“Everlasting consolation.”
- 2 Thessalonians 2:16
“Consolation.” There is music in the word: like David’s harp, it charms away the evil spirit of melancholy. It was a distinguished honour to Barnabas to be called “the son of consolation”; nay, it is one of the illustrious names of a greater than Barnabas, for the Lord Jesus is “the consolation of Israel.” “Everlasting consolation”-here is the cream of all, for the eternity of comfort is the crown and glory of it. What is this “everlasting consolation”? It includes a sense of pardoned sin. A Christian man has received in his heart the witness of the Spirit that his iniquities are put away like a cloud, and his transgressions like a thick cloud. If sin be pardoned, is not that an everlasting consolation? Next, the Lord gives his people an abiding sense of acceptance in Christ. The Christian knows that God looks upon him as standing in union with Jesus. Union to the risen Lord is a consolation of the most abiding order; it is, in fact, everlasting. Let sickness prostrate us, have we not seen hundreds of believers as happy in the weakness of disease as they would have been in the strength of hale and blooming health? Let death’s arrows pierce us to the heart, our comfort dies not, for have not our ears full often heard the songs of saints as they have rejoiced because the living love of God was shed abroad in their hearts in dying moments? Yes, a sense of acceptance in the Beloved is an everlasting consolation. Moreover, the Christian has a conviction of his security. God has promised to save those who trust in Christ: the Christian does trust in Christ, and he believes that God will be as good as his word, and will save him. He feels that he is safe by virtue of his being bound up with the person and work of Jesus.
Friday, August 22, 2008
The Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins
“The Son of Man hath power on earth to forgive sins.”
- Matthew 9:6
Behold one of the great Physician’s mightiest arts: he has power to forgive sin! While here he lived below, before the ransom had been paid, before the blood had been literally sprinkled on the mercy-seat, he had power to forgive sin. Hath he not power to do it now that he hath died? What power must dwell in him who to the utmost farthing has faithfully discharged the debts of his people! He has boundless power now that he has finished transgression and made an end of sin. If ye doubt it, see him rising from the dead! behold him in ascending splendour raised to the right hand of God! Hear him pleading before the eternal Father, pointing to his wounds, urging the merit of his sacred passion! What power to forgive is here! “He hath ascended on high, and received gifts for men.” “He is exalted on high to give repentance and remission of sins.” The most crimson sins are removed by the crimson of his blood. At this moment, dear reader, whatever thy sinfulness, Christ has power to pardon, power to pardon thee, and millions such as thou art. A word will speak it. He has nothing more to do to win thy pardon; all the atoning work is done. He can, in answer to thy tears, forgive thy sins today, and make thee know it. He can breathe into thy soul at this very moment a peace with God which passeth all understanding, which shall spring from perfect remission of thy manifold iniquities. Dost thou believe that? I trust thou believest it. Mayst thou experience now the power of Jesus to forgive sin! Waste no time in applying to the Physician of souls, but hasten to him with words like these:-
“Jesus! Master! hear my cry;
Save me, heal me with a word;
Fainting at thy feet I lie,
Thou my whisper’d plaint hast heard.”
- Matthew 9:6
Behold one of the great Physician’s mightiest arts: he has power to forgive sin! While here he lived below, before the ransom had been paid, before the blood had been literally sprinkled on the mercy-seat, he had power to forgive sin. Hath he not power to do it now that he hath died? What power must dwell in him who to the utmost farthing has faithfully discharged the debts of his people! He has boundless power now that he has finished transgression and made an end of sin. If ye doubt it, see him rising from the dead! behold him in ascending splendour raised to the right hand of God! Hear him pleading before the eternal Father, pointing to his wounds, urging the merit of his sacred passion! What power to forgive is here! “He hath ascended on high, and received gifts for men.” “He is exalted on high to give repentance and remission of sins.” The most crimson sins are removed by the crimson of his blood. At this moment, dear reader, whatever thy sinfulness, Christ has power to pardon, power to pardon thee, and millions such as thou art. A word will speak it. He has nothing more to do to win thy pardon; all the atoning work is done. He can, in answer to thy tears, forgive thy sins today, and make thee know it. He can breathe into thy soul at this very moment a peace with God which passeth all understanding, which shall spring from perfect remission of thy manifold iniquities. Dost thou believe that? I trust thou believest it. Mayst thou experience now the power of Jesus to forgive sin! Waste no time in applying to the Physician of souls, but hasten to him with words like these:-
“Jesus! Master! hear my cry;
Save me, heal me with a word;
Fainting at thy feet I lie,
Thou my whisper’d plaint hast heard.”
Colosssians 3: 4
“Christ, who is our life.”
- Colossians 3:4
Paul’s marvellously rich expression indicates, that Christ is the source of our life. “You hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins.” That same voice which brought Lazarus out of the tomb raised us to newness of life. He is now the substance of our spiritual life. It is by his life that we live; he is in us, the hope of glory, the spring of our actions, the central thought which moves every other thought. Christ is the sustenance of our life. What can the Christian feed upon but Jesus’ flesh and blood? “This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.” O wayworn pilgrims in this wilderness of sin, you never get a morsel to satisfy the hunger of your spirits, except ye find it in him! Christ is the solace of our life. All our true joys come from him; and in times of trouble, his presence is our consolation. There is nothing worth living for but him; and his lovingkindness is better than life! Christ is the object of our life. As speeds the ship towards the port, so hastes the believer towards the haven of his Saviour’s bosom. As flies the arrow to its goal, so flies the Christian towards the perfecting of his fellowship with Christ Jesus. As the soldier fights for his captain, and is crowned in his captain’s victory, so the believer contends for Christ, and gets his triumph out of the triumphs of his Master. “For him to live is Christ.” Christ is the exemplar of our life. Where there is the same life within, there will, there must be, to a great extent, the same developments without; and if we live in near fellowship with the Lord Jesus we shall grow like him. We shall set him before us as our Divine copy, and we shall seek to tread in his footsteps, until he shall become the crown of our life in glory. Oh! how safe, how honoured, how happy is the Christian, since Christ is our life!
