tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1595884621608927572024-03-05T05:15:44.448-06:00Life from the Center of the Pie...God wants to Use Your Passions, Not Defuse Them...Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.comBlogger304125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-40606423640282237642022-02-28T08:28:00.001-06:002022-02-28T08:28:54.601-06:00You CAN<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGfjqNY3OFYfynBrtCVBjf3qauoEu6oXdte3ctUDEsobfDlZacuWJ48ID5_oEDUJoWNXlUmtrLJfcM6bERitztjZ0nJG2jmgj3UAp3zaOneNpaemB0osf-3ac0YPl7223aI58uhJTgj5vYHi-iALq24gO0KkFFEY3JHANCNRVBgXLH2kLQDTSXiTX4Kw=s1322" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1322" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGfjqNY3OFYfynBrtCVBjf3qauoEu6oXdte3ctUDEsobfDlZacuWJ48ID5_oEDUJoWNXlUmtrLJfcM6bERitztjZ0nJG2jmgj3UAp3zaOneNpaemB0osf-3ac0YPl7223aI58uhJTgj5vYHi-iALq24gO0KkFFEY3JHANCNRVBgXLH2kLQDTSXiTX4Kw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />With the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, we see how military forces push forward and push back. Both sides have made their mission known. It is no secret.<p></p><p><br />During these last 28 days, you have fortified the territory of your soul with the love, hope and promises of our living and loving Heavenly Father. With each verse you've received, His intention is clear. <br /><br />We, too, as believers and followers of Jesus Christ the Son of God have an enemy, Satan. This tyrannical leader, has a 3-fold battle plan: Steal, Kill and Destroy.</p><strong><em>"A thief comes only to steal and kill and </em></strong><strong><em>destroy. I (Jesus) have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance." (John 10:10).</em></strong><br /><br />Your enemy plans to rob the Word of God you've received each day, this month. He will cause doubt with regard to the promises God laid out causing you to think the Father's love and promises are not for you. He subtly repeats your defeat by having you think you've gone too far and there's no hope of redemption. He's so good at this tactic that you may even start to say it to yourself. He tries to cut down that sapling of faith growing in your spirit that God loves even you. And, if he can get a boot in the door, his plan is to take you out for now and eternity.<br /><br />You are not without a powerful army beside and inside you. <br /><br /><em><strong>"I lift up my eyes to the hills. Where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth" (Psalm 121:1-2).<br /><br />"I can do all things through Him who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13).<br /><br />"But the Lord is faithful; He will make you strong and guard you from satanic attacks of every kind (2 Thessalonians 3:3).<br /><br />"(Jesus said,) I have told you this, so that you might have peace in your hearts because of me. While you are in the world, you will have to suffer. But cheer up! I have defeated the world" (John 16:33).</strong></em><br /><br />You *can* live victoriously. You *can* overcome evil by the power of God and His Word. You *can* speak these same verses daily over your life and the lives of others. You *can* move in love, hope and promises ...all the days of your life, because God loves you and chose you even before you chose Him.<br /><br />If you ever feel you need a refresher of these promises, revisit <strong>28 Days to Move in Love, Hope & Promises</strong>, here, on my blog at <a data-cke-saved-href="http://centerofthepie.blogspot.com" href="http://centerofthepie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">CenterOfThePie.blogspot.com</a>.<br /><br />~ "Sam"Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-30837305621905674402022-02-27T07:00:00.001-06:002022-02-27T07:00:00.173-06:00A Good Thing vs. A god-thing<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjaRQDP7gHFiNiv8jjc_dBmxzRRuS3Uq9VrMqQ1VtlxREZ90D6xRFJR7chw6K6qUZqPefFkKsXgP5B5SBX_u-00VzpMx99AIC2EPrrS4ZstSS47B6utpbNf9bqmwsYZbxQwC3D3YSTJa4zW2VkFBXxNleDc60jHIMYtl3sGgg8PjIHflbb4XpUcunRT6w=s1322" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1322" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjaRQDP7gHFiNiv8jjc_dBmxzRRuS3Uq9VrMqQ1VtlxREZ90D6xRFJR7chw6K6qUZqPefFkKsXgP5B5SBX_u-00VzpMx99AIC2EPrrS4ZstSS47B6utpbNf9bqmwsYZbxQwC3D3YSTJa4zW2VkFBXxNleDc60jHIMYtl3sGgg8PjIHflbb4XpUcunRT6w=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />I love how one author puts it, "This is the drum that beats steadily from Genesis to Revelation: God is faithful."<p></p><p><em>Yes, He is!</em><br /><br />He is the Good Father who knows how to take care of His kids. His gifts are good. He doesn't welcome us into the family only to abandon us the next day. He sticks around and has proven Himself all-in when it come to us.<br /><br />His desire is for us and desires our love. Numbered as the second in The Ten Commandments, He makes that desire clear: <em>Thou shalt have no other gods before Me. </em>In the New Testament Gospels of Matthew, Mark & Luke, Jesus declares, "<em>Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength.</em>" It's abundantly clear His desire is for us to be all-in, too.<br /><br />When we place something --even a good something-- ahead of God, that something goes from a good thing to a god-thing. This goes for relationships with people, too. God wants to be #1 in our lives. When we are tempted to make good things into god-things, He promises we don't have to be taken down by these temptations.</p><strong><em>"No temptation has come upon you except what is common to humanity. But God is faithful; He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able; but with the temptation He will also provide a way so that you may be able to bear it</em></strong><em><strong>" (1 Corinthians 10:13).</strong></em><br /><br />So maybe the above language was difficult to understand. <u>Side note: Try reading different translations of the Bible to help you understand what you're reading.</u> For instance, this same verse in the Living Bible Translation reads like this...<br /><br /><em><strong>"Remember this—the wrong desires that come into your life aren’t anything new and different. Many others have faced exactly the same problems before you. And no temptation is irresistible. You can trust God to keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can’t stand up against it, for He has promised this and will do what He says. He will show you how to escape temptation’s power so that you can bear up patiently against it" (1 Corinthians 10:13).</strong></em><br /><br />Now, THAT's a promise you can count on! <strong>God is faithful!</strong><br /><br />~ "Sam"Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-51841509325072512302022-02-26T06:30:00.001-06:002022-02-26T06:30:00.173-06:00Remember Your Objective <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgI6jTzuvpvFaBRXDGz0cchZyEjvBcBg6O8R5-Fpsqz3H-octUnz37zDduweVgZ-4BQENrJqyVsjSaoNtSMlsiBRfSoqA9HVOuOOZp74aMf4ZEU5AgnJDBQQxbNI0_irTBl6fEIcNbvKy1v8S0d_PVofyCMPN5Bh66vmMvxntl2NtIwtAizZ5UVsEt_rw=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgI6jTzuvpvFaBRXDGz0cchZyEjvBcBg6O8R5-Fpsqz3H-octUnz37zDduweVgZ-4BQENrJqyVsjSaoNtSMlsiBRfSoqA9HVOuOOZp74aMf4ZEU5AgnJDBQQxbNI0_irTBl6fEIcNbvKy1v8S0d_PVofyCMPN5Bh66vmMvxntl2NtIwtAizZ5UVsEt_rw=s320" width="320" /></a></div>In previous years of ministry, I gave vocal lessons to many young voices. Due to their age and ability, most needed the same corrections to hone their skills and continue to improve their talent.