his court were forgetting to pray before their meals. So he decided to teach them a lesson. He gave a banquet and invited them to attend. Midway through the dinner, a ragged beggar came in, sat down, and began eating ravenously. When he was finished, he went out without saying a word. "That ungrateful wretch ought to be whipped," shouted the boys. "He ate the king's food and never showed gratitude."
Quietly, the king rose to his feet, and silence fell over the group. "Daily you have taken the rich blessings of life from the hand of your Heavenly Father," said the king. "You've enjoyed His sunshine, breathed His air, and eaten His food. All these things He has graciously provided, yet you have not bothered to say 'thank you' for any of them. You are more ungrateful than that beggar."
Unfortunately, we often take for granted the blessings that God has so generously provided. Like the boys, we accept them as commonplace -- dare say, we think they are deserved -- rather than the special gifts of heaven's grace that they are. During this holiday season, we should carry the same attitude as the Psalmist who wrote, "Thank the Lord because he is good. His love continues forever. That is what those whom the Lord has saved should say." (Psalm 107:1-2a NCV)
As you finish your Thanksgiving leftovers with family and friends, don't forget to take the time to be grateful to the King for what He has given to you.
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Nov 22, 2007 3:04 pm | | The Mitten | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
We should always keep in mind that we have a Friend in God. He is a righteous God, but He is also a forgiving, merciful, compassionate and loving God. He lifts us up when we fall and comforts our hearts when we are heavy laden. The Lord has promised that He would never leave us nor forsake us and has given us His Word and Spirit that we may confidently stand strong in Him and know that All Will Be Well. With God by our side, no problem is too big and no obstacle is too difficult. He is an ever present help in trouble and a protector to those who rely on Him. Be encouraged to trust the Lord with your life and stand confident that He will be with you to lead you and protect you. (Proverbs 18:24) (Psalm 46:1)
I hope this message challenges and inspires your heart to know that God is never too busy to hear your hearts cry and He will comfort you in your time of sorrow.
THE MITTEN
It was not uncommon for her to be shut out of the warmth of her family. On this particular day, in the twilight of the eve, with large snowflakes dancing and falling around her, she searched the cold, soft, blanket of snow beneath her boots for her mitten.
Traces of tears welled up in her eyes, softly spilling over long lashes and trickling down her little face, making it even harder to focus on her desperate search. She was 10 years old and had lost her mitten and could not come into the house until she found it. The crisp biting wind and cold caused her to shiver through her thin jacket. Never had she ever felt more abandoned or alone and as the sad tears streamed rivers down her face she searched and searched. But the mitten could not be found.
With little hope and no one's help she knelt in the halo of a street lamp.
And on her knees she cried out to the one person she had heard truly loved her. Her simple prayer “Jesus I cannot find my mitten. I cannot go in without it. If You love me, please help me find it...please” must have melted the heart of God.
But for her, it seemed even He was silent, no one cared, and she had been cast aside once again.
In the hush of the moment, she began to rise...now embraced by a cloak of darkness with the exception of large flakes of snow swirling around her.
Illuminated by the glow of the lamplight, she heard no answer and felt so alone.
But wait. As she went to brush the clumps of snow off her knees, time held its breath, and she in her amazement gasped. For there on one knee, stuck to the snow, was her one gray mitten she had lost.
How could this be?
But it was!
Did God move the mitten so she could find it? Did He direct her to the spot so it could be found? Only He knows the answer. But to this little girl all she knew was that for the first time in her young life, she actually felt like she was loved; loved by the One who promised to love her and be with her always and be her friend, Jesus whom she had asked into her life maybe
6 months before.
I cannot describe to you the gentle joy, the stillness and warmth, and peace in the heart of this little girl as she knocked on the door of her home and asked to be let in, knowing she had her mitten in one hand, and an extraordinary experience from God in her heart; a gift from Him that would be a light to her for the rest of her life.
How do I know this to be true? I know because I am the little girl, now grown up with children of my own. It is still the gift I hang onto today, having seen more grief in my lifetime than I care to dwell on. Looking back and reflecting I remember this one special moment, and all the other times since, that He has been with me and shown me that He cares. He sees the sparrow fall, and mittens too.
