What You Can Count On

#MorningGlory. RTTBROS

What You Can Count On
Monday, June 29, 2020
by Dr. Paul Chappell

"For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ."

1 Corinthians 3:9-11

Edward Mote was born in England in 1794. His father ran a pub, and Edward received little care as a child. After working as a cabinet maker, he was saved and eventually became a Baptist pastor. He also wrote a number of hymns.

The hymn by Edward Mote that we best remember is "The Solid Rock." Mote was working on the hymn when he learned about the dying wife of a church member. Mote went to visit the woman and shared his words of comfort: "On Christ the solid Rock I stand, All other ground is sinking sand." These words brought the woman hope, and Mote finished his hymn which we still sing today.

You have been given a solid and unshakeable foundation as a child of God. The faithfulness of every one of His promises has been proven again and again by centuries of believers. The ancient Greek mathematician Archimedes said, "If you give me a lever long enough and a place to stand, I can move the world." You have that place to stand today—on the promises of God.

Knowing the certainty of God’s truth and the surety of His promises gives us a responsibility—to build something of strong and lasting value on that foundation. Our lives are not our own; they are meant for His purpose. The Christian life is not an unstable or uncertain life; rather it is a life of meaning built upon a firm and solid Rock.

Today's Growth Principle:
Even if all others fail you, the faithfulness of God is a foundation on which you can build.

Power Prayer

#MorningGlory. RTTBROS

Power Prayer

F.B Myer

PREVAILING POWER Acts 4:31 “And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.” THE PRAYER which prevails is that which is initiated by the Holy Spirit.
He is the medium of communication between heaven and earth, and reveals to us the thoughts and desires of God, so that we do not ask amiss.
Just as the ether will connect up one continent with another, so long as the transmitter and receiver are in accord, so the Holy Spirit is the Medium between ourselves and the glorified Redeemer. Prayer is transmitted from our hearts, borne forward by the Spirit, and registered in the heart of our Lord. It is perhaps better to say that it originates there, is transmitted to us,
and sent back from us to Him. We know that by our thought-waves we can help our friends in distant places, so it is surely possible for our thoughtwaves to reach the Lord Jesus. Oh, that we may be ever in such sympathy and accord with Him that there may be no loss of His thoughts toward us.
There are four kinds of prayer. The Prayer of Communion and fellowship.
It is like a father asking his little boy why he keeps coming into his study,
and discovers that the child has no special reason, but only wants to be with him. So we should not be satisfied with the knowledge of God our Father which ordinary men possess, but have such aptitudes and yearnings which can only be satisfied by fellowship, communion, and adoring love.
The Prayer of Request. Perhaps we make more of this at the beginning of life than after. As life goes on we are content to leave ourselves in the wise and tender hands of our Heavenly Father, and it is enough that He cares. We learn to be thankful that some prayers have not been answered, and to realize that God is doing for us ever so much better than we ask or think.
The Prayer of Intercession. This is nearest to the mind of Christ. He wears our names on His heart, and ever fives to intercede.
The Prayer of Conflict. At times we are called to enter into the Garden,
and to bear with Him some of the burden of His conflict for souls against the principalities and powers of evil. At such times there is urgent need to watch and pray!
PRAYER--Warm my cold heart, Lord, I beseech Thee. Take away all that hinders me from giving myself to Thee. Give me grace to obey Thee in all things, and ever to follow Thy gracious leading. AMEN.

From Robert J. 

Home / Blog / Faith is the Victory!

Faith is the Victory!

 Posted on: June 13, 2009

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If you have accident-prone children, take comfort in the story of John Henry Yates.  His parents had immigrated to New York State from England; and John was born in Batavia, New York, in 1837.  His dad was a shoemaker and a traveling temperance lecturer.  His mom was a school teacher who loved poetry and literature.

On several occasions, John gave his parents reason for grave alarm.

• On Election Day, 1844, he fell from a high set of stone steps in a hotel and tumbled down into the cellar, fracturing his skull.  It wasn’t certain he would come to, as he was unconscious a long time.  He kept the broad scar as a lifelong souvenir of the incident.
• In 1847, when his family was traveling by ship, a storm struck so powerfully that young John was thrown across the deck, breaking his leg.
• At 16, John brought down the curtain on a school play when, during a dramatic scene, he accidently fell on an open double-edged knife, piercing his right lung.  For three weeks, his life hung on a thread.

He survived it all, however; and at age 18, he began helping his aged parents in the shoe business.  About the same time his mother persuaded him to start writing poetry, which was immediately published in the Batavia newspaper, and soon in Harper’s Bazaar and other national magazines.  Before long his ballads, poems, songs, and hymns were being recited and sung across America.

Despite his newfound fame, Yates kept his day job in retail sales, first in shoes, then working in a hardware store and finally managing a popular department store.  Only later in life did he finally leave the retail business to work for the local newspaper.