<p></p><p>Later, I had the pleasure of directing a yearly fine arts festival for a little over a decade for middle school and high school students. Each student-participant would receive a written evaluation of their performance or presentation by a panel of three evaluators who were educated and experienced in that particular category.</p><p><br />In the pre-festival meeting with all the evaluators for all the categories, I expressed their <strong>objective</strong>: <i>For each student you are to </i><u style="font-style: italic;">offer critique to help take that student to the next level</u><i>. After hours of many, many, many presentations during these two days, you will get tired and wish for a ditto stamp, because they are young and need the same critique, correction, and direction as the last student. Remember your objective is to encourage and offer positive critique to help train them for the next level.<br /></i><br />The Apostle Paul knew his objective when writing letters to the early churches. He truly loved these new believers as a spiritual father offering praise, instruction and encouragement. In many of the books of the New Testament, his writings were much like a ditto stamp, because they were young in the faith and needed guidance. He could've been the original father of the Critique Sandwich Method; wrapping the critique with positive messages.<br /></p>God the Father gave you His DNA. Each person may look like his or her earthly parents, but we share the basic blueprint that started with Him. When we make the decision to live for Him, we need instruction to mature and to take our spiritual "skills" to the next level. As we commit to spending time reading the Bible, praying, worshipping and living a Christ-like life, keep today's objective of promise in mind...<br /><br /><strong><em>"I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you (me) will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus</em></strong><em><strong>" (Philippians 1:6). </strong></em><br /><br />~ "Sam"Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-66563999280356913112022-02-25T12:00:00.001-06:002022-02-25T12:00:00.176-06:00A Daily Do-Over<p><i><u></u></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjy50k1sQkyeE1PWab7398gQf9bWARq66Cx-gY4l_qybPYoLe-8hlzAyZDyn3Qjr5Zz7soozNssCpN7iAam5II1TNXB2T5N4PU2NAUuPxfab4W5qGpCfKdRzDXPbeLMbmmNGsv4oRNfiM3EF5wkvZ5VhOY3rQW5-nZ81058AC8XdZnjyjtV_C2HOW9c7Q=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjy50k1sQkyeE1PWab7398gQf9bWARq66Cx-gY4l_qybPYoLe-8hlzAyZDyn3Qjr5Zz7soozNssCpN7iAam5II1TNXB2T5N4PU2NAUuPxfab4W5qGpCfKdRzDXPbeLMbmmNGsv4oRNfiM3EF5wkvZ5VhOY3rQW5-nZ81058AC8XdZnjyjtV_C2HOW9c7Q=s320" width="320" /></a></u></i></div><i><u><br />Lamentations</u>. </i>The book of weeping and pain and grief.<p></p><p><i></i><br />This Old Testament book finds the Israelites' hometown of Jerusalem and their temple completely destroyed as they are forcefully relocated, again, to Babylon. They brought it on themselves by breaking the love covenant with God, again. They had forgotten God, again. (sigh)<br /><br />As their lives are wrecked and they endure extreme suffering in body, mind and spirit, one guy -named Jeremiah- invites them to repent and return their hearts to God. Jeremiah offers hope and perspective as they refocus their trust in His faithful love. God had never forgotten them.<br /><br /><strong><em>"Because of the Lord's faithful love we do not perish, for His mercies never end. They are new every morning! Great is Your faithfulness!</em></strong><em><strong>" (Lamentations 3:22-23).</strong></em></p>Rejoice, today, because of God's faithful love <em>for you</em>, He gives a <em>daily do-over</em>! When our hearts forget to trust and forget to serve and forget to pursue Him, He extends mercy every day! He never forgets us! We need only to remember to repent of our stubborn and selfish will and return our affection to Him.<br /><br />Historically speaking, this book of five chapters can be difficult to read. However, I invite you to adjust your perspective as you read it through a lens of faithful love and hope in God our living and loving Heavenly Father and Provider who has never forgotten you.<br /><br />~ "Sam"Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-69416344005864705252022-02-25T06:33:00.004-06:002022-02-25T06:33:35.682-06:00My Druthers<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgoI9lP3QOHx1aZaw4ag-CGR0OMLuAxCj7UI7kCJUgYo8Q_RdHuPTxYc6OqxZEdvxw7KvrXkkVOCLiHWjF9VFIxO_rT2MRC70UYgEJKbRtoNjnC6jo1_ULWLGY_awjokbaCwpOOoWgllkMcXRqanmwvPyOWwTCa9flroidNd6_Z1j1Nu-C1OYnn80Hxjw=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgoI9lP3QOHx1aZaw4ag-CGR0OMLuAxCj7UI7kCJUgYo8Q_RdHuPTxYc6OqxZEdvxw7KvrXkkVOCLiHWjF9VFIxO_rT2MRC70UYgEJKbRtoNjnC6jo1_ULWLGY_awjokbaCwpOOoWgllkMcXRqanmwvPyOWwTCa9flroidNd6_Z1j1Nu-C1OYnn80Hxjw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />When trusting God with every part of our life, we must also trust Him when things don't look good.<p></p><p><br />If I had my "druthers" -<em>I can hear my friends laughing</em>- life would be happy, healthy, sunshine and roses. It's much easier to trust God when there's money in the bank and no unexpected bumps in the road.<br /><br />A growing believer means that our faith and trust is growing. God doesn't play hide-and-seek with His goodness. He is good. He wants us to lean into Him in the good times and when what we see doesn't look hopeful. Yes, He gave us a brain to make wise decisions and He wants us to trust His purpose for our lives. <br /><br /><strong><em>"We know all things work together for the good of those who love God who are called according to His purpose</em></strong><em><strong>" (Romans 8:28).</strong></em></p>Next time you're blind-sided, go back to this scripture which is God's love-in-action for you knowing He has your best interest at heart. <br /><br />~ "Sam"Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-8285843732845707362022-02-23T07:46:00.001-06:002022-02-23T07:46:37.955-06:00Rooted and Grounded<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgLJCqhRE3ghuCt10sVk2B0SQqjmy7thVFsYK54KPY5UMRjx7_YG-bOH2K13h3nF13YoJryuhRFTP51AElb79c8jPUtb1_t2xfW56nN25ZOvJLlhNymHcf5UTEmm3ZLqZAO3xX8yL049NLVsdbaXGmWXlwwFCGjfctyXl0w0uCcLGdzVRlcABbmtOIi5w=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgLJCqhRE3ghuCt10sVk2B0SQqjmy7thVFsYK54KPY5UMRjx7_YG-bOH2K13h3nF13YoJryuhRFTP51AElb79c8jPUtb1_t2xfW56nN25ZOvJLlhNymHcf5UTEmm3ZLqZAO3xX8yL049NLVsdbaXGmWXlwwFCGjfctyXl0w0uCcLGdzVRlcABbmtOIi5w=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />Imprisonment gives a person plenty of time to think. <p></p><p><em>So I hear.</em> </p><p>The book of Ephesians is a result of Paul having plenty of time to think and dispatch letters due to him either being in prison or under house arrest because of preaching.