The day with dianne Louise

“Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Luke 22:42 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/luk.22.42.NLT Dodging suffering is something we all try to do, even Jesus in His humanity did not want to suffer. 'Yet' is a word that will resonate forever as the precursor to obedience. Yet, I want Your will to be done. Jesus knew that a sacrifice had to be made for all mankind past, present and future. He knew that without the sacrifice there was no relationship for mankind with the Father. We will face such options. After a broken relationship do we run off looking for the next quick fix, or do we wait and trust God. Most don't wait, never counting the cost for their furutre generations. Most only think of self and comfort. There are many areas that God would have us sacrifice in, but we choose the flesh and our comfort. What would He have us do today?

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.5.8.NLT Which of you would send your son to die for a bunch of Islamic militants in Africa? No takers? We would not do that to our son because we would love him more than a bunch of violent unknowns. What then prompted God to do that? Is He mental? Crazy? What son would go? Is Jesus also mental? If our neighbour acted like this we would report him for child abuse. Obviously we cannot fathom this act because we love selfishly. We love our own and defend our own. I remember watching a movie once about a bunch of Australians in a Japanese prisoner of war camp. The prisoners were worked tirelessly on building a road. One day a spade was missing. The commander was furious and demanded that the person who stole it own up. No one did. He grabbed a man and said that he would kill this man if the perpetrator did not come forward. There was a christian ...

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.5.8.NLT Have you ever thought or heard it said: "I won't help them until they mature, or untill they clean themselves up they are on their own"? Yes! Us humans tend to think reward follows demonstration of change. However, this verse tells us God is the opposite. He knew we could not clean ourselves enough, He knew we needed His divine intevention and so He sent Jesus. Jesus was the perfect lamb. He died for our sins, He was the price of our cleanliness. He set us free from the debt of our sins. Praise Him!

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.14.6.NLT Need to know the truth of a matter? Jesus knows! Jesus promised us His Holy Spirit! The Holt Spirit gives gifts to mankind: healings, miracles, words of knowledge, words of wisdom, discernment of spirits, gift of tongues, the gift of faith. With such gifts we are prepared for battle and leadership. Words of wisdom and knowledge give the believer understanding of the truth of a matter. The Holy Spirit is our counsellor and guide. We can trust Him! Amen!

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.14.6.NLT Jesus said these words to the disciple Thomas who asked Him to please explain what He meant when He said He would prepare a place for them. On Friday night I had a friend who loves board games bring over a new game. I struggled to understand the game play due to her not explaining it simply. By the end of the game I showed I had caught the way as I won. I had, without her explaining sufficiently, understood I  needed to accumulate certain property. Thomas is displaying a similar need to Jesus. Jesus had said that when He goes away He will prepare  place for them and then they will be able to follow. Thomas' complaint was: how can we follow if we don't know the way? The above verse is Jesus adding some clarity. He was the way. However, I understand Thomas' dilema. He was thinking naturally, as in going on a journey fr...

The next day the huge crowd that had arrived for the Feast heard that Jesus was entering Jerusalem. They broke off palm branches and went out to meet him. And they cheered: Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in God’s name! Yes! The King of Israel! Jesus got a young donkey and rode it, just as the Scripture has it: No fear, Daughter Zion: See how your king comes, riding a donkey’s colt. John 12:12‭-‬15 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/jhn.12.12-15.MSG The beautiful thing about Jesus was He never  claimed glory. Yes He did, rightly, claim to be the Son of God, but did not go around saying: " I did this, I did that..." He asked the Father to glorify Him, and He did, in much pain and sacrifice and eventual death. Yet, He rose again, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. The crowd caught a moment of truth, and then it escaped them, as within days they were calling for His death. I am grateful for the sacrifice! Praise Your Name Jesus!

they took palm branches and went out to meet Him. They kept shouting: “ Hosanna!  He who comes in the name of the Lord is the blessed One  — the King of Israel! ” John 12:13 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/jhn.12.13.HCSB The people thought that Jesus was the coming king, prophesied about in scripture, they were right, but they failed to realise what this meant. They were looking for a deliverer from Rome, but He came to deliver them from their sins. There is a time when He will come as king, and when He does He will be like a lion, no longet a lamb. The people failed to realise that they needed a saviour to cleanse them from their sins so that they could meet the king, and be welcome into His kingdom. Assuming that they had the right to receive a king in filthy spiritual rags was a gross oversight. We who have accepted Him as saviour will rejoice as He comes to take us home to His kingdom. What a day!

