Pray, then pray again, and again, and.....Colossians 4:2

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
    Well, I have been in my study 30 minutes praying and searching for what God wished me to study today. Then our of one of my daily Bible devotions I saw 2 Thessalonians 3:13 "As for the rest of you, dear brothers and sisters, never get tired of doing good."  Talking about becoming weary of helping others, working with homeless and needy people, and people who would not work.  Then I opened my Bible and this popped out at me: Colossians 4:2 "Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart."
     Wow!  This popped me right between the eyes.  Have you ever grown tired of praying for something or someone?  Paul says we should "devote" ourselves to prayer and be "alert" in prayer.  Our persistence in prayer is not ritualistic, but an expression of our faith that God answers our prayers.
    We pray and expect immediate answers; God does answer, but not in your time - HIS time.  God is all knowing and does know best for you.  Just like the old sitcom - Father knows best!
   When you tire of praying, don't see results, just think of these two examples.  The man who prayed for his daughter for 10 years, then saw her come to Jesus Christ and be made anew.  It was coming, God knew, but when it did happen how much sweeter it was.
         Also, the man who prayed for signs from God, and each of the 5 signs the man did not notice - the butterfly, the bird, the clear day, the food he ate, and his family.  All signs given in response to prayer but never observed by the man. Where was his focus? Obviously self focused and not on God.
   God is present; God is listening; God is answering; God never tires of our prayers. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

LORD, LORD ACTS16:31

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

   Yesterday our topic was confession - to confess our sins and believe.  At the end our topic for today was stated LORD.  Do you know what it is to call someone LORD?  The definitions of LORD by Webster:

      1: one having power and authority over others: a :             a ruler by hereditary right or preeminence to whom service and obedience are due           b : one of whom a fee or estate is held in feudal tenure             c : an owner of land or other real property        
    In each of these definitions - someone is "the boss" and someone is "the servant."  For us, in the Christian world, LORD means the master of whom we are the servant, and to follow and do His beckoning. In the word Christian, we have Christ, to be Christian means to be CHRIST LIKE!  Are you?
    To be Christ-like, we have to accept Jesus as our LORD.  We must follow Him, imiitate Him, walk in His footsteps, and become so much like Him that people will see JESUS in US.
   Jesus is the "boss" and we the servants or slaves.  He is LORD, and to be disciples, calling Jesus LORD, we must give our whole to being like Christ.
   Sitting in church Sunday morning, watch evangelist on TV Sunday morning, giving good lip service, IS NOT BEING A DISCIPLE OF CHRIST!!!
    Paul and Silas are in prison, the jailer realized his own condition and need, he risked everything to find the answer. Acts 16:31 "They replied, 'Believe in the LORD JESUS and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household."
  Step 1: recognize Jesus, accept Him, and salvation is yours.
  Step 2: recognize Jesus as LORD of your life
  Step 3: submit all to Jesus and become disciples (on the job, at play, relaxing, everywhere)
  Step 4: be humble, but revel in the fact you have eternal life
For salvation assurance go to: Romans 10:9; 1 Corinthians 12:3; Ephesians 2:8,9; Philippians 2:11.
  Stay thirsty for the living water my friend.  Don't worry, be happy with Jesus!!  Thanks for reading today. Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny

Confess sinful practices; turn to Jesus- Acts 19:18-19

Good morning all!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
     Have you ever visited a place where black magic and occult practices were common?  Where people believed in superstitions and formulas for success.  Where they believed all the little things they do would bring wealth, health, and success.  The horoscope - people look at this daily to see what kind of day they are going to have.  Huh?   How about going to your knees and talking with God about the type of day you are about to embark upon?
     Could it be attitude, mind-set, how you personally feel?  Your horoscope or Chinese fortune cookie may say something like:  today will be a good day at work and success will come your way.   If you believe that you will have a good day at work.  This deals with Ephesus, a center for practices of the dark side.
    What about - PRAYER?!?  Oh Lord, thank you for this day, I know it will be a good day and I will be able to share the Good News with others.  A little confession - confession to God!
    Acts 19:18 "Many who became believers confessed their sinful practices."  Do you dabble in horoscopes, superstitions, etc.  If so, why?  Jesus is there and He has all the power, all the miracles, everything you could imagine.  Acts 19:19 "A number of them who had been practicing sorcery brought their incantation books and burned them at a public bonfire valuing at several million dollars."                
           What is this saying?
   It is saying you must, not should, but must confess and turn from the old ways and begin life anew following the LORD Jesus Christ!   Are you??  Tomorrow we will talk about calling Jesus LORD. Love you all.
  In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Heart problems? See Jesus! Matthew 12:34-37