<br /><br />If he couldn't be out and about sharing the Gospel, he would simply send out letters to encourage and correct new groups of believers. </p><p>His life was transformed from a religious killer to a man on fire with the love of God through Jesus Christ for others both Jew and Gentile (non-Jew). When something life-giving burns in your heart, it radiates from within.<br /><br />Perhaps, the recipients of this letter were scared and without a leader. For in this excerpt from his letter to the Ephesians, Paul encourages them to <em>"not lose heart"</em> because of his current situation and prayed for them to be strengthened in their spirits by the power of the Spirit of God. In all, he writes of love being the driving force. God's redeeming love for mankind. And, because God gave His love, that love is within us and works through us.<br /><br /><em><strong>"...that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love...</strong></em><em><strong>" (Ephesians 3:17).</strong></em></p>Read the next to verses, too. <br /><br />Let an imprisoned man's encouraging words reach through history into your current situation so that your spirit is strengthened and everything you say and do is motivated by God's love within you.<br /><br /><p>~ "Sam" </p>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-63244871050193607522022-02-22T06:49:00.003-06:002022-02-22T06:49:37.594-06:00A Good Evening with Jesus<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg6QqbgrEFVD-43MnnUF_G6UXFE5B6zB0HZCKvYlF85UKglWgK-nU2DwAhgPDwnFPfAif3gz4-fqYw0lNerWEk4FgsNsgcAmMlSgpH_1G2x529r7cqBwLCIXGNNHfHWjgpXiOH2Af454X2tDeu-DZJf196R2z91oZCi-lGjkmwRtr7a-V9xgjYgyuBWYw=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg6QqbgrEFVD-43MnnUF_G6UXFE5B6zB0HZCKvYlF85UKglWgK-nU2DwAhgPDwnFPfAif3gz4-fqYw0lNerWEk4FgsNsgcAmMlSgpH_1G2x529r7cqBwLCIXGNNHfHWjgpXiOH2Af454X2tDeu-DZJf196R2z91oZCi-lGjkmwRtr7a-V9xgjYgyuBWYw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />He knew the time had come to cover some topics with the guys, because there wouldn't be another opportunity and because He loved them to the end.<p></p><p><br />Their brief years, together, had been a whirlwind of travel and ministry and miracles. Bonds were strong. The kind of brotherly bonds that sitting around campfires, hiking long stretches of road and all-nighters will forge. This time, prior to Passover, supper time started differently. Both physically and symbolically, He washed their feet and explained the reasoning. Of course, this loving act was met with resistance.<br /><br />He spoke of difficult times ahead when they would question their faith and even deny association with Him. Once again, their voices raised in defiance. They could not imagine ever being the one to turn their back on Him. <em>Ever.</em> He knew it would happen. It had to fulfill prophecy.<br /><br />While they listened to Jesus, questions would pop out. In His own way, which seemed mostly as riddles, He answered them. He knew their anxiety was amping up and inserted, <em><strong>"Don't let your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if not I would have told you. I am going away to prepare a place for you. If I go away and prepare a place for you, I *will* come again and take you to myself, so that where I am you may be also" (John 14:1-3).</strong></em></p>So many topics were covered, that evening, giving them a heads-up of what would happen in the next few days. Still, it was a good evening to be with Jesus.<br /><br />~ "Sam"Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-51344451249509087882022-02-21T07:45:00.001-06:002022-02-21T07:45:23.277-06:00Sowing and Reaping and Clock Cogs<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjglNNRJpLzJOkbuZADEju8LBosT6J6XzDHbbkWGQ2qRwWh3FBCdoDfQsWlN_FzDWGZmjMj6Wf1TWMp-EftHKEFPIM4_kGr9Z1zth8QgKuT1wAfCwhZzNfAyApe2tqD9jDJGqqZXkbhSAmi_FVdR0Qy2oBcshleqDHeRwV1hWrAH1gzNupTOBF_JCR9JA=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjglNNRJpLzJOkbuZADEju8LBosT6J6XzDHbbkWGQ2qRwWh3FBCdoDfQsWlN_FzDWGZmjMj6Wf1TWMp-EftHKEFPIM4_kGr9Z1zth8QgKuT1wAfCwhZzNfAyApe2tqD9jDJGqqZXkbhSAmi_FVdR0Qy2oBcshleqDHeRwV1hWrAH1gzNupTOBF_JCR9JA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>I can't answer why some prayers are answered instantly and why others take time, sometimes, a lifetime.</p><p>From *my* prayer perspective, I see only the need and pray for the desired outcome.</p><p></p><p>It's like the face of a clock. I see the hands ticking around and marking time.<br /><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>From God's perspective, He sees the need,<br />He sees me praying,<br />He knows my heart's motivation,<br />He sees the answer,<br />He sees how others are involved,<br />He sees their heart,<br />He sees the connection,<br />He sees the future of how that answer will ripple-effect others for years to come.<br /><br />Using the clock metaphor, He sees behind the face of the clock to how each cog is aligned and connected for movement.</p><p>My prayer is so much more than me, yet it involves me. It involves others and their will to be involved and their faith which may take extra time.</p><p>I know the Bible mentions Jesus is acquainted with our weakness. He understands how it feels to mourn. He, too, has felt the sting of loss and betrayal. He prayed for people to return to a relationship with God. Even Jesus couldn't do miracles in one town, because of their lack of faith. And, He wept.<br /><br />The promise found in today's verse encourages me to <u>keep praying</u> that prayer that I can't, yet, see the answer. <u>Keep bringing</u> that need before Him praying His perfect will be done for His glory. Plant those tear-soaked need-seeds at His feet believing the answer is coming. <u>Keep rejoicing</u>, in advance of the answered prayer, over the fact He keeps His promises!</p><strong><em>"</em><em>They that sow in tears shall reap in joy (Psalm 126:5</em></strong><em><strong>).</strong></em><br /><br />~ "Sam"Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-49318961506590536182022-02-20T13:52:00.001-06:002022-02-20T13:52:22.975-06:00Another Chance<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUjS7y-d3Qe9llMWPUyK4cGOt3TCmW_GzdGBZCU6TN86aLxlMhhXLH55NYpcibnhD2ZNjhkCDdnf0YW8ZIMMy8Ha5iZM3yaEaptzGSYH6ikQ53GKag3pwgmWkpX2GnSyVXlagnTuj04XxqqRkNsqaxv7FVz91_B4AcCNy0MOtk4GV8BfhFWEUGL6XP0A=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUjS7y-d3Qe9llMWPUyK4cGOt3TCmW_GzdGBZCU6TN86aLxlMhhXLH55NYpcibnhD2ZNjhkCDdnf0YW8ZIMMy8Ha5iZM3yaEaptzGSYH6ikQ53GKag3pwgmWkpX2GnSyVXlagnTuj04XxqqRkNsqaxv7FVz91_B4AcCNy0MOtk4GV8BfhFWEUGL6XP0A=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p>Aren't you thankful for another chance? A <em>do-over</em>?<br /><br />When you and I have messed-up, fallen short, mis-stepped or sinned, God doesn't call us out at the plate like some condemning umpire. No, that's what we tend to do to ourselves and to others who wrong us. He looks at us through a filter of Christ's sacrifice as He promises love and forgiveness.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>A technique learned years ago, A-B-C, is a simple tool for when we realize we need a Savior and to realign our will to His.