The very next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and yelled out, “Here he is, God’s Passover Lamb! He forgives the sins of the world! This is the man I’ve been talking about, ‘the One who comes after me but is really ahead of me.’ I knew nothing about who he was—only this: that my task has been to get Israel ready to recognize him as the God-Revealer. That is why I came here baptizing with water, giving you a good bath and scrubbing sins from your life so you can get a fresh start with God.” John 1:29‭-‬31 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/jhn.1.29-31.MSG Baptism reflects what we believers see as the change within. I have died to my old life and rise again to a new life in Christ. John was baptising people preparing them for the revealing of Jesus and His ministry. He knew his ministry and recognised that his time was up. He had done his job. John never became a follower of Jesus, I wonder why? He introduces Jesus and then continues to minister until King Herod jails him and eventually ...

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! John 1:29 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.1.29.NLT When you are with a group of people and you have just met  a star-performing plumber, builder, electrician, lawyer or judge, do you not introduce them to others or do you greedily keep the connection to yourself? Usually we share the connection, if not only for the satisfaction of having a connection before someone else. We who know Christ have a divine connection to a deliverer from sin, a healer of disease and giver of peace. Do others need one of these? Yes! They do! Then share Him around!

“But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. Jeremiah 17:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jer.17.7.NLT This morning I knew I lacked and I wodshipped and the Spirit filled me up. It was so good. I had an exam rhis morning and it went very well. The Lord went before me. Tonight I had to help cover chairs at my astronomy club. It also went very well. Worship brings the Holy Spirit alive in me and creates the wave of success before me. HE  is good! Amen!

“But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. Jeremiah 17:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jer.17.7.NLT I remember a song, an old chorus: My hope is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth (repeat x2). Psalm 121:1 takes this up. He will neither slumber or sleep, He will watch over your coming and going. Yes please! I am grateful that He watches over me. I need watching over. His gentleness I need, His kindness and self-control I seek. His goodness must be mine, not arrogance or rudeness. He is my confidence. I do not need to be self-confident because this leads to arrogance and pride. In Him I am able. Amen!

So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jas.4.7.NLT There are various ways to resist the devil. The Book of Revelations says: they overcame him (the devil) by the blood of the Lamb and the Word of their testimony. Rev 12:11. The blood of the Lamb has power and when we pray it over people and situations we invite the power of that blood to work a miracle. The word of our testimony has power when we speak in faith according to the word of God. We have been given authority to overcome. However, this power is made available when we act in faith. If our words are filled with faith, we will see a miracle. So..with dynamic power we overcome. Amen!

So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jas.4.7.NLT Humility is saying, I lay down my ways, I am failing without You, and asking for divine help. Humility always gets God's attention. He reapects it and finds it attractive. Next, resistance is enabled as we step into faith. I am doing this in Your power Lord, I stand against the lust for ... and break its power over my life. Amen!

The one thing I ask of the Lord — the thing I seek most— is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord ’s perfections and meditating in his Temple. Psalms 27:4 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.27.4.NLT In David's day the temple, or moreover the tent, was the place to be, when Jesus was 12 the temple was where He wanted to be. I am 67 amd it is where I am. As a New Testament believer my body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. I am soooo grateful that what David longed for I have, that what Jesus travelled miles for, I sit in. Jesus made this possible for me. Now, what I have to do is make my God welcome and keep this temple in pristine condition. Amen!

My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.” And my heart responds, “ Lord , I am coming.” Psalms 27:8 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.27.8.NLT When we have a call from someone we love, we can respond: " I am coming!" When we have a need and call a friend it is great to hear, "I am coming!" When my God calls, it is usually in the wee hours, I come. His presence is so inviting, I cannot resist. His call is an honour. To know that He wants to talk, is an honour. He is burdened for souls and a need for His people to come in repentance. We can join Him in His burden. Amen!

