Whilst praying about the worship etc on Sunday morning, the Lord put a couple of verses on my heart, so I just thought I'd share them here - in particular, verse 3 - He has given us a spirit of PRAISE, instead of a spirit of despair!!
Isaiah 61:1-3
1 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good tidings to the afflicted; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison doors to those who are bound; 2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favour, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; 3 to grant to those who mourn in Zion - to give them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a spirit of heaviness; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.
It also reminded me of this song:
He’s given me a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair;
He’s given me a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
A crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning;
My soul rejoices as I delight myself in God.
He’s given me a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair;
Read Isaiah 61....read it out loud - and put your name in the gaps:
The Spirit of the Lord is upon [YOU]...........
Monday, February 28, 2005
"Footprints" - the original version.....
One night a man had a dream.......
He dreamed he was walking along the beach with the Lord. Across the sky flashed scenes from his life. For each scene he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand; one belonged to him, and the other to the Lord.
When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he looked back at the footprints in the sand. He noticed that many times along the path of his life there was only one set of footprints. He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life.
This really bothered him and he questioned the Lord about it. "Lord, you said that once I decided to follow You, You'd walk with me all the way. But I have noticed that at the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why, when I needed You most, You would leave me."
The Lord replied "My precious, precious child, I love you and would never leave you. During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you."
Friday, February 25, 2005
A New Twist on "Footprints"
Imagine you and the Lord Jesus are walking down the road together. For much of the way, the Lord's footprints go along steadily, consistently, rarely varying the pace. But your footprints are a disorganised stream of zigzags, starts, stops, turnarounds, circles, departures and returns. For much of the way, it seems to go like this, but gradually your footprints come more in line with the Lord's, soon paralleling His consistently. You and Jesus are walking as true friends!
This seems perfect, but then an interesting thing happens: your footprints, that once etched the sand next to Jesus', are now walking precisely in His steps. Inside His larger footprints are your smaller ones, you and Jesus are becoming one. This goes on for many miles, but gradually you notice another change. The footprints inside the large footprints seem to grow larger. Eventually they disappear altogether. There is only one set of footprints; they have become one. This goes on for a long time, but suddenly the second set of footprints is back.
This time it seems even worse! Zigzags all over the place. Stops. Starts. Deep gashes in the sand. A veritable mess of prints. You are amazed and shocked. Your dream ends. Now you pray: "Lord, I understand the first scene with zigzags and fits. I was a new Christian; I was just learning. But you walked on through the storm and helped me learn to walk with You."
"That is correct."
"... and when the smaller footprints were inside of Yours, I was actually learning to walk in Your steps; followed You very closely."
"Very good. You have understood everything so far."
"... when the smaller footprints grew and filled in Yours, I suppose that I was becoming like You in every way."
"Precisely."
"So, Lord, was there a regression or something? The footprints separated, and this time it was worse than at first."
There is a pause as the Lord answers with a smile in His voice. "You didn't know? That was when we danced."
This seems perfect, but then an interesting thing happens: your footprints, that once etched the sand next to Jesus', are now walking precisely in His steps. Inside His larger footprints are your smaller ones, you and Jesus are becoming one. This goes on for many miles, but gradually you notice another change. The footprints inside the large footprints seem to grow larger. Eventually they disappear altogether. There is only one set of footprints; they have become one. This goes on for a long time, but suddenly the second set of footprints is back.
This time it seems even worse! Zigzags all over the place. Stops. Starts. Deep gashes in the sand. A veritable mess of prints. You are amazed and shocked. Your dream ends. Now you pray: "Lord, I understand the first scene with zigzags and fits. I was a new Christian; I was just learning. But you walked on through the storm and helped me learn to walk with You."
"That is correct."
"... and when the smaller footprints were inside of Yours, I was actually learning to walk in Your steps; followed You very closely."
"Very good. You have understood everything so far."
"... when the smaller footprints grew and filled in Yours, I suppose that I was becoming like You in every way."
"Precisely."
"So, Lord, was there a regression or something? The footprints separated, and this time it was worse than at first."