Thank you Jesus!
By Linda Denise Moser
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Dec 26, 2007 7:20 am | | UNTIL THE END OF TIME | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
We should never take for granted the time that God has given us with one another. The wonderful memories that are created by our interaction with one another will be remembered far longer than we can ever think or imagine. We must take the initiative to enjoy every moment that we are lucky to have with those whom we love and not squander those opportunities by not realizing how special they are. (James 4:11-14) (Romans 12:10)
Be encouraged to take the time to tell those closest to you how you feel about them. Verbalize what you feel in your heart and make known your love. Love intended is not the same as love shown. Do something you haven't done before to show your love so that in the future, those loved ones can look back and think of what you did for them and smile.
I hope this message ministers to your heart to not wait until it is too late to show your love, but rather start this day to share and make known how greatly loved those closest to you truly are.
UNTIL THE END OF TIME
Off in the distance the old record player is stacked with the sounds of the
very best of days gone by. One by one the lp's drop, skid into place, and
the sounds of Christmas fill the room.
Perry Como, Frank Sinatra, Mel Torme and Ella Fitzgerald take turns
serenading the old man as he opens the box marked "Christmas."
"It's not the same, but it is the best it can be considering."
"Considering what?" I ask.
"Considering the fact that my love is not with me," he says quietly.
"Have yourself a merry little Christmas" he sings above the scratchy sounds
of Perry Como.
If records are well before your time you would not appreciate this. But
there are many who believe the purest sounds come from a 33 1/3 lp even
with the scratches. You learn to tune them out.
He pulls the box a little closer, then resting his hands on it for a
moment, almost like the laying on of hands at a prayer meeting; he pauses,
then unties the string.
It appears that the string he used, like his dreams, is old, a little
frayed and unraveled, but still serving a greater purpose.
Lifting the lid, he stops once more and gazes into the box.
"Ah, Christmas!" he says.
Like a surgeon, he places his hands gently, slowly into the box before him
and carefully removes the contents placing it on the table.
Whatever this treasure may be, it is wrapped in plain brown paper.
Moving it side to side, he pulls and tugs until it is revealed.
"This, this is Christmas," he says.
Then lifting it up slightly above his head he looks underneath as if
searching for something.
It is a classic old mantel clock.
"Oh, my friend that is beautiful!" I said. "Mahogany wood?"
He doesn't answer me.
He sat there lost in a place and time perhaps when you and I did not even
exist. He held the clock, no embraced it like he was holding the most
precious thing on earth.
"Oh, I'm sorry. I love this clock. It means the world to me," he said.
"I can tell," I reply. He smiles and glances back at me.
"This is Christmas," he whispers.
"May I ask why? Why do you see it as Christmas?"
He then went on to explain.
His wife had been very ill for some time. In the spring of that year she
could no longer walk. By fall, her interest in things around her dimmed.
Then with the approach of Christmas she seemed to rise above it all. Her
husband thought that this was a sure sign that she would recover.
Just before Christmas she told him to go to the local store. He was to ask
for the "Christmas Box" with her name on it. She made him promise not to
open it nor ask what was inside.
He did and as requested he returned with the box in hand.
"Place it under the bed," she asked of him.
It was on that Christmas Eve that she presented him with the box. Now
weakened from the cold dampness and the return of her symptoms, she could
hardly make it through the night.
"Open it," she told him.
He untied the string, unwrapped the contents and read the small card inside.
"This is a symbol of my love for you...forever until the end of time."
She reached under the clock and removed a small key. Opening the front
glass covering the face of the clock, she took the key and began to wind
it. With all her strength she could only manage to turn the key a few times.
She carefully closed the door and laid her head on his shoulder.
"We fell asleep that way," he said to me.
The next morning, Christmas day, she was gone.
"With all her strength she could not manage to wind the clock completely.
It stopped just minutes short of midnight on Christmas day," he said.
