FAITH:
Most of us struggle with inadequacy, yet we cover it up so well that it may not be detectable even to those who are closest to us. To get a handle on this painful problem, let's look at how our relationship with God can be vital in validating our worth.
Because of our relationship with God the Father, we can know we are accepted and feel that we belong.
Matthew 10:29-31
29 Two sparrows cost only a penny, but not even one of them can die without your Father's knowing it.30 God even knows how many hairs are on your head. 31 So don't be afraid. You are worth much more than many sparrows.
Romans 8:15-17
15 The Spirit we received does not make us slaves again to fear; it makes us children of God. With that Spirit we cry out, "Father." *16 And the Spirit himself joins with our spirits to say we are God's children.17 If we are God's children, we will receive blessings from God together with Christ. But we must suffer as Christ suffered so that we will have glory as Christ has glory.
* "Father" Literally, "Abba, Father." Jewish children called their fathers "Abba."
Ephesians 1:3-6
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. In Christ, God has given us every spiritual blessing in the heavenly world.4 That is, in Christ, he chose us before the world was made so that we would be his holy people—people without blame before him.5 Because of his love, God had already decided to make us his own children through Jesus Christ. That was what he wanted and what pleased him,6 and it brings praise to God because of his wonderful grace. God gave that grace to us freely, in Christ, the One he loves.
In Matthew 6 Jesus shares a profound truth that can dispel our dark clouds of self-doubt.
26 Look at the birds in the air. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, but your heavenly Father feeds them. And you know that you are worth much more than the birds.
Even though the subject of this verse is worry, the point made about our value cannot be missed. If god is concerned about the little birds in the sky, will He not be all the more concerned about you? God love you to the immeasurable extent of sacrificing His Son. Can any greater value be bestowed on your life? by Charles Swindoll
FRIENDS:
Father, Please make us aware and help us to stop running around trying to milk acceptance and self-esteem out of the world like lost people. Help us to understand that we are accepted and of infinite worth to you. Your precious Son was not accepted by all but He knew he was accepted by you. Please teach us this. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
May 21
Mark 15:1-15; Galatians 4:1-20; Psalms 114; 2 Samuel 16-17
May 22
Mark 15:16-32; Galatians 4:21-31; Psalms 115; 2 Samuel 18-19
10 Things To Be Thankful For
1. Knowing where you stand with people
2. Solitaire for passing time
3. A really ripe peach
4. Being spontaneous
5. Exploring with friends
6. Sharing good food with friends
7. How different kinds of music affect you
8. Sitting and watching people
9. A street musician
10. The rhythms of speech
FOOD:
Low Fat Lemon Pie Dessert
Tastes exactly like lemon meringue pie
Number of Servings: 4
Weight Watcher points: 2
1 sm. package Lemon Jell-O Sugar Free
1 sm. package Vanilla Fat Free Sugar Free Pudding
2 cups water
1/2 cup Cool Whip Free
2 Honey Maid Low Fat Grahams
Pour 2 cups water into a saucepan. Stir in vanilla pudding and heat to a boil. Remove from heat, stir in dry lemon Jell-O, stir until thoroughly dissolved.
Break graham cookies into two squares. Crumble one graham cookie square into each of four dessert cups. Pour 1/4 of pudding mixture over cookie crumbs. Chill thoroughly
Top each with a dollop of Cool Whip Free before serving.
Number of Servings: 4
FUN:
An elderly couple had been experiencing declining memories, so they decided to take a power memory class where one is taught to remember things by association.
A few days after the class, the old man was outside talking with his neighbor about how much the class helped him.
"What was the name of the Instructor?" asked the neighbor.
"Oh, ummmm, let's see," the old man pondered. "You know that flower, you know, the one that smells really nice but has those prickly thorns, what's that flower's name?"
"A rose?" asked the neighbor.
"Yes, that's it," replied the old man. He then turned toward his house and shouted, "Hey, Rose, what's the name of the Instructor we took the memory class from?"
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Monday, May 18, 2009
Living in Exile. Is it good or bad?
FAITH:
2 Chronicles 36:2-23
The final four evil kings of Judah reigned and fell into sin. Babylon conquered Jerusalem, looted, and burned the temple. The Babylonians carried God's people into exile. But in the end, Judah returned from exile in Babylon, to rebuild.
God used the exile to cause the people to repent, and he used a pagan king to rebuild Jerusalem's temple.
The exile was the "crucible of Israel's faith." They were pushed to the edge of existence where they thought they were hanging on by the skin of their teeth and they found that in fact they had been pushed to the center, where God was. They experienced not bare survival but abundant life. Now they saw their previous life as subsistence living, a marginal existence absorbed in consumption and fashion, empty ritual and insensitive exploitation. Exile pushed them from the margins of life to the vortex where all the issues of life and death, love and meaning, purpose and value formed the dynamic everyday participation-demanding realities of God's future with them.
It keeps on happening. Exile is the worst that reveals the best. "It's hard believing." says Faulkner, "but disaster seems to be good for people.
All of us are given moments, days, months, years of exile. What will we do with them. Wish we were someplace else" co plain? Escape into fantasies? Drug ourselves into oblivion? Or build and plant and marry and seek the shalom of place we inhabit and the people we are with. Exile reveals what really matters and frees us to pursue what really matters, which is to seek the Lord with all our hearts.