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   What is happening in your world today?  177 years ago Samuel Colt patented the revolver.  100 years ago, 1913, the congress passed a law establishing the income tax aka IRS taxes. \  Why did I mention these?  They have made an impact on life today, in the USA as we live.  
         What else has made an impact on our lives in the USA?  In the 1770's a group of "rebels"; a band of wayward thinking men, decided to rebel against a powerful country, England, and established the United States of America.  The USA was established as ONE NATION UNDER GOD, with religious liberties and freedom.
    Today, we are ONE NATION WITH MANY GODS, and standing up for what you believe Biblically may label you as a "hate group."  Speaking out against abortion, against homosexual marriages may get you labeled as a hate group with hate talk.  Hmmm!!
   Matthew 12:34-37 KJV "O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the  heart the mouth speaketh. A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. for by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned."
   Jesus reminds us that what we say reveals what is in our heart.  Standing firm on Biblical principles; is that what is coming from you?  Or, are you siding with the popular, the political party, your peers? 
    Where you stand is an indication of what is in your heart!!  You cannot solve your heart problem just by changing what you say. No! You must allow the Holy Spirit to fill you with new attitudes and motives, then your speech will be cleansed at its source. 
    Are you for Jesus or against?  If you are not actively following JESUS, then you have chosen to reject HIM.  Rejecting Jesus is a sentence to hell!  To refuse to follow Jesus Christ, is then, choosing to be on satan's team.  What's in your heart?  Who do you ACTIVELY follow?  Now, make the right choice.  Love you all.
    In Christ's Love and Grace
       Johnny

Are you inside or outside the fellowship? 2 Tim 2:14/ 1 /tun 6:3

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   Paul told us to offer a first and second chance, but then to turn away.  I mentioned being an enabler.  Also, Paul tells us if this person is divisive and refuses to change, then he/she must be put outside the fellowship.  So goes the saying one bad apple spoils the whole barrel.
   In 2 Timothy 2:14 "Remind everyone about these things, and command them in God's presence to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless, and they can ruin those who hear them."
   Paul urged Timothy to remind the believers not to argue over unimportant details, fighting over words, or have foolish discussions because such arguments are confusing, useless and even harmful.
   False teachers loved to cause strife and divisions by their meaningless quibbling over unimportant details. 1 Timothy 6:3 "Some people may contradict our teaching, but these are the wholesome teachings of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.  These teachings promote a godly life."
   Sound teachings of the Good News, the Bible, brings forth understanding and reduces strife.  Stay away from people who just want to argue points in the Bible, learn the teachings, learn what God wants you to do, listen and be obedient.
   Take a look at Acts 2:36-41 (click to read) and take this to heart.  The older I become, the stronger I am in the Lord.  One does not need to be old or older, one just needs the wisdom and knowledge of the Bible to become stronger in God and led by the Holy Spirit.  May your faith grow; may you move from the mothers breast to meat in the word, thus, be a strong diciple for Christ.  Love you all.
  In Christ's Love and Grace
      Johnny

Foolish arguments, an enabler? Me? Titus 3:9,10

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   So, do you feel blessed or stressed?  Yesterday I studied Titus 3:3-8.  Today, let us look at Titus 3:9,10   (click for scriptures) Paul is talking to Timothy, who is experiencing problems in his ministry.  In here Paul tells Timothy not to get involved in foolish and unprofitable argument (2 Timothy 2:14 also).  Why?  It goes back to foolish things that won't be solved, for example, is a zebra black with white stripes or white with black stripes?  Who cares - it is foolish and an unprofitable argument.  One thing Timothy experienced was circumcision; which was about being Jew or Gentile.  Does God care?
    We should always continue to study our Bible, examine and discuss difficult Bible passages, but not be engaged in petty quarrels.  When a foolish argument begins, or when "chasing rabbits", turn back to the original discussion or excuse yourself and leave the unprofitable situation.
    Also, false teachers base their ideas, perceptions, etc. on their own personal interpretation or mis-interpretation of the Bible.  This interpretation will always fit their way of thinking.  Example today, same sex marriage - all the arguments I have heard use the Bible to support their belief.  The words are twisted and manipulated to support their way of thinking or belief.  What is right?  God's word.  How do I interpret?
    First, go to a room by yourself and open up to God; not cheap lip service, but truly open your mind and heart to God.  Be still, listen for that whisper to an humble heart.  Cast your pride and predetermined ideas aside and let the HOLY SPIRIT lead. Now study.
    Paul also tells Timothy, basically, help them, warn them once, warn them a second time, then turn your back and on them as they have turned their back on the truth and their own sins will condemn them.  If you continue helping them, today we would call you an enabler.  First time shame on me, second time shame on you, and there is no third time.  How difficult is this?  Very, but it must be done. Long today, I do pray you are blessed and this will touch whomever it needs to touch. Have a wonderful and blessed day. Love you all. 
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Foolish but now wise? Why? Titus 3:3-5