Then turning toward where I was standing he said, "She loved me until the
end of time, her time. I have never wound that clock again. It holds
Christmas, our last Christmas inside."
We sat together until the last record dropped.
How appropriate it was.
"I'm dreamin' tonight of a place I love, Even more then I usually do and
although I know it's a long road back I promise you. I'll be home for
Christmas..."
May the most valuable gift you receive this Christmas be found not in a
box, but in the hearts of those you love... "until the end of time."
By Bob Perks
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Dec 30, 2007 11:44 am | | NOBODY MADE IT | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
The Lord in His infinite wisdom has created the heavens and the earth and all that is within them, yet many people trust in the theory that all things came together by chance to work together in perfect harmony. It is like saying a Rolex watch with all its many gears, springs and intricate pieces all came to be by chance and happened to fit perfectly together to work in harmony and function without flaw. This is a ridiculous theory, yet some people believe that about this world and all that is within it.
Common sense tells me that if there is a building, then there is a builder.
If there is a painting, there is a painter. If there is creation, then there is a Creator. Be encouraged to believe God and not the nonsense of man. He is the Supreme Being who has created us all for His good pleasure.
(Genesis 1:1-2:3) (Jeremiah 33:2-3) (Isaiah 45:18) (Romans 3:4) (Ephesians 1:5)
I hope this message encourages your heart to trust the Lord in every area of your life and know that He is the One who has made us and not we ourselves. The Lord deserves the Glory, Honor and Praise for everything He has done.
NOBODY MADE IT
Many years ago Sir Isaac Newton had an exact replica of our solar system made in miniature. At its center was a large golden ball representing the sun, and revolving around it were small spheres attached at the ends of rods of varying lengths. They represented Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, and the other planets. These were all geared together by cogs and belts to make them move around the “sun” in perfect harmony.
One day as Newton was studying the model, a friend who did not believe in the biblical account of creation stopped by for a visit. Marveling at the device and watching as the scientist made the heavenly bodies move on their orbits, the man exclaimed, “My, Newton, what an exquisite thing! Who made it for you?” Without looking up, Sir Isaac replied, “Nobody.”
“Nobody?” his friend asked. “That's right! I said nobody! All of these balls and cogs and belts and gears just happened to come together, and wonder of wonders, by chance they began revolving in their set orbits and with perfect timing.”
The unbeliever got the message! It was foolish to suppose that the model merely happened. But it was even more senseless to accept the theory that the earth and the vast universe came into being by chance. How much more logical to believe what the Bible says, “In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth.” The Word also declares, “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God”. (Psalms 14:1)
Addendum - Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.”
Author Unknown
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Dec 30, 2007 11:58 am | | THE SHADOW AND THE CHICK | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friend,
The goodness and favor of the Lord reaches from everlasting to everlasting.
He wishes to comfort us in our distress and lift us up when we are feeling low. The Bible says that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. He is our light, our shield, our protector, our Lord and our Savior. The Bible declares in Psalm 34:8-9 “O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him. O fear the LORD, ye His saints: for there is no want to them that fear Him.” In the tough times of life, we must bring into remembrance the faithfulness of the Lord and know that He is with us and that all things will work together for our good. Be encouraged to trust the Lord in every area of your life knowing that He is faithful to those who trust Him. (Psalm 103:17) (Isaiah 59:1)
I hope this message ministers to your heart to always depend on the Lord and know that God will not withhold any good thing from you.
This story, about one of our numerous pets, happened many years ago, but it is one of those unforgettable events that leave a lasting impression.
My shadow fell at an eighty-five degree angle behind me as I passed the gravel pit, but I barely noticed. I was exhausted after having climbed the two-kilometer hill from where my car had decided to go on strike. “And to think, I still have two or three more kilometers to hike before I reach home.” I sighed. My mind was already on flopping down in my lazy-boy chair, a large glass of ice water in my hand, kicking off my shoes, and closing my eyes.