All the while, John was preaching here and there.  Beginning in his late teens, he served as a lay preacher in the Methodist church.  For many years, he traveled through western New York State, preaching in churches of all denominations and sharing his faith in Jesus Christ.

That faith was severely tested in February of 1878, when his wife and two sons all died within the space of one week from an outbreak of diphtheria.  He eventually remarried and kept going, giving living illustration that our faith in the promises of God and in our Lord Jesus gives us overcoming victory.

In 1891, Yates agreed to write Gospel songs exclusively for the great Christian song director, Ira Sankey, who directed the evangelistic campaigns for D. L. Moody. Many of his hymns became popular favorites.  Yates also switched from the Methodists to the Free Will Baptists and began pastoring near Batavia.

He passed away on September 5, 1900, and this marker rests over his grave:  In Memory of the Poet-Preacher Rev. John H. Yates… Born 1837 / Died 1900…  Faith is the Victory, Oh, Glorious Victory, That Overcomes the World.

John’s house Washington Avenue at State Street in Batavia is now on the historic register and serves as the home of a quaint independently-owned bookstore — Present Tense Books and Gifts.

Here is John Yates’ most enduring hymn – Faith is the Victory

Encamped along the hills of light,
Ye Christian soldiers, rise.
And press the battle ere the night
Shall veil the glowing skies.
Against the foe in vales below
Let all our strength be hurled.
Faith is the victory, we know,
That overcomes the world.

His banner over us is love,
Our sword the Word of God.
We tread the road the saints above
With shouts of triumph trod.
By faith, they like a whirlwind’s breath,
Swept on o’er every field.
The faith by which they conquered death
Is still our shining shield.

Faith is the victory! Faith is the victory!
O glorious victory, that overcomes the world.

Home / Blog / Faith is the Victory!

Faith is the Victory!

 Posted on: June 13, 2009

---

If you have accident-prone children, take comfort in the story of John Henry Yates.  His parents had immigrated to New York State from England; and John was born in Batavia, New York, in 1837.  His dad was a shoemaker and a traveling temperance lecturer.  His mom was a school teacher who loved poetry and literature.

On several occasions, John gave his parents reason for grave alarm.

• On Election Day, 1844, he fell from a high set of stone steps in a hotel and tumbled down into the cellar, fracturing his skull.  It wasn’t certain he would come to, as he was unconscious a long time.  He kept the broad scar as a lifelong souvenir of the incident.
• In 1847, when his family was traveling by ship, a storm struck so powerfully that young John was thrown across the deck, breaking his leg.
• At 16, John brought down the curtain on a school play when, during a dramatic scene, he accidently fell on an open double-edged knife, piercing his right lung.  For three weeks, his life hung on a thread.

He survived it all, however; and at age 18, he began helping his aged parents in the shoe business.  About the same time his mother persuaded him to start writing poetry, which was immediately published in the Batavia newspaper, and soon in Harper’s Bazaar and other national magazines.  Before long his ballads, poems, songs, and hymns were being recited and sung across America.

Despite his newfound fame, Yates kept his day job in retail sales, first in shoes, then working in a hardware store and finally managing a popular department store.  Only later in life did he finally leave the retail business to work for the local newspaper.

All the while, John was preaching here and there.  Beginning in his late teens, he served as a lay preacher in the Methodist church.  For many years, he traveled through western New York State, preaching in churches of all denominations and sharing his faith in Jesus Christ.

That faith was severely tested in February of 1878, when his wife and two sons all died within the space of one week from an outbreak of diphtheria.  He eventually remarried and kept going, giving living illustration that our faith in the promises of God and in our Lord Jesus gives us overcoming victory.

In 1891, Yates agreed to write Gospel songs exclusively for the great Christian song director, Ira Sankey, who directed the evangelistic campaigns for D. L. Moody. Many of his hymns became popular favorites.  Yates also switched from the Methodists to the Free Will Baptists and began pastoring near Batavia.

He passed away on September 5, 1900, and this marker rests over his grave:  In Memory of the Poet-Preacher Rev. John H. Yates… Born 1837 / Died 1900…  Faith is the Victory, Oh, Glorious Victory, That Overcomes the World.

John’s house Washington Avenue at State Street in Batavia is now on the historic register and serves as the home of a quaint independently-owned bookstore — Present Tense Books and Gifts.

Here is John Yates’ most enduring hymn – Faith is the Victory

Encamped along the hills of light,
Ye Christian soldiers, rise.
And press the battle ere the night
Shall veil the glowing skies.
Against the foe in vales below
Let all our strength be hurled.
Faith is the victory, we know,
That overcomes the world.

His banner over us is love,
Our sword the Word of God.
We tread the road the saints above
With shouts of triumph trod.
By faith, they like a whirlwind’s breath,
Swept on o’er every field.
The faith by which they conquered death
Is still our shining shield.