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   Ever have a day when you thought what's the use; everything goes wrong so why try?  Oh, I think we all have.  Do we stop to count our blessings or just curse our "bad luck" instead?  Food for thought - is there such a thing as BAD LUCK?
   Titus 3:3 "Once we, too , were foolish and disobedient. We were misled and became slaves to many lusts and pleasures.  Our lives were full of evil and envy and we hated each other."
    Have you ever been here?  I have.  It was not fun, enjoyable, relaxing and bearly bearable. So what happened?  I trudged along this path and then realized----
    Titus 3:4,5 "But - When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he save us (me) not because of the righteous things we  (I) had done, but because of HIS mercy.  He washed away our (my) sins, giving us (me) a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit." "He generously poured out the Spirit upon us (me) through Jesus Christ our Savior. Because of his grace he declared us (me) righteous and gave us (me) confidence that we (I) will inherit eternal life."
    For me, friend, I moved from a life full of sin to one where I am led by the Holy Spirit.  I was never really "bad" but I was an SOB (Sunday Only Brother), and did not take God's work seriously, nor did I ever really consider what Jesus did for ME!!
   ALL our (my) sins are washed away and we (I) gain eternal life. WOW!  How awesome is HE! How great is it knowing you, I, we will have eternal life? Yes, I struggle with sin daily; why?  Because I am man and born in sin, BUT, all that is washed away - thank you JESUS! Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny
PS Take a morning walk of gratitude - a "Thank You Walk"
                                                   Jon Gordon

Got your buckler on? Psalm 18:30

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!

  So, what is happening in you world?  Anything new, exciting, fun, spiritual?  Do you actually realize that God's way is perfect?  In Psalm 18:30 - As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.
  Okay, let's look at this verse. (click here for 3 translations).  God - His way is perfect!  Any arguments there?  Probably our biggest frustration is it is HIS way, not our way, and we become impatient. Oh, so human!
   The word of the LORD is tried - ever hear the expression "tried and true"?  This is the word of God!  What God says happens, it is truth, and we can test prophets by God's word.
   He is a buckler - whoops - what is a buckler?  A buckler was a small shield soldiers used in close contact with the enemy to protect them from knife thrusts.  God is our buckler - His word is our sword - and we need to be prepared for attacks from the enemy.  Are you ready?  Is your buckler in place?  Ready to meet the enemy?   God will prepare you.
    A young lady was sharing that she encountered a family member who professes salvation, but questions many things in the Bible.  Through her church sermons and Bible studies, every time this family member poses a question, she has just studied this or heard this in a sermon and was able to counter the attacks.  Her buckler was in place!  Is yours?
   Stay thirsty my friend - for the Living Water (Jesus) and the Word. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Nothing is too hard for GOD! Jeremiah 32:17

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!
  Where is God when you want him?  What is God doing when I want Him?  Why isn't HE here doing what I want Him to now?  Notice, each sentence contains "want" in them.
    GOD is ALIVE and GOD is HERE!  The problem usually lies in where YOU are.  Nothing, repeat, NOTHING is too hard for GOD.
   Jeremiah 32:17  This scripture has to do with Jeremiah purchasing land from the enemy and wondering if he did right.  He wondered if this was a wise move.  Then in his prayer the affirmed that GOD is the creator of heaven and earth, the wise Judge, who is aware of our conduct, our Redeemer, who has great power.
   When we are in doubt of our actions in following God, just stop and remember what we already know about God.  God made the heavens and earth.  God created the universe.  God created the galaxies.  Do you really thing what you have is too big for God?  Maybe you think it is too small.  God knows the sparrows; HE knows how many grains of sand are on a beach.  Do you really believe GOD does not know?  Does not care?  Does not know you? 
   Stop, take a walk with the living  GOD and you will see a whole new world.  It is not within you to do, but Christ who is within you.  Stay strong; keep listening to God; keep following God and all will be well.  Not a smooth interstate, but a path well worn to HIS cross.  Love you all.
  In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny

GOD, hey GOD, are you listening? Matthew 7:7,8

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

    Where is God?  When I cry out........WHERE IS GOD?!?!  Matthew 7:7,8 "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened."
     Matthew 7:7,8 (click on to see 3 translations)  Ask and it will be given - okay, I want a million dollars - where is it?  God are you listening?  I asked, but where is it?  God is not providing us our "wants" but our needs.  Both of these verses have the word "seek" in them.  And just what do you think that means?
   Seek, seek what?   Try GOD!  That would be a great start - SEEK GOD!!!
Both of these verses tell us to ask, seek, and it will be opened!!  What will be opened?  Maybe wisdom, knowledge, but most of all knowing GOD.
    I ask daily from God.  First, I praise Him for all he has done for me.  Then I ask, I seek, and I expect!  What do I ask for?  Safety for family, friends, and our leaders. My hardest and most earnest prayer is for a heart that is filled with Jesus, His love and for all the evil to be cast out.  Yes, I sin, specially when I drive in the Dallas traffic.  I am constantly seeking God, asking, I see doors open, but don't feel I walk in the path of Jesus Christ.  Jesus told the disciples they had 2 jobs: pray and spread to word of salvation.
    I ask God to open doors so that I may do so.  Where are you today?  Who or what are you seeking? Do you ask with an earnest heart for things you need or want?  Where do you stand in Christ today my friend?  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
   Johnny

Judge or complain? Matthew 7:1,3

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Ever hear - "Judge not, that you be not judged?"  and "Why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?" Matthew 7:1,3
     I am guilty.  Look at someone or something and make a conclusion.  My wife tells me constantly there are two sides and you don't know the whole story.  Oh, how true.  She has helped me stop, look, listen, and not come to a decision.
    This week I met a young man, still in high school, working at a restaurant and foregoing sports. Why?  After further conversation, in 2004 a man racing ATV's had a wreck and is now a quadriplegic .......his father.  So now, he and his brother are working to help the family survive and make ends meet.  
    This young man was young, athletic looking, and I wondered why he was not in sports.  Well, I then found out.  I was not trying to pry - just conversation.  Why is he working?  He has been forced to become a man, bearing the burdens of a household before his time.  I did not judge; now, after knowing the facts, know it is my responsibility to hold this man up in prayer.
     How often do we condemn someone for their actions - then we do the same or worse.  I find this often while in traffic in Dallas.  With all the construction, sometimes I do things I fuss at others about.  Today is Valentine's Day.  Don't judge; remove the speck in you eye; tell at least 5 people "happy valentines day" and "wishing you a great valentine's day."
    So, in closing to you - HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!  May GOD bless you immensely. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Vain repetitions go unheard! Matthew 6:7

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Yesterday I talked about praying; going to a room, by yourself, and be alone with God.  Listen, talk, and fellowship with the LORD.  I do hope you did and ask for your prayers once again today.
   This next verse will ring a bell with you.  You know people like this, and many times we call them leaders or politicians.
   Matthew 6:7  talks about praying and being real.  You are talking to God; if you have trouble with that set a chair or some object in front of you and image that being Jesus and just talk to him.  Some people are of eloquent and impressive words and recite them, yet, they are hollow in meaning. Jesus tells us not to use vain repetitions as the heathen do.
    What do words do?  In our world here on earth words may sway someone to come to your way of thinking, to follow you, and do what you command.  However, this does not work with God.  Why? Doesn't God listen to me?  Yes, He does; however, God also knows your heart!  Is your heart red with the love and blood of Jesus; or black, thick and full of evil?
    I heard a man pray at a church potluck once who said, "and LORD, thank you for this grub, Amen".  It came from the heart - not of eloquent speech - but true heart.  Can you say this?
   Stay hungry for the word and thirsty for the Living Water my friend. 
Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
      Johnny