The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. Psalms 18:2 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.18.2.NLT The rain continues and the flooding has worsened. Yet, here in Tamworth, NSW, Australia we are fine. Whilst our river may well swell, the levee banks were raised several years ago. I live on a hill and am safe, praise God! My two chickens have had fun in the rain. The earth is softer and worms easier to find. One just scored a mouse, much to the consternation of the other. The race was on. My dog Oscar would like a walk. I am also inclined as the rain is in abeyance for now. I praise the Lord who is my rock and my keeper, my saviour and Lord. Because of Him, I am safe. Amen!

The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. Psalms 18:2 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.18.2.NLT Today we see a lot of Eastern Australia under water, due to excessive rain and flooding. Many are displaced and wirhout a home. Along the seaboard, prime real estate has seaviews. Many homes were built on walls of sand near the sea. These are all being threatened with destruction. These images bring home to me the need to have my life built on the rock Christ Jesus. Jesus told a parable about two types of people: those who built on sand and those who built on rock. Those who built on sand lost everything, whilst those who built on the rock stood against floods and high tides. We are in a time of flood and high tide. Societies are hellbent on destruction and are racing towards it, all the while having a party and sing lewd songs. Eyes are blind and ears are deaf to the sou...

But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. 1 John 4:4 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1jn.4.4.NLT I have been praying for our governements in Australia, that the Lord would clean out all filth and sexual sin. It is interesting that He has started with our current federal government. The sins being exposed, or should I say said to have occurred, are causing havoc. Calls for Royal Commissions and investigations are flying. I did not expect our current government to be so dirty, but then men of God who I trusted have been accused of sexual abuse and are now facing court. God is cleaning us out. He is starting with what is on top and will work His way down to the very dark hidden things. He will not stop. It is time for cleanliness. No longet can anyone hide. It all will be revealed. Time to repent! Amen!

But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. 1 John 4:4 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1jn.4.4.NLT Who are those people? If you read the full text around this verse you find that John was talking about a particular group of people who profess to know God, but have gone off the rails in doctrine. False doctrine has abounded and will continue to do so. However, the truth is the word of God, nothing added or taken away. The last verse of the Book of Revelation speaks strongly about these people. Don't be drawn away by strange doctrine, always question the lie no matter how enticing it sounds! Amen!

Never stop praying. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1th.5.17.NLT Jesus told a parable about a little woman who was treated ruthlessly by her family, taking her land. She went to the judge and ask for help to obtain justice. The judge did not consider her significant enough to support. However, he did not reckon of this little lady's persistence. She turned up day sfter day at his court. Eventually, because of the woman's persistence he hekped her. He said: " I do not fear God or man, but because you are driving me nuts (my paraphrase) I will grant you what you ask." Jesus said: " this is how persistent you must be in prayer!" If this was a lesson we must learn, let us learn it and never give up. Amen!

Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live. 1 Thessalonians 5:16‭-‬18 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/1th.5.16-18.MSG Never giving up is a godly trait. Endurance is spoken about often in the bible. My favourite is Hebrews 10:36 For you have need of endurance, so that you might proove the will of the father, and receive what has been promised. Prayer fits these parameters, seeking God for answers, solutions, salvations, restoration all require perseverance. We have an enemy who wants us to quit and a God, and a cloud of witnesses in heaven, cheering us on. With such a majority we cannot quit. Amen

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/eph.2.10.NLT The Lord has planned for us to do good things, long ago. How can we be sure we meet those things and carry them out? I suspect we need to stay in Him, and not get carried away with planning them ourselves. Today I went to my aged aunty's 89th birthday party. It was photo time and one of my aunt's friends was attempting to stand to walk to the photo venue. She was struggling. I looked around, and saw a walker and brought it to her. It was just what she needed. I am sure that little act was one He had planned. Such a little act, yet it blessed the receiver. I showed awareness of need and solved her problem. My God has wired me to see things and solve them. He made this way, and His deeds for me are in the way I am wired. Each of us are wired according to God's good plan. Find out your way, an...

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/eph.2.10.NLT Years ago I tried pottery and enjoyed the wheel most. From a lump of clay you could create vases, cups, jugs, bowls, plates, candelholders. If I didn't like my creation, or saw an imperfection, I could remove, say the pebble, deconstruct amd restructure the item planned. I love sewing and when my children were young I would cut up my dresses and make trousers or smaller dresses for my daughter. The material was good and I did not want to waste it. I was making something new from the fabric. When Christ eneters our lives He creates us in the image of the Father. Where lust existed He put faithfulness; where anger and conflict resided He put love and forgiveness; where laziness and selfishness resided He put sacrifice and selflessness. His spirit makes us new. We need to abide in Him amd allow His Sp...