Faith is the victory! Faith is the victory!
O glorious victory, that overcomes the world.

Semper Fi forever faithful

2 Timothy 2:3-5

King James Version

3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.

5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.

FAITHFULNESS

(see also PERSEVERANCE and ENDURANCE)

One of the most tragic events during the Reagan Presidency was the Sunday morning terrorist bombing of the Marine barracks in Beirut, in which hundreds of Americans were killed or wounded as they slept. Many of us can still recall the terrible scenes as the dazed survivors worked to dig out their trapped brothers from beneath the rubble.

A few days after the tragedy, I recall coming across an extraordinary story. Marine Corps Commandant Paul X Kelly, visited some of the wounded survivors then in a Frankfurt, Germany, hospital. Among them was Corporal Jeffrey Lee Nashton, severely wounded in the incident. Nashton had so many tubes running in and out of his body that a witness said he looked more like a machine than a man; yet he survived.

As Kelly neared him, Nashton, struggling to move and racked with pain, motioned for a piece of paper and a pen. He wrote a brief note and passed it back to the Commandant. On the slip of paper were but two words -- "Semper Fi" the Latin motto of the Marines meaning "forever faithful." With those two simple words Nashton spoke for the millions of Americans who have sacrificed body and limb and their lives for their country -- those who have remained faithful.

No feather-bed soldiers

A young Christian officer said, “Our heavenly Captain wants no feather-bed soldiers. He wants those who are not afraid of camp bed and marching orders, who don’t mind “roughing it a little by the way, because they know that perfect rest awaits them when their home-call sounds, and their race here is ended.”

The Best Gift

#MorningGlory.

RTTBROS

Charles Stanley
In Touch Ministries
John 3:16-21

Everyone loves presents, yet many people reject the greatest gift ever given. This gift is God’s Son, and the term “only begotten” expresses His uniqueness. There has never been anyone else like Jesus, who is truly God and truly human. He is the only One who lived a perfect life and died as a sinless sacrifice in the place of sinful humanity.

When God gave the gift of His Son, mankind had two options. They could either accept Jesus by faith or reject Him. This is the most important choice a person will ever make, because the outcome has eternal ramifications. God will one day judge the people He has created, and that judgment will be on the basis of what they have done with the gift of His Son. Those who believe in the Savior will not be condemned, because they have received eternal life. However, John 3:18 says whoever doesn’t believe has already been judged and condemned for unbelief.

The determining factor between the accepters and the rejecters is the object of their love. Those who refuse God’s Son love their sin and don’t want to change. But believers come to Christ because they love the truth and desire righteousness. Which one are you?

Bible in One Year: Psalm 85-89

open your mail

#MorningGlory RTTBROS

 

Today's Devotion

Open Your Mail

by Dr. Paul Chappell

"Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust."

2 Peter 1:2-4

I read about a Christian attorney who, after meditating on several Scriptures, decided to cancel the debts of all his clients who had owed him money for more than six months. He drafted a letter explaining his decision and its biblical basis and sent the letters via certified mail to seventeen past due accounts. One by one, the letters began to return to his office. Eventually sixteen of the seventeen letters came back unopened. A few people had moved, but the most common reason was that his clients refused to sign for and open the envelopes fearing that he was suing them for their debts!

Sometimes people approach the Word of God as a long list of rules and regulations rather than a message of love and forgiveness. The Bible is not telling you all the things you can’t do in an effort to ruin your life; it is telling you how to experience freedom and the joy of the Lord. God has given us everything we need to live a happy and godly life in the promises of Scripture, yet too many of His children never “open their mail” from Him.

Set aside time to read, study, and meditate on the Bible. You will find that God’s promises of forgiveness and hope lighten your load and set you free.

Today's Growth Principle: 

Spend time today in the Word of God—don’t miss His message of love and forgiveness for you.

Help For Hurting Hearts

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Help for Troubled Hearts

A.B Simpson

He is able to be touched with the feeling of our infirmities (Hebrews 4:15). The word "touched" is very expressive. It means that our troubles are His troubles, and that in all our afflictions He is afflicted. It is not a sympathy of sentiment, but a sympathy of suffering. There is in this thought abundant help for the tired heart. It is the foundation of Christ's Priesthood, and God meant that it should be to us a source of unceasing consolation. Let us realize more fully our oneness with our Great High Priest, and cast all our burdens on His great heart of love. if we know what it is to ache in every nerve with the responsive pain of our suffering child, we can form some idea of how our sorrows touch the heart of Christ. As the mother feels her baby's pain, as the heart of friendship echoes every cry from another's anguish, so in heaven our exalted Savior, even in the raptures of that happy world, is suffering in His spirit and even in His flesh with all that His children bear. Seeing then that we have a great high priest, . . . let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:14,16) and let us come to our Great High Priest. When he saw the multitudes he was moved -Matthew 9:36

#LifeLessons 1. Intimacy With God. Ps. 63:1-8

#LifeLessons Intimacy with God Ps. 63:1-8

#LifeLessons Intimacy with God Ps. 63:1-8

#LifeLessons are designed to grow you no matter what you go through. Intimacy with God is foundational to ever other relationship and role we have in life listen in as we unpack Charles Stanley's Life lessons series.