(From Run with the Horses by Eugene Peterson.)
Applying it: Do you feel as if you are in exile? Let disaster develop your character. Do not spend all your time seeking relief but reflect on what God wants to teach you.Ask him to show you what is really important.
Exploring it: Restoration--2 Chronicles7:13-14; Psalms 23:3; Jeremiah 30:10-11; Galatians 6:1-2
FRIENDS:
Father, We don't look like we're afraid, but we often have hidden fears. You know them. We're afraid of being alone. We're afraid of being jobless. We're afraid of pain. Father, we offer these fears to you and ask you to give us more courage as we look at you, the One who knows no fear. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
MAY 19
Mark 14:53-65; Galatians 3:1-14; Psalms 112; 2 Samuel 13
MAY 20
Mark 14:66-72; Galatians 3:15-29; Psalms 113; 2 Samuel 14-15
10 Things To Be Thankful For
1. Small town parades
2. Cold water on a hot day
3. A slow walk in the cool of the evening
4. Back up Moms
5. Potlucks
6. Knowing where people stand
7. A husband who misses you when you are gone
8. Exploring unfamiliar places
9. Looking to the future with anticipation
10. Looking to the past with pleasure
FOOD:
My very favorite coleslaw recipe
KFC Coleslaw.....copycat but as good as if not better
Resting time of two hours needs to be done for sure....
8 cups very finely chopped cabbage (1 medium head)
1/4 cup shredded carrot (1 medium carrot)
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
2 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Cut the cabbage and carrot into very fine pieces about the size of rice kernels.
In a large bowl, combine remaining ingredients; whisk until smooth. Add cabbage and carrots; mix well, cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.
Serves 8.
FUN:
2 Chronicles 36:2-23
The final four evil kings of Judah reigned and fell into sin. Babylon conquered Jerusalem, looted, and burned the temple. The Babylonians carried God's people into exile. But in the end, Judah returned from exile in Babylon, to rebuild.
God used the exile to cause the people to repent, and he used a pagan king to rebuild Jerusalem's temple.
The exile was the "crucible of Israel's faith." They were pushed to the edge of existence where they thought they were hanging on by the skin of their teeth and they found that in fact they had been pushed to the center, where God was. They experienced not bare survival but abundant life. Now they saw their previous life as subsistence living, a marginal existence absorbed in consumption and fashion, empty ritual and insensitive exploitation. Exile pushed them from the margins of life to the vortex where all the issues of life and death, love and meaning, purpose and value formed the dynamic everyday participation-demanding realities of God's future with them.
It keeps on happening. Exile is the worst that reveals the best. "It's hard believing." says Faulkner, "but disaster seems to be good for people.
All of us are given moments, days, months, years of exile. What will we do with them. Wish we were someplace else" co plain? Escape into fantasies? Drug ourselves into oblivion? Or build and plant and marry and seek the shalom of place we inhabit and the people we are with. Exile reveals what really matters and frees us to pursue what really matters, which is to seek the Lord with all our hearts.
(From Run with the Horses by Eugene Peterson.)
Applying it: Do you feel as if you are in exile? Let disaster develop your character. Do not spend all your time seeking relief but reflect on what God wants to teach you.Ask him to show you what is really important.
Exploring it: Restoration--2 Chronicles7:13-14; Psalms 23:3; Jeremiah 30:10-11; Galatians 6:1-2
FRIENDS:
Father, We don't look like we're afraid, but we often have hidden fears. You know them. We're afraid of being alone. We're afraid of being jobless. We're afraid of pain. Father, we offer these fears to you and ask you to give us more courage as we look at you, the One who knows no fear. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
MAY 19
Mark 14:53-65; Galatians 3:1-14; Psalms 112; 2 Samuel 13
MAY 20
Mark 14:66-72; Galatians 3:15-29; Psalms 113; 2 Samuel 14-15
10 Things To Be Thankful For
1. Small town parades
2. Cold water on a hot day
3. A slow walk in the cool of the evening
4. Back up Moms
5. Potlucks
6. Knowing where people stand
7. A husband who misses you when you are gone
8. Exploring unfamiliar places
9. Looking to the future with anticipation
10. Looking to the past with pleasure
FOOD:
My very favorite coleslaw recipe
KFC Coleslaw.....copycat but as good as if not better
Resting time of two hours needs to be done for sure....
8 cups very finely chopped cabbage (1 medium head)
1/4 cup shredded carrot (1 medium carrot)
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
2 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Cut the cabbage and carrot into very fine pieces about the size of rice kernels.
In a large bowl, combine remaining ingredients; whisk until smooth. Add cabbage and carrots; mix well, cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.
Serves 8.
FUN:
Friday, May 15, 2009
No Pep Talks
FAITH:
The key question in life is not "How strong am I?" but rather "How strong is God?"
Focus on his strength, not yours. Occupy yourself with the nature of God, not the size of your biceps.
That's what God told Moses to do. Remember the conversation at the burning bush? The tone was set in the first sentence. "Take off your sandals because you are standing on holy ground" (Exodus 3:5). With these eleven words Moses is enrolled in a class on God. Immediately the roles are defined. God is holy. Approaching him on even a quarter-inch of leather is too pompous...No time is spent convincing Moses what Moses can do, but much time is spent explaining to Moses what God can do.