- Colossians 3:4
Paul’s marvellously rich expression indicates, that Christ is the source of our life. “You hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins.” That same voice which brought Lazarus out of the tomb raised us to newness of life. He is now the substance of our spiritual life. It is by his life that we live; he is in us, the hope of glory, the spring of our actions, the central thought which moves every other thought. Christ is the sustenance of our life. What can the Christian feed upon but Jesus’ flesh and blood? “This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.” O wayworn pilgrims in this wilderness of sin, you never get a morsel to satisfy the hunger of your spirits, except ye find it in him! Christ is the solace of our life. All our true joys come from him; and in times of trouble, his presence is our consolation. There is nothing worth living for but him; and his lovingkindness is better than life! Christ is the object of our life. As speeds the ship towards the port, so hastes the believer towards the haven of his Saviour’s bosom. As flies the arrow to its goal, so flies the Christian towards the perfecting of his fellowship with Christ Jesus. As the soldier fights for his captain, and is crowned in his captain’s victory, so the believer contends for Christ, and gets his triumph out of the triumphs of his Master. “For him to live is Christ.” Christ is the exemplar of our life. Where there is the same life within, there will, there must be, to a great extent, the same developments without; and if we live in near fellowship with the Lord Jesus we shall grow like him. We shall set him before us as our Divine copy, and we shall seek to tread in his footsteps, until he shall become the crown of our life in glory. Oh! how safe, how honoured, how happy is the Christian, since Christ is our life!
Mark 16:9
“He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.”
- Mark 16:9
Mary of Magdala was the victim of a fearful evil. She was possessed by not one devil only, but seven. These dreadful inmates caused much pain and pollution to the poor frame in which they had found a lodging. Hers was a hopeless, horrible case. She could not help herself, neither could any human succour avail. But Jesus passed that way, and unsought, and probably even resisted by the poor demoniac, he uttered the word of power, and Mary of Magdala became a trophy of the healing power of Jesus. All the seven demons left her, left her never to return, forcibly ejected by the Lord of all. What a blessed deliverance! What a happy change! From delirium to delight, from despair to peace, from hell to heaven! Straightway she became a constant follower of Jesus, catching his every word, following his devious steps, sharing his toilsome life; and withal she became his generous helper, first among that band of healed and grateful women who ministered unto him of their substance. When Jesus was lifted up in crucifixion, Mary remained the sharer of his shame: we find her first beholding from afar, and then drawing near to the foot of the cross. She could not die on the cross with Jesus, but she stood as near it as she could, and when his blessed body was taken down, she watched to see how and where it was laid. She was the faithful and watchful believer, last at the sepulchre where Jesus slept, first at the grave whence he arose. Her holy fidelity made her a favoured beholder of her beloved Rabboni, who deigned to call her by her name, and to make her his messenger of good news to the trembling disciples and Peter. Thus grace found her a maniac and made her a minister, cast out devils and gave her to behold angels, delivered her from Satan, and united her for ever to the Lord Jesus. May I also be such a miracle of grace!
- Mark 16:9
Mary of Magdala was the victim of a fearful evil. She was possessed by not one devil only, but seven. These dreadful inmates caused much pain and pollution to the poor frame in which they had found a lodging. Hers was a hopeless, horrible case. She could not help herself, neither could any human succour avail. But Jesus passed that way, and unsought, and probably even resisted by the poor demoniac, he uttered the word of power, and Mary of Magdala became a trophy of the healing power of Jesus. All the seven demons left her, left her never to return, forcibly ejected by the Lord of all. What a blessed deliverance! What a happy change! From delirium to delight, from despair to peace, from hell to heaven! Straightway she became a constant follower of Jesus, catching his every word, following his devious steps, sharing his toilsome life; and withal she became his generous helper, first among that band of healed and grateful women who ministered unto him of their substance. When Jesus was lifted up in crucifixion, Mary remained the sharer of his shame: we find her first beholding from afar, and then drawing near to the foot of the cross. She could not die on the cross with Jesus, but she stood as near it as she could, and when his blessed body was taken down, she watched to see how and where it was laid. She was the faithful and watchful believer, last at the sepulchre where Jesus slept, first at the grave whence he arose. Her holy fidelity made her a favoured beholder of her beloved Rabboni, who deigned to call her by her name, and to make her his messenger of good news to the trembling disciples and Peter. Thus grace found her a maniac and made her a minister, cast out devils and gave her to behold angels, delivered her from Satan, and united her for ever to the Lord Jesus. May I also be such a miracle of grace!
Rev 21:23
“The city hath no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it.”
- Revelation 21:23
Yonder in the better world, the inhabitants are independent of all creature comforts. They have no need of raiment; their white robes never wear out, neither shall they ever be defiled. They need no medicine to heal diseases, “for the inhabitant shall not say, I am sick.” They need no sleep to recruit their frames-they rest not day nor night, but unweariedly praise him in his temple. They need no social relationship to minister comfort, and whatever happiness they may derive from association with their fellows is not essential to their bliss, for their Lord’s society is enough for their largest desires. They need no teachers there; they doubtless commune with one another concerning the things of God, but they do not require this by way of instruction; they shall all be taught of the Lord. Ours are the alms at the king’s gate, but they feast at the table itself. Here we lean upon the friendly arm, but there they lean upon their Beloved and upon him alone. Here we must have the help of our companions, but there they find all they want in Christ Jesus. Here we look to the meat which perisheth, and to the raiment which decays before the moth, but there they find everything in God. We use the bucket to fetch us water from the well, but there they drink from the fountain head, and put their lips down to the living water. Here the angels bring us blessings, but we shall want no messengers from heaven then. They shall need no Gabriels there to bring their love-notes from God, for there they shall see him face to face. Oh! what a blessed time shall that be when we shall have mounted above every second cause and shall rest upon the bare arm of God! What a glorious hour when God, and not his creatures; the Lord, and not his works, shall be our daily joy! Our souls shall then have attained the perfection of bliss.