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:31‭-‬32 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/eph.4.31-32.NLT Well! I succeeded in getting through the evening without harsh words even though my friend's behaviour was off the grid and normally would stir me up. Why we misbehave and deliberately try to upset one another is all down to the harassment of our common enemy. For all I know he probably had a head attack with all manner of accusations levelled at me. He behaved as if I was a problem, so I can safely assume it was a head job because I have not been around to cause a problem. We cannot fall for the troublemakers plans. He wants to tear up friendships and seperate those who work together in the kingdom. Don't respond in the flesh! It is not worth it. Amen!

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:31‭-‬32 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/eph.4.31-32.NLT Being kind sometimes means changing the subject. I have a friend who can be argumentative on topics that inflame him. You cannot argue with him as it inflames him more. Therefore a change of topic is in order. Some would say, "ditch him, have nothing to do with him". However, this friend has been faithful to me in so many ways, I must be faithful in return and avoid the hot topics. I do not see this friend every day, in fact not very often at all as I am busy with study, however, I am talking attitude of my own heart and mind. We can build up attitudes against people, entertain thoughts of disgust when this out not be so. We are not perfect ourselves and this sort of behaviour is self-righteou...

And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. John 13:14 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.13.14.NLT I wonder if the Lord was tired at this point. It was getting close to His crucifixion. I wonder if He was sleeping well. We know that when He went to the Garden of Gethseman He began to be afraid and ask if there was another way. What was Jesus' frame of mind when He washed His disciples feet? Peter was being obstreperous and not wanting his feet washed. Jesus had to tell him that if he did not have his feet washed he had no part with Jesus. Then he jumps all the way in and wants more washed. Jesus has to tell him the feet are enough. Do you have friends like this? You are squeezed tight with all that you are facing, and they become stupid on you when you need them alert? I have. Unfortunately this is about when I become loud and tell them to behave. It is about now I need a high dose of grace injected into my spirit. Jesus seemed ...

After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing?  You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am.  And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet.  I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. John 13:12‭-‬15 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.13.12-15.NLT This lesson by Jesus cannot be enhanced. If God can wash our feet, we are compelled to wash each others feet, in attitude and heart. The actual act of washing someone's feet requires humility and freedom from a stinking attitude. The Lord is after this from us more than anything else. Symbolism is useless unless a repentant, humble heart is engaged. Go for the deep! Amen!

Then He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation. Mark 16:15 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/mrk.16.15.HCSB The gospel is good news, it bring freedom, deliverance and healing. Rach night on the news much is made of the COVID vaccines. Will they or won't they protect, will they kill instead. It mind numbingly boring. Yet it sells. The gospel, on the other hand is so unique in each individual. All experiences are different. Who would not want to be free and whole? Fear is causing opposition to the vaccine, fear causes opposition to the gospel. But what if it works? It does! Try it!

Then He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation. Mark 16:15 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/mrk.16.15.HCSB Last night in bible study we were asked what brings us the most joy? There were various answers, as I waited to speak I contemplated my source of Joy. I vividly remember receiving a request to find God. My greatest joy was to lead that young man to Christ. The second greatest source of Joy was God's surprises. They are the best! I live my life to love and disciple myself, and others to walk with Christ. My studies of linguistics are opening the door to further reaches. This is my passion, along with my love of worship. I am back playing the keyboard and wake many nights hearing the worship songs I am playing. I find myself in adoration of the One who saved me from my sins, and provided eternal life for my future. Finding Joy is imperative, sharing Christ with others essential. Amen!

A man who endures trials is blessed, because when he passes the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. James 1:12 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/jas.1.12.HCSB Did you ever hear the saying: he's steady Eddie! It was used in reference to a quiet, steady achiever who did not boast or draw attention to himself. People could depend on Eddie. He may not have been handsome but he was reliable. So many of us want to make an impact with our looks, our intellect or prowess. However, many lack integrity in keeping their words or paying their bills. I know which I would prefer. I know what God prefers: steady Eddies and Edwinas. Make sure you are following the right goal and are not willing to compromise. Amen!