Life Lesson 1 Intimacy with God

http://www.intouch.org/Content/1/LPN090809.pdf

Scripture: Psalm 63:1-8

O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;  To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.  Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.  Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.  My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:  When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.  Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.  My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me.

Psalms 63:1‭-‬8 KJV

https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.63.1-8.KJV

I. Introduction: Do you have an intimate connection with God? The Father designed us with the emotional and spiritual capacity to have a loving, personal relationship with Him.

King David knew how to have an intimate relationship with the Lord. Although he was far from perfect, David had learned that only the Father's love could satisfy his heart's deepest longings (Ps. 63:3). The king passionately sought God through prayer, repentance, and obedience. From his example, you and I can learn how to enjoy closeness with the Father.

II. Man's Relationship with God

A. Direct. The Lord is the ultimate authority over each and every person's life—even those who refuse to acknowledge His sovereignty.

B. Distinct. If you have trusted in Jesus' death on the cross to pay for your sin-debt, you've become one of God's children and have a unique relationship with Him.

C. Distant. Sometimes God's children allow their relationship with Him to suffer. They may attend church, but might not read their Bibles faithfully or know how to relate to the Lord in prayer. As a result, they excuse sin in their lives and don't have a sense of oneness with Him.

D. Developing. Some believers passionately pursue relationship with the Father on a continual, daily basis—regardless of life's circumstances.

III. Requirements for an Intimate Relationship with God

A. A Spiritual Focus. For most people, the word "intimacy" is associated primarily with sexuality. But genuine fellowship with God involves relating to Him on an emotional and spiritual level rather than a physical one.

B. Personal Involvement. The Lord created humans in His image so that all people could relate to Him on an individual basis. The Holy Spirit lives within every believer, giving each one the ability to develop a personal friendship with Christ.

C. Trust. Intimacy cannot exist without trust. If you and I refuse 

to surrender to and obey God, we can't expect to have an intimate relationship with Him.

D. Love. Oneness with God must be motivated out of love, not duty. Remember that God forgave you on the basis of Christ's death on the cross. You don't have to earn His affection. Let that fact motivate you to freely and genuinely devote yourself to knowing Him better.

E. Openness and Transparency. Confess specific sins and shortcomings to the Lord. Be honest with Him, and intimacy will grow.

F. Two-way Communication. Ask the Father to show you how to hear His guidance for your life, and set aside time to listen to Him.

G. Time and Effort. You must devote yourself to knowing the Lord if you want to experience the fullness of friendship with Him.

IV. Benefits of Intimacy with the Father

A. Stability. In the midst of life's storms, a solid relationship with God is your anchor.

B. Security. You can have the assurance that He is always with you, ready to help in any situation or circumstance.

C. Serenity. Intimacy gives you quietness and peace in your spirit, no matter what happens. You can trust that the Lord will guide you through difficulty.

D. Sensitivity. God will give you greater spiritual understanding and increased awareness to the needs of others. .

V. Barriers to Intimacy

A. Pride. Some put their trust in themselves and pursue relationships, accomplishments, or possessions instead of a relationship with the Father.

B. Rebellion. When we deliberately disobey the Lord, we cannot have intimacy with Him.

C. Hurry. Some people never find intimacy with God because they are always impatient.

VI. Conclusion: I pray your relationship with God is characterized by unity, surrender, and joy. But if you aren't experiencing intimacy with the Lord, He desires to reveal Himself in a personal way to you. Let go of pride, confess your sin and rebellion, and devote yourself to a relationship with Him. David wrote, "Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

Psalms 16:11 KJV

https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.16.11.KJV" (Ps. 16:11). Only God can satisfy the deepest longings of your heart. Take time to discover the awesome depth of the Father's love through an intimate relationship with Him.

Order Of Operations

#MorningGlory RTTBROS

This morning find the right perspective on loving God and loving mankind. There is a order of operations that affects the outcome. Read Oswald Chambers as he crystalizes our thinking on these two most important topics.

The Service of Passionate Devotion

By Oswald Chambers

He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

John 21:16 KJV

…do you love Me?…Tend My sheep. —John 21:16

Jesus did not say to make converts to your way of thinking, but He said to look after His sheep, to see that they get nourished in the knowledge of Him. We consider what we do in the way of Christian work as service, yet Jesus Christ calls service to be what we are to Him, not what we do for Him. Discipleship is based solely on devotion to Jesus Christ, not on following after a particular belief or doctrine. “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate…, he cannot be My disciple” (Luke 14:26). In this verse, there is no argument and no pressure from Jesus to follow Him; He is simply saying, in effect, “If you want to be My disciple, you must be devoted solely to Me.” A person touched by the Spirit of God suddenly says, “Now I see who Jesus is!”— that is the source of devotion.