Thinking about it, my eyelids drooped. As I shuffled along the gravel road, I had a creepy feeling that someone was following me. My eyes popped open; I spun my head around; I froze. After looking in every direction, but seeing no one, I continued my walking. But the feeling of being stalked increased. Again I spun my head around, slowing my pace. That’s when I saw him, his size exaggerated by my fright. He crouched, just at the tip of my shadow, when he saw me turn my head. My hand flew to my heart.
“Oh!” I said, taking a step toward the object of my fright. “You scared me half to death!” As I walked slowly toward the big gray cat he began to retreat. “Well, if that’s the way you want it, fine.” My heart still pounding, I changed direction, heading once more toward home. Every once in awhile I would turn my head to see if the cat was still following me.
He was, always just within my shadow. If I stopped, he stopped. If I turned around and walked toward him, he walked away from me. If I ran a few steps, he ran a few steps. It became a game to him. I decided that his intention was to become my shadow. So, like one ignores a shadow, I ignored the cat.
It wasn’t until the following morning when I went out to do the chores that I thought any further about the cat. But there he was, hiding in the shadow of the house. How had he managed to maneuver his way around the geese, the ducks, the turkeys, the chickens, the dog, and the two about-to- be-mother cats, to even enter our yard? And how had he been allowed, by the menagerie to remain? Picking up a dish of cat food I crept toward the shadow. He tensed, slinking a few feet away. I set the food down and stood back to watch. As slowly as a shadow turns with the sun, the cat moved toward the food. Our big Malamute, Skipper, wagged his tail, as if approving my decision to let the shadow stay. I gave the big dog a pat on his head. Then and there he took it upon himself to become the cat’s personal bodyguard.
Two weeks after The Shadow’s arrival, “Sugar” and “Cinnamon”, on two consecutive days, presented the family with three kittens each. Then a strange thing happened. “Shadow” -- as I decided to name the cat -- for the first time since allowing us to adopt him, entered the house and began to explore. This time it was I who did the shadowing. And it was when I was following him around that I discovered that “The Shadow” had not come alone, and that “he” was a “she”, and she was looking for a place to deposit her litter. An hour later she produced two kittens, one dead, and one as gray as herself.
At the same time as the cats were having their kittens; the hens were hatching their chicks. Fourteen lively, fluffy chicks followed behind their respective mothers. But one chick, not so lively, lagged behind, peeping at the top of its lungs for its mother to come back and get him.
Mother hen had no time for an offspring who couldn’t keep up, so she ignored him. The peeping grew louder. Leaving her kitten in the safety of its box, Shadow trotted off in the direction of the distressed chick.
Picking him up in her mouth, as gently as she would have, had he been her kitten, she carried him back to the house, depositing him in the box beside her own sightless baby, then nestled in beside them. For two days, until it died, she showered on that chick all the love and devotion she had reserved for her own dead offspring. Every time she tried to wash him, he wobbled and tumbled over onto his back, peeping his protest, unresponsive to her love. Try as she may she could not make a kitten out of that fluffy yellow chick.
A devoted mother to an ungrateful chick, Shadow remained aloof and distant, watching and following us in secret. One day, like a shadow on a cloudy day, she disappeared, perhaps to become someone else’s shadow. But left behind was her one remaining kitten, who, strangely enough, could often be found in the chicken pen, snoozing contentedly in one of the nesting boxes.
By Helen Dowd
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Dec 30, 2007 12:02 pm | | Our Greatest Need | # |
Stella Holman | | Our Greatest Need
David Langerfeld
Our Greatest Need
If our greatest need had been information,
...God would have sent us an educator;
If our greatest need had been technology,
...God would have sent us a scientist;
If our greatest need had been money,
...God would have sent us an economist;
If our greatest need had been pleasure,
...God would have sent us an entertainer;
But our greatest need was forgiveness,
...So God sent us a Savior.