- Revelation 21:23
Yonder in the better world, the inhabitants are independent of all creature comforts. They have no need of raiment; their white robes never wear out, neither shall they ever be defiled. They need no medicine to heal diseases, “for the inhabitant shall not say, I am sick.” They need no sleep to recruit their frames-they rest not day nor night, but unweariedly praise him in his temple. They need no social relationship to minister comfort, and whatever happiness they may derive from association with their fellows is not essential to their bliss, for their Lord’s society is enough for their largest desires. They need no teachers there; they doubtless commune with one another concerning the things of God, but they do not require this by way of instruction; they shall all be taught of the Lord. Ours are the alms at the king’s gate, but they feast at the table itself. Here we lean upon the friendly arm, but there they lean upon their Beloved and upon him alone. Here we must have the help of our companions, but there they find all they want in Christ Jesus. Here we look to the meat which perisheth, and to the raiment which decays before the moth, but there they find everything in God. We use the bucket to fetch us water from the well, but there they drink from the fountain head, and put their lips down to the living water. Here the angels bring us blessings, but we shall want no messengers from heaven then. They shall need no Gabriels there to bring their love-notes from God, for there they shall see him face to face. Oh! what a blessed time shall that be when we shall have mounted above every second cause and shall rest upon the bare arm of God! What a glorious hour when God, and not his creatures; the Lord, and not his works, shall be our daily joy! Our souls shall then have attained the perfection of bliss.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
The sweet psalmist of Israel."
Among all the saints whose lives are recorded in Holy Writ, David possesses an experience of the most striking, varied, and instructive character. In his history we meet with trials and temptations not to be discovered, as a whole, in other saints of ancient times, and hence he is all the more suggestive a type of our Lord. David knew the trials of all ranks and conditions of men. Kings have their troubles, and David wore a crown: the peasant has his cares, and David handled a shepherd's crook: the wanderer has many hardships, and David abode in the caves of Engedi: the captain has his difficulties, and David found the sons of Zeruiah too hard for him. The psalmist was also tried in his friends, his counsellor Ahithophel forsook him, "He that eateth bread with me, hath lifted up his heel against me." His worst foes were they of his own household: his children were his greatest affliction. The temptations of poverty and wealth, of honour and reproach, of health and weakness, all tried their power upon him. He had temptations from without to disturb his peace, and from within to mar his joy. David no sooner escaped from one trial than he fell into another; no sooner emerged from one season of despondency and alarm, than he was again brought into the lowest depths, and all God's waves and billows rolled over him. It is probably from this cause that David's psalms are so universally the delight of experienced Christians. Whatever our frame of mind, whether ecstasy or depression, David has exactly described our emotions. He was an able master of the human heart, because he had been tutored in the best of all schools-the school of heart-felt, personal experience. As we are instructed in the same school, as we grow matured in grace and in years, we increasingly appreciate David's psalms, and find them to be "green pastures." My soul, let David's experience cheer and counsel thee this day.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Sunday Thought
SUNDAY THOUGHT -11
Giving in Worship
When we think of 'giving' in relation to the worship, the first thing we are reminded of is the offering we give on Sundays. Well and good. In this article I would try to show few other important aspects of 'giving' in worship.
1. Giving our riches
Let us start with what we are familiar with: the offering we give in the time of worship. Almost every Sunday when the church gathers together, we collect the offering. People of God usually offer a small (or even big) amount of money. We consider that as our voluntary gift given to God from the riches he had given to us. Many of us would think it is necessary to give the one tenth of our salary or income to God. That was the instruction God gave the people of Israel in the Old Testament. Giving the first fruits or the value of the first fruits to God is another instruction God gave them. We today try to follow those same instructions in the church. It is harmless. But Jesus assessed true giving based on how much is left with you after you gave to God. Jesus evaluation of the widow who gave two mites to God proves this (Mark 12:42). In giving our riches to God, David sets before us the right approach. In 1 Chronicles 22, we read about this. David says, "all that is in heaven and earth is yours… both riches and honor come from you… all things come from you, and of your own we have given you… all this abundance .. is from your hand and is all your own" (v. 10-16). So, in giving our riches in worship, it is not how much we give that matter, rather, our attitude in giving. Paul teaches that we might give willingly, voluntarily and cheerfully and as one purposes in his/her heart (not based on any compulsion) to God (2 Corinth. 9). Giving our riches to God is anexpresssion of our willing honoring God. When it is done as part of our worship it is indeed beautiful!
2. Giving our glory.
Different vocabularies we use to express our attitude to God in Worship. Honor, magnify, ascribe majesty, praise are among them. 'Giving glory' is a usual term we use and we see used in the Psalms in worshipping God. 'Giving glory' means 'giving due weight and significance to'. This is another important aspect we need to note in worship. We do have our weight and significance in the realm of our occupations. But when we keep that our 'glory' before God in worship, which becomes a unique way to honor God. In Psalm 29:1-3 the saint tells us the same. 'Give unto the Lord the glory due to his name…' because he is the God of (means 'to whom it belongs') glory.
3. Giving our selves
In Worship, it is not that we come and praise God with His people and get back to our activities. Each worship day is a time to pay our homage to God and renew our submission to serve Him for the rest of the week. Both giving our riches and giving our glory are the result of giving our selves to God. It is important to observe that the psalms which calls God's people to worship Him, gives the call to serve him as well (eg. Psalm 100:2). The saints in Macedonia 'first gave themselves to the Lord and then to us by the will of God' Paul says in 2Cor. 8:1, 5. Giving our selves to God is the epitome act in worship. This is exactly the same idea Paul communicated when he called us to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice to God (Rom. 12:1). Giving our selves include a conscious effort to mind daily the things that are of value before God. In Jesus' words, this is what 'seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness' means. 'Setting our minds on the things that are above' is what Paul says about this (Colo.3:1-4). When we give our selves to god in worship, then we are receiving the ability to count on the authority of the Lord over our daily lives. Then, a true life of discipleship becomes possible.