You and I tend to do the opposite. We would explain to Moses how he is ideally suited to return to Egypt... Then we'd remind Moses how perfect he is for wilderness travel...We'd spend time reviewing with Moses his résumé and strengths.
But God doesn't. The strength of Moses is never considered. No pep talk is given, no pats on the backs are offered. Not one word is spoken to recruit Moses. But many words are used to reveal God. The strength of Moses is not the issue; the strength of God is. by Max Lucado
FRIENDS:
Father, I pray that the eyes of my heart may be enlightened in order that I may know the hope to which you have called me, the riches of your glorious inheritance in the saints, and your incomparably great power to us who believe. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
MAY 16
Mark 14:12-31; 2 Cor 13; Psalms 109; 2 Samuel 5-7
MAY 17
Mark 14: 32-42; Galatians 1; Psalms 110; 2 Samuel 8-10
MAY 18
Mark 14:32-42; Galatians 2; Psalms 111; 2 Samuel 11-12
~Galatians~
The Emancipation Proclamation was ready to be signed. The papers were complete. All that was lacking wast he signature of the president. But Abraham Lincoln was not ready. He had spent the morning at a reception and his hand was swollen from greeting visitors.
"Let me wait until my hand is better," he reportedly requested. "I don't want my signature to be shaky. I want people to know I set the slaves free in confidence."
Galatians states that Christ did the same for us. "He set the slaves free in confidence." No hesitation. No reservation. No reluctance. No exceptions.
The book of Galatians is the Emancipation Proclamation for the church. Written by the confident hand of one who had known slavery, it declares and defines Christian liberty. Paul wrote it to combat those in the church who were insisting that it was necessary to follow a law or code in order to be saved.
Many of the early Christians were Jewish Christians who were accustomed to following a law. Though they had accepted the gift of grace offered by Christ on the cross, some were falling away---substituting God's gift for man's works. Paul recognized this for what it was---legalism.
Legalism is not unique to the Galatians. Any time the gospel has been preached, there have been those who contend it is too good to be true. It's not enough to be saved by faith, argues the legalist, we must earn God's approval. Some teach that we earn God's favor by what we know (intellectualism). Others insist we are saved by what we do (moralism). Still others claim that salvation is determined by what we feel (emotionalism).
However you package it, Paul contests, legalism is heresy. Any gospel other than the pure gospel is anathema. Salvation comes only through the cross---no additions, no alterations.
We are free in Christ. "We have freedom now, because Christ made us free. So stand strong. Do not change and go back into the slavery of the law" (5:1). Galatians is a document otffreedom. As you read, note the confidence of the writer. His hand doesn't shake, his conviction doesn't waver, his belief doesn't falter.
And neither should ours.
Ten Things To Be Thankful For
1. True, lasting values
2. People who love to teach children
3. A cool evening after a hot day
4. A pot of Earl Grey tea
5. Introducing old friends to new friends
6. Finding a good bookstore
7. Taking a walk when the world is too much
8. Wild roses over a cottage door
9. Murals on buildings
10. A sunset that makes your spirit soar
FOOD:
SOUTHWESTERN PASTA SALAD
2 cups small seashell pasta
1/3 cup Italian-style salad dressing
salt to taste
1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans
1 (15 ounce) can black beans
1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
3 tomatoes, chopped
1 1/2 tablespoons ground cumin
1/2 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon dried red pepper
flakes (optional)
salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain and rinse pasta in cold water. Place in a large mixing bowl and add dressing and salt; mix well.
2. Combine pinto beans and black beans in a colander; rinse with cold water and add to pasta. Add corn, tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, dried red pepper flakes and salt and pepper to taste; toss lightly.
3. Chill salad in refrigerator until ready to serve.
FUN:
For those of you that sew here is a really cute idea:
http://www.supernaturale.com/articles.html?id=70
The key question in life is not "How strong am I?" but rather "How strong is God?"
Focus on his strength, not yours. Occupy yourself with the nature of God, not the size of your biceps.
That's what God told Moses to do. Remember the conversation at the burning bush? The tone was set in the first sentence. "Take off your sandals because you are standing on holy ground" (Exodus 3:5). With these eleven words Moses is enrolled in a class on God. Immediately the roles are defined. God is holy. Approaching him on even a quarter-inch of leather is too pompous...No time is spent convincing Moses what Moses can do, but much time is spent explaining to Moses what God can do.
You and I tend to do the opposite. We would explain to Moses how he is ideally suited to return to Egypt... Then we'd remind Moses how perfect he is for wilderness travel...We'd spend time reviewing with Moses his résumé and strengths.
But God doesn't. The strength of Moses is never considered. No pep talk is given, no pats on the backs are offered. Not one word is spoken to recruit Moses. But many words are used to reveal God. The strength of Moses is not the issue; the strength of God is. by Max Lucado
FRIENDS:
Father, I pray that the eyes of my heart may be enlightened in order that I may know the hope to which you have called me, the riches of your glorious inheritance in the saints, and your incomparably great power to us who believe. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
MAY 16
Mark 14:12-31; 2 Cor 13; Psalms 109; 2 Samuel 5-7
MAY 17
Mark 14: 32-42; Galatians 1; Psalms 110; 2 Samuel 8-10
MAY 18
Mark 14:32-42; Galatians 2; Psalms 111; 2 Samuel 11-12
~Galatians~
The Emancipation Proclamation was ready to be signed. The papers were complete. All that was lacking wast he signature of the president. But Abraham Lincoln was not ready. He had spent the morning at a reception and his hand was swollen from greeting visitors.