There is a pause as the Lord answers with a smile in His voice. "You didn't know? That was when we danced."
Evidence...
If you were put on trial for being a Christian - would there be enough evidence to convict you?
Say 'Amen' or 'Ouch'!
Say 'Amen' or 'Ouch'!
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Snowflakes...
As I watched the snow yesterday, I was thinking about how each snowflake is unique (quite profound for a blonde, I know). Amazing, when you think that several million fell, just as I was watching out of the window...and EACH one was different (don't worry - I didn't go and check them all)!
Apparently, not only is each snowflake unique, but if you melt it, and freeze it again, it will return to its original form! (Ask J John - he had a 'snowflake expert' in one of his meetings once!)
If God has put this much detail into snowflakes, how much MORE has He put into our lives?! Mmmmm, just a thought.....
Darlene Zschech @ Hillsong, London
Monday, February 21, 2005
Sunday, February 20, 2005
The importance of training....
In a couple of weeks' time, I'm going skiing (work trip) - and I know that between now and then, I will have to put in a lot of training (as I am very unfit at the moment)!! I know that if I don't put in the preparation beforehand, I'll pay for it when I'm there, and I won't do the best that I can do (which incidently, isn't that great!).
I was thinking about this, and also thinking about Meg (our dog). When we got Meg, she was only a few weeks old, and in need of some training (as all puppies are!). So, at the moment, she goes to 'dog training classes' once a week, where she is being trained!
I look back at some areas of my life, and realise the importance of the training (even though it's not always enjoyable! - and I'm being honest!). Even when perhaps, I wasn't aware that it was going on....situations I've had to deal with, challenges that have come across my path, just 'life' really.....it's all 'preparation' for our future days.
It's quite surreal sometimes - leading worship at Elim. You see, the preparation took time (and don't get me wrong - it's an on-going process, and certainly hasn't finished yet!).... When I was a young teenager, the whole of my youth group used to visit Elim at Easter, and for special events etc. I remember even now, where we all used to sit, who I was with etc.... Did I ever think as a visiting 14 year old, that one day I'd end up in that church - and lead worship too? No, of course not!
Did God think so? Of course.....
Has He got plans for your life that are going to surprise you? Of course.....
What I do remember though (as a teenager), are the times in my previous church, when the worship leader, or keyboard player would be away, and I'd have to do a 'few more songs than usual' - and I remember thinking, what happens if I put a couple of songs together...put this one, with that one, and then let them flow etc....
A teenager experimenting, or God starting the training?
We're all in the training process - and I believe (as I heard preached yesterday) - that while we've still got breath in us - God has a purpose for our lives!! However young or old we may be! Today's training, is preparation for tomorrow....
I was thinking about this, and also thinking about Meg (our dog). When we got Meg, she was only a few weeks old, and in need of some training (as all puppies are!). So, at the moment, she goes to 'dog training classes' once a week, where she is being trained!
I look back at some areas of my life, and realise the importance of the training (even though it's not always enjoyable! - and I'm being honest!). Even when perhaps, I wasn't aware that it was going on....situations I've had to deal with, challenges that have come across my path, just 'life' really.....it's all 'preparation' for our future days.
It's quite surreal sometimes - leading worship at Elim. You see, the preparation took time (and don't get me wrong - it's an on-going process, and certainly hasn't finished yet!).... When I was a young teenager, the whole of my youth group used to visit Elim at Easter, and for special events etc. I remember even now, where we all used to sit, who I was with etc.... Did I ever think as a visiting 14 year old, that one day I'd end up in that church - and lead worship too? No, of course not!
Did God think so? Of course.....
Has He got plans for your life that are going to surprise you? Of course.....
What I do remember though (as a teenager), are the times in my previous church, when the worship leader, or keyboard player would be away, and I'd have to do a 'few more songs than usual' - and I remember thinking, what happens if I put a couple of songs together...put this one, with that one, and then let them flow etc....
A teenager experimenting, or God starting the training?