One Solitary Life
He was born in an obscure village
The child of a peasant woman
He grew up in another obscure village
Where he worked in a carpenter shop
Until he was thirty
He never wrote a book
He never held an office
He never went to college
He never visited a big city
He never travelled more than two hundred miles
From the place where he was born
He did none of the things
Usually associated with greatness
He had no credentials but himself
He was only thirty three
His friends ran away
One of them denied him
He was turned over to his enemies
And went through the mockery of a trial
He was nailed to a cross between two thieves
While dying, his executioners gambled for his clothing
The only property he had on earth
When he was dead
He was laid in a borrowed grave
Through the pity of a friend
Nineteen centuries have come and gone
And today Jesus is the central figure of the human race
And the leader of mankind's progress
All the armies that have ever marched
All the navies that have ever sailed
All the parliaments that have ever sat
All the kings that ever reigned put together
Have not affected the life of mankind on earth
As powerfully as that one solitary life
One Solitary Life was adapted from a sermon by Dr James Allan Francis in "The Real Jesus and Other Sermons" © 1926 by the Judson Press of Philadelphia.
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Jan 01, 2008 6:31 pm | | MIDLIFE CRISIS | # |
Stella Holman | | Dear Friends,
No matter how old we may sometimes feel the Lord has us alive in this day for a reason and a purpose. Never believe the lie that your best days are behind you because you have this day and the days ahead to impact your family, neighborhood, state and world for the better. The Bible says that we are more than conquerors through Christ and no weapon formed against us will prosper. We have the ability within us to go out and make great changes where both our life and the lives of those around us will be made better because of our choice to move forward and live as God has intended.
Be encouraged to renew your mind and allow your spirit to be revitalized and see yourself enjoying life, helping others, creating beautiful memories and simply making God proud by opening yourself to be used of Him. The Lord is searching for vessels. Make yourself available to Him today.
(Acts 26:16) (Psalm 37:23-27) (Romans 8:37) (Isaiah 54:17) (Isaiah 6:8)
I hope this message both inspires and challenges your heart to continue living your life no matter how young or old you may be. The Lord has you on this earth for a purpose and it is your duty to seek Him and search Him for that purpose to be made clear. (Jeremiah 29:12-13)
A glance in the mirror. Simple. Yet altering somehow.
I am not the child I once was - yet I can still see him there - bright - happy - outgoing.
But wait, I pause to truly see the me I am today - lines and crevices mar the unspoiled face of childhood mirroring the many paths I could have chosen.
I am not sixteen, I am not twenty, and I am no longer thirty-five. Time has marched across my features and I can scarcely remember the Never Neverland of childish imaginings.
Yet as I continue to gaze in the reflection I see the features of family older and wiser in the shape and contour of my face. These family members gaze at me knowingly and understand the path I tread. A few of these family members remain while others reside in my memory only.
One day these gathered in my mind will be the stuff of legend with a bit of fable thrown in. Family stories will be passed along to those who never knew the flesh and blood reality. Given enough time most will be forgotten.
This chance encounter with the me in the mirror brings about a mid-life crisis of sorts. And I find myself needing to make a choice.
I can attempt to mimic the me I recall in faulty memory or I can attempt to honor the memory of those I have known by being more like them. Yet neither choice seems entirely agreeable.
Perhaps there is another choice.
The good old days are often the best of memories sifted often and embellished with time. The future holds much - promise, dreams, adventure, danger, new generations who do not see eye to eye with the past, declining health, perhaps loss of job, loss of memory and loss of my spouse.
My life is neither at the beginning and it may not be at the end. God delights in the heart of a child, so I choose that heart - God delights in maturity, so I chose this path.
God gave Moses his greatest assignment at the age of 80, Abraham became a parent at 100, Paul and John wrote significant words later in life.
Through aches and pains - flesh thorns and heartache God used these men.
I will not cower at the thought of the coming years. I want to run eagerly to my Savior's side and take His assignments gladly. I want to do so willingly.
Rather than looking back at the way things were, I want to look ahead to the way things could be. I want the heart of a child and the maturity of a wise man. I want to greet each day with a willingness to pursue the adventure called life. I won't do it by acting like someone half my age - I will do it with the help of an ageless God who loves me and understands that I am created from dust.
I will associate with younger people - I will need to know what they think and how they see their world. I will surround myself with older people - I will need the wisdom they can offer. And I will not contribute one dime to the widening of the generation gap.