Today we have substituted doctrinal belief for personal belief, and that is why so many people are devoted to causes and so few are devoted to Jesus Christ. People do not really want to be devoted to Jesus, but only to the cause He started. Jesus Christ is deeply offensive to the educated minds of today, to those who only want Him to be their Friend, and who are unwilling to accept Him in any other way. Our Lord’s primary obedience was to the will of His Father, not to the needs of people— the saving of people was the natural outcome of His obedience to the Father. If I am devoted solely to the cause of humanity, I will soon be exhausted and come to the point where my love will waver and stumble. But if I love Jesus Christ personally and passionately, I can serve humanity, even though people may treat me like a “doormat.” The secret of a disciple’s life is devotion to Jesus Christ, and the characteristic of that life is its seeming insignificance and its meekness. Yet it is like a grain of wheat that “falls into the ground and dies”— it will spring up and change the entire landscape (John 12:24).

When Fear Comes Knocking

#MorningGlory RTTBROS

When Fear comes knocking be too busy working to answer the door read AB Simpson's description of this powerful concept.

A. B. Simpson
When work is pressing, there are many little things that will come and seem to need attention. it is a very blessed thing to be quiet and still, work on and entrust the little things to God. He answers such trust in a wonderful way. The believer who has no time to fret and worry and harbor care has learned the secret of faith in God. A desperate desire to change some difficult circumstance may take our eyes off God and His glory. Some suffering Christians have been so anxious to get well and have spent so much time in trying to claim healing, that they have lost their spiritual blessing. God sometimes has to teach such persons that there must be a willingness to be sick before they are yielded enough to receive His fullest blessing. The enemy keeps at this work. Sanballat came four times to Nehemiah, always receiving the same answer. How many fears we have stopped to fight which ultimately have proved to be nothing. Nehemiah recognized that fear is sin and did not dare to yield to it. I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down -Nehemiah 6:3

The Fellowship Of The Unashamed

The Fellowship of the Unashamed

 

I am part of the "Fellowship of the Unashamed."

The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line.

The decision has been made. I am a disciple of

Jesus Christ. I won't look back, let up, slow down,

back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present

makes sense, and my future is secure.

I am finished and done with low living, sight walking,

small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams,

chintzy giving, and dwarfed goals.

 

I no longer need pre-eminence, prosperity, position,

promotions, plaudits, or popularity. I now live by

presence, lean by faith, love by patience,

lift by prayer, and labor by power. My pace

is set, my gait is fast, my goal is Heaven, my

road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions few,

my Guide reliable, my mission clear. I cannot be bought,

compromised, deterred, lured away, turned back,

diluted, or delayed.

 

I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the

presence of adversity, negotiate at the table of the enemy,

ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander

in the maze of mediocrity.

 

I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. I must go until

Heaven returns, give until I drop, preach until all know,

and work until He comes. And when He comes to get

His own, He will have no problem recognizing me.

My colors will be clear.

 ----------------------------------------------------------------------

 The Author of this work is a Rwandan man in 1980 who was forced by his tribe to either renounce Christ or face certain death. He refused to renounce Christ, and was killed on the spot. The night before he had written the commtment "The Fellowship of the Unashamed" which was found in his room. Bob Moorehead had written this in his book "Words Aptly Spoken" c. 1995

Paul had said: I am not ashamed of the gospel . . . Romans 1:16

Perspective Shift

My Friend David Guinn sent this out today on FB it is powerful read it to the end.

Perspective shift

“My boss drove a luxury car everyday and it was my duty to greet him and to open the gates for him, as I worked as a watchman in his villa. But he never responded back to my greetings.

One day he saw me opening the garbage bags outside the villa in search for any leftover food. But, as usual he never even looked at me, it was like as if he never saw anything!

The very next day I saw a paper bag at the same place, but it was clean and the food inside was covered well. It was fresh and good food like someone had just brought it from the supermarket. I didn't bother as to where it came from, I just took the paper bag and I was so happy about it.

Every day I found this paper bag at the same place with fresh vegetables and all that we needed for home. This became my daily routine. I was eating and sharing this food with my wife and kids. I was wondering who this fool could be?! To forget his paper bag full of fresh food everyday.

One day there was a big problem in the villa and I was told that my boss has died. There were too many guests coming to the villa that day and I didn't get any food that day, so I thought that one of the guests must have taken it. But the same thing happened the 2nd day, the 3rd day and the 4th day.

It went on like this for a few weeks and I found it difficult to provide food for my family, so I decided to ask the wife of my boss for a raise in my salary or else I would quit my job as a watchman.