We're all in the training process - and I believe (as I heard preached yesterday) - that while we've still got breath in us - God has a purpose for our lives!! However young or old we may be! Today's training, is preparation for tomorrow....
Learning to walk in wisdom....
On Friday I went to work, although I wasn't feeling well (the cough had developed into a full cold). At 3pm my Boss sent me home..... Thinking about it, I should have stayed at home on Friday - but I always seem to push myself too much when I'm not well, and only go home when I'm SENT home! I'm not sure why I do this, but I always have done - which is not always the best thing!
It's now Sunday night, and I'm at home, instead of at church. I realised last night, that sometimes I just have to walk in a little wisdom - even though it doesn't always come naturally! Oh, and guess what? God hasn't fallen off His Throne either!! :-)
Anyway, this afternoon, I watched a video of Suzette Hattingh preaching. One particular point from the video was realising that at the Cross, Jesus paid for our healing, as much as He paid for our salvation. There weren't two different prices which were paid - it was ONE price - for ALL. EVERYTHING was paid for, IN FULL, at the Cross - what a great thought for this week!
It's now Sunday night, and I'm at home, instead of at church. I realised last night, that sometimes I just have to walk in a little wisdom - even though it doesn't always come naturally! Oh, and guess what? God hasn't fallen off His Throne either!! :-)
Anyway, this afternoon, I watched a video of Suzette Hattingh preaching. One particular point from the video was realising that at the Cross, Jesus paid for our healing, as much as He paid for our salvation. There weren't two different prices which were paid - it was ONE price - for ALL. EVERYTHING was paid for, IN FULL, at the Cross - what a great thought for this week!
Friday, February 18, 2005
Thursday, February 17, 2005
Purpose Driven Life
Once a week, I have a Bible verse e-mailed to me, and this Monday's one was the following:
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19 (NKJV)
This made me smile, because I really believe that God knows what we need to hear and when we need to hear it! Yesterday, I went to church at lunchtime again, and the word was from Habakkuk 2:2-4. We were given this challenge: 'be bold to actually ask God for the things on your heart'. So last night, I started to do just that. It's sometimes easy to talk about things on our heart, to share them with other people.....but actually asking God? Believing that He may've put that dream or vision in our hearts in the first place - believing that He's gone before, and is going to be with us all the way - now sometimes, that's a different thing altogether.......
Yesterday was a little frustrating for me, in the sense that yet again, I seem to have a cold (although it doesn't feel like a cold). I couldn't stop coughing, and by the end of the day, my voice had dropped several tones!! So, at lunchtime, whilst trying to sing - I realised that there wasn't much voice there! I realised that actually as much as I love to worship, and sing - what's far more important is what's coming from the heart. So, frustrating as it was for me, for the last couple of songs, I just stood there, not making a sound, with my hands lifted, and gave God my heart and not my voice (which is what He wanted anyway!). Needless to say, they were the two most powerful songs of the service (for me anyhow) :-)
Two more thoughts from yesterday's service:
Habakkuk 2:4 'The righteous will live by faith'.
Flourish - don't just survive! Be renewed by God - and be filled with energy - the energy of the Spirit!
Purpose Driven Life....Oh yes, I am trying to keep up with the daily readings of the book (our whole church are reading it at the moment). I opened my book the other night, and realised that I was already up to Chapter 12. I must confess, I started reading it around Christmas time, as I know what I'm like with keeping up with things (thought I'd make a head start)! Anyway - this time I'm gonna try! I think I did 12 days before and then stopped, because it was causing me to re-focus some of my life - and think about it being more 'purpose driven'. It got a bit challenging - which is a good thing, but something which will invariably mean change.......watch this space!
Last night, I did some 'purpose driven ironing' - exciting I know - but one of those things that had to be done. This weekend I hope to tackle the rest of the ironing pile, and continue reading the book! I'll probably share a few thoughts from it, as and when there's time. That's another area I have to work on - my time. I realise that I've got very busy lately, so this week I've started to cancel a few things (a first for me), and again, re-focus priorities! I'm not quite there yet, and the diary's still quite full - but I'm working on it! I often smile when I remember something that Rod Anderson told me once 'God is not going to fall off His throne if you miss a meeting Penny' (something that my Mum reminds me of sometimes).