"Let me wait until my hand is better," he reportedly requested. "I don't want my signature to be shaky. I want people to know I set the slaves free in confidence."
Galatians states that Christ did the same for us. "He set the slaves free in confidence." No hesitation. No reservation. No reluctance. No exceptions.
The book of Galatians is the Emancipation Proclamation for the church. Written by the confident hand of one who had known slavery, it declares and defines Christian liberty. Paul wrote it to combat those in the church who were insisting that it was necessary to follow a law or code in order to be saved.
Many of the early Christians were Jewish Christians who were accustomed to following a law. Though they had accepted the gift of grace offered by Christ on the cross, some were falling away---substituting God's gift for man's works. Paul recognized this for what it was---legalism.
Legalism is not unique to the Galatians. Any time the gospel has been preached, there have been those who contend it is too good to be true. It's not enough to be saved by faith, argues the legalist, we must earn God's approval. Some teach that we earn God's favor by what we know (intellectualism). Others insist we are saved by what we do (moralism). Still others claim that salvation is determined by what we feel (emotionalism).
However you package it, Paul contests, legalism is heresy. Any gospel other than the pure gospel is anathema. Salvation comes only through the cross---no additions, no alterations.
We are free in Christ. "We have freedom now, because Christ made us free. So stand strong. Do not change and go back into the slavery of the law" (5:1). Galatians is a document otffreedom. As you read, note the confidence of the writer. His hand doesn't shake, his conviction doesn't waver, his belief doesn't falter.
And neither should ours.
Ten Things To Be Thankful For
1. True, lasting values
2. People who love to teach children
3. A cool evening after a hot day
4. A pot of Earl Grey tea
5. Introducing old friends to new friends
6. Finding a good bookstore
7. Taking a walk when the world is too much
8. Wild roses over a cottage door
9. Murals on buildings
10. A sunset that makes your spirit soar
FOOD:
SOUTHWESTERN PASTA SALAD
2 cups small seashell pasta
1/3 cup Italian-style salad dressing
salt to taste
1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans
1 (15 ounce) can black beans
1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
3 tomatoes, chopped
1 1/2 tablespoons ground cumin
1/2 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon dried red pepper
flakes (optional)
salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain and rinse pasta in cold water. Place in a large mixing bowl and add dressing and salt; mix well.
2. Combine pinto beans and black beans in a colander; rinse with cold water and add to pasta. Add corn, tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, dried red pepper flakes and salt and pepper to taste; toss lightly.
3. Chill salad in refrigerator until ready to serve.
FUN:
For those of you that sew here is a really cute idea:
http://www.supernaturale.com/articles.html?id=70
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Trusting in God
FAITH:
Matthew 6:25-34
Our problem is that we want to test God rather than trust him. We want to experiment with him rather than rely on him. we're like the boy who tests the doubtful ice instead of skating confidently where God is leading. What is our faith worth if we don't trust completely? It is perfectly natural to trust in our own understanding, to rely on our own natural strengths, gifts, or talents (and indeed some modern prophets tell us to do so!). But it is the walk of faith to trust his teaching and direction. Give him first place and let him have precedence. This is the secret of safe guidance and peaceful progression. Simple dependence upon him, committing our all to him, obeying him implicitly---this is how to acknowledge him "in all ways."
by Al Bryant
Applying it: Describe the kind of life that truly honors god. In what ways do you trust and seek God on a daily basis?
FRIENDS:
Father, Thank you for taking us back time and time again when we stray away and think we can do it on our own. When we return, you forgive because you are so kind and you show us so much mercy. Thank you for your great love. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
MAY 14
Mark 13:32-37; 2 Cor 12:1-10; Psalms 107; 2 Samuel 1-2
MAY 15
Mark 14:1-11; 2 Cor 12: 11-21; Psalms 108; 2 Samuel 3-4
~2 Samuel~
King David
In the first ten chapters of Second Samuel he can do no wrong. His is never defeated in battle. Never wrong in judgment. He begins his reign in prayer (2:1) and continues in faith. Enemies are subdued, the nation is unified, the capitol secured, and the boundary extends from six thousand to sixty thousand square miles.
But that is the first ten chapters.
Chapter eleven is a hinge on which hangs the cellar door. David opens it and down he falls. By the time he lands on the cellar floor he is bruised, confused, and staring into the darkness.
You know what happened. On a lazy afternoon his wandering eyes found a forbidden maiden. Testosterone surged and evil urged so he summoned her, slept with her and then sent her home.
A rendezvous. So fast. So impulsive. So passionate. So pregnant.
Rather that repent, he connives and lies and leaves a soldier dead and a widow weeping and all of wondering: Is this the same David? Is this the shepherd? Is this the boy of faith? The many of prayer? Is this the man after God's own heart?
With time, confession comes and forgiveness is given, but the scars remain. Nathan's prophecy proves true: the sword never departed from David's house (12:10). Bloodshed stained his home from then on.
Some of the final words written about David are some of the saddest, "King David was very old, and although his servants covered him with blankets, he could not keep warm" (1 Kings 1:1)
Mark it down. Compromise chills the soul.