After I told her, she was shocked, and asked me, how come you never complained about your salary for the last 2 years? And why is this salary not enough for you now? I gave her so many excuses but she was never convinced!

Finally in the end, I decided to tell her the truth, I told her the entire story of the bag of groceries, and as to how it was my daily provision. She then asked me as to when this stopped? I told her after the death of her husband. And then I realized that I stopped seeing the paper bag immediately after the death of my boss. Why didn't I ever think of this before? That it was my boss who was providing this for me? I guess it was because I never thought that a person who never replied to my greetings could ever be this generous!

His wife started to cry and I told her to please stop crying and that I'm really sorry that I asked for a raise, I didn't know that it was your husband who was providing me with the meals, I’ll remain as a watchman and be happy to provide my service.

His wife told me, I'm crying because I've finally found the 7th person my husband was giving this bag full of food. I knew my husband was giving 7 people everyday, I had already found the 6 people, and all these days I was searching for the 7th person. And today I found out.

From that day onwards, I started to receive the bag full of food again, but this time his son was bringing it to my house and giving it to my hand. But whenever I thanked him, he never replied! Just like his dad!

One day, I told him THANK YOU in a very loud voice! He replied back to me to please not be offended when he doesn't reply, because he has a hearing problem, just like his dad!”

Oh! We have been wrong so many times judging others without knowing the true story behind their actions. Be kind and courteous in dealing with others, for everyone is fighting a hard battle. Be careful, not everything is about you. Before you assume, there is this thing called ASKING.

Don’t just jump to conclusion, because that is truly not an exercise, it may cause you more harm at the end of the day. Many of our problems are caused by how we process what happens around us. Don’t judge a situation you have never been in. Be humble enough to learn. You do not know it all. Lets change the way we feel about ourselves and others.

- Johnny Gachanja

There are two sides to every story. Don’t believe everything you hear.

Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. If this has touched you... then "Like" it... or type 'AMEN' and  If you feel lead.... share it.  God Bless y'all!!

Remember The Mana God Gave You

#MorningGlory RTTBROS "Memories Of God's Goodness" Heb 9:3-5

Mana would be all of the good things God has brought into your life over the years. Take time to thank God today for all the good he has brought into your life.

Read and think about this timely reminder to remember to thank God for his past Goodness to us.

The Memory of Manna

by Dr. Paul Chappell

And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly.

Hebrews 9:3-5

To meet the needs of the Israelites in the wilderness, God sent manna six days a week. This practice continued day after day, year after year. The people were not allowed to keep any overnight to provide for the next day, except on the day before the Sabbath. Yet, they were never left without provision. When they finally crossed the Jordan River and had access to the food in the land, the manna stopped. “And the manna ceased on the morrow after they had eaten of the old corn of the land; neither had the children of Israel manna any more; but they did eat of the fruit of the land of Canaan that year” (Joshua 5:12).

Though the manna was no longer falling daily, God did not want the people to forget what He had done for them. One of the reminders He instructed the Israelites to keep was a pot filled with manna that was kept in the Ark of the Covenant. There would be difficult days the people would face. There would be times that they would not know how their needs would be met. But in those moments, they would be able to look back on what God had done for them in the past and be encouraged. The thanks that we offer to God for the blessings we receive are good, but they must not just be in the moment. We should remember what He has done with us in the past to help us face the future.

Today's Growth Principle: 

Remembering what God has done for us in the past strengthens our faith for the needs we face in the future

Learn How To Pray

#MorningGlory RTTPBROS

If you want God to hear your prayer learn how to pray. Adrian will help you with that in this wonderful devotion

How to Pray So God Will Want To Listen

Adrian Rogers

Pray So God Will Want to Listen

BIBLE MEDITATION:

“Now about that time Herod the king stretched out his hand to harass some from the church. Then he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And…he proceeded further to seize Peter also…. So when he had arrested him, he put him in prison…but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church. Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, saying, “Arise quickly!” And his chains fell off his hands. Then the angel said to him, “Gird yourself and…follow me.” So…he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John…where many were gathered together praying. Now Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished”

 

(Acts 12:1-5, 7-8, 12, 16)

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:

Peter was in prison and the church was praying. They had no other recourse. They couldn’t petition the government. They had no political influence, no money to bribe Herod. But they could pray. The world might have laughed, but friend, the devil didn’t laugh.

Someone wisely said, “The devil trembles when he sees the weakest saint upon his knees.” They offered focused prayer to God, and God controls the universe.

Notice it says the church offered constant prayer on his behalf (v. 5). They prayed not only with intensity but with specificity.

What did you pray for this morning? Many of our prayers are so vague (like “Lord, save the lost”), if God were to answer them, we wouldn’t know it. And if God didn’t answer them, we wouldn’t have to admit it.