Anyway, a long blog post! Sorry, but I've gotta go - there's a meeting to go to tonight!! Adios, hasta manana!
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19 (NKJV)
This made me smile, because I really believe that God knows what we need to hear and when we need to hear it! Yesterday, I went to church at lunchtime again, and the word was from Habakkuk 2:2-4. We were given this challenge: 'be bold to actually ask God for the things on your heart'. So last night, I started to do just that. It's sometimes easy to talk about things on our heart, to share them with other people.....but actually asking God? Believing that He may've put that dream or vision in our hearts in the first place - believing that He's gone before, and is going to be with us all the way - now sometimes, that's a different thing altogether.......
Yesterday was a little frustrating for me, in the sense that yet again, I seem to have a cold (although it doesn't feel like a cold). I couldn't stop coughing, and by the end of the day, my voice had dropped several tones!! So, at lunchtime, whilst trying to sing - I realised that there wasn't much voice there! I realised that actually as much as I love to worship, and sing - what's far more important is what's coming from the heart. So, frustrating as it was for me, for the last couple of songs, I just stood there, not making a sound, with my hands lifted, and gave God my heart and not my voice (which is what He wanted anyway!). Needless to say, they were the two most powerful songs of the service (for me anyhow) :-)
Two more thoughts from yesterday's service:
Habakkuk 2:4 'The righteous will live by faith'.
Flourish - don't just survive! Be renewed by God - and be filled with energy - the energy of the Spirit!
Purpose Driven Life....Oh yes, I am trying to keep up with the daily readings of the book (our whole church are reading it at the moment). I opened my book the other night, and realised that I was already up to Chapter 12. I must confess, I started reading it around Christmas time, as I know what I'm like with keeping up with things (thought I'd make a head start)! Anyway - this time I'm gonna try! I think I did 12 days before and then stopped, because it was causing me to re-focus some of my life - and think about it being more 'purpose driven'. It got a bit challenging - which is a good thing, but something which will invariably mean change.......watch this space!
Last night, I did some 'purpose driven ironing' - exciting I know - but one of those things that had to be done. This weekend I hope to tackle the rest of the ironing pile, and continue reading the book! I'll probably share a few thoughts from it, as and when there's time. That's another area I have to work on - my time. I realise that I've got very busy lately, so this week I've started to cancel a few things (a first for me), and again, re-focus priorities! I'm not quite there yet, and the diary's still quite full - but I'm working on it! I often smile when I remember something that Rod Anderson told me once 'God is not going to fall off His throne if you miss a meeting Penny' (something that my Mum reminds me of sometimes).
Anyway, a long blog post! Sorry, but I've gotta go - there's a meeting to go to tonight!! Adios, hasta manana!
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
Breakthrough Faith
Unbelief sees today's miracles as suspect. People say that Bible miracles were real, but todays are spurious, or that today's tongues cannot be the same as at pentecost: God answered prayer then, but now it is coincidence. How did Jesus reply to this pessimism? "If you would believe you would see the glory of God." Rationalization is one of the biggest excuses: "Well, he was not really sick in first place" or "The medication had done its work, it was just a matter of time before the results showed up" or "She's in remission." The Bible clearly tells us that all people are 'spiritually blind' until their eyes are opened by the truth of God's word, often at that miracle moment called salvation.
"But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. For it is the God who commanded the light to shine out of the darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."
People often say "Use me, O Lord"...and then do nothing! You cannot wait to feel faith. Faith is not a feeling. You simply do what should be done when you know that you cannot suceed unless God helps you. The whole Bible is written to break down unbelief, and build up our trust in God.
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind... Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. And he was called the friend of God...forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
We talk of big believers with great faith - but some event inspired and encouraged them. They took their opportunity, changed their attitude, and believed. Faith is a leap into the light, not into the dark. Jesus never commended people - he commended their faith. Be a Believer!
Reinhard Bonnke
"But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. For it is the God who commanded the light to shine out of the darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."