<br /><br />A - <u>A</u>sk forgiveness <br />B - <u>B</u>elieve in Christ as your Lord and Savior<br />C - <u>C</u>onfess your sins to Him and receive salvation<br /><br /><strong><em>"</em><em>For God so loved the world, He gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.</em></strong><em><strong><strong>" </strong>(John 3:16-18.</strong></em><br /><br />Thank you, Lord, for loving us and for Your promise of forgiveness of sins and an eternal life with You! You give us a hope and a future. Help us open our mouths and tell our Jesus Story to others to spread the Good News!<br /><br />~ "Sam"</p>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-35077436918528625492022-02-19T13:25:00.001-06:002022-02-20T13:25:46.663-06:00Am I Bankrupt?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiYcLVvJcaF6aniToBxvzWPTQItzguOi6_8FXDb9d3vfdrjY2ULcVnb4GZszBBoX7bqmoYpX0c3nC8YFe1XKAlAFLad-sm5-vUZHJ_PH3GP3FOZt3WFGUAo8_oizRopkwDFC8YVBBOp-XsIHoM0Lww5hnwW6Iw_bEFz3heABj0KZOVlw2YAIxSX9rgyww=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiYcLVvJcaF6aniToBxvzWPTQItzguOi6_8FXDb9d3vfdrjY2ULcVnb4GZszBBoX7bqmoYpX0c3nC8YFe1XKAlAFLad-sm5-vUZHJ_PH3GP3FOZt3WFGUAo8_oizRopkwDFC8YVBBOp-XsIHoM0Lww5hnwW6Iw_bEFz3heABj0KZOVlw2YAIxSX9rgyww=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p>A friend recently posted on social media, "There are two types of tired: One that requires rest. Another requires peace." Does that seem to speak to the pace of our lives? <p></p><p>We pack our calendars. We fill every moment of every day with busy things, important things and, sometimes, empty things that keep us from being still and resting our minds and our bodies. Frankly it's a life-sucking habit. Boundaries are important. They are intentionally creating space for us to renew and refresh.<br /><br />Why do we avoid space that yields rest and rest that yields peace? Do we think all the stuff won't get checked off of our To Do list? Is it to keep all the plates spinning so we don't fail or fail someone? Or, is it a subliminal behavior to keep ourselves numbed from feeling, silenced from thinking, afraid from being alone or from what just might surface in this time of rest? <br /><br />Christ says He came that we "<em><strong>would have abundant life</strong></em>" ...not a busy life. There's nothing wrong with being busy as long as it's not borrowing from tomorrow's strength. If that's the daily way of living, we will eventually bankrupt our energy, our emotions, our health and our peace. Even relationships will suffer.</p>Be encouraged to sit with these words of our Savior, <strong><em>"</em><em></em><em>I give you peace, the kind of peace that only I can give. It isn’t like the peace that this world can give. So don’t be worried or afraid.</em></strong><strong><em><strong>" </strong>(John 14:27).</em></strong><br /><br />While resting in His comforting words, thank Him for that peace and prayerfully seek His wisdom for creating space in our lives for our body, mind and soul.<br /><br />~ "Sam"Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-15626131513082121082022-02-18T09:17:00.002-06:002022-02-18T09:17:28.196-06:00From Injustice to Justified by Grace<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiZGJoVSKz6DJgBDAk2XAIgJhw7WVZQm2pV-s3_A4L418XQh3PtDtB2grW6lT4_8IVF0IQBLVy1Ly7H9I29_2Hyq0aih5roDQOQ4yP0kqOcg1r8epuvqxs7FfxuWo6DMA_uz-H_saPyWYNGcrjuWgNnh5w-ATW9ZNoZRROI6UuOcXHk2S4bTpcPPzBmpg=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiZGJoVSKz6DJgBDAk2XAIgJhw7WVZQm2pV-s3_A4L418XQh3PtDtB2grW6lT4_8IVF0IQBLVy1Ly7H9I29_2Hyq0aih5roDQOQ4yP0kqOcg1r8epuvqxs7FfxuWo6DMA_uz-H_saPyWYNGcrjuWgNnh5w-ATW9ZNoZRROI6UuOcXHk2S4bTpcPPzBmpg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />If you think racial, social and cultural injustice is a big deal only in the last couple of years and only in the USA, we need to have a history lesson. <p></p><p>Far too many to list in this short devotional, these tensions go way back before the Pilgrims, Rwanda, Hitler, India and the Civil War. </p><p>Every Easter, chances are good you've seen Charlton Heston play <em>Moses</em> in the epic film <u>The Ten Commandments</u>, which is the historic retelling of the Old Testament liberation of the enslaved and oppressed Israelites out of Egypt.</p><p>By the way, this movie was one of the first to be filmed in <i>Technicolor</i>. That's right, boys and girls, but only if you had a color TV could you enjoy this new technology! Otherwise, you could watch it in black and white.</p><p>Jumping to the the New Testament, we read the book of Romans which is a letter from the Apostle Paul, a Jewish-Roman elite and former persecutor of Christians, to the believers who met in house-churches. The early Christians were skeptical and untrusting of Paul's conversion...for good reason. This guy was a Jew who had killed Christians! Can you imagine him showing up to the secret Bible study group who met at your house?</p><p>Turns out, Paul's love for Jesus was the real deal. His loving "parentage" of the Christian church was true and thorough. He was a missionary wherever he traveled championing the Gospel and leaving no doubt. And, speaks of all mankind (no matter their race) being sinners, but "<b><i>are justified by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus</i></b>." In Romans Chapter 8, Paul notes his own freedom from sin through the power of Christ and identified himself with "Christian brothers" knowing even he could be killed for this very thing.</p><p>In the first of the last nine verses of the chapter, he instills hope and belonging in the believers, <strong>"Since God is for us, who can be against us?" </strong>Talk about injustice... persecution, imprisonment and death were a daily reality to these people. He went on to deliver God's message of love and promise:<br /><br /><strong><em>"</em><em>But we have power over all these things through Jesus Who loves us so much. For I know that nothing can keep us from the love of God. Death cannot! Life cannot! Angels cannot! Leaders cannot! Any other power cannot! Hard things now or in the future cannot! The world above or the world below cannot! Any other living thing cannot keep us away from the love of God which is ours through Christ Jesus our Lord<strong>" </strong>(Romans 8:37-39).</em></strong><br /><br />It is still true, today! Anybody want to stand up and say, "Amen"?<br /><br />~ "Sam"</p>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-1112908183312685472022-02-17T06:19:00.006-06:002022-02-17T06:21:18.454-06:00Consider This<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTN4ondaOFbJJLJpyElb3LcJVN6Ll-YPjKyo8tYFjytxelV_v8OmltAXhhl0B7Z5ZHdivUe6BQ041l4sD0kyWnejh9AFwIvXawR0JvQvQMpOTJ1Uwx7BeOUiEvDObaXWpqPLpHxNUwPfPZFr5Kf5lpvUz-Unx7jDQd7Mv6ZxVfmQZfRey44RGkodz8-Q=s1322" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1322" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTN4ondaOFbJJLJpyElb3LcJVN6Ll-YPjKyo8tYFjytxelV_v8OmltAXhhl0B7Z5ZHdivUe6BQ041l4sD0kyWnejh9AFwIvXawR0JvQvQMpOTJ1Uwx7BeOUiEvDObaXWpqPLpHxNUwPfPZFr5Kf5lpvUz-Unx7jDQd7Mv6ZxVfmQZfRey44RGkodz8-Q=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />Consider this statement:<p></p><em>How you "see" your earthly father is how you "see" your Heavenly Father.