If only David hadn't opened that cellar door.
FOOD:
(these are sooooo good)
Banana Won Tons
2 Chiquita bananas, mashed
1 pkg. wonton skins
1/3 c. firmly packed coconut flakes
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 c. raisins
Oil for frying
In electric skillet or wok, heat oil to 350 degrees F.
Combine bananas, coconut, cinnamon, and raisins.
Moisten edges of won ton skins with water. Add 1 teaspoon of mixture to center of skins, fold to form a triangle and pinch edges together to seal in mixture.
Fry on both sides until golden brown.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar and/or cinnamon. Serve warm.
FUN:
Matthew 6:25-34
Our problem is that we want to test God rather than trust him. We want to experiment with him rather than rely on him. we're like the boy who tests the doubtful ice instead of skating confidently where God is leading. What is our faith worth if we don't trust completely? It is perfectly natural to trust in our own understanding, to rely on our own natural strengths, gifts, or talents (and indeed some modern prophets tell us to do so!). But it is the walk of faith to trust his teaching and direction. Give him first place and let him have precedence. This is the secret of safe guidance and peaceful progression. Simple dependence upon him, committing our all to him, obeying him implicitly---this is how to acknowledge him "in all ways."
by Al Bryant
Applying it: Describe the kind of life that truly honors god. In what ways do you trust and seek God on a daily basis?
FRIENDS:
Father, Thank you for taking us back time and time again when we stray away and think we can do it on our own. When we return, you forgive because you are so kind and you show us so much mercy. Thank you for your great love. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
MAY 14
Mark 13:32-37; 2 Cor 12:1-10; Psalms 107; 2 Samuel 1-2
MAY 15
Mark 14:1-11; 2 Cor 12: 11-21; Psalms 108; 2 Samuel 3-4
~2 Samuel~
King David
In the first ten chapters of Second Samuel he can do no wrong. His is never defeated in battle. Never wrong in judgment. He begins his reign in prayer (2:1) and continues in faith. Enemies are subdued, the nation is unified, the capitol secured, and the boundary extends from six thousand to sixty thousand square miles.
But that is the first ten chapters.
Chapter eleven is a hinge on which hangs the cellar door. David opens it and down he falls. By the time he lands on the cellar floor he is bruised, confused, and staring into the darkness.
You know what happened. On a lazy afternoon his wandering eyes found a forbidden maiden. Testosterone surged and evil urged so he summoned her, slept with her and then sent her home.
A rendezvous. So fast. So impulsive. So passionate. So pregnant.
Rather that repent, he connives and lies and leaves a soldier dead and a widow weeping and all of wondering: Is this the same David? Is this the shepherd? Is this the boy of faith? The many of prayer? Is this the man after God's own heart?
With time, confession comes and forgiveness is given, but the scars remain. Nathan's prophecy proves true: the sword never departed from David's house (12:10). Bloodshed stained his home from then on.
Some of the final words written about David are some of the saddest, "King David was very old, and although his servants covered him with blankets, he could not keep warm" (1 Kings 1:1)
Mark it down. Compromise chills the soul.
If only David hadn't opened that cellar door.
FOOD:
(these are sooooo good)
Banana Won Tons
2 Chiquita bananas, mashed
1 pkg. wonton skins
1/3 c. firmly packed coconut flakes
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 c. raisins
Oil for frying
In electric skillet or wok, heat oil to 350 degrees F.
Combine bananas, coconut, cinnamon, and raisins.
Moisten edges of won ton skins with water. Add 1 teaspoon of mixture to center of skins, fold to form a triangle and pinch edges together to seal in mixture.
Fry on both sides until golden brown.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar and/or cinnamon. Serve warm.
FUN:
Monday, May 11, 2009
Salt and Light
FAITH:
Matthew 5:13-16
Nowhere in the Bible are we commanded to bring non-Christians into the church to get saved. In fact, there is not one instance int he Bible of anyone who ever got converted in a church or synagogue. For instance, in Luke 19, our Lord did not ask Zaccheus to meet Him at the synagogue on the Sabbath. Instead, he went to Zaccheus' home. The misconception is that the pagan is supposed to come and hear; the Biblical mandate for the believer is to go and tell.
If we are to be salt and light in our world, we need to go where the lost are. That might mean inviting them into your home for dinner, going next door to visit with them, playing miniature golf together, or doing something else with them. the Holy spirit will start working in their lives as they watch our lives and try to figure out why we are different.
by Robert Tamasy.
Applying it: Think about what it means to be salt and light in the world today. What kind of lifestyle shines as a light to the world and shows people how to be saved? How do you need to change your life in order to be the salt and light God want you to be?
FRIENDS:
Father, We, your people, love you and hate evil. We are thankful that you watch over those that follow you and that you free us from the power of the wicked. We are thankful for the light that shines on those who do right and for the joby that belongs to those who are honest. In Jesus' name, Amen
DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
MAY 12
Mark 13:1-13; 2 Cor 11:1-15; Psalms 106: 1-23; 1 Samuel 26-28
MAY 13
Mark 13 14-31; 1 Cor 11: 16-33; Psalms 106:24-48; 1 Samuel 29-31
Ten Things To Be Thankful For
1. Old friends
2. Music you love
3. Singing in the shower
4. True lasting values
5. Someone giving you a chance to speak your mind
6. Watching the sunrise
7. Having a sense of optimism
8. A Sunday afternoon bar-b-que
9. A card with loving thoughts
10. Encouraging people to be creative
FOOD:
Hash Brown Casserole
Ingredients
3/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (32-ounce) package frozen Southern-style hash brown potatoes, diced
2 tablespoons butter, melted and divided
1 (10 3/4-ounce) can condensed reduced-fat, reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup, undiluted (such as Campbell's Healthy Request)
8 ounces light processed cheese, cubed (such as Velveeta Light)
1 (8-ounce) carton light sour cream (such as Daisy)
Cooking spray
2 cups cornflakes, coarsely crushed
Preheat oven to 350°.