People often say "Use me, O Lord"...and then do nothing! You cannot wait to feel faith. Faith is not a feeling. You simply do what should be done when you know that you cannot suceed unless God helps you. The whole Bible is written to break down unbelief, and build up our trust in God.
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind... Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. And he was called the friend of God...forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
We talk of big believers with great faith - but some event inspired and encouraged them. They took their opportunity, changed their attitude, and believed. Faith is a leap into the light, not into the dark. Jesus never commended people - he commended their faith. Be a Believer!
Reinhard Bonnke
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
You're Special!
If God had a refrigerator, YOUR picture would be on it.
If He had a wallet, YOUR photo would be in it.
He sends YOU flowers every spring, and a sunrise every morning.
YOU'RE the apple of His eye, and the delight of HIS heart.
Max Lucado
'He pays even greater attention to you, down to the last detail - even numbering the hairs on your head!'
Matthew 10:30
PS - to all fellow singletons out there....remember, we may be single, but we're never alone! (Matthew 28:20)
If He had a wallet, YOUR photo would be in it.
He sends YOU flowers every spring, and a sunrise every morning.
YOU'RE the apple of His eye, and the delight of HIS heart.
Max Lucado
'He pays even greater attention to you, down to the last detail - even numbering the hairs on your head!'
Matthew 10:30
PS - to all fellow singletons out there....remember, we may be single, but we're never alone! (Matthew 28:20)
Monday, February 14, 2005
A Letter of Love
My Child...
You may not know Me, but I know everything about you
Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up
Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways
Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered
Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in My image
Genesis 1:27
In Me you live and move and have your being
Acts 17:28
For you are My offspring
Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived
Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation
Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in My book
Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live
Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made
Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb
Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born
Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented by those who don't know Me
John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love
1 John 4:16
And it is My desire to lavish My love on you
1 John 3:1
Simply because you are My child and I am your Father
1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could
Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect Father
Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from My hand
James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs
Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope
Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love
Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore
Psalms 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing
Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you
Jeremiah 32:40
For you are My treasured possession
Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you with all My heart and all My soul
Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvellous things
Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek Me with all your heart, you will find Me
Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in Me and I will give you the desires of your heart
Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires
Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine
Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you
Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart
Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes
Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth
Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my Son, Jesus
John 17:23
For in Jesus, My love for you is revealed
John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my Being
Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you
Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins
2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled
2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression of My love for you
1 John 4:10
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love
Romans 8:31-32
If you receive the gift of My son Jesus, you receive Me
1 John 2:23
And nothing will ever separate you from My love again
Romans 8:38-39
Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen
Luke 15:7
I have always been Father, and will always be Father
Ephesians 3:14-15
My question is....Will you be My child?
John 1:12-13
I am waiting for you
Luke 15:11-32
Love, Your Dad. Almighty God
'Father's Love Letter used by permission Father Heart Communications Copyright 1999-2005 www.FathersLoveLetter.com'
You may not know Me, but I know everything about you
Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up
Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways
Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered
Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in My image
Genesis 1:27
In Me you live and move and have your being
Acts 17:28
For you are My offspring
Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived
Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation
Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in My book
Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live
Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made
Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb
Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born
Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented by those who don't know Me
John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love
1 John 4:16
And it is My desire to lavish My love on you
1 John 3:1
Simply because you are My child and I am your Father
1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could
Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect Father
Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from My hand
James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs
Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope
Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love
Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore
Psalms 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing
Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you
Jeremiah 32:40
For you are My treasured possession
Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you with all My heart and all My soul
Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvellous things
Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek Me with all your heart, you will find Me
Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in Me and I will give you the desires of your heart
Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires
Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine
Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you
Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart
Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes
Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth
Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my Son, Jesus
John 17:23
For in Jesus, My love for you is revealed
John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my Being
Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you
Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins
2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled
2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression of My love for you
1 John 4:10
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love
Romans 8:31-32
If you receive the gift of My son Jesus, you receive Me
1 John 2:23
And nothing will ever separate you from My love again
Romans 8:38-39
Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen
Luke 15:7
I have always been Father, and will always be Father
Ephesians 3:14-15
My question is....Will you be My child?