Giving our riches; Giving our weight and significance; giving our selves. Worship is the time for that. When we prepare to worship God this week, may we let give these to God in honor of God and as the expression of our submissiveness to Him!
Giving in Worship
When we think of 'giving' in relation to the worship, the first thing we are reminded of is the offering we give on Sundays. Well and good. In this article I would try to show few other important aspects of 'giving' in worship.
1. Giving our riches
Let us start with what we are familiar with: the offering we give in the time of worship. Almost every Sunday when the church gathers together, we collect the offering. People of God usually offer a small (or even big) amount of money. We consider that as our voluntary gift given to God from the riches he had given to us. Many of us would think it is necessary to give the one tenth of our salary or income to God. That was the instruction God gave the people of Israel in the Old Testament. Giving the first fruits or the value of the first fruits to God is another instruction God gave them. We today try to follow those same instructions in the church. It is harmless. But Jesus assessed true giving based on how much is left with you after you gave to God. Jesus evaluation of the widow who gave two mites to God proves this (Mark 12:42). In giving our riches to God, David sets before us the right approach. In 1 Chronicles 22, we read about this. David says, "all that is in heaven and earth is yours… both riches and honor come from you… all things come from you, and of your own we have given you… all this abundance .. is from your hand and is all your own" (v. 10-16). So, in giving our riches in worship, it is not how much we give that matter, rather, our attitude in giving. Paul teaches that we might give willingly, voluntarily and cheerfully and as one purposes in his/her heart (not based on any compulsion) to God (2 Corinth. 9). Giving our riches to God is anexpresssion of our willing honoring God. When it is done as part of our worship it is indeed beautiful!
2. Giving our glory.
Different vocabularies we use to express our attitude to God in Worship. Honor, magnify, ascribe majesty, praise are among them. 'Giving glory' is a usual term we use and we see used in the Psalms in worshipping God. 'Giving glory' means 'giving due weight and significance to'. This is another important aspect we need to note in worship. We do have our weight and significance in the realm of our occupations. But when we keep that our 'glory' before God in worship, which becomes a unique way to honor God. In Psalm 29:1-3 the saint tells us the same. 'Give unto the Lord the glory due to his name…' because he is the God of (means 'to whom it belongs') glory.
3. Giving our selves
In Worship, it is not that we come and praise God with His people and get back to our activities. Each worship day is a time to pay our homage to God and renew our submission to serve Him for the rest of the week. Both giving our riches and giving our glory are the result of giving our selves to God. It is important to observe that the psalms which calls God's people to worship Him, gives the call to serve him as well (eg. Psalm 100:2). The saints in Macedonia 'first gave themselves to the Lord and then to us by the will of God' Paul says in 2Cor. 8:1, 5. Giving our selves to God is the epitome act in worship. This is exactly the same idea Paul communicated when he called us to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice to God (Rom. 12:1). Giving our selves include a conscious effort to mind daily the things that are of value before God. In Jesus' words, this is what 'seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness' means. 'Setting our minds on the things that are above' is what Paul says about this (Colo.3:1-4). When we give our selves to god in worship, then we are receiving the ability to count on the authority of the Lord over our daily lives. Then, a true life of discipleship becomes possible.
Giving our riches; Giving our weight and significance; giving our selves. Worship is the time for that. When we prepare to worship God this week, may we let give these to God in honor of God and as the expression of our submissiveness to Him!
Yours in The gloriuos ministry of God
Joji George Abraham
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
"Call on Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall honor and glorify Me" (Psalm 50:15)
Are you facing trouble in any area of your life today? God is standing ready to deliver you. He promises in His Word that He is near to all those who call upon His name. No matter what you may be going through, have confidence knowing that God is working behind the scenes on your behalf. He promises to deliver you!
Notice that this verse tells us that our part is to honor and glorify Him. You don't have to wait until everything is perfect to give Him praise. You can give Him honor and glory right now. You can thank Him for all He's done in your life so far, and what He will do in your future. Call on Him today and focus on having an attitude of faith and expectancy. Speak His Word and declare His promises over your life, knowing that He promises to deliver you. Trust in Him because He will take you places you've never dreamed. As you praise Him, He'll take you higher and higher into the life of victory He has in store for you!
Are you facing trouble in any area of your life today? God is standing ready to deliver you. He promises in His Word that He is near to all those who call upon His name. No matter what you may be going through, have confidence knowing that God is working behind the scenes on your behalf. He promises to deliver you!
Notice that this verse tells us that our part is to honor and glorify Him. You don't have to wait until everything is perfect to give Him praise. You can give Him honor and glory right now. You can thank Him for all He's done in your life so far, and what He will do in your future. Call on Him today and focus on having an attitude of faith and expectancy. Speak His Word and declare His promises over your life, knowing that He promises to deliver you. Trust in Him because He will take you places you've never dreamed. As you praise Him, He'll take you higher and higher into the life of victory He has in store for you!
We need to learn to praise the Lord as much for a closed door as we do an open door. The reason God closes doors is because He has not prepared anything over there for us. If he didn't close the wrong door, we would never find the right door.
God directs our path through the closing and opening of doors. Once a door closes, it forces you to change your course. Another door closes, it forces you to change your course again. Then, finally, you find the open door and you walk right into your blessing.
The Lord directs our paths through the opening and closing of doors, but instead of praising him for the closed door (which keeps us out of trouble); we get upset because we "judge by the appearances."
You have an ever-present help in the time of trouble that is always standing guard. Because He walks ahead of you, He can spot trouble down the road and set up a roadblock or detour accordingly. But through our lack of wisdom, we try to tear down the roadblocks or push aside the detour sign. Then the minute we get into trouble, we start crying, "Lord, how could You have done this to me?"
We have got to realize that the closed door can be a blessing. Didn't He say that no good thing would He withhold from them that love Him?
If you get terminated from your job, praise God for the new opportunities that will manifest themselves: it might be another job, it might be school.
If that man or woman won't return your call, it might not be them, it might be the Lord setting up a roadblock (just let it go).