ACTION POINT:

Stop praying vague, general prayers. Get specific. When they prayed for Peter and the answer came, they knew it was an answer to prayer.

Pray Your Way To Peace

#MorningGlory.  RTTBROS

  Prayer Is a Peace-Giving Gift

  

by Charles F. Stanley from The Gift of Prayer

Many decades ago, one of my college friends gave me a small picture that has meant a great deal to me. There is nothing remarkable about it from an artistic standpoint, but it has given me great comfort during some important times nonetheless. In fact, not long ago, I asked the Lord for direction about a difficult situation. I felt very alone. Confused and unable to discuss my difficulties with others, I got down on my knees in a quiet room and cried out to God to help me, strengthen me, and change the situation that was causing me pain. I asked, “Father, please don’t leave me like this. Show me what to do.” As I was praying, I looked up, and there was that picture. In it, the Lord Jesus is standing behind a young man, pointing out the right course for the fellow to take. The Master’s hand is on his shoulder, as if saying,

 

I am with you always. — Matthew 28:20

and

 

This is the way, walk in it. — Isaiah 30:21

In that instant, God showed me that He was in complete control of the situation and that He would help me get to the destination He planned for me. Like the young man in the picture, I needed to stay focused on the path that the Master was pointing me to. And if I would obey Him — even when the road seemed dark — He would certainly bless my faith in Him.

I tell you this because, inevitably, there will be times in your life when you just don’t know what to do. You may feel overwhelmed by the questions that plague you and shut down — becoming paralyzed and unable to move forward. Or perhaps you lie awake at night, consumed by the details of your circumstances and rehearsing them repeatedly in the hope of making some sense of them. Either way, you feel trapped, because you have no idea how to proceed.

You will feel as if your anxiety is tearing you apart. And that is what fear does — it scatters your thoughts, pulling you in different directions with all the “what ifs.” But this stands in direct opposition to what the Father desires for you.

Jesus said,

 

I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. — John 16:33

Peace. It is a word that in the Greek means “joined or bound together.” For example, through Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross, we can have peace — or be united — with Him and be fully reconciled to the Father (Colossians 1:20).

However, peace also means an internal sense of harmony and tranquility. Everything within us is calm — confident “that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). It is Jesus’ goal that we would possess the inward composure that comes from having a personal relationship with Him and enjoying His provision. And He has given us the gift of prayer for this purpose.

Philippians 4:6-7 promises,

 

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4:6-7

The word there for guard means to “garrison you about, hem you in, and protect by a military sentinel.” As you exercise the gift of prayer and walk with God, He encompasses you as your Protector and Provider — and no one can break through His defenses. The Father encircles you with His own matchless presence, and the only way anything can get to you is if He Himself opens the door and allows it. That is the greatest security you and I could ever ask for.

Do you need peace in some area? Are you facing a situation that is confusing — that is tearing you apart? Do you lack a clear course of action?

    Jesus knows exactly what you really need and how to provide it in     the most loving and edifying way possible. He is committed to     seeing you become all He created you to be.

Jesus’ hand is on your shoulder, and He’s pointing you in the right direction — the right path for your life. Are you listening to Him and submitting to His guidance? Or are you living your life the way you want to — in your wisdom rather than His?

All of us need a reliable guide to instruct us, and none is more trustworthy than the Savior who laid down His life on our behalf. But perhaps you are unsure — can you truly trust the Lord with the situation that is currently causing you so much stress and anxiety? Here are two reasons why I am confident you can and should.

The first reason trusting Jesus to guide you will bring you peace is because you know He will never lead you astray. As I said previously, His character is above reproach. His comprehension of all things past, present, and future is beyond compare. He not only has the wisdom to counsel you, but He loves you and always has your best interest at heart. Deuteronomy 31:8 promises,

 

The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.

God will never mislead or abandon you, no matter what decision you must make. He will direct you in the best path possible if you will follow Him. If that doesn’t give you peace, I don’t know what will!

Second, trusting Jesus to guide you will bring you peace because He is leading you on a road that is unique to you. This world offers many one-size-fits-all solutions to our problems, and often they do not work or cause even more damage. But Jesus’ knowledge of you is perfect — He understands your personality, strengths, weaknesses, joys, sorrows, needs, temptations, desires, and concerns. Also, He created you for a distinctive purpose. Ephesians 2:10 explains,

 

We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.

When the Lord formed you, there were special assignments He planned for you to accomplish, which are tailor-made for your giftedness and temperament. Your being is satisfied, finds meaning, and is fulfilled in knowing Him and achieving those purposes.

This all means that the road you are to take must be specially crafted for you — specific to your makeup and to the reasons you were created as you were. This is why it is so important for God to set your course — because only your Lord and Savior knows your true potential, how to overcome the dangers ahead, and how to arrive at your destination in the safest and most effective way possible. And this is why His leadership should give you peace — He knows exactly what you really need and how to provide it in the most loving and edifying way possible. He is invested in you and is committed to seeing you become all He created you to be.

