Thank You

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"I am Now a Child of God" - from a Facebook Share

Apparently the White House referred to Christmas Trees as “Holiday Trees” for the first time this year which prompted CBS presenter, Ben Stein, to present this piece which I would like to share with you. I think it applies just as much to many countries as it does to America . . .

The following was written by Ben Stein and recited by him on CBS Sunday Morning Commentary.

My confession:

I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, bejewelled trees, Christmas trees. I don't feel threatened. I don't feel discriminated against. That's what they are, Christmas trees.

It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, “Merry Christmas” to me. I don't think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, I kind of like it. It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating this happy time of year. It doesn't bother me at all that there is a manger scene on display at a key intersection near my beach house in Malibu. If people want a crib, it's just as fine with me as is the Menorah a few hundred yards away.

I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew, and I don't think Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period. I have no idea where the concept came from, that America is an explicitly atheist country. I can't find it in the Constitution and I don't like it being shoved down my throat.

Or maybe I can put it another way: where did the idea come from that we should worship celebrities and we aren't allowed to worship God? I guess that's a sign that I'm getting old, too. But there are a lot of us who are wondering where these celebrities came from and where the America we knew went to.

In light of the many jokes we send to one another for a laugh, this is a little different: This is not intended to be a joke; it's not funny, it's intended to get you thinking.

Billy Graham's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson asked her: “How could God let something like this happen?” (regarding Hurricane Katrina). Anne Graham gave an extremely profound and insightful response. She said: “I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives. And being the gentleman He is, I believe He has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us His blessing and His protection if we demand He leave us alone?”

In light of recent events... terrorists attack, school shootings, etc. I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found a few years ago) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said OK. Then someone said you better not read the Bible in school. The Bible says thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbour as yourself. And we said OK.

Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave, because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem (Dr. Spock's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he's talking about. And we said okay.

Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their classmates, and themselves.

Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with 'WE REAP WHAT WE SOW.'

Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says. Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail and they spread like wildfire, but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing. Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school and workplace.

Are you laughing yet?

Funny how when you forward this message, you will not send it to many on your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they will think of you for sending it.

Funny how we can be more worried about what other people think of us than what God thinks of us.

Pass it on if you think it has merit.

If not, then just discard it.... no one will know you did. But if you discard this thought process, don't sit back and complain about what bad shape the world is in.

My Best Regards, Honestly and respectfully,

How to be Saved Through Jesus Christ

Here is a study outline to guide you in understanding the biblical way to be saved...

The Roman Road to Salvation in Jesus Christ

1)  Romans 10:13 - For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

a)  Acts 4:12 - Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

b)  Ephesians 2:8-9 - For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

2)  John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.

a)  We hear Jesus say, "God so loved the world." God's love has no limitations.
He loves "so". More than we can imagine. He loves everyone - not just some ones.

3)  Romans 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

4)  Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God

a)  This verse tells us that all people have sinned. We have fallen short of God's intended purpose for us. God made us to know Him - to receive His
love and to love him in return. 

b)  For love to be love - for God to be God, and for humans to be humans - God gave us a choice. We can choose to love ourselves and turn to our selfish pursuits. That is sin. In our sin we cannot know God and His love. The result of sin is that we are lost, separated from God.

5)  Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

a)  Wages are “just payment” or “due reward” what one has coming because of labor. The just payment for our sin is death.

b)  Death here means spiritual insensitivity. When we are still in our sin, we have no life with God. We are alive physically but dead spiritually. If we continue in that condition, we will be separated from God for all eternity.

c)  The wages of sin is death. But God's free gift is eternal life. While wages are earned, a gift is offered... no strings attached. God says He will give us eternal life - life with Him - in the place of sin's payment of death.

d)  How can God remain true to His holiness and forgive unholy sinners? Because Jesus, His Son, has paid the price for sin by His death on the cross.

6)  2 Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

a)  Jesus arose from the grave to conquer sin and death for all who receive Him as God's free gift.

7)  How can you receive God's free gift of love and life?

a)  Romans 10:9-10 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation.

i)   A person receives God's free gift of love and life by placing faith in Jesus Christ. To believe is simply to take God at His word. With our heart (whole believing), we believe that Jesus is God's Son who died for our sin on the cross and arose from the grave to live in us as Savior and Lord.

ii)  To believe in Jesus will result in confessing that faith with one's mouth.

8)  Three little questions:

a)  Do you acknowledge that you are a sinner?

b)  Do you believe by faith that Jesus, God's Son, died for your sin on the cross?

c)  Will you now confess Him as your Savior and Lord?