</em><div><br />Based on your relationship with your dad or bio-dad, you'll probably have a very different reaction to that statement. If you had a great and loving relationship, you receive this message. On the other hand, a strained or even non-existent relationship may cause you to have mixed emotions. Don't worry. This is quite normal, but can be pivotal in your relationship with God.<br /><br />Before you jump ship with the above statement, our Living and Loving Heavenly Father has a love note for you full of a love...<br /><br /><strong><em>"</em><em></em><em>For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope</em></strong><strong><em></em><strong>" </strong>(Jeremiah 29:11).</strong><br /><br />Ok. Breathe. I encourage you to sit with that statement and the Bible verse to process your thoughts about it. Don't run away from any emotions which surface. Let your Father know your heart so you can know His.<br /><br />~ "Sam"</div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-8253127474699128102022-02-16T05:30:00.004-06:002022-02-16T05:30:00.178-06:00Dig Deep, Athlete<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivuOUuUzMYSLoAK_o0rjXATtnNdzGQv_N0mMMQTrdZVPXas2Pdh9KUOc52btOwhL91ALIcAQMEyvqoJR9DoRon1fSW-5_5qDfXQk4jBr4ZfIeBSwkFwPdYSx2UisdfIkhhp4Y97dH5uFPBv4HgQtyxt4EQ1AtIqAXwN2bd3XSm4hzmGups2X0-sck1wQ=s1322" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1322" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivuOUuUzMYSLoAK_o0rjXATtnNdzGQv_N0mMMQTrdZVPXas2Pdh9KUOc52btOwhL91ALIcAQMEyvqoJR9DoRon1fSW-5_5qDfXQk4jBr4ZfIeBSwkFwPdYSx2UisdfIkhhp4Y97dH5uFPBv4HgQtyxt4EQ1AtIqAXwN2bd3XSm4hzmGups2X0-sck1wQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />At writing the Olympic Games are being held in China. Prior to these games, athletes competed in national and world trials to qualify for an earned position on their country's team.<br /><br />The trials are an opportunity for the athlete to dig deep, trust their training and execute. It is not within the heart of an athlete to give up. In the ancient games of Greece an athlete who had won a contest would receive a laurel wreath for his head as a symbol of triumph.<br /><br />It is certain you and I will face trials during our lifetime. Some of which will be the most difficult days of our lives. We will be tempted to throw up our hands in surrender and say, "That's it. I'm out," but we will not. Why? It's not within us to give up! We can trust our training in the Word and prayer! We have been strengthened by the refining fire of previous trials. We can trust our God who sticks beside us through every inch of the way! And, we have a promised crown waiting for us!<br /><br /><strong><em>"God will bless you, if you don’t give up when your faith is being tested. He will reward you with a glorious crown of life, just as He rewards everyone who loves Him</em></strong><strong><em></em><strong>" </strong>(James 1:12).</strong><br /><br />Sister, get your chin off your chest. Don't be afraid. Raise your gaze. Square your shoulders. It's time for you to dig deep and move forward through this trial to victory!<br /><br /><p>~ "Sam"<br /> </p>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-68595710328152293082022-02-15T06:42:00.004-06:002022-02-15T06:42:29.503-06:00Can You Imagine<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiL0eDGBe5ixvM5fXxA06otdBN_qjKzx1VcncnI7b-ESQDKvvu4qvlKsbEtRMHM0epsDhBaD4WB8-96BT53_SAF5AsIsShbfufnY6b_Tvtn9ZQORmN8sHQVY6Hpku_uEXolu67fr9QgdBolvJ9Z4dJySKjj7LY6YeKjOdsRFnK7KEhDLAVvIqi-w2J6Fw=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiL0eDGBe5ixvM5fXxA06otdBN_qjKzx1VcncnI7b-ESQDKvvu4qvlKsbEtRMHM0epsDhBaD4WB8-96BT53_SAF5AsIsShbfufnY6b_Tvtn9ZQORmN8sHQVY6Hpku_uEXolu67fr9QgdBolvJ9Z4dJySKjj7LY6YeKjOdsRFnK7KEhDLAVvIqi-w2J6Fw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />Can you imagine someone offering you complete peace in this life? No worries. No burdens. No stress.<p></p>Can you imagine relief from being bone-weary of all the To Do's of each day and striving to wear all the hats to simply just be?<br /><br />Can you imagine complete freedom from religion without relationship to live daily in the presence of the loving Heavenly Father hearing His whispers?<br /><br /><br />It is not an imaginary fairytale. It is the truth. Christ extends this invitation to you with promise.<br /><br /><strong><em>"</em><em></em><em>Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly</em><strong>" </strong>(Matthew<em> 11:28-29</em>).</strong><br /><br />This promise is not to wrap you in bubble wrap, but to learn a grace-filled way of living by giving Him your objections and questions and fears. The promise is to be living in this world, but knowing a better life full of abundant blessing, peace and wisdom. It's not a silly rainbows and unicorns dream. It's navigating your days with the wisdom of the Creator of the universe who desires to do life with you.<br /><br />What part of your fist-clenched controlled life would you consider releasing into His hands?<br /><br />~ "Sam"Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-37529028212018811852022-02-14T08:01:00.000-06:002022-02-14T08:01:01.579-06:00A Great Love Story<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijEtcKtdGKoVy3e6hxcoTqsxwcZROZfZAzjKCd0L9EeNz4AHShFS5dWiQ8cwiv3Ms8n23oZGsRV0m_pslrIsZDkvC21Ylmhh5vkSr4uLm3dTjapPp_h9z40iQH9vF9E8Ju8V7mhwz5mufjahAESp4iv45iQIoPwZ8PE81qtElhiZcuxM66AhyZ3Ic27w=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijEtcKtdGKoVy3e6hxcoTqsxwcZROZfZAzjKCd0L9EeNz4AHShFS5dWiQ8cwiv3Ms8n23oZGsRV0m_pslrIsZDkvC21Ylmhh5vkSr4uLm3dTjapPp_h9z40iQH9vF9E8Ju8V7mhwz5mufjahAESp4iv45iQIoPwZ8PE81qtElhiZcuxM66AhyZ3Ic27w=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />What if you had grown up never reading of the literary love story of Romeo and Juliet and then, a friend introduces you to the Shakespearean play? Would your life have been changed forever?<p></p>What if you had grown up never knowing about the greatest love for mankind and, then, a trusted mentor wrote a letter detailing the events surrounding that great love? What if it did change your life forever?<br /><br />The New Testament book of Luke was authored by its namesake to a new believer named Theophilus to strengthen his faith and give more knowledge of the life of Jesus Christ. This book was from Luke's personal and actual life as a doctor who hung out with Jesus. But, what if he had never written these accounts for Theo and ultimately for us to read centuries, later? Would we have known or even searched for this great and sacrificial love on our own? Would we have tried to fill the God-sized emptiness in our hearts with other things?<br /><br />One thing is for certain, Christ was real and was on a mission of love for redeeming relationships to God our living and loving Heavenly Father. Through the sacrificial act of His great love, it became possible for God and man to walk and talk, together, again. Jesus was asked by the guys who walked with him to teach them how to pray to God. He did and, then, told a story on the subject of prayer which included the following verse:<br /><br /><strong><em>"</em><em>I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened</em><em></em>" (<em>Luke 11:9-10</em>).