We can sometimes trap ourselves in doubt and discouragement through judging by appearances. Be grateful for the many times our Father has closed doors to us just to open them in the most unexpected places.
The Lord won't always say in spoken words: "Go to the left, now to the right" ...sometimes He will just close the doors that are wrong for you.
God Bless You Always !
God directs our path through the closing and opening of doors. Once a door closes, it forces you to change your course. Another door closes, it forces you to change your course again. Then, finally, you find the open door and you walk right into your blessing.
The Lord directs our paths through the opening and closing of doors, but instead of praising him for the closed door (which keeps us out of trouble); we get upset because we "judge by the appearances."
You have an ever-present help in the time of trouble that is always standing guard. Because He walks ahead of you, He can spot trouble down the road and set up a roadblock or detour accordingly. But through our lack of wisdom, we try to tear down the roadblocks or push aside the detour sign. Then the minute we get into trouble, we start crying, "Lord, how could You have done this to me?"
We have got to realize that the closed door can be a blessing. Didn't He say that no good thing would He withhold from them that love Him?
If you get terminated from your job, praise God for the new opportunities that will manifest themselves: it might be another job, it might be school.
If that man or woman won't return your call, it might not be them, it might be the Lord setting up a roadblock (just let it go).
We can sometimes trap ourselves in doubt and discouragement through judging by appearances. Be grateful for the many times our Father has closed doors to us just to open them in the most unexpected places.
The Lord won't always say in spoken words: "Go to the left, now to the right" ...sometimes He will just close the doors that are wrong for you.
God Bless You Always !
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
The bow shall be seen in the cloud."
The rainbow, the symbol of the covenant with Noah, is typical of our Lord Jesus, who is the Lord's witness to the people. When may we expect to see the token of the covenant? The rainbow is only to be seen painted upon a cloud. When the sinner's conscience is dark with clouds, when he remembers his past sin, and mourneth and lamenteth before God, Jesus Christ is revealed to him as the covenant Rainbow, displaying all the glorious hues of the divine character and betokening peace. To the believer, when his trials and temptations surround him, it is sweet to behold the person of our Lord Jesus Christ-to see him bleeding, living, rising, and pleading for us. God's rainbow is hung over the cloud of our sins, our sorrows, and our woes, to prophesy deliverance. Nor does a cloud alone give a rainbow, there must be the crystal drops to reflect the light of the sun. So, our sorrows must not only threaten, but they must really fall upon us. There had been no Christ for us if the vengeance of God had been merely a threatening cloud: punishment must fall in terrible drops upon the Surety. Until there is a real anguish in the sinner's conscience, there is no Christ for him; until the chastisement which he feels becomes grievous, he cannot see Jesus. But there must also be a sun; for clouds and drops of rain make not rainbows unless the sun shineth. Beloved, our God, who is as the sun to us, always shines, but we do not always see him-clouds hide his face; but no matter what drops may be falling, or what clouds may be threatening, if he does but shine there will be a rainbow at once. It is said that when we see the rainbow the shower is over. Certain it is, that when Christ comes, our troubles remove; when we behold Jesus, our sins vanish, and our doubts and fears subside. When Jesus walks the waters of the sea, how profound the calm!
The Biggest Mathematical Miracle in the World!
The Biggest Mathematical Miracle in the World!
Moses and the people were in the desert, but what was he going to do with them?They had to be fed, and feeding 2 or 3 million people requires a lot of food. According to the Quartermaster General in the Army, it is reported that Moses would have to have had 1500 tons of food each day. Do you know that to bring that much food each day, two freight trains, each at least a mile long, would be required!
Besides you must remember, they were out in the desert, so they would have to have firewood to use in cooking the food. This would take 4000 tons of wood and a few more freight trains, each a mile long, just for one day. And just think, they were forty years in transit.
And Oh yes! They would have to have water. If they only had enough to drink and wash a few dishes, it would take 11,000,000 gallons each day and a freight train with tank cars, 1800 miles long, just to bring water!
And then another thing! They had to get across the Red Sea at night. Now, if they went on a narrow path, double file, the line would be 800 miles long and would require 35 days and nights to get through. So there had to be a space in the Red Sea , 3 miles wide so that they could walk 5000 abreast to get over in one night.
But then, there is another problem... each time they camped at the end of the day, a campground two-thirds the size of the state of Rhode Island was required, or a total of 750 square miles long... think of it! This much space for camping.
Do you think Moses figured all this out before he left Egypt ?
I think not! You see, Moses believed in God. God took care of these things for him..
Now do you think God has any problem taking care of all your needs?
His love is always with you, His promises are true, And when we give Him all our cares, You know He will see us through.
Our God is an Awesome God!!
A true story mainly for professionals
A true story mainly for professionals
A man came home from work late, tired and irritated, to find his
5-year old son waiting for him at the door.
SON: 'Daddy, may I ask you a question?'
DAD: 'Yeah sure, what is it?' replied the man.
SON: 'Daddy, how much do you make an hour?'
DAD: 'That's none of your business. Why do you ask such a thing?'
the man said angrily.
SON: 'I just want to know. Please tell me, how much do you make an
hour?'
DAD: 'If you must know, I make Rs.100 an hour.'
SON: 'Oh,' the little boy replied, with his head down.
SON: 'Daddy, may I please borrow Rs.50?'
The father was furious, 'If the only reason you asked that is so you
can borrow some money to buy a silly toy or some other nonsense, then
you march yourself straight to your room and go to bed. Think about
why you are being so selfish. I work hard everyday for such this
childish behavior.'
The little boy quietly went to his room and shut the door.
The man sat down and started to get even angrier about the little
boy's questions. How dare he ask such questions only to get some
money?
After about an hour or so, the man had calmed down and started to
think: Maybe there was something he really needed to buy with that
Rs.50 and he really didn't ask for money very often. The man went to
the door of the little boy's room and opened the door.
'Are you asleep, son?' He asked.
'No daddy, I'm awake,' replied the boy.
'I've been thinking, maybe I was too hard on you earlier' said the
man.