Combine first 4 ingredients and 1 tablespoon butter in a large bowl; toss well.
Combine soup and cheese in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at HIGH 6 minutes or until cheese melts, stirring every 2 minutes. Stir in sour cream. Pour cheese mixture over potato mixture, and stir well. Spread mixture evenly in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.
Combine cornflakes and remaining 1 tablespoon butter; sprinkle evenly over top of potato mixture. Bake at 350° for 1 hour.
Yield 12 servings (serving size: about 1/2 cup)
FUN:
A father passing by his son's bedroom was astonished to see that his bed was nicely made and everything was picked up. Then he saw an
envelope, propped up prominently on the pillow that was addressed to
'Dad..'
With the worst premonition he opened the envelope with trembling hands and read the letter.
Dear Dad: with great regret and sorrow that I'm writing you. I had to elope with my new girlfriend because I wanted to avoid a scene with Mom and you.
I have been finding real passion with Stacy and she is so nice.
But I knew you would not approve of her because of all her piercing, tattoos, tight motorcycle clothes and the fact that she is much older than I am. But it' s not only the passion...Dad she's pregnant. Stacy said that we will be very happy. She owns a trailer in the woods and has a stack of firewood for the whole winter.. We share a dream of having many more children.
Stacy has opened my eyes to the fact that marijuana doesn't really hurt anyone. We'll be growing it for ourselves and trading it with the other people that live nearby for cocaine and ecstasy.
Don't worry Dad. I'm 15 and I know how to take care of myself.
Someday I'm sure that we will be back to visit so that you can get to know your grandchildren.
Love,
Your Son John
PS. Dad, none of the above is true. I'm over at Tommy's house.
I Just wanted to remind you that there are worse things in life than a Report card That's in my center desk drawer..
I love you.
Call me when it's safe to come home.
Matthew 5:13-16
Nowhere in the Bible are we commanded to bring non-Christians into the church to get saved. In fact, there is not one instance int he Bible of anyone who ever got converted in a church or synagogue. For instance, in Luke 19, our Lord did not ask Zaccheus to meet Him at the synagogue on the Sabbath. Instead, he went to Zaccheus' home. The misconception is that the pagan is supposed to come and hear; the Biblical mandate for the believer is to go and tell.
If we are to be salt and light in our world, we need to go where the lost are. That might mean inviting them into your home for dinner, going next door to visit with them, playing miniature golf together, or doing something else with them. the Holy spirit will start working in their lives as they watch our lives and try to figure out why we are different.
by Robert Tamasy.
Applying it: Think about what it means to be salt and light in the world today. What kind of lifestyle shines as a light to the world and shows people how to be saved? How do you need to change your life in order to be the salt and light God want you to be?
FRIENDS:
Father, We, your people, love you and hate evil. We are thankful that you watch over those that follow you and that you free us from the power of the wicked. We are thankful for the light that shines on those who do right and for the joby that belongs to those who are honest. In Jesus' name, Amen
DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
MAY 12
Mark 13:1-13; 2 Cor 11:1-15; Psalms 106: 1-23; 1 Samuel 26-28
MAY 13
Mark 13 14-31; 1 Cor 11: 16-33; Psalms 106:24-48; 1 Samuel 29-31
Ten Things To Be Thankful For
1. Old friends
2. Music you love
3. Singing in the shower
4. True lasting values
5. Someone giving you a chance to speak your mind
6. Watching the sunrise
7. Having a sense of optimism
8. A Sunday afternoon bar-b-que
9. A card with loving thoughts
10. Encouraging people to be creative
FOOD:
Hash Brown Casserole
Ingredients
3/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (32-ounce) package frozen Southern-style hash brown potatoes, diced
2 tablespoons butter, melted and divided
1 (10 3/4-ounce) can condensed reduced-fat, reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup, undiluted (such as Campbell's Healthy Request)
8 ounces light processed cheese, cubed (such as Velveeta Light)
1 (8-ounce) carton light sour cream (such as Daisy)
Cooking spray
2 cups cornflakes, coarsely crushed
Preheat oven to 350°.
Combine first 4 ingredients and 1 tablespoon butter in a large bowl; toss well.
Combine soup and cheese in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at HIGH 6 minutes or until cheese melts, stirring every 2 minutes. Stir in sour cream. Pour cheese mixture over potato mixture, and stir well. Spread mixture evenly in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.
Combine cornflakes and remaining 1 tablespoon butter; sprinkle evenly over top of potato mixture. Bake at 350° for 1 hour.
Yield 12 servings (serving size: about 1/2 cup)
FUN:
A father passing by his son's bedroom was astonished to see that his bed was nicely made and everything was picked up. Then he saw an
envelope, propped up prominently on the pillow that was addressed to
'Dad..'