The me in the mirror is not what I once was. The me in the mirror is not the final word on who I will become. The me in the mirror is simply a reflection of today - a day that the Lord has made for my enjoyment and, more importantly, His purpose.
I walk away from the mirror with a smile on my face. I have things to do - crisis averted!
By Glenn A. Hascall
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Jan 04, 2008 9:01 pm | | re: MIDLIFE CRISIS | # | 
kimberly townsend | | About Us: Dirt Road Promises
On August 1, 2007, the first issue of Dirt Road Promises, Online Christian Magazine, graced the market with a with a then subscriber base of just thirty-one of its’ close friends and family; and from those humble beginnings we have expanded to serve thousands of unique monthly subscribers from around the world.
At Dirt Road Promises, it is our sincere desire that the articles and interviews featured in our magazine serves as an encouragement to every aspect of the Christian lifestyle: spirit, body, and soul. We serve no-one culture, race, or denomination, but the entire body of Christians throughout the world.
Our mission at Dirt Road Promises is to find the beauty that lies within all of our journeys; showing in the natural, the Potter’s hands at work in the lives of His people. Our Business is Kingdom business. Our service is Kingdom service.
Created with the Christian lifestyle in mind, Dirt Road Promises is all about Getting the Best out of every Journey. Providing interviews with “the Road Lessons of everyday Christians’ right next door” to articles on travel, health, money, faith, food etc… We are not a "fix it quick" magazine created to appease the appetite, but a magazine whose main ingredient is a "savoring Christian flavor".
From its' eye catching colors to its’ informative articles and all that lies between, Dirt Road Promises has truly brought together the very best of print with the World Wide Web.
For more information contact : Kimberly Townsend
Managing Editor
Dirt Road Promises
ManagingEditor@dirtroadpromises.com
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Private Reply to kimberly townsend | | Mar 04, 2008 3:48 am | | FIERY SERPENTS | # |
Stella Holman | |
"And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; that whoever believes may in Him have eternal life." John 3:14-15 (nasb)
God had delivered the king of Arad into the hands of Israel, and they had utterly defeated the Canaanites and destroyed their cities. Following the victory, they set out from Mount Hor to go around the land of Edom. The journey was long and hard and the people began to grumble. They spoke against God and against Moses. They even grumbled about their food and water. God responded by sending fiery serpents into their camp, and many of the Israelites died as a result of their bites. The people begged Moses to ask God to remove the serpents.
God intervened, but not the way they expected. Instead of removing the serpents, he told Moses to make a bronze serpent and set it on a standard. If anyone who was bitten looked at it, he would live. This applied not only to the pre-existing serpent bites but also to any bites in the future.
We, too, have experienced the fatal bite of sin. Our natural inclination is to want God to remove all temptation so that we will no longer be at risk of "serpent bites". God, however, has a better plan. It is a plan to provide for future sin, as well as the sin in our pasts. Jesus said that, in the same way as the bronze serpent, He must be lifted up so that whoever believes in Him may have eternal life. The only hope of recovery is to look to the One on the Standard for healing.
An interesting thing happened to the Israelites. They did not stay in the midst of the fiery serpents for very long. Once healing had been accomplished, they moved out and the journey continued. That principle applies to us, too. We were never meant to live in the middle of fiery serpents - or in the midst of incredible temptation. Once we turn to Jesus for forgiveness of our sins, we need to move out of the midst of the temptation and faithfully continue our pilgrimage of obedience.
If you are continuing to be defeated by sin, maybe you need a change of proximity. Turn to Jesus for forgiveness, then put some distance between you and that temptation. Leave the fiery serpents behind.
(c) 5/22/2001 Leanna Hollis
Leanna is a physician, writer, farmer, potter, prayer warrior and a good friend. She has written books, articles for Focus on the Family, Physician Magazine, and the Tupelo Daily Journal. She has led conferences and organized events, all to bring others to Christ or to encourage Christians in their daily walk. If you enjoyed her article in the Daily Encourager, you can contact her at LeannaHollis@Bellsouth.net
Fiery Serpents
Leanna Hollis
Mar 4, 2008
Private Reply to Stella Holman | | Apr 17, 2008 8:07 am | | Immeasurably More | # |
Stella Holman | |
Prayer is a vitally important part of our Christian walk, but it's often greatly misunderstood. Prayer is how we talk with our Heavenly Father. It can never be used to manipulate God nor cause Him to do anything outside His perfect will. God is not our magic genie who has to grant our wishes!