God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jas.1.12.NLT Enduring trials, temtations and testing people (it is usually people based 😁). However, we must not forget how we test others with our grumpy attitudes as well. Remember it is not all about me or thee but He. (My poetry for the day) For me gratitude, and praise helps change the focus from what is annoying to what is good. Remember to list the good! Amen!

Godliness guards the path of the blameless, but the evil are misled by sin. Proverbs 13:6 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/pro.13.6.NLT Gulible people are easily mislead. If we constantly avoid the truth then we run the risk of being foolish in our decisions, opting for a 'feelings' base instead of a 'fact base'. Following feelings leads to destruction and misery. Be wise and listen to scripture as it is based upon the unchangeable truth. Amen

Righteousness guards people of integrity, but wickedness undermines the sinner. Proverbs 13:6 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/pro.13.6.HCSB The practice of Godliness builds a hedge that will protect us from evil, however, if we have ungodly practices we have nothing to protect us and will fall headlong into evil. Building a hedge of protection is wise. Godliness also attracts divine support amd protection. Jesus told a parable about a wise man who builds a house on a rock instead of sand. When the storms came he stood firm, whereas the foolish man, in his haste, had built on sand and when the storms came, the house fell. Be wise! Amen!

As a mother comforts her son, so I will comfort you, and you will be comforted in Jerusalem. Isaiah 66:13 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/isa.66.13.HCSB The Christian might relate to being comforted in Jerusalem. In the text Jerusalem and Zion represented mother or home. To the Christian it could be taken to be the church. The church is to express the compassion and love of God. Yet, the greatest single comforter of the Christian is the Lord. He is never distracted, consumed with His own favourites or His work. He is always there and available. So, don't become exasperated by the lack of attention, press into God. He is there, and never leaves or forsakes us. Amen!

I will comfort you there in Jerusalem as a mother comforts her child.” Isaiah 66:13 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.66.13.NLT Comfort is something many of us grow up with, the comfort of mother's arms. As a child when we are in pain mother's arms holds us. In war torn countries the children fare better if they have mother than when they lose her. In my studies at uni I am discovering that unborn babies in their last trimester hear their mothers voice, and it comforts them. They are born seeking her voice. Through life we still seek confort when in emotional or physical pain. Our God's intention is that we grow to know His comfort and seek it first and earnestly. This takes time, but is well worth the seeking. He is comfort indeed. Amen!

There’s more: God’s Word warns us of danger and directs us to hidden treasure. Otherwise how will we find our way? Or know when we play the fool? Clean the slate, God, so we can start the day fresh! Keep me from stupid sins, from thinking I can take over your work; Then I can start this day sun-washed, scrubbed clean of the grime of sin. These are the words in my mouth; these are what I chew on and pray. Accept them when I place them on the morning altar, O God, my Altar-Rock, God, Priest-of-My-Altar. Psalm 19:11‭-‬14 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/psa.19.11-14.MSG Yes! The most stupid sin we can perpetrate is attenpting to take over God's role. We are best to keep out of the kitchen, especially if incompetent. God is far better at forgiveness, grace, mercy, provision and most of all conviction of sin. This last one is one we all attempt to take from our God. He is much better at vengeance as well, so much better. May we focus on what we are here to do, love others, share the good ...

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord , my rock and my redeemer. Psalms 19:14 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.19.14.NLT I have found that, at times, my words are to sing my praises, and seek accolades from others. As soon as I speak I am convicted of my sin. The same applies when I complain about the behaviour of others, I am convicted. The last happened yesterday. I had planned a meal and invited a guest who, left it too late to let me know he did not eat beef. I was miffed. I then complained to a friend and fortunately he put me right. I then repented and asked the Lord for a more gracious attitude. Fortunately God is good, and I received grace. It was important that I repent as this young man was a new believer I needed to teach more about the Lord. As it was he enjoyed the meal I prepared and we had good fellowship. Without repentance I would have been useless to the Lord. How much time do we spend in uselessville because of pride o...