Pray? Don't have time.....sorry! Matthew 6:6

Good morning all!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
   Wow!  Sorry to have missed you yesterday.  I just did not get my act together.  We have talked about prayer before, but let us come back to prayer once again.
   The North Koreans did a nuclear bomb test before Obama's State of the Union address. Two war heroes, Navy Seals were laid to rest, dangerous criminals have escaped-injuring police officers in the process, and on and on.  Obama says the government does not have a spending problem - they don't - they have a budget problem (can't stay in the budget).  We could go on and on; become distraught, frustrated, and have anxiety attacks, and for what.  WORRY!  Worry is not of God!  Worry is of man!
   In Acts, the disciples were concerned about many deeds to be done; Jesus stopped them and basically said they have 2 jobs - pray and spread the Good News (word).
   How often do all the things above and more cause us to fret and forget to pray?  I would pray but I did not have time;  I got up too late;  I................. Ok, yeah, whatever.  You have 1440 minutes per day - why, WHY is it you cannot spare just 2 minutes, 5 minutes or 10 minutes to visit with your Father in Heaven, the one who holds your inheritance for eternal life.  How would you react if your family never contacted or talked to you except when they needed something?
   How to pray?  Click and read Matthew 6:6  Go off by yourself and spend time with God.  Don't be, what I call an SOS or SOB (Sunday Only Sister - or - Sunday Only Brother); forgetting God the rest of the time. My request: Please pray for me today, my family, your family, the leaders we have elected, our nation.  When driving or just sitting - PRAY.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Slavery Philemon 1

Good morning all!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
    Slaves, slavery, and what do you first think of?  Probably the black slaves in America!  Why?  Because this is our home, and we have studied the Civil War and all that happened.  But, the negro or colored (back in the 1800's & early 1900's) were not the only slaves, the only ones looked down upon.
   Slavery starts way back in early Biblical days.  In fact, slavery began with Adam and Eve through what.........?  SIN!
    Please take time to read Philemon 1, it is only 25 verses but carriers a lot of meaning, thought, and should stimulate you in forgiveness, love and crossing barriers.  In this story Onesimus was a slave of Philemon, and Onesimus ran away.  He came in contact with Paul, became a Christian, and went back to Philemon.  So the story ends.  But read and understand the meaning.
    Every where in life we have barriers; not wood, stone or steel; but barriers in life: social status, race, wealth, education, personality, etc.  We become slaves to what we owe and own; therefore, what we owe and own actually owns us and we are slaves.
   The biggest master of our lives, if we let it, is sin - sin can come in like a thief in the night and destroy all we have.  We must be more like Paul, and be a slave to Jesus Christ; letting all we do-walk, talk, actions, and relationships show the love of Jesus.
   Philemon took Onesimus back as a slave and a brother in Christ.  Do you have barriers?  Want to be shed of them?  How are you going to do it?  Philemon is a book of grace and tact and a demonstration of the power of Christ and of true Christian fellowship in action.  God calls you to seek unity, breaking down those barriers, embracing your brother and sisters in Christ, and be slave to only one-JESUS CHRIST!! 
     Stay thirsty my friend,  for the LIVING WATER - JESUS!  Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Faded rose of days gone by, or ?????? Isaiah 43:18

Good morning all. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!
    Last night at Bible study, many things were cast forth, exposed, and visited about.  A great meeting, the pastor was clear, and all, I believe, left with a lighter, but enlightened heart.
    All during the night this song was resonating through my head, Delta Dawn.  Here are the first lyrics:

Delta Dawn, what's that flower you have on
Could it be a faded rose from days gone by?
And did I hear you say he was a-meeting you here today
To take you to his mansion in the sky?

Isaiah 43:18 KJV "Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old."
New International Version (©1984)  "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.
New Living Translation (©2007)  "But forget all that--it is nothing compared to what I am going to do.
English Standard Version (©2001) “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old.
New American Standard Bible (©1995) "Do not call to mind the former things, Or ponder things of the past.

How often do we hold on to that faded rose from days gone by----the past.  We can dwell on it, but where does it take you and what can you do about it?
    And where is Delta Dawn expecting to go?  To HIS mansion in the sky!!  Can you look someone straight in the eye and tell them you know where you are going - to HIS mansion in the sky?
   Satan's tools:  "look what you did in the past"; "God doesn't want you"; "you are bad"; "think about and dwell on your past"; and more. Satan uses our life experiences against us, wanting us to feel unworthy.
   Bathroom wall graffeti from Colorado:  "Don't look back with regret, nor to the future with anxiety, but look around in the present and be aware."
   What does God expect of YOU?  As a Christian your job is to pray and spread the gospel; works will be a byproduct.  Are you Delta Dawn, with a faded rose?  Or are you God's missionary, going forth and spreading the word?  Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
     Johnny