9)  Romans 10:13 - For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

a)  This verse says that any person who will call upon the name of Jesus, the Lord, shall be saved. 

b)  To call means simply to ask in prayer. The verse does not require one to know more... do better... clean up one's life... or in any way try to add to what Jesus has done for us.

10)  Will you now call upon Jesus to save you from your sin so that you can know God's love and forgiveness?
Salvation Prayer

Pray like this:

Dear God in heaven, I come to you in the name of Jesus. I acknowledge to You that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for my sins and the life that I have lived; I need your forgiveness.

I believe that your only begotten Son Jesus Christ shed His precious blood on the cross at Calvary and died for my sins, and I am now willing to turn from my sin.

You said in Your Holy Word, Romans 10:9 that if we confess the Lord our God and believe in our hearts that God raised Jesus from the dead, we shall be saved.

Right now I confess Jesus as the Lord of my soul. With my heart, I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead. This very moment I accept Jesus Christ as my own personal Savior and according to His Word, right now I am saved.

Thank you Jesus for your unlimited grace which has saved me from my sins. I thank you Jesus that your grace never leads to license, but rather it always leads to repentance. Therefore Lord Jesus transform my life so that I may bring glory and honor to you alone and not to myself.

Thank you Jesus for dying for me and giving me eternal life.

Amen.

11)     Please be clear on this: IT IS NOT THIS PRAYER THAT HAS SAVED YOU!!!

You have been saved because:

a)        You heard God's word (Romans 10:17; Acts 8:5,35; 16:13; 2:22),

b)        You believed that Jesus Christ is the Son of God (Acts 2:36; 8:12; 16:31; Mark 16:16),

c)        Repented of your sins (Luke 13:3; Acts 2:38; 17:31),

d)        Confessed your faith in Christ (Matthew 10:32; Acts 8:37),

12)     In line with your confession of faith in Jesus Christ, and your Salvation, there is one more thing that you should do, in accordance with Scripture:

a)        And were baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38; Mark 16:16; Acts 8:12-13; 16:15,33;22:16).

If you have read through this study, and have made the decision to become a follower of Christ, we at Havillah Christian Center would like to welcome you to the family of God!

Feel free to contact us at any time with questions, or just to chat!

The Strongman Series: Part 1

It's the classic scenario:

The big, muscle-bound school Bully accosts the skinny little Weakling kid every day. The Bully embarrasses Weakling in front of all the other kids, takes his lunch money, and leaves him with empty pockets. On a good day, Weakling is left with only a bruised ego... On a bad day, maybe a black eye.

After having suffered through this daily harassment for a full school year, poor Weakling  is fed up. He has had all he can take. Over the summer break, Weakling lifts weights, runs, and takes up boxing at the local gym. He is determined to put a stop to Bully's tyranny.

One the first day of the fall semester, Bully sets out to pick up where he left off before the summer - terrorizing Weakling. Only today, Bully is in for a surprise...

Bully finds Weakling, and is a bit surprised. Weakling looks a litter thicker, a little more solid. Weakling has a subtile confident air about him that was never there before. He isn't cowering and trying to find an escape route...

Bully walks up to Weakling and begins to berate him and demand money, as was the custom. Weakling hesitates, and then says "NO!"

At this point, bully - in total shock at this response - makes a move to punch Weakling in the eye. The kids are all gathered round watching, assuming this will go as it always has: Bully will knock Weakling to the ground, then make off with Weakling's cash.

But what an unexpected turn of events!!!!

Weakling ducks the punch then lands a solid blow to Bully's chin, knocking flat! Weakling stands over Bully and boldly announces, "Don't ever mess with me again!"

Consider this:

Just as there are bullies and brutes in the natural realm, there are also bullies and brutes in the spiritual realm. Moreover, there is one Big Bully, who is boss over them all, and his name is Lucifer, and Satan, and Beelzebub, and Belial – among others. He, together with his underlings – his demon army – seeks to terrorize mankind; and, especially, to antagonize Believers.

The Enemy will accost you on every hand for as long as you allow it. He will take your things. He will leave you bruised, and battered, and broke. He will have you living in a constant state of fear, and high alert; always looking over your shoulder trying to spot the bully before he spots you.

But this is NOT how Believers should live.

The Word of God says:

¹⁸ And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.

¹⁹ Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

²⁰ Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. – Luke 10:18-20

What does this mean for the Believer?

It means that the Believer DOES NOT have to accept nor suffer demonic activity in their lives, because:

1.       We have been given the power to stop this activity in its tracks

2.       We have been given authority to exercise that power

The Word of God says:

³⁷ Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. – Romans 8:37

Let’s look at the Greek text for the phrase “more than conquerors”, as found in the Strong’s Concordance (word number G5245);

ὑπερνικάω

hupernikaō (hoop-er-nik-ah'-o)

From G5228 and G3528;

to vanquish beyond, that is, gain a decisive victory: - more than conquer.