You who sit down in the High God’s presence, spend the night in Shaddai’s shadow, Say this: “ God , you’re my refuge. I trust in you and I’m safe!” That’s right—he rescues you from hidden traps, shields you from deadly hazards. His huge outstretched arms protect you— under them you’re perfectly safe; his arms fend off all harm. Fear nothing—not wild wolves in the night, not flying arrows in the day, Not disease that prowls through the darkness, not disaster that erupts at high noon. Even though others succumb all around, drop like flies right and left, no harm will even graze you. You’ll stand untouched, watch it all from a distance, watch the wicked turn into corpses. Yes, because God ’s your refuge, the High God your very own home, Evil can’t get close to you, harm can’t get through the door. He ordered his angels to guard you wherever you go. If you stumble, they’ll catch you; their job is to keep you from falling. You’ll walk unharmed among lions and snakes, and kick young lions an...

 This I declare about the Lord : He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him. Psalms 91:2 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.91.2.NLT  There is no safer place that God. We can hide our heart and soul in Him, He will protect and heal. Yesterday I received word that a man from chuch had lost his wife suddenly. I knew immediately the pain he would be in but also knew God was the only one who could help with that pain. I also knew I could pray, amd continued to uphold him in prayer. Grief can tear away at our heart. We can be so overwhelmed with it we think we are drowning. Laying before the Lord, alone, was my only solace. Friends are well meaning but empty of power, in this place. However, their prayer are invaluable in bring us close to God. There is no pain relief like God. He is our healer.  Jesus found that there was noone but God in His grief, He could endure the cross whilst God was there, but when the Father turned away from the sin laid...

Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ. Colossians 3:23‭-‬24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/col.3.23-24.NLT Everybody would love an inheritance from a weathy patron. We are promised an inheritance from the wealthiest of all, our God. The criteria, much like an earthly one is, don't be a slouch, work hard as if you work for the benefactor. So...work hard as if the Lord is your employer and He will reward you. Amen!

Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ. Colossians 3:23‭-‬24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/col.3.23-24.NLT Although we may be employed by mankind it is God who helps us find the job. Therefore, we must work as if we are working for Him. If we are retired or a homemaker we find plenty to do with our hands. All that we have, God provides. We must care for what we have been given as if it belongs to Him. No more living with a throw away mentality! How we behave here determines our eternity. Live well! Be a source of blessing! Amen!

He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. John 15:2 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.15.2.NLT Have you ever seen a fruit tree so laden with fruit it can barely hold up its branches? I have, and the owner is proud to display his tree. Our God is after such trees and branches. When we see a tree abounding in all but one spot we wonder what went wrong. Has there been disease there? Inevitably that brach is cut away from the tree so as to not harm the rest. Our God prunes us like this. He is caring for the trees. He is a master gardener. Amen

He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. John 15:2 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.15.2.NLT Is there a part of my life that is not used to share the good news? Why is it there? What else could be there? Just as we could constantly be evaluating, our God does it for us and we find ourselves unable or disinclined to do that thing any more. I am always seeing posts about distancing myself from negativity, I think more importantly what is not productivity for the Kingdom of God? Let it go, or seek a good reason for it to be there. As I have said above the Holy Spirit helps with this, He guides us in this refinement. The time is short, and souls need to be won. Amen!

But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. John 14:26 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.14.26.NLT It is good to know that we have a divine teacher, one who does not err and is never selfish.  I am waiting for a tutorial to start. Human teachers all have agendas. Discering the agenda and discovering truth can be a challenge. Asking the Holy Spirit for divine insight always helps. Amen!

But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit — the Father will send Him in My name — will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you. John 14:26 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/jhn.14.26.HCSB The Jews before Jesus identified with the force or spirit of God, Jesus gave the Holy Spirit a name and an identity as an individual being. This would have been new to the disciples. He told them He was about to leave but He would send the Holy Spirit. Processing the fact that Jesus was to leave when they had other ideas was hard enough, but to introduce another entity to replace Him would have overwhelmed them. When the Holy Spirit did come on Pentecost Sunday He showed them what His character was: they saw tongues of fire, heard a mighty rushing wind and they were filled with boldness. He was the power of God. Yet Jesus said He would also be a comforter, a powerful comforter. Amen and Amen!