'It's been a long day and I took out my aggravation on you. Here's the
Rs.50 you asked for.'
The little boy sat straight up, smiling. 'Oh, thank you daddy!' He
yelled.
Then, reaching under his pillow he pulled out some crumpled up bills.
The man saw that the boy already had money, started to get angry
again. The little boy slowly counted out his money, and then looked up
at his father.
'Why do you want more money if you already have some?' the father
grumbled.
'Because I didn't have enough, but now I do,' the little boy replied.
' Daddy, I have Rs. 100 now. Can I buy an hour of your time?
Please come home early tomorrow I would like to have dinner with you'
The father was crushed. He put his arms around his little son, and he
begged for his forgiveness.
It's just a short reminder to all of you working so hard in life. We
should not let time slip through our fingers without having spent some
time with those who really matter to us, those close to our hearts.
Do remember to share that Rs.100 worth of your time with someone you
love.
If we die tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily
replace us in a matter of days.
But the family & friends we leave behind will feel the loss for the
rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more
into work than to our family.
Value Relationships!!!!!!
Someone is waiting for you.
I KNOW
I KNOW
I know He is the beginning, so why do I worry about the end.
I know He is the creator, so why do I wonder who will destroy.
I know He has forgiven me, so why can't I forgive myself.
I know He is a healer, so why do I speak of sickness.
I know He can do all things, so why do I say I can't.
I know He will protect me, so why do I fear.
I know He will supply all my needs, so why can't I wait.
I know He is my strength and my salvation, so why do I feel weak.
I know that everything and everyone has a season, so why when someone's
season is over do I weep instead of rejoice.
I know He is the right way, so why do I go the wrong way.
I know He is the light, so why do I choose to walk in darkness.
I know that whatever I ask of GOD, GOD will give me, so why am I
scared to ask.
I know tomorrow is not promised, so why do I put off for tomorrow
what I can do today.
I know that the truth shall make me free, so why do I continue to lie.
I know He gives us revelation knowledge and understanding, so why do
I lean on my own understanding.
I know I should live in the spirit as well as walk in the spirit, so
why do I choose to live in the spirit but walk in the flesh.
I know that when praises go up blessings come down, so why do I
refuse to praise Him.
I know I am saved, so why do I refuse the word He has given me.
I know He has a plan for me, so why am I rushing it because I am
eager to do His will, when it is His time not my time.
-- Author Unknown
Sunday, August 10, 2008
A little girl stood near a small church from which she had been turned away because it was "too crowded."
"I can't go to Sunday School," she sobbed to the pastor as he walked by.
Seeing her shabby, unkempt appearance, the pastor guessed the reason and, taking her by the hand, took her inside and found a place for her in the Sunday school class. The child was so happy that they found room for her, and she went to bed that night thinking of the children who have no place to worship Jesus.
Some two years later, this child lay dead in one of the poor tenement buildings. Her parents called for the kindhearted pastor who had befriended their daughter to handle the final arrangements.
As her poor little body was being moved, a worn and crumpled red purse was found which seemed to have been rummaged from some trash dump.
Inside was found 57 cents and a note, scribbled in childish handwriting, which read: "This is to help build the little church bigger so more children can go to Sunday School."
For two years she had saved for this offering of love.
When the pastor tearfully read that note, he knew instantly what he would do. Carrying this note and the cracked, red pocketbook to the pulpit, he told the story of her unselfish love and devotion.
He challenged his deacons to get busy and raise enough money for the larger building.
But the story does not end there...
A newspaper learned of the story and published It. It was read by a wealthy realtor who offered them a parcel of land worth many thousands.
When told that the church could not pay so much, he offered to sell it to the little church for 57 cents.
Church members made large donations. Checks came from far and wide.
Within five years the little girl's gift had increased to $250,000.00- -a huge sum for that time (near the turn of the century). Her unselfish love had paid large dividends.
When you are in the city of Philadelphia , look up Temple Baptist Church , with a seating capacity of 3,300. And be sure to visit Temple University, where thousands of students are educated.
Have a look, too, at the Good Samaritan Hospital and at a Sunday School building which houses hundreds of beautiful children, built so that no child in the area will ever need to be left outside during Sunday school time.
In one of the rooms of this building may be seen the picture of the sweet face of the little girl whose 57 cents, so sacrificially saved, made such remarkable history. Alongside of it is a portrait of her kind pastor, Dr. Russell H. Conwell, author of the book, "Acres of Diamonds".
This is a true story, which goes to show WHAT GOD CAN DO WITH 57 CENTS.
May today there be peace within.
May you trust your highest power that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content knowing you are a child of God.
Let this presence settle into our bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing and dance. It is there for each and every one of you.
WHEN A LIZARD CAN, WHY CAN'T WE
WHEN A LIZARD CAN, WHY CAN'T WE?
This is a true story that happened in Japan.
In order to renovate the house,
someone in Japan breaks open the wall.
Japanese houses normally have a hollow space between the wooden walls.
When tearing down the walls, he found that there was a lizard stuck there
because a nail from outside hammered into one of its feet.
He sees this, feels pity, and at the same time curious, as when he checked the nail,
it was nailed 10 years ago when the house was first built.
What happened?
The lizard has survived in such position for 10 years!!!!!!!!!!
In a dark wall partition for 10 years without moving, it is impossible and mind-boggling.
Then he wondered how this lizard survived for 10 years!!! Without moving a single step--since its foot was
nailed!
So he stopped his work and observed the lizard, what it has been doing, and what and how it has been eating.
Later, not knowing from where it came appears another lizard, with food in its mouth.
Ah! He was stunned and touched deeply.
For the lizard
That was stuck by nail, another lizard has been feeding it for the past 10 years...
Imagine? it has been doing that untiringly for 10 long years, without giving up hope on its partner.
Think, will u do that to your partner?
Think that will you do it to your Mom,
Who brought you after a big struggle of nine long months?
Or at least to your Dad, Friends, Co-workers, brothers and Sisters?
Imagine what a small creature can do that a creature blessed with a brilliant mind can't.