Let’s also look at the definition of “vanquish”

               

van·quish   [vang-kwish, van-]

verb (used with object)

1.       to conquer or subdue by superior force, as in battle.

2.       to defeat in any contest or conflict; be victorious over: to vanquish one's opponent in an argument.

3.       to overcome or overpower: He vanquished all his fears.

What does this mean for the Believer?

The Enemy will do everything he can to strong-arm you out of what you are entitled to through Christ Jesus (your lunch money). He will tell you “you might as well give up and go home, you don’t stand a chance!” He will bring to mind every time you have lost in the past, and use it to try to persuade you that you will lose this time, too.

The Enemy will repeatedly attack you and win, setting in your mind an expectation of defeat. He’ll have you scared to walk down the street (much as Weakling was afraid to walk the school corridors) because you never know when he’s going to pop up. But:

                The Word of God says:

               

                ⁷ For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

– 2 Timothy 1:7

What does this mean for the Believer?

The Believer has no reason to fear the devil. The spiritually weak Believer need only build up some spiritual muscle. Spend some time in the “Jesus Gym” (yes I really said that) working out with the Word of God!

Weakling had to work on his body in order to build strength. He had to be trained in a form of hand-to-hand combat so that he could do battle with his antagonist. His newly gained strength and skills brought a fresh confidence when he next faced his nemesis.

It works much the same for the Believer in spiritual matters. You must have training, strength, and confidence when you face your spiritual bully (the devil and his workers) or you won’t win. But, through Jesus Christ and the Word of God (the Holy Bible) you have the necessary power to be victorious in battle.

                The Word of God says:

¹⁷ And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils… – Mark 16:17

³⁷ Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. – Romans 8:37

What does this mean for the Believer?

In whose name? Who is ‘he’ and ‘him’?

JESUS!

               

The Word of God says:

¹⁸  And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour. – Acts 16:18

¹⁰  That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth. – Philippians 2:10

¹⁸  And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All poweris given unto me in heaven and in earth.

– Matthew 28:18

What does this mean for the Believer?

Both the power you have over the Enemy and the authority (permission) by which you exercise that power are given and sustained by Jesus Christ; it is placed in your possession for you to use, but DOES NOT ORINIGATE FROM YOU.

                Consider this:

                Delegated Authority (as defined on Wikipedia.)

Delegated authority is an authority obtained from another that has authority since the authority does not naturally exist.

Typically this is used in a government context where an organization that is created by a legitimate government, such as a Board, City, Town or other Public Corporations to allow them to legally function in the name of the constitutional government.

               

               

                Consider this:

               

You are leasing a property from ABC Realty, but you don’t deal with the owner of ABC Realty, you deal with Bobby, a property manager. Bobby has the power to act on behalf of the Corporation to buy sell and lease properties. He also has the power to collect fees, such as rent; he also has the power to approve payments for insurance, utilizes, and fees for maintenance. Bobby doesn’t own the property, so he has no automatic authority to do any of this; he can’t just take it upon himself to start managing someone else’s property. (That would be like Average Joe walking into the local department store, then ordering products to stock the shelves and signing off on checks to pay vendors.)

Bobby had to be GIVEN PERMISSION by ABC Realty to act as representative, and to carry out actions in the name of ABC Realty.

If Bobby has to evict a tenant, he calls upon the authority of ABC Realty (entity that ACTUALLY HOLDS THE POWER over the property) in order to be able to legally evict the tenant.

Bobby acts ‘in the name of’ (under the authority of) ABC Realty.

Believers engaged in spiritual warfare ‘act in name of’ (under the authority of) Jesus Christ, because Jesus has given the Believer PERMISSION (authority) to do so.

SUMMARY:

1.       satan and his workers can be compared to ‘spiritual bullies’

2.       Believers DO NOT have to tolerate demonic strong-arming

3.       Jesus has delegated authority to Believers: He has given them both power to defeat demons and permission to exercise that power

4.       Jesus is the source and maintaining force of Believers’ power and authority over the enemy; the Believer is the vessel into which this power and authority has been placed.

5.       The Believer is empowered to gain DEFINITIVE VICTORY over the enemy

Toy Drive

Havillah Christian Center is kicking of its First Annual Toy Drive!

Christmas is right around the corner! Won't you help to make it a merry occasion for the children of Dallas?

We are seeking your assistance in bringing the Christmas spirit to the less fortunate! Your donated toys, clothing and books will be delivered to children. Donating or contributing is easy and it will bring great joy to you and your family!