By your words I can see where I’m going; they throw a beam of light on my dark path. I’ve committed myself and I’ll never turn back from living by your righteous order. Everything’s falling apart on me, God ; put me together again with your Word. Festoon me with your finest sayings, God ; teach me your holy rules. My life is as close as my own hands, but I don’t forget what you have revealed. The wicked do their best to throw me off track, but I don’t swerve an inch from your course. I inherited your book on living; it’s mine forever— what a gift! And how happy it makes me! I concentrate on doing exactly what you say— I always have and always will. Psalm 119:105‭-‬112 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/psa.119.105-112.MSG Put us togrther again with Your word Lord. May we be strong in You. You are our light and our path, You cover our ways with your grace. Praise You! Amen!

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalms 119:105 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.119.105.NLT The first person we see in the gospels say: upon Your word it will be done was the Roman centurion in Matthew 8:8: But the officer said, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed'. This man recognised the power in the word, the spoken word. We have been given the living word of God, as we speak it we see things change. Amen!

Everything in the world is about to be wrapped up, so take nothing for granted. Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it. Love makes up for practically anything. Be quick to give a meal to the hungry, a bed to the homeless—cheerfully. Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it: if words, let it be God’s words; if help, let it be God’s hearty help. That way, God’s bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he’ll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything—encores to the end of time. Oh, yes! 1 Peter 4:7‭-‬11 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/1pe.4.7-11.MSG Ues I have to agree! That's the whole truth in a nutshell!  Because of Jesus Christ we have the ability to love and be generous. He made it possible for us to be filled by His Spirit and to live by His power for Him. Amen!

Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1pe.4.8.NLT Deep love is God's kind of love, it is gracious love, overlooking faults. Faults grab for our attention, and want to tie us up there. However, when we apply gracious love we fly over them. Finding our wings is not hard if we find grace first. Grace is found in God alone. Amen!

Distress that drives us to God does that. It turns us around. It gets us back in the way of salvation. We never regret that kind of pain. But those who let distress drive them away from God are full of regrets, end up on a deathbed of regrets. 2 Corinthians 7:10 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/2co.7.10.MSG Better is distress that drives us towards the  Lord  than constant numbing of distress through drugs and alcohol and avoidance of the gateway to freedom. Pain leads us to answers. Seek answers, it is worth it  Amen!

For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death. 2 Corinthians 7:10 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/2co.7.10.NLT I can be sorry I am caught, sorry for myself, or truely repentant for my sin. Repentance goes to the heart of a matter, the result is never repeating the sin again. Sorrow is superficial and unlikely to bring permanent change. Repentance that bring change is what God is about. Sorrow is what we are about. Scripture speaks about seeking repentance and never finding it. (Heb 12:16,17) this refers to Esau who sold his birthright for a bowl of stew. He had promised his brother Jacob that he could have the birthright for food. We can imagine his repentance would have been more like sorrow as he could not change a thing. Godly repentance leads to salvation. (2 Cor 7:10) I know this repentance because it brought me to C...

“I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life. John 5:24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.5.24.NLT Jesus said: "I tell you the truth..." we can trust Him for truth. I am watching friends become vaccine averse, citing all manner of skulldugry. Why do people doubt? They doubt because they listen to scoffers and doubters. It is important that we seek truth in the right place. I cannot, and will not establish truth within myself, by dwelling on suspicious. I am incapable of being an established centre of truth. While ever self is involved, deception can be found. Seek first, first, first...the kingdom of God! Amen!

“I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life. John 5:24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.5.24.NLT I love sharing the truth of the gospel with people. On Tuesday night a sheikh came to fellowship. He was ardent in his faith but blown away by the truth of the love of God. I saw him the following day and knew God was at work in his heart. The love of God breaks all barriers, and sets captives free. The freedom in Christ, and the promise of eternal life causes all other doctrines to fade. Whilst Islam promises an eternity with vestal virgins, the promise of eternity free from sin, sickness, and disease and living in the presence of my God is what I prefer. I can't wait to have fellowship with Abraham, Joseph, David, and Daniel. The stories the apostle Paul will tell, and the humble John, wow!

Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/heb.12.14.NLT Jesus said: blessed are the pure in heart for they will see God. Matt 5:8. Holy means set apart, pure in heart. We are called to be holy so that we might see God, exhibit Him and show the world the difference. This is the true attraction of the Christian. A holy person is delightful, and draws others, like moths to a flame. Amen!

Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/heb.12.14.NLT Did you know that peace has to be pursued? We cannot assume peace should be ours just by living in a family, a home or a city. It is our role to work for it. How do we work for it? Be alert to the spiritual atmospheres in a given place, be prayerful over home, street, city and country. Ask for prayer, seek counsel and guidance, don't walk alone, belong to a fellowship group. Now, I know there are those caught in abusive homes, streets, cities and countries. We should be praying for these. We have authority to pray for these, and a duty to pray for these. Prayer conquers! Amen!

Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure — pressed down, shaken together, and running over — will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use,   it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/luk.6.38.HCSB We have all experienced cramming a suitcase full, and having to sit on it to shut the clasps. This is what God promises the retun will be to us. Whether good or bad, all things come back in an abundant measure. If we know this is in action then wouldnt we be generous with our words, affections, attention and finances? Unfortunately not! We become dull to the principle, and carry on according to our senses. Our senses are not always attuned to godly principles, and so we slip into 'me'mentality. So easily done. We must be vigilant with our faith, our affections and vision. Amen! Stay Alert!

Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure — pressed down, shaken together, and running over — will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use,   it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/luk.6.38.HCSB Giving to receive is mercinary but giving because of God, brings rewards. Jesus spoke of those who gave to be seen, the Pharisees. They had their reward, and so would not receive a reward from the Father. When you see a need and can fulfill it or contribute towards it, do it in secret, and God will reward you. Allow Him to do what He does best: motivate us to bless, and be blessed in return. This gives the Lord delight, and this delight flows back to you as blessing. Amen!

And I pray this: that your love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment,  so that you can approve the things that are superior and can be pure and blameless in the day of Christ, Philippians 1:9‭-‬10 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/php.1.9-10.HCSB Superior things catch my attention. Instead of mundane, worthless and useless, choose superior things. A superior car is one that is made well and doesn't crumple in an accident. We need the safety of a superior car, a well built home, a superior mattress.  We, more importantly, need to choose superior ways of living in all areas of our life. Superior things are found in God and His word. We will not find superior thoughts in ourselves, we must trust our God for superior ways. Amen!

And I pray this: that your love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment,  so that you can approve the things that are superior and can be pure and blameless in the day of Christ, Philippians 1:9‭-‬10 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/php.1.9-10.HCSB Love is compassionate, love is kind. This knowledge bounced around inside me as I faced a dilema with a difficult person. This person is loud and overbearing and wanted to join my connect group. I had a choice, would I reject them or accept or confront. I confronted them with the knowledge that I had a hearing difficulty and they were very loud. I asked if they had a similar problem. It turns out no, working in a loud environment had caused the need to shout to be heard. This person is willing to have me quieten them publically.  I was very much aware that I needed to consider the group, but also this person. Everybody needs to belong. Tonight will be the prooving of my decision. Here goes! Jesus confronted Hi...

So if you have been raised with the Messiah, seek what is above, where the Messiah is, seated at the right hand of God.  Set your minds on what is above, not on what is on the earth.  For you have died, and your life is hidden with the Messiah in God. Colossians 3:1‭-‬3 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/col.3.1-3.HCSB Each of us expect our children to not disgrace us in public. When in a restaurant we want them to behave as if they belong to a well mannered family. Unfortunately, this is exactly when they might choose to fight with their siblings or become obstreperous, especially when we ask them to behave. Our God sees us as His family and wishes us to behave like royalty to the world around us. We have all read stories of misbehaving royalty and expect better. Well folks the world expects God's children to behave better. They want us to be the holders of light and life, not petulant babies. They are hungry for the revealling of the sons and daughters of God. Amen!

So if you have been raised with the Messiah, seek what is above, where the Messiah is, seated at the right hand of God. Colossians 3:1 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/col.3.1.HCSB This scripture begs the question: what is above? What is it about heaven that I need to seek? Jesus, in His life on earth may have given us a clue: He taught His disciples how to pray. If we look at the Lord's prayer: our Father, who is in heaven, Holy be Your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven... if we then look at His prayers that His disciples capturered in the gospels we see a pattern:  Jesus spoke these things, looked up to heaven, and said: Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son so that the Son may glorify You,  for You gave Him authority over all flesh;   so He may give eternal life  to all You have given Him. Jn 17:1,2 Jesus spoke to God as He would an earrhly Father: Father.... in the above scripture we see Jesus asking for an endowment...