Lazy, sluggard, slothful? Think again!! Proverbs 24:30-34

Good morning all!  God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
    Ever meet someone that you know the wheel is turning, BUT, the hamster was dead?  My daughter shared this with me and I was quite amused.  But then, I think about that in relationship to the Bible.
   How many people are "alive" physically, but are "spiritually dead?"  Their Bible has dust on it, the pages are not worn, and the only time they pick it up is to move it. This proverb speaks to lazy, but does lazy only relate to work for money, or also to the work of God?
   Proverbs 24:30-34  A lazy person with no common sense.  What happens to their home, their land, their property.  Usually ugly grown via weeds and junk.  Where are you in studying God's word?
    Are you overgrown with nettles and weeds?  Are you fences leaning or broken?  When you cast an eye on the situation do you think....hmm, later?   Don't delay, quit procrastinating, read just one verse from the Bible today; this is a start.  Is your wheel turning.....but the hamster....??????
   Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Hear the whisper in the humble heart? 1 Kings 19:11-12

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
     Can you hear the whisper?  1 Kings 19:11-12   Elijah was told to stand before God on the mountain.  A mighty windstorm hit, tearing rocks loose, an earthquake hit, then fire, but the LORD was not in any of these. After the third, the fire, there was the sound of a gentle whisper.  When Elijah heard this, he knew it was the LORD.
    God does not just reveal himself in powerful, miraculous ways.    Many times we look for God in something big, a rally, conference, in leaders, but we may miss him because he is often gently whispering in the quiet to a humbled heart.  Are you listening to God?  Are you listening for God?
    Take time, step back from the hustle, bustle and noisey activity of your busy life and listen humbly and quietly for HIS guidance.  It may come when you least expect it.
   Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny

Rich reward or quick riches? Prov. 28:20/Matt 25:21

Good morning all! God is good all the time, all the time God is good. TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!
   Proverbs 28:20 "The trustworthy person will get a rich reward, but a person who wants quick riches will get into trouble."
   Your response to this may be what do you mean rich reward and how would quick riches get someone into trouble.  Well, the rich verse is talking about walking with Jesus in heaven and the quick riches is living for the here and now - getting all we can on earth.  Which one is of the most value?
   This relates to Matthew 25:21 "The master was full of praise. Well done, my good and faithful servant.  You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilites.  Let's celebrate together!"
  Jesus is coming back -- we know this is true. What this is saying is we need to use our time, talents, and treasures diligently in order to serve God completely in whatever we do. 
   Can you do your daily work today as if you are doing it for God?  Don't you believe God knows where you are and what you are doing?  Work for your employer as if you are working for your Lord and Savior, for Jesus, for God.  What a difference this will make in your life, the people you work with, and in your job. Love you all.
   In Christ's Love and Grace
      Johnny

Wicked rulers vs hard workers Proverbs 28:15,16,19

Good morning everyone! God is good all the time, all the time God is good.  TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!

  Today, two scriptures popped out at me that I would like to share.
     Proverbs 28:15-16 "A wicked ruler is as dangerous to the poor as a roaring lion or an attacking bear. A ruler with no understanding will oppress his people, but one who hates corruption will have a long life."
    Proverbs 28: 19 "A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies ends up in poverty."
    Let's begin with 15/16.  Wicked ruler dangerous to the poor - look around at your politicians, people in power positions, watch what they do.  Tom Delay passed a laws years ago where teachers who retire from TRS (Teachers Retirement System) will be penalized when drawing social security by 60% (if eligible); OR, a woman who retires from TRS cannot draw her husbands social security upon his death.  Here is a man dangerous to the poor, WITH no understanding and oppressing his people.
    Is the law fair? No! Does he care? No!  Will the law be repealed? No!  Why?  Most younger teachers do not know about it now since this happened many years ago. Plus, no organization, even teachers organizations are really concerned.
    We elect people because ..................., then we complain about what they do.  We need to look at how that person walks!  No, no bowlegged, lumbering, with a limp, --- I mean in his daily walk!  Is it with God, or with himself, serving selfish needs.
    Ever try network marketing?  Verse 19 - work hard or chase fantasies.  We always see, in network marketing, the diamonds, the emeralds, etc., and it only takes a few hours a week.  Those people did not get there by working only a few hours a week -- they put in time.  How would the world change if we put in just a few hours each week studying our Bible, sharing the Good News, and walking with Christ.  For many an hour a week would be 60 minutes more than they do now.
    It is the weekend my friend, go, enjoy, walk with Jesus, share the word and revel in your salvation - but - share it with others. Love you all.
In Christ's Love and Grace
    Johnny