</strong><br /><br />If you've never heard or read the story of Jesus as told through the eyes of Luke, you'll find details which capture Christ's love for a world in need of a great love ...still relevant for today. One thing is promised, your life will be changed forever.<br /><br />~ "Sam"Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-79481063790955914102022-02-14T05:30:00.001-06:002022-02-14T05:30:00.210-06:00<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKkjnmLauY4JsD0ezPlVUv1xxDF7n-xBh1-yPAcnoSxGRdQNNa059lCTIf2O0xMj7VQNkEryqPU80qtuKCcV1-CODDNiRm-vKKqVMNJdDYJ-sf3bdC_y5esZOq04vnbs46cuAIgYDthyrgcqzi5eCn3tRgSoYY8YyweBqG4tP7V8BFAdHv6NY63FPigQ=s1368" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1368" data-original-width="1366" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKkjnmLauY4JsD0ezPlVUv1xxDF7n-xBh1-yPAcnoSxGRdQNNa059lCTIf2O0xMj7VQNkEryqPU80qtuKCcV1-CODDNiRm-vKKqVMNJdDYJ-sf3bdC_y5esZOq04vnbs46cuAIgYDthyrgcqzi5eCn3tRgSoYY8YyweBqG4tP7V8BFAdHv6NY63FPigQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;">It's O.K. to love yourself. It's O.K. to add yourself to the list of priorities without guilt. In reality, if we don't love and take care of ourselves, we won't be able to continue loving others with the great big hearts we have, because we'll be too worn out. Even if you activate these 5 Ways to Love You in the next 2 weeks, you'll experience a beautiful expression of His love for yourself and for others.</span><p></p><span style="font-family: arial;"><strong>1. Accept a Compliment.</strong><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>Why is it so difficult for women to graciously say, "Thank you," and leave it there? Instead, we rebuff with some quick statement of self-deprecation or roll of the eyes. Next time, someone pays you a compliment, bite your tongue and, then, thank the person with a genuine smile. It'll make you and giver feel great!</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><strong>2. Create a Space.</strong><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>We all need a place for space in our heads, hearts and homes. It's a place to refill our love tanks. It's a place to pull away and spend time with God in prayer, journaling, studying His Word and worship. You'll be surrounded inside and out with love!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><strong>3. Get Outside. </strong>The dark days of fall and winter can lead to dark days inside the mind. Taking a walk in the sunshine -even in your jacket and mittens- can lift the heart and stir up your Vitamin D.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><strong>4. Take Your Own Advice. </strong>The encouragement you give a friend-in-need is the encouragement you need. If you give others a break, take a break. If you give others grace, extend it to yourself. If you wouldn't say "that" to someone, don't say it to yourself.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><strong>5. Extend a Hand in Love.</strong><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>Studies show dopamine (feel-good hormone) is released within us when we help others. Volunteer for something your heart is drawn toward. Follow through on a commitment and get ready for the love flood!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">It's your turn. After putting one or more of these into place for yourself, let me know how it turned out!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">~"Sam"</span></div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-50341866208637510352022-02-13T07:56:00.003-06:002022-02-13T07:56:42.983-06:00Membership Benefits<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhHZst3reg0FCD0AXpuAqhWQsHk0q90pSrpSzrivGco4l4CezgbNfTUBhsh1KikIv23Ws_vNTmf_2pJz2JJdDP_BT9xrCENSAlGInkwVQivp8l3xjwoeseyoeOstNkStN2Re0y86X2XQpgo4ih9RfOQjub_PjRuVIq_s8TUvcPwaZ7GkX1RuJSuotk2LQ=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhHZst3reg0FCD0AXpuAqhWQsHk0q90pSrpSzrivGco4l4CezgbNfTUBhsh1KikIv23Ws_vNTmf_2pJz2JJdDP_BT9xrCENSAlGInkwVQivp8l3xjwoeseyoeOstNkStN2Re0y86X2XQpgo4ih9RfOQjub_PjRuVIq_s8TUvcPwaZ7GkX1RuJSuotk2LQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />There are benefits to membership which give belonging to a collective community of purpose on purpose. These benefits of association yield access to rights and representation. <p></p><br />When we accept Jesus Christ into our lives as our Savior and ask forgiveness of our sins, immediately we are welcomed to His family as children of God with promised benefits! Let's just remind and encourage ourselves with this checklist of His benefits of love and promises:<br /><br /><strong><em>"</em><em>O my soul, bless God and don’t forget a single blessing (benefit)! <br />He forgives your sins—every one.<br />He heals your diseases—every one.<br />He redeems you from hell—saves your life!<br />He crowns you with love and mercy—a heavenly crown.<br />He wraps you in goodness—beauty eternal.<br />He renews your youth—you’re always young in His presence."<br />(Psalm 103:2-5).</em></strong><br /><br />WOW! I became a member a long time ago and the benefits have never changed! My access to Him and His benefits was immediate and still apply! <div><br /></div><div>Take some time to thank our living and loving Heavenly Father for His list of benefits (listed above) in your life. Line by line, it's simple. For example: <em>God, I thank you for the benefit of salvation. You forgave my sins and I can draw near to You daily for the rest of my earthly life and beyond.</em><br /><br />Today is a good day to review your membership benefits!<br /><br />~ "Sam"</div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-86171801333915349702022-02-12T07:00:00.001-06:002022-02-12T07:00:00.200-06:00Standing in the Middle of a Tornado<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiXFWxMXPcSm1zJCLG4ByRsJt4zVlcfIy8elc5KKue-3O6sNCe4blpg6ElQYjjLBuYfcTO7XRbmmImqfht0pJEuB9c851lKQYJxnYax_OUXf7xW8mFEUr7WmMQ3RkW7kSfoR3KgYIwymiI8A_L19R7W38ChuA4r33x21cTb8Ji6iWcBMqADAxBha_wHPw=s1322" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1322" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiXFWxMXPcSm1zJCLG4ByRsJt4zVlcfIy8elc5KKue-3O6sNCe4blpg6ElQYjjLBuYfcTO7XRbmmImqfht0pJEuB9c851lKQYJxnYax_OUXf7xW8mFEUr7WmMQ3RkW7kSfoR3KgYIwymiI8A_L19R7W38ChuA4r33x21cTb8Ji6iWcBMqADAxBha_wHPw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />The day begins without any hint of the events to play out.<p></p>The phone dings with a text of a family in crisis. It won't be the last. Shortly after comes the call of someone who has died leaving his young wife with five kids. A notification pops up onscreen you have a private message, "Please pray...". One after the other they gust and your cup of coffee has long since gone cold. <em>What is going on?</em><br /><br />Throughout the day you feel the winds of chaos continue to carry bad news and updates of previous messages. You pray for answers. You pray for healing. You pray for peace. You pray for your own mind to stay focused at work. You pray for this crazy day of "storms" to end. <br /><br />It does, but not before you're slammed with a microburst that a member of your family received a potentially paralyzing report. <em>God, I can't take any more!