As information and communication technology advances,
our access to information becomes faster and faster.
But the
Distance between human beings . . . is it getting closer as well?
Please never abandon your loved ones
Never Say U R Busy When They Really Need You ..
You May Have The Entire World At Your Feet.....
But You Might Be The Only World To Them....
A Moment of negligence might break the very heart which loves you thru all odds..
Before you say something just remember.It takes a moment to Break but an entire life to make...
To Live Use Heart and to Survive use Brains.
Then Life would be a paradise Unfurling only Love Joy and
Happiness.....
Spread this message to everyone you Love and Help them Live life and not
Merely Survive...
WHEN A LIZARD CAN, WHY CAN'T WE?
This is a true story that happened in Japan.
In order to renovate the house,
someone in Japan breaks open the wall.
Japanese houses normally have a hollow space between the wooden walls.
When tearing down the walls, he found that there was a lizard stuck there
because a nail from outside hammered into one of its feet.
He sees this, feels pity, and at the same time curious, as when he checked the nail,
it was nailed 10 years ago when the house was first built.
What happened?
The lizard has survived in such position for 10 years!!!!!!!!!!
In a dark wall partition for 10 years without moving, it is impossible and mind-boggling.
Then he wondered how this lizard survived for 10 years!!! Without moving a single step--since its foot was
nailed!
So he stopped his work and observed the lizard, what it has been doing, and what and how it has been eating.
Later, not knowing from where it came appears another lizard, with food in its mouth.
Ah! He was stunned and touched deeply.
For the lizard
That was stuck by nail, another lizard has been feeding it for the past 10 years...
Imagine? it has been doing that untiringly for 10 long years, without giving up hope on its partner.
Think, will u do that to your partner?
Think that will you do it to your Mom,
Who brought you after a big struggle of nine long months?
Or at least to your Dad, Friends, Co-workers, brothers and Sisters?
Imagine what a small creature can do that a creature blessed with a brilliant mind can't.
As information and communication technology advances,
our access to information becomes faster and faster.
But the
Distance between human beings . . . is it getting closer as well?
Please never abandon your loved ones
Never Say U R Busy When They Really Need You ..
You May Have The Entire World At Your Feet.....
But You Might Be The Only World To Them....
A Moment of negligence might break the very heart which loves you thru all odds..
Before you say something just remember.It takes a moment to Break but an entire life to make...
To Live Use Heart and to Survive use Brains.
Then Life would be a paradise Unfurling only Love Joy and
Happiness.....
Spread this message to everyone you Love and Help them Live life and not
Merely Survive...
Saturday, August 9, 2008
SUNDAY THOUGHT -10 from dear Jogy Bro
UNITY IN WORSHIP
Text: Psalm 133
Though we can worship God individually, most often, community worship has given significance in the Bible. The angels in heaven worship God as a community. During the days of Enosh people (plural) started worshipping (call on the name of) Jehovah. The people of Israel were delivered from Egypt to be a worshipping community of Yahweh. In Israel, the worship pattern was focused on community worship. The Church is intended to be a worshipping community. In John's vision of the heavenly worship, he sees worship of the redeemed community. So, one significant fact about worship is that it is collective and to be done in community.
One of the marks of the worshipping community is unity. David was observing the people of Israel ascending to the Mount Zion to come into God's presence to worship. He heard the songs they sing as they climb the road to Zion; the joy they had when they are together in the city. Then he said, "Behold, How pleasant and how good it is that brethren dwell together in unity" (Ps. 133:1). Worship, then, is beautiful when there is unity within the people of God. In contrast to this, worship is not perfect when no unity or disunity exist within the community.
Satan's rebellion caused disunity among the worshipping community in heaven! God dealt with the problem by expelling Satan from His presence. Disunity over an issue of worship resulted in Cain killing Abel. Very often sin led to disunity among the people and paused disturbance among the worshipping community in Israel.
So, unity within the community is important in the worship of the community. Two areas where unity becomes crucial in order for us to offer acceptable worship today are the following.
1. Unity in Doctrine.
'Doctrine' refers to the teaching of the Scripture and thereby of the Church. So unity in doctrine means agreement on the whole of what the Bible teaches. This I would say is an essential matter in offering acceptable worship before God. Churches today differ each other in their teachings which are developed from the same Scripture. Some churches find it difficult to accept certain teachings of other churches. In such scenario, coming together to worship, forgetting the doctrinal differences becomes painful. 'I love Jesus, you love Jesus, let's worship together' approach is not workable often. The N.T. churches had same doctrines. But the 21st c. churches do have a variety of doctrines, unfortunately. Our approach today is like the saying, 'birds of the same feather go together.' Churches or communities who hold particular teachings find it easy to worship together and fellowship together. This has become an 'unavoidable paradox' in Christianity. As an excuse we think like the Samaritan woman said, "When the Messiah comes, he will tell us all things!" (Jn.4:25).We expect the Lord to settle all these differences. Communities coming together for worship, having distorted teaching of the Scripture, would not be a pleasing thing to God, I suppose. So, a genuine attempt to identify the essential teachings of the Bible to uphold them should be seen in our churches today in order to have doctrinal unity and thus to offer acceptable worship before God. If there would be agreement on all the essential teachings of the Bible between churches, what a difference would have been evident in the worship of the church!?
2. Unity in Relationship
A strained relationship, weather it is between members of the same family or the family of the church, is a hindrance for true worship. As David exclaimed, it is really good and pleasant before man and before God when people of God come together having unity in relationship. When we worship God having unity in relationship, I am sure God would joyfully accept our worship. Unity in relationship includes unity of heart and spirit. When Moses asked the people to give for and participate in the construction of the tabernacle, in unity of heart and mind they did so. And God was pleased in it and He blessed them (Ex.39:43). So also, for the construction of the temple, during the days of Solomon. Where there is unity in relationship as David says rightly, 'there the LORD commanded the blessing-life forevermore'.(Ps. 133:3). This unity in relationship might be necessary between husbands and wives or parents and children or between in-laws; it might be necessary between church members. Do we have unity in relationship with the people of our community as we prepare to worship God this week? Let's also remember Jesus' words in Matt. 5:23,24.