John 1:12-13
I am waiting for you
Luke 15:11-32
Love, Your Dad. Almighty God
'Father's Love Letter used by permission Father Heart Communications Copyright 1999-2005 www.FathersLoveLetter.com'
Saturday, February 12, 2005
Food for thought....
The reason a dog has so many friends is because he wags his tail instead of his tongue.
Friday, February 11, 2005
Muffins anyone?
Bizarre site of the day - a website dedicated to muffins!
Muffin Freak's gonna love this one!
Muffin Freak's gonna love this one!
For everyone who has to work with THE PUBLIC.......
Customer: "I've been ringing 0700 2300 for two days and can't get
through to enquiries, can you help?".
Operator: "Where did you get that number from, sir?".
Customer: "It was on the door to the Travel Centre".
Operator: "Sir, they are our opening hours".
Samsung Electronics
Caller: "Can you give me the telephone number for Jack?"
Operator: "I'm sorry, sir, I don't understand who you are talking
about".
Caller: "On page 1, section 5, of the user guide it clearly states that
I need to unplug the fax machine from the AC wall socket and telephone
Jack before cleaning. Now, can you give me the number for Jack?"
Operator: "I think you mean the telephone point on the wall".
RAC Motoring Services
Caller: "Does your European Breakdown Policy cover me when I am
travelling in Australia?"
Operator: "Doesn't the product give you a clue?"
Caller (enquiring about legal requirements while travelling in
France): "If I register my car in France, do I have to change the steering wheel to the other side of the car?"
Directory Enquiries
Caller: "I'd like the number of the Argoed Fish Bar in Cardiff please".
Operator: "I'm sorry, there's no listing. Is the spelling correct?"
Caller: "Well, it used to be called the Bargoed Fish Bar but the 'B'
fell off".
Then there was the caller who asked for a knitwear company in Woven.
Operator: "Woven? Are you sure?"
Caller: "Yes. That's what it says on the label; Woven in Scotland".
On another occasion, a man making heavy breathing sounds from a phone
box told a worried operator: "I haven't got a pen, so I'm steaming up
the window to write the number on".
Computer Capers
Tech Support: "I need you to right-click on the Open Desktop".
Customer: "OK".
Tech Support: "Did you get a pop-up menu?".
Customer: "No".
Tech Support: "OK. Right-Click again. Do you see a pop-up menu?"
Customer: "No".
Tech Support: "OK, sir. Can you tell me what you have done up until this
point?".
Customer: "Sure. You told me to write 'click' and I wrote 'click'".
Tech Support: "OK. In the bottom left hand side of the screen, can you
see the 'OK' button displayed?"
Customer: "Wow. How can you see my screen from there?"
Caller: "I deleted a file from my PC last week and I have just realised that I need it. If I turn my system clock back two weeks will I have my
file back again?".
through to enquiries, can you help?".
Operator: "Where did you get that number from, sir?".
Customer: "It was on the door to the Travel Centre".
Operator: "Sir, they are our opening hours".
Samsung Electronics
Caller: "Can you give me the telephone number for Jack?"
Operator: "I'm sorry, sir, I don't understand who you are talking
about".
Caller: "On page 1, section 5, of the user guide it clearly states that
I need to unplug the fax machine from the AC wall socket and telephone
Jack before cleaning. Now, can you give me the number for Jack?"
Operator: "I think you mean the telephone point on the wall".
RAC Motoring Services
Caller: "Does your European Breakdown Policy cover me when I am
travelling in Australia?"
Operator: "Doesn't the product give you a clue?"
Caller (enquiring about legal requirements while travelling in
France): "If I register my car in France, do I have to change the steering wheel to the other side of the car?"
Directory Enquiries
Caller: "I'd like the number of the Argoed Fish Bar in Cardiff please".
Operator: "I'm sorry, there's no listing. Is the spelling correct?"
Caller: "Well, it used to be called the Bargoed Fish Bar but the 'B'
fell off".