With the worst premonition he opened the envelope with trembling hands and read the letter.
Dear Dad: with great regret and sorrow that I'm writing you. I had to elope with my new girlfriend because I wanted to avoid a scene with Mom and you.
I have been finding real passion with Stacy and she is so nice.
But I knew you would not approve of her because of all her piercing, tattoos, tight motorcycle clothes and the fact that she is much older than I am. But it' s not only the passion...Dad she's pregnant. Stacy said that we will be very happy. She owns a trailer in the woods and has a stack of firewood for the whole winter.. We share a dream of having many more children.
Stacy has opened my eyes to the fact that marijuana doesn't really hurt anyone. We'll be growing it for ourselves and trading it with the other people that live nearby for cocaine and ecstasy.
Don't worry Dad. I'm 15 and I know how to take care of myself.
Someday I'm sure that we will be back to visit so that you can get to know your grandchildren.
Love,
Your Son John
PS. Dad, none of the above is true. I'm over at Tommy's house.
I Just wanted to remind you that there are worse things in life than a Report card That's in my center desk drawer..
I love you.
Call me when it's safe to come home.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Jesus Touched the Untouchables
FAITH:
When Jesus came down from the hill, great crowds followed him. Then a
man with a skin disease came to Jesus. The man bowed down before him
and said, "Lord, you can heal me if you will."
Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man and said, "I will. Be
healed!" And immediately the man was healed from his disease.
Matthew 8:1-3
I wonder... about the man who felt Jesus' compassionate touch. He
makes one appearance, has one request, and receives one touch. But
that one touch changed his life forever....
I wonder about this man because in New Testament times leprosy was the
most dreaded disease. The condition rendered the body a mass of ulcers
and decay. Fingers would curl and gnarl. Blotches of skin would
discolor and stink. Certain types of leprosy would numb nerve endings,
leading to a loss of fingers, toes, even a whole foot or hand. Leprosy
was death by inches.
The social consequences were as severe as the physical. Considered
contagious, the leper was quarantined, banished to a leper colony.
In Scripture the leper is symbolic of the ultimate outcast: infected
by a condition he did not seek, rejected by those he knew, avoided by
people he did not know, condemned to a future he could not bear...
The touch did not heal the disease, you know. Matthew is careful to
mention that it was the pronouncement and not the touch of Christ that
cured the condition. "Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man
and said, 'I will. Be healed!' And immediately the man was healed from
his disease" (Matt. 8:3).
The infection was banished by a word from Jesus.
The loneliness, however, was treated by a touch from Jesus.
Jesus touched the untouchables of the world. by Max Lucado
FRIENDS:
Father, how holy and great is you promise to us about our requests we send upwards to you. You've been so good to us in all ways, but somehow, we find things about which to complain even though you answer our prayers in ways we never imagined and have also been given life eternal. Help us to be grateful to you and help us to see your hand in all we do. Help us to be busy about the right business---the business of serving you. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
MAY 4TH THRU MAY 8TH
Mark 10:35 - 12:12; 2 Cor 3 - 7; Psalms 98 - 102; 1 Samuel 9 -18
MAY 9
Mark 12:13-27; 2 Cor 8; Psalms 103; 1 Samuel 19-20
MAY 10
Mark 12:28-34; 2 Cor 9; Psalms 104; 1 Samuel 21-23
MAY 11
Mark 12:35-44; 2 Cor 10; Psalms 105; 1 Samuel 24-25
~2 Corinthians~
Once there was a school in a village. Atop the school was a bell which was rung every morning to call the children to class. The boys and girls arrived reluctantly and precisely at the hour. Never a minute early. The bell would ring again in the afternoon, liberating the children to their play. The children bolted out the door at the ringing of the bell. Never lingering a minute late. This is how it was with each child.
Except one.
There was a girl who came early. She helped the teacher prepare the room for the day. The same girl would stay late---cleaning the board and dusting the erasers. During class she was attentive. She sat close to the teacher, absorbing the lessons.
One day when the other children were unruly and inattentive, the teacher used the girl as an example. "Why can't you be like her? She listens. she works. She comes early. She stay late."
"It isn't fair to ask us to be like her," a boy blurted out from the rear of the room.
"Why?" asked the teacher.
The boy was uncomfortable, wishing he hadn't spoken. "She has an advantage," he shrugged.
"And what is that?"
"She is an orphan," he almost whispered as he sat down.
The boy was right. The girl had an advantage. An advantage of knowing that school, as tedious as it was, was better than the orphanage. Since she knew that, she appreciated what the others took for granted.
We, too, were orphans.
Alone.
No name. No future. No hope.
Were it not for our adoption as his children, we would have no place to belong. We sometime forget that.
The Corinthians forgot.
They had grown puffy in their achievements and divisive in their fellowship. They argued over the correct leader, the greater gifts.They rebelled against Paul's leadership.They were indifferent to sin and insensitive in worship.
Paul defends his ministry and admonishes the Christians to remember to whom they belong. " Look closely at yourselves," Paul says (13:5). Paul's words are clear. "If anyone belongs to Christ, there is a new creation. The old things have gone; everything is made new!" (5:17)
Good reminder.
Not just for them but for us as well. For if we forget, we too will be like the students who did just enough to pass the grade and never enough to show their thanks.