<br /></em><br />Just as emotions are choking you making it hard to breathe, His voice whispers, <em><strong>"When the enemy comes in like a raging flood tide, the Lord will drive him back with His breath" (Isaiah 59:19)."</strong></em><br /><div dir="ltr"><strong><em><br /></em></strong>Then, awareness of His presence wraps around your battered mind as you stand in a place of calm. It doesn't make sense to be in perfect peace standing in the middle of a tornado while chaos howls around you. He countered the attack ...just like He promised.<br /><strong><em><br /></em></strong>You don't have to know all the answers or bear the force of the cyclone. It was never expected of you. Love people and pray for them in all earnestness. Trust in God who is all-knowing and all-powerful.<br /><strong><em><br />"</em><em></em><em>Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He’s the one who will keep you on track.<em>"</em> (Proverbs 3:5-6)</em><em>.</em></strong><br /><br />~ "Sam"</div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-37681657228190239192022-02-10T06:00:00.001-06:002022-02-10T06:00:00.209-06:00Can You Hear Me, Now<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiftgmbcNbMWGVzviBFt5WimnnE-QPafvkmmGGQVTurMqiEGqka_FDZd1nyrbR_xh6S2Swn7cm2S1T10pwUUOKyRHwMeGqD1HC_0dxBjbhLWtRDvNvrxaeU-yi5ahajLihbaF8ZdDB8mLBhBdPrEU6QKZkom5Y3icWSPPZ79mlEJV3SX8Fa5WNjFGNq5A=s1322" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1322" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiftgmbcNbMWGVzviBFt5WimnnE-QPafvkmmGGQVTurMqiEGqka_FDZd1nyrbR_xh6S2Swn7cm2S1T10pwUUOKyRHwMeGqD1HC_0dxBjbhLWtRDvNvrxaeU-yi5ahajLihbaF8ZdDB8mLBhBdPrEU6QKZkom5Y3icWSPPZ79mlEJV3SX8Fa5WNjFGNq5A=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />Real-life stories of answered prayer and miracles told by people we feel are credible increase our faith to believe God will come through for us. There's nothing wrong with that! He came through for them, He will prove faithful to you! That answer you seek will probably look different, because God is increasing your faith in the way you need to experience it. Trust His wisdom and provision.<br /><br />The Father wants us to draw closer in relationship to Him. As we do, we learn to hear His voice which instills peace knowing He has our best interest at His heart. Sometimes, the answer to our prayer may be in being the answer to someone else's prayer. We forget about ourselves and focus on another's need. We are His hands and become a river of blessing in His infinite supply as <em>I AM</em> (His own name for Himself). Hello!<br /><br />Let's stop and think about that name: <em>I AM</em>. In the Old Testament account of Moses about to confront Pharaoh and liberate the Israelites, Moses timidly asks God, "Ummm...Who shall I say sent me?" That's when God throws His name out with authority. "<em><strong>Tell them, I AM WHO I AM has sent me to you...This is My name forever, and how I am to be remembered throughout all generations" (Exodus 3:14-15). </strong></em>WOAH! Powerful! That same authority is listening for you to call to Him!<p></p><p><strong><em>"</em>When God's people pray for help, He listens and rescues them from their troubles</strong><strong><em>" (Psalm 34:17</em>)<em>.</em></strong></p><div dir="ltr">Can anyone say, "Thank You, God, for hearing my prayers"?<br /><br />~ "Sam"</div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-66229805174420569402022-02-09T06:00:00.001-06:002022-02-09T06:00:00.167-06:00Military Focus<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7YYDtiQBBnrDKqSjiQh7v650b9MBgmq2V6J6QJIO9URELmVkqUlTowehjMX7jmz2WhRl8mprYhHzE5ffeEXh8mOegesy17_AGk4keTPZAXwJxrUwMQ-pjZrgF6wRXthuxeaoOduqlFaFguHld9CY0B3q1qJtCGFphSBiWzO5NKfWvXJANhmnsFgJWow=s1322" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1322" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7YYDtiQBBnrDKqSjiQh7v650b9MBgmq2V6J6QJIO9URELmVkqUlTowehjMX7jmz2WhRl8mprYhHzE5ffeEXh8mOegesy17_AGk4keTPZAXwJxrUwMQ-pjZrgF6wRXthuxeaoOduqlFaFguHld9CY0B3q1qJtCGFphSBiWzO5NKfWvXJANhmnsFgJWow=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />Unlike modern-day Greece, the ancient Grecian city of Philippi was of military force and significance. The people would be familiar with military chains of command and communication. When a military leader spoke, the directive was not to be questioned, but to be carried out. The clarity of Apostle Paul's letter to the Philppians communicated from a point of authority which could easily be understood. <p></p>Typically a general's message has historical or personal experience for a studied strategy of success in the current battle. The entire book of Philippians can be studied verse by verse for success in your daily movement through life as a believer in Jesus Christ! He will supply you with directives to take ground. You may lose a battle, but the war belongs to the Lord and His followers! <br /><br /><div dir="ltr"><strong><em>"My</em><em> God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19</em>)</strong><strong><em>.</em></strong><br /><br />What do you need? Wisdom. Direction. Healing. Answer to Prayer. Miracle. Peace. Read and believe His Word. He has an abundant supply. <br /><br />~ "Sam"</div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-16132135007582260002022-02-08T06:00:00.001-06:002022-02-08T06:00:00.205-06:00Communicating Trust<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiW682a4zWKBILtsCPkHwZ8vX6D4JBzJD2V9kbtGjSBqAn9q7VSnvb8bTjR08LPypWYOiHfqV9kDWHUDxRsCk2n79DnYQbXXK0BbfDLM9Cufxlmrs000cGeZUQCWBkKJI8vBazh2w_eEbwq3FSZEMBPwg7O8iSgHeIbdE8Dg4d4IvTMORnsDx1jsrfnGg=s1320" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiW682a4zWKBILtsCPkHwZ8vX6D4JBzJD2V9kbtGjSBqAn9q7VSnvb8bTjR08LPypWYOiHfqV9kDWHUDxRsCk2n79DnYQbXXK0BbfDLM9Cufxlmrs000cGeZUQCWBkKJI8vBazh2w_eEbwq3FSZEMBPwg7O8iSgHeIbdE8Dg4d4IvTMORnsDx1jsrfnGg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p>At age 120 years old, Moses announces his retirement as well as his successor for leading the Israelites. He understood transition in leadership can leave a group of followers feeling anxious. Even though he wouldn't accompany them into The Promise Land as their leader, he knew God would.<p></p><div><br /></div><div>Moses communicated trust. For all to hear, he recalled what God had done and declared what God would do through the new guy and for them as the People of Promise, because he knew they would need courage for the challenges in their near future.</div><br />If you are feeling unsteady, a little lost or alone, encourage yourself in the Word which is full of His promises.<br /><div><br /><div dir="ltr"><strong><em>"</em><em>Don’t be afraid, for the Lord will go before you and will be with you; He will not fail nor forsake you</em><strong>"</strong><em> (Deuteronomy 31:8).</em></strong><br /><br />Again, this Word of Promise is for you, too! Take a moment to thank Him for being with you to navigate all of your life challenges.