Then there was the caller who asked for a knitwear company in Woven.
Operator: "Woven? Are you sure?"
Caller: "Yes. That's what it says on the label; Woven in Scotland".
On another occasion, a man making heavy breathing sounds from a phone
box told a worried operator: "I haven't got a pen, so I'm steaming up
the window to write the number on".
Computer Capers
Tech Support: "I need you to right-click on the Open Desktop".
Customer: "OK".
Tech Support: "Did you get a pop-up menu?".
Customer: "No".
Tech Support: "OK. Right-Click again. Do you see a pop-up menu?"
Customer: "No".
Tech Support: "OK, sir. Can you tell me what you have done up until this
point?".
Customer: "Sure. You told me to write 'click' and I wrote 'click'".
Tech Support: "OK. In the bottom left hand side of the screen, can you
see the 'OK' button displayed?"
Customer: "Wow. How can you see my screen from there?"
Caller: "I deleted a file from my PC last week and I have just realised that I need it. If I turn my system clock back two weeks will I have my
file back again?".
Cyber Community
Yesterday, I read that Mike Cope's blog has had 127,688 hits in the last six months! I don't even remember how I came across his blog (he's a Minister in Abilene, Texas). Mike & Diane's son (Chris) was involved in a car accident on 16th January, and I've recently been reading his blog, and catching up with Chris's progress. It's worth a read....
Thursday, February 10, 2005
>>New Blogs>>New Blogs>>New Blogs>>
I asked for strength and God gave me difficulties to make me strong;
I asked for wisdom and God gave me problems to learn to solve;
I asked for prosperity and God gave me a brain and brawn with which to work;
I asked for courage and God gave me dangers to overcome;
I asked for love and God gave me troubled people to help;
I asked for favours and God gave me opportunities.
I received nothing I wanted and everything I needed;
My prayers have been answered.
Thanks to Caroline for e-mailing this today!
I asked for wisdom and God gave me problems to learn to solve;
I asked for prosperity and God gave me a brain and brawn with which to work;
I asked for courage and God gave me dangers to overcome;
I asked for love and God gave me troubled people to help;
I asked for favours and God gave me opportunities.
I received nothing I wanted and everything I needed;
My prayers have been answered.
Thanks to Caroline for e-mailing this today!
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
Oasis in the desert...
At lunchtime today, I took time out, and went to a 'Celebrate' service in a Church near to where I work. The Church was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666, and rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren (completed in 1690) - quite an impressive building.
As I walked in - there was such an amazing presence of God in the meeting, it was awesome! Great worship (led by Al Gordon)....a guitar, a grand piano and a cello. It's kinda strange (but nice) to go to church and stand alongside other businessmen and women, all dressed in their suits etc - and just take time out to worship God and listen to the Word, in the middle of a busy working day.
Whilst we were worshipping - I was suddenly conscious of the fact that in His presence, the pressures of the day don't seem to matter. In fact, they pale into insignificance!
The message today was from Habakkuk 2 - challenging us to 'stand in the gap' for our City and our workplace etc.
Who can you 'stand in the gap' for this week?
As I walked in - there was such an amazing presence of God in the meeting, it was awesome! Great worship (led by Al Gordon)....a guitar, a grand piano and a cello. It's kinda strange (but nice) to go to church and stand alongside other businessmen and women, all dressed in their suits etc - and just take time out to worship God and listen to the Word, in the middle of a busy working day.
Whilst we were worshipping - I was suddenly conscious of the fact that in His presence, the pressures of the day don't seem to matter. In fact, they pale into insignificance!
The message today was from Habakkuk 2 - challenging us to 'stand in the gap' for our City and our workplace etc.
Who can you 'stand in the gap' for this week?
Tuesday, February 08, 2005
Quote of the Day...
Yesterday has gone.
Tomorrow has not yet come.
We have only today.
Let us begin.
Mother Teresa
Tomorrow has not yet come.
We have only today.
Let us begin.
Mother Teresa
Monday, February 07, 2005
Carried by the wind...
It was quite amazing to watch the gliders inflate, and then be carried by the wind.....