In Psalm 32:8, He promises,

 

I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.

Will you trust Him to do so? I hope you will. He knows exactly where you are, what you need to do in the situation you’re facing, and how to get you to the wonderful destination He’s planned for you. He is your Protector and Provider and has everything necessary to get you to the goal even when the path seems impossible. Only the Lord can meet those high standards that can ensure your peace.

Pray to Him and trust Him to be your leader in every situation, because surely He will bless you with His peace that transcends understanding as you follow Him.

Lord God, thank You so much for always being with me — for never leaving or abandoning me. I am so grateful that You are leading me through this great gift of prayer. Like a loving Father or a gentle Shepherd, You direct me on the path I need to take — to drive out sin, heal my wounds, develop my gifts, build my character, and teach me more about You. Thank You, Lord.

You encompass me as my perfect Protector and Provider — and no one can break through Your defenses. You guide me with Your hand on my shoulder and encircle me with Your own matchless presence. I thank You that the only way anything can get to me is if You allow it for my ultimate edification and benefit. What great tranquility that gives my heart — that all things will work together for my good!

You keep me secure in Your steadfast, unending, unshakable love. Thank You, Lord! There is no peace like the peace You give, Lord Jesus! In Your matchless name I pray. Amen.

Excerpted with permission from The Gift of Prayer by Charles Stanley, copyright Charles F. Stanley.

 

* * *

Your Turn

With prayer we have an incredible connection with God Himself! His hand is on your shoulder, guiding you, leading you, protecting you, shielding you, trading your anxiety for His peace. He will never lead you astray.

Trust Or Worry

Adrian Rogers writes about moving from worry to trust in this excellent little devotion.

Do You Trust or Worry?

BIBLE MEDITATION:

“Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep"

 

(Psalm 121:4)

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:

I heard about a man who was in a crisis and couldn’t sleep. He thought about this verse of Scripture, “Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep" (Psalm 121:4). He said, “Well, Lord, there’s no need for both of us to stay up all night. Good night, Lord. I’m going to sleep while you stay awake.”

The Bible says, “You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You because he trusts in You" (Isaiah 26:3).

It may sound like a paradox: on one hand, pray earnestly. On the other, get some sleep. But Philippians 4:6-7 tells us, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and [listen to it] the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

ACTION POINT:

Friend, turn your problem over to Him. Roll it on the Lord. I don’t care how big it is. Read and obey Philippians 4:6-7 and know the mastery of God’s peace. God’s peace will settle over your panic.

A Word About The WORD

#MorningGlory RTTBROS

Hebrews 4:12 - For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 

That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

John 17:17 - Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth

The Bible contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable.

Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you.

It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword and the Christian’s charter. Here too, Heaven is opened and the gates of Hell disclosed.

Christ is its grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently and prayerfully.  It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure.

It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.

(The inspiring introduction to the Bible found in Gideon Bibles)

Secrets To Satisfying Relationships Part 1

SECRETS OF SATISFYING Relationships

Relationships are the true Treasures of this life. When we leave this old Earth, we will take nothing with us that we accumulated, by way of possessions. What we will have, hopefully is Treasured Memories of Rich relationships. I have never known anyone on their Deat

hbed who wished they had acquired more stuff, I have known many who wishes they had developed better relationships.

Lets explore 6 areas suggested by Dr. Sam Hoyte and grow some soul sustaining relationships

    

Philippians 2:2, Ephesians 4:3

Philippians 2:2 “.Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.  Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Philippians 2:2‭-‬3 KJV

Ephesians 4:3 “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Ephesians 4:3 KJV

SIX SECRETS OF A SATISFYING Relationships

INGREDIENT #1:  COMMUNICATION

Communication is the lifeline of marriage.  When communication breaks down, the marriage breaks down.

Proverbs 18:21 “.Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

Proverbs 18:21 KJV

The major reason you have communication problems is you expect your mate to think like you do.

It is not the ability to communicate that is lost when a marriage grows apart.  It is the desire to communicate that undergoes change.  When one or the other no longer wants to be understood or to be understanding, distance will develop.

INGREDIENT #2: CONSIDERATION

Ephesians 5:33  “Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

Ephesians 5:33 KJV

1 Peter 3:7  “ Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.

1 Peter 3:7 KJV

James 3:17  “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

James 3:17 KJV

…considerate…”

A kind person acts in benevolent, gentle, and loving ways. In marriage, kindness is demonstrated through generous acts, considerate behavior, and comforting words. A kind person usually has a mild and pleasant disposition and acts with tenderness and concern for others. A man who brings his wife flowers as a sign of his love and a woman who strokes her husband’s arm as they watch a movie are acting with kindness.

When I’m being considerate, I’m being wise.  The corollary is when I’m being inconsiderate, I’m being stupid.