<br /><br />~ "Sam"</div></div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-65836019501500617152022-02-07T06:00:00.001-06:002022-02-07T06:00:00.187-06:00Skewed Filters<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbv3PWckBYypr27g8_1GxfzrgUXHwOReciTUb0Y2lYarxvvt1T2GAvTanYRDwW01uR6PJptkWw45QkOuknfRM4JSF8A5ReiTp6PODfqYScFRlpACRZGh_oorXOTUOiMxJ7BD16_9UvxjqXBMnk3VXDmYWEPMz4MIh4TZeZlMC2Txj_Aoq9gP5A3q1Mpw=s1324" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1324" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbv3PWckBYypr27g8_1GxfzrgUXHwOReciTUb0Y2lYarxvvt1T2GAvTanYRDwW01uR6PJptkWw45QkOuknfRM4JSF8A5ReiTp6PODfqYScFRlpACRZGh_oorXOTUOiMxJ7BD16_9UvxjqXBMnk3VXDmYWEPMz4MIh4TZeZlMC2Txj_Aoq9gP5A3q1Mpw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />Somewhere around 12 to 17 years after Jesus' death, burial and resurrection, his brother wrote this little, but power-packed letter in the Bible.<p></p><br />From his style of writing, James comes across as a straight shooter when it comes to the truth in the Word and life as a believer in Christ. His belief in God and the risen Christ are unshakeable as he challenges the reader in the following verse:<br /><br /><div dir="ltr"><em style="font-weight: bold;">"</em><strong><em>...if any of you needs wisdom, you should ask God for it. He is generous to everyone and will give you wisdom without criticizing you</em></strong><strong><em>" (James 1:5).</em></strong><br /> <br />We tend to view and interact with others through skewed filters especially when our past has left us full of trust issues. God isn't out to trip you up. He isn't going to pull the rug out from under your feet because He's cruel. If you're having trust issues with God, our living and loving Father, it's time to adjust your filter. He generously gives good gifts to His children.<br /><br />~ "Sam"</div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-58422325913732081782022-02-06T18:04:00.000-06:002022-02-06T18:04:27.990-06:00Never Doubt<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjkUJXrx-wDcHu9iwR15UsR0KRNUNNNu_vPmughOv7oIboxRmeqol1JppF3nsryxKN6UaDA9ksEGKZRehfF2eyzuFDIBIVY4hZddlJGePNoxTqdh64HhwaTJqWviQ-GQ0tXEwx5svCY2LUnE4WEobSkdCEB8CMg2aPFo2AgcdprqVGplYZpSGoU6Pf1fA=s1322" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1322" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjkUJXrx-wDcHu9iwR15UsR0KRNUNNNu_vPmughOv7oIboxRmeqol1JppF3nsryxKN6UaDA9ksEGKZRehfF2eyzuFDIBIVY4hZddlJGePNoxTqdh64HhwaTJqWviQ-GQ0tXEwx5svCY2LUnE4WEobSkdCEB8CMg2aPFo2AgcdprqVGplYZpSGoU6Pf1fA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />You may doubt my love for you, because I have let you down in the past and probably will will do it, again, unintentionally. <p></p>You may doubt a toddlers' love for you when he's mad for not getting his way and shouts, "I don't love you," as he throws a tantrum on the floor.<br /><br />You may doubt a spouse's love when your marriage is on the proverbial rocks.<br /><br />Never doubt God's great love for you, His treasured daughter.<br /><br /><div dir="ltr"><strong><em>"For the mountains may move and the hills disappear, but even then My faithful love for you will remain. My covenant of blessing will never be broken,” says the Lord, who has mercy on you</em></strong><strong><em>" (Isaiah 54:10).</em></strong><br /><br />The above scripture references earthly landmarks we are familiar with to represent the steadfast love He has for you. Then, in the New Testament, the writer references thought provoking subject matter as to the strength and tenacity of that love. "<strong><em>And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love" (Romans 8:38</em>).</strong><br /><br />Are you getting the point? God loves YOU. <br /><br />~ "Sam"</div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-9675806908945894832022-02-05T14:01:00.003-06:002022-02-05T14:01:52.716-06:00You Can Count On It<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgH9dBEnVSQY6Gf8MnSNNWXoY3vS1nFMaCw1j_Tz_CYs8n2sEYJyt_6TbxwEHzbl7RxTVn9S4fF6Gz8FpQCyUoLqpCrM99XDzKZHJqry1xmtsxCOJhsLgKDbe2HnzDMXYuaRaAjMuuGLlhR2FXs6N7exrprZm9tk22M3MnZ0zxVZSlGIvyKY_n9fzEqxQ=s1322" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1322" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgH9dBEnVSQY6Gf8MnSNNWXoY3vS1nFMaCw1j_Tz_CYs8n2sEYJyt_6TbxwEHzbl7RxTVn9S4fF6Gz8FpQCyUoLqpCrM99XDzKZHJqry1xmtsxCOJhsLgKDbe2HnzDMXYuaRaAjMuuGLlhR2FXs6N7exrprZm9tk22M3MnZ0zxVZSlGIvyKY_n9fzEqxQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div>Sometimes, our best laid plans are derailed. <br /><br />Our plan is perfect. Our goals are solid with results playing out in our minds. Then, life's slightest hiccup causes us to pivot suddenly changing our <em>yes</em> into a <em>no</em>. From "<em>Yes, we'll be there for the holidays</em>," to "N<em>o, we can't make it, now, because we have Covid</em>."<br /><br />God's promises are constant and never-changing. <br /><br /><p></p><div dir="ltr"><strong><em>"For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding 'Yes!' And through Christ, our 'Amen' (which means 'Yes') ascends to God for His glory." 2 Corinthians </em></strong><br /><br />This allows you to trust Him as you partner with Him for your life and say, "<em>So be it</em>" (which means '<em>Amen</em>')!"<br /><br />~ "Sam"<br /></div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159588462160892757.post-51010767390811608192022-02-04T07:00:00.001-06:002022-02-04T07:00:00.202-06:00Walking-Talking Temple<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimeM1oEdK1f77iv0rexFAIl72eoMUzrFTWBrnVu8A_pwkfa6tyTnAaG_eqqNyxGevjU_2nvENCNixfz88lh6hvhRkJgzLu-5DM229VNY925nk2-Y2MY7R4nZP9pqDB37XNFEDf81P64C30eQ45kxUaapXneZBqWk7qNrjK1_7FD_TkoqWBd_qBGktErQ=s1322" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1322" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimeM1oEdK1f77iv0rexFAIl72eoMUzrFTWBrnVu8A_pwkfa6tyTnAaG_eqqNyxGevjU_2nvENCNixfz88lh6hvhRkJgzLu-5DM229VNY925nk2-Y2MY7R4nZP9pqDB37XNFEDf81P64C30eQ45kxUaapXneZBqWk7qNrjK1_7FD_TkoqWBd_qBGktErQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div>From the time Solomon, son of King David, built the Temple, it has been desecrated, plundered, destroyed and partially rebuilt throughout history. The inner most court of the Temple was known as the Holy of Holies where the Chief Priest, alone, was permitted to enter the presence of God for only one day out of the entire year to make atonement for the sins of the people of Israel.<p></p>Enter Jesus and everything changed. He became the atoning sacrifice for our sins - not for just one day, but for every day! <br /><br /><div dir="ltr"><strong><em>"If we confess our sins, He is faithful to forgive our sins. We can trust God to do what is right and just to make our lives clean" 1 John 1:9.</em></strong><br /><br />Throughout history, mankind has done a thorough job of destroying our own lives. But, when we ask for forgiveness of our sins, God cleans the inner place of our lives and His presence takes up residence in our hearts making us His walking-talking Temple!<br /><br />If you've never invited Him to forgive your sins, do it, now. Then, invite Him to live in your heart as Savior and Lord. Then, give thanks for His great love toward you in promising a new life and hope of eternity with Him! AMEN!<br /><br />~ "Sam"</div>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01642146575163737331noreply@blogger.com0