Yours in The gloriuos ministry of God
Joji George Abraham
“I smote you with blasting and with mildew and with hail in all the labours of your hands.”
"I smote you with blasting and with mildew and with hail in all the labours of your hands."
How destructive is the hail to the standing crops, beating out the precious grain upon the ground! How grateful ought we to be when the corn is spared so terrible a ruin! Let us offer unto the Lord thanksgiving. Even more to be dreaded are those mysterious destroyers-smut, bunt, rust, and mildew. These turn the ear into a mass of soot, or render it putrid, or dry up the grain, and all in a manner so beyond all human control that the farmer is compelled to cry, "This is the finger of God." Innumerable minute fungi cause the mischief, and were it not for the goodness of God, the rider on the black horse would soon scatter famine over the land. Infinite mercy spares the food of men, but in view of the active agents which are ready to destroy the harvest, right wisely are we taught to pray, "Give us this day our daily bread." The curse is abroad; we have constant need of the blessing. When blight and mildew come they are chastisements from heaven, and men must learn to hear the rod, and him that hath appointed it.
Spiritually, mildew is no uncommon evil. When our work is most promising this blight appears. We hoped for many conversions, and lo! a general apathy, an abounding worldliness, or a cruel hardness of heart! There may be no open sin in those for whom we are labouring, but there is a deficiency of sincerity and decision sadly disappointing our desires. We learn from this our dependence upon the Lord, and the need of prayer that no blight may fall upon our work. Spiritual pride or sloth will soon bring upon us the dreadful evil, and only the Lord of the harvest can remove it. Mildew may even attack our own hearts, and shrivel our prayers and religious exercises. May it please the great Husbandman to avert so serious a calamity. Shine, blessed Sun of Righteousness, and drive the blights away.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Then at the right time and place He created you. Christianity is not just a religion;True Christians experience a
deep personal relationship with the Creator God of the universe.
All other religions of the world have one thing in common they are attempting to reach God by their own efforts and traditions.
Only the God of the Bible reaches out to people in love. He has provided
a way for you to be united with Him.
The way is through His Son,
Jesus Christ. Jesus says to you, "I am the way, the truth, and the life.
No one comes to the Father except through Me."(John 14:6)
Jesus the Christ is the only true path for unity with God.
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by
which we must be saved.(Acts 4:12)
The gospel message recorded in the Holy Bible is that
Jesus Christ came down from heaven to rescue people and restore
their relationship to God.
Jesus was born from a virgin woman and He
lived in a human body.
Jesus lived a perfect life without sin.
When Jesus died a painful death on a cross He did not deserve it.He did
not die for Himself,He died for you.
Jesus paid the penalty for sin
so that whoever enters into Him will have their sins covered by His
blood. Jesus rose from the dead and later ascended back into heaven.
Over 2 billion people on earth call themselves Christian,which
means to be a follower of Christ. Jesus Christ continues to have a
far greater impact upon individuals and the world than any one else
who has ever lived.
The Bible continues to be the best selling book of all time.
There are millions of witnesses who testify to having a
life changing encounter with Jesus.
There is a reason for these facts, the reason is because Jesus is Truth.
This is how God showed his love among us : He sent his one and only
Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love : not that we loved God,but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice.
"The Lamb is the light thereof."
Quietly contemplate the Lamb as the light of heaven. Light in Scripture is the emblem of joy. The joy of the saints in heaven is comprised in this: Jesus chose us, loved us, bought us, cleansed us, robed us, kept us, glorified us: we are here entirely through the Lord Jesus. Each one of these thoughts shall be to them like a cluster of the grapes of Eshcol. Light is also the cause of beauty. Nought of beauty is left when light is gone. Without light no radiance flashes from the sapphire, no peaceful ray proceedeth from the pearl; and thus all the beauty of the saints above comes from Jesus. As planets, they reflect the light of the Sun of Righteousness; they live as beams proceeding from the central orb. If he withdrew, they must die; if his glory were veiled, their glory must expire. Light is also the emblem of knowledge. In heaven our knowledge will be perfect, but the Lord Jesus himself will be the fountain of it. Dark providences, never understood before, will then be clearly seen, and all that puzzles us now will become plain to us in the light of the Lamb. Oh! what unfoldings there will be and what glorifying of the God of love! Light also means manifestation. Light manifests. In this world it doth not yet appear what we shall be. God's people are a hidden people, but when Christ receives his people into heaven, he will touch them with the wand of his own love, and change them into the image of his manifested glory. They were poor and wretched, but what a transformation! They were stained with sin, but one touch of his finger, and they are bright as the sun, and clear as crystal. Oh! what a manifestation! All this proceeds from the exalted Lamb. Whatever there may be of effulgent splendour, Jesus shall be the centre and soul of it all. Oh! to be present and to see him in his own light, the King of kings, and Lord of lords!
Monday, August 4, 2008
God is very just & very merciful & loving. He deals with His children in such love and such long-suffering and such patience, but nevertheless firmly and sometimes drastically if we need it. He is a loving God, but He's also a very good Father, and He knows how to give us chastisement for our mistakes. He sometimes has to give us a whack with the Shepherds rod to keep us on the right path or to turn us off the wrong path.
Although God's spankings are sometimes hard to take they're a token of His Love, His "intolerable compliment" and are good for us if we learn our lesson thereby and brought into happiness with Him and each other. He often has to spank us to gust us to really yield to humble us and make us more obedient, more contrite and more submitted to His Will.
Therefore, forget not "the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the Chastening of the Lord, nor lose heart when thou are rebuked of Him, for whom the Lord loveth he disciplines and correcteth every son whom He receiveth." (Heb.12:5,6) -- God's spankings are proof He loves you! So thank the Lord for His chastening rod which we have all felt if we're sons. It's such a compliment to know that we're His children!
"Look back and thank God.
Look forward and trust God.
Look around and serve God.
Look within and find God!"
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