FOOD:
CABBAGE CASSEROLE
1 head cabbage, medium
1 1/2 lb. hamburger or turkey
Salt, pepper and garlic salt to taste
2 cans (medium) diced tomatoes with onions
1 (16 oz.) can tomato sauce
1 pkg. frozen hash browns
2 tbsp. dried onion flakes
Chop up cabbage and microwave for 10 minutes. Brown hamburger or
turkey and rinse with warm water. Mix all ingredients together and
put in large casserole dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.
FUN:
When Jesus came down from the hill, great crowds followed him. Then a
man with a skin disease came to Jesus. The man bowed down before him
and said, "Lord, you can heal me if you will."
Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man and said, "I will. Be
healed!" And immediately the man was healed from his disease.
Matthew 8:1-3
I wonder... about the man who felt Jesus' compassionate touch. He
makes one appearance, has one request, and receives one touch. But
that one touch changed his life forever....
I wonder about this man because in New Testament times leprosy was the
most dreaded disease. The condition rendered the body a mass of ulcers
and decay. Fingers would curl and gnarl. Blotches of skin would
discolor and stink. Certain types of leprosy would numb nerve endings,
leading to a loss of fingers, toes, even a whole foot or hand. Leprosy
was death by inches.
The social consequences were as severe as the physical. Considered
contagious, the leper was quarantined, banished to a leper colony.
In Scripture the leper is symbolic of the ultimate outcast: infected
by a condition he did not seek, rejected by those he knew, avoided by
people he did not know, condemned to a future he could not bear...
The touch did not heal the disease, you know. Matthew is careful to
mention that it was the pronouncement and not the touch of Christ that
cured the condition. "Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man
and said, 'I will. Be healed!' And immediately the man was healed from
his disease" (Matt. 8:3).
The infection was banished by a word from Jesus.
The loneliness, however, was treated by a touch from Jesus.
Jesus touched the untouchables of the world. by Max Lucado
FRIENDS:
Father, how holy and great is you promise to us about our requests we send upwards to you. You've been so good to us in all ways, but somehow, we find things about which to complain even though you answer our prayers in ways we never imagined and have also been given life eternal. Help us to be grateful to you and help us to see your hand in all we do. Help us to be busy about the right business---the business of serving you. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
MAY 4TH THRU MAY 8TH
Mark 10:35 - 12:12; 2 Cor 3 - 7; Psalms 98 - 102; 1 Samuel 9 -18
MAY 9
Mark 12:13-27; 2 Cor 8; Psalms 103; 1 Samuel 19-20
MAY 10
Mark 12:28-34; 2 Cor 9; Psalms 104; 1 Samuel 21-23
MAY 11
Mark 12:35-44; 2 Cor 10; Psalms 105; 1 Samuel 24-25
~2 Corinthians~
Once there was a school in a village. Atop the school was a bell which was rung every morning to call the children to class. The boys and girls arrived reluctantly and precisely at the hour. Never a minute early. The bell would ring again in the afternoon, liberating the children to their play. The children bolted out the door at the ringing of the bell. Never lingering a minute late. This is how it was with each child.
Except one.
There was a girl who came early. She helped the teacher prepare the room for the day. The same girl would stay late---cleaning the board and dusting the erasers. During class she was attentive. She sat close to the teacher, absorbing the lessons.
One day when the other children were unruly and inattentive, the teacher used the girl as an example. "Why can't you be like her? She listens. she works. She comes early. She stay late."
"It isn't fair to ask us to be like her," a boy blurted out from the rear of the room.
"Why?" asked the teacher.
The boy was uncomfortable, wishing he hadn't spoken. "She has an advantage," he shrugged.
"And what is that?"
"She is an orphan," he almost whispered as he sat down.
The boy was right. The girl had an advantage. An advantage of knowing that school, as tedious as it was, was better than the orphanage. Since she knew that, she appreciated what the others took for granted.
We, too, were orphans.
Alone.
No name. No future. No hope.
Were it not for our adoption as his children, we would have no place to belong. We sometime forget that.
The Corinthians forgot.
They had grown puffy in their achievements and divisive in their fellowship. They argued over the correct leader, the greater gifts.They rebelled against Paul's leadership.They were indifferent to sin and insensitive in worship.
Paul defends his ministry and admonishes the Christians to remember to whom they belong. " Look closely at yourselves," Paul says (13:5). Paul's words are clear. "If anyone belongs to Christ, there is a new creation. The old things have gone; everything is made new!" (5:17)
Good reminder.
Not just for them but for us as well. For if we forget, we too will be like the students who did just enough to pass the grade and never enough to show their thanks.
FOOD:
CABBAGE CASSEROLE
1 head cabbage, medium
1 1/2 lb. hamburger or turkey
Salt, pepper and garlic salt to taste
2 cans (medium) diced tomatoes with onions
1 (16 oz.) can tomato sauce
1 pkg. frozen hash browns
2 tbsp. dried onion flakes
Chop up cabbage and microwave for 10 minutes. Brown hamburger or
turkey and rinse with warm water. Mix all ingredients together and
put in large casserole dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.
FUN:
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Apologies
My apologies to all but I am on vacation and only have really bad dial up and a clunky old computer to work from. I will be in a place in a few day where I can post again. Again I apologize. I really thought I would be able to post from where I am.
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