It made me think back to somewhere I used to work, when it wasn't always easy being a Christian in the workplace...... At lunchtimes, I used to go down to the water and pray - because I always found that it helped! I remember, day after day, watching the boats put up their sails, see the sails fill with wind - and then watch them go out to sea......carried by the wind - and set on course.
If this is all naturally possible, how much more amazing is it, when we let our lives be moved and carried by the Wind of the Spirit. What places does/will it carry us to? What experiences and views are there to be taken in along the way?
Is your sail up? Is it filled? What direction are you being carried in? Is your life set on course - God's course?
Ruach ~ the Hebrew word for breath, wind or Spirit of God! ...
Oh I do like to be beside the seaside.....
Lovely picture of Eastbourne Pier (thanks Phil!). The Penster FINALLY made it down to Eastbourne, for a weekend with the 'Loose' Tribe.
Saturday, February 05, 2005
Belonging...
Last Sunday morning in Church, we sang a wonderful song. When we were singing the chorus, I was really thinking about the words, and what it actually means to say that we 'belong' to someone. Jesus really is the reason that I live, and the reason that I sing - with all I am.
It made me think of wedding vows - when a husband and wife make a commitment - 'all that I have is yours, all that I am I give to you etc etc'. It made me think how committed God is to each one of us - and how He's already given all that He has - His Son, Jesus - to be ours. No matter what our state is - whether we are rich or poor, in sickness or in health - God is and has committed to us - hallelujah! What should our response be to this?.....mine was verse two.
Into Your hands I commit again
All I am, for You Lord
You hold my world, in the palm of Your hands
And I am Yours
Forever
Jesus I believe in You
Jesus I belong to You
You’re the reason that I live
The reason that I sing
With all I am
I'll walk with You wherever You go
Through tears and joy
I'll trust in You
And I will live, in all of Your ways
And Your promises
Forever
I will worship
I will worship You
Reuben Morgan
It made me think of wedding vows - when a husband and wife make a commitment - 'all that I have is yours, all that I am I give to you etc etc'. It made me think how committed God is to each one of us - and how He's already given all that He has - His Son, Jesus - to be ours. No matter what our state is - whether we are rich or poor, in sickness or in health - God is and has committed to us - hallelujah! What should our response be to this?.....mine was verse two.
Into Your hands I commit again
All I am, for You Lord
You hold my world, in the palm of Your hands
And I am Yours
Forever
Jesus I believe in You
Jesus I belong to You
You’re the reason that I live
The reason that I sing
With all I am
I'll walk with You wherever You go
Through tears and joy
I'll trust in You
And I will live, in all of Your ways
And Your promises
Forever
I will worship
I will worship You
Reuben Morgan
Friday, February 04, 2005
Thoughtful Quotes....
"There is no pit so deep that God’s love is not deeper still"
"God will give us the love to be able to forgive our enemies."
Corrie ten Boom
"God will give us the love to be able to forgive our enemies."
Corrie ten Boom
Bouquet...
Someone once asked Corrie ten Boom how she could possibly handle all the compliments and praise that were constantly heaped upon her, without becoming proud. She said she looked at each compliment as a beautiful long-stemmed flower given to her. She smelled it for a moment and then put it into a vase with the others. Each night, just before retiring, she took the beautiful bouquet and handed it over to God saying, "Thank you, Lord, for letting me smell these flowers; they all belong to you." She had discovered the secret to genuine humility.
David Seamands
David Seamands
Thursday, February 03, 2005
More blonde jokes.....
Q: Why did the blonde try to steal a police car?
A: She saw "911" on the back and thought it was a Porsche.
Q: Why was the blonde staring at the orange juice bottle?
A: Because it said concentrate.
(Thanks to Caroline for these!)
A: She saw "911" on the back and thought it was a Porsche.
Q: Why was the blonde staring at the orange juice bottle?
A: Because it said concentrate.
(Thanks to Caroline for these!)
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
How to keep a blonde amused for hours....
.....give her(!) a piece of paper with PTO on both sides - it works every time!!