Our attitude toward prayer reveals much about how we view God and the closeness of our relationship through faith in Jesus. If we continually wait for a crisis before we pray, we actually demonstrate a lack of love. A man may say he loves his wife but if he only occasionally talks with her, he reveals a shallow relationship. True love will always be reflected by a desire to spend time together.
And if we lift our problems to God in prayer but also give Him our expected solutions, we demonstrate a lack of trust and reveal a misunderstanding of His sovereign nature and limitless ability.
Ephesians 3:20
"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us."
The consistent message through all of scripture is that God is calling us to a closer relationship - calling us to love Him with ALL our heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:30). Therefore, our prayers MUST begin from a position of love. He wants us to continually know Him more and understand the true meaning of "My God will meet all your needs" (Philippians 4:19), and "with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26). He wants us to love Him and trust Him to provide!
It's foolish for us to limit God to our own understanding. He created the Universe and knew the end of time before the beginning. He can, and will, "perfectly" solve our problems. He is working all things together for the good and using all situations to conform us to the likeness of His Son (Romans 8:28-29).
Through a proper attitude of prayer, we acknowledge and submit to God's sovereignty. We praise Him because we know He is able to do much more than anything we ask, and we submit to His perfect understanding and purpose; "Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10) Our prayer is not matter of "working things out" with God - not of wrestling until we obtain OUR solution - rather, prayer simply becomes submission to His direction and trust in His perfect plan.
We must present ourselves as empty vessels and allow God to work through us each and every day. Let's love Him enough to "pray continually" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Let's make our requests known, but then let's submit and humbly acknowledge that He can do immeasurably more.
Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries
www.gdwm.org Private Reply to Stella Holman | | May 12, 2008 4:33 am | | No Excuses | # |
Stella Holman | |
There are many reasons why God shouldn't have called you.
But don't worry. You're in good company . . .
Moses stuttered.
David's armor didn't fit.
John Mark was rejected by Paul.
Timothy had ulcers.
Hosea's wife was a prostitute.
Amos' only training was in the school of fig-tree pruning.
Jacob was a liar.
David had an affair.
Solomon was too rich.
Abraham was too old.
David was too young.
Peter was afraid of death.
Lazarus was dead.
John was self-righteous.
Naomi was a widow.
Paul was a murderer.
So was Moses.
Jonah ran from God.
Miriam was a gossip.
Gideon and Thomas both doubted.
Jeremiah was depressed and suicidal.
Elijah was burnt out.
John the Baptist was a loudmouth.
Martha was a worry-wart.
Mary was lazy.
Samson had long hair.
Noah got drunk.
Did I mention that Moses had a short fuse?
So did Peter, Paul -- well, lots of folks did.
But God doesn't require a job interview.
He doesn't look at financial gain or loss.
He's not prejudiced or partial,
not judging or grudging,
not sassy or brassy,
not deaf to our cry, not blind to our need.
As much as we try, God's gifts are free.
Satan says, "You're not worthy."
Jesus says, "So what?... I AM."
Satan looks back and sees our mistakes.
God looks back and sees the cross.
He doesn't calculate what you did last month or last year.
It's not even on the record.
Sure. There are lots of reasons why God shouldn't have called us.
But if we are in love with Him,
If we hunger for Him more than our next breath,
He'll use us - in spite of
who we are,
where we've been, or
what we look like.
"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" Philippians 4:13
Author UnknownPrivate Reply to Stella Holman | | May 15, 2008 4:07 am | | View this video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_e4zgJXPpI4 | # |
Stella Holman | |
Kind regards
Stella Holman
http://www.stella-holman.comPrivate Reply to Stella Holman |  | |
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