Please help out with toys and Bibles for the toy drive.

We would like to make this Christmas good for those whose parents will not be able to provide gifts this year. We will try to provide 3 new toys per child ($15 – $30 value).

Please purchase a $15 – $30 gift appropriate for a child (ages 0-16) and drop the unwrapped gift off at the following location by Sunday, December 9th:

Havillah Christian Center, Office

3076 Spruce Valley Lane, Apt #2093

Dallas, TX 75233

We are looking for sponsorships, donations, and places to put stocking boxes and over-flow donations.

Contact Info:

Phone: 214-377-8250

Email: hcci.church@gmail.com

Facebook: Havillah Christian Center

***IMPORTANT NOTICE***

PLEASE CALL IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO APPLY

FOR CHRISTMAS HELP. 

PLEASE DO NOT "DROP BY" WITHOUT AN APPOINTMENT

PHONE CALLS FOR ASSISTANCE ARE ACCEPTED

TUESDAY, AND THURSDAY 5PM - 7PM

BEGINNING TUESDAY NOVEMBER 6TH

ENDING THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22ND

NO CALLS ACCEPTED ON THANKSGIVING DAY

Guidelines

Toys Must:

· Be brand new and unwrapped

· No toy guns, knives, bow/arrows, etc

Toy Suggestions:

· Board Games

· Sporting Goods

· Toy Car/Plane/Boat

· Dolls

· Coloring Books

· Hand-held video games or small electronic games

· Bicycles

Books:

· Bibles

· Educational

Clothing:

· Boys and Girls

· Birth to 12 years old

Infant-2 years

· Elmo

· Sesame Street Character items

· Dora & Diego Items

· Interactive musical/light-up toys

· Pooh and Tigger toys

· Playskool Busy Ball Bopper

· Push & pull toys

· Riding toys

· Educational toys

· Little People toys

· Walkers, swings, playpens, etc

· Rattles

Preschool Girls (2-4 years)

· Character items (Dora, Diego, Princesses)

· Little People & Accessories

· Leapfrog/V-tech educational toys

· Dress-up/imaginary play toys

· Fur Real Friends

· Baby-Alive

· Dolls

Preschool Boys (2-4 years)

· Diego toys

· Handy Manny toys

· Thomas the Tank Engine

· Little People & accessories

· Leapfrog/Vtech educational toys

· Bob the Builder toys

· Mega Blocks

· Trains, trucks, cars

5-7 year old GIRLS

· My Little Pony & accessories

· Littlest Pet Shop

· Scooter/skates & helmet

· Barbie, Disney Princesses, Polly Pocket dolls

· Jewelry and bead craft kits

· Board games

5-7 year old BOYS

· Action figures

· Remote control cars

· Remote control helicopters

· Basketballs

· Lego sets

· Skateboards/scooters with helmet

· Board games

8-12 year old GIRLS

· Pocketbooks and bags

· Bath & body lotions & soaps

· MP3 players

· Craft kits

· DVD’s

· Jewelry

· Games

· Skateboards & helmets

· CD’s

· Digital camera

· Watch

8-12 year old BOYS

· TV plug-in video games

· Remote control cars

· Lego sets

· Skateboards & scooters with helmet

· Board games

· Footballs, basketballs

· Watch

· MP3 players

· DVDs

· TV plug-in video games

· Games

· Footballs, basketballs

· CD’s

· Digital Camera

Policy:

· Donated toys will not be returned to the donor under any condition

· Donor waives the right to direct the donated toy(s) to a particular recipient

Disclaimer:

· In case the number of toys collected exceeds the number of recipients, extra toys will be reserved for future distribution events at the discretion of Havillah Christian Center.

Nasir Siddiki - Left to Die

By age 34, Nasir Siddiki, a successful businessman, had made his first million, but money meant nothing to him on his deathbed. Diagnosed with the worst case of shingles ever admitted to Toronto General Hospital , his immune system shut down and doctors left him to die.

The next morning I woke in a sterile room on the eighth floor of the hospital, my skin burning as t
hough someone had doused me in gasoline and lit a match. I felt on fire from the inside out.

My doctor arrived and looked at me in wonder. “The blisters are multiplying so fast I can literally watch them grow,” he said. ‘”Your body isn’t fighting back.”

The next morning, in addition to shingles, I had chicken pox from head to toe. I was put in strict isolation. That evening my temperature soared to 107.6 degrees — hot enough to leave my brain permanently scrambled.

For days I continued to deteriorate. My nerve endings became so inflamed that a hair drifting across my skin sent shock waves of fire rippling through my body. By week’s end, I was listed in critical condition.

My Last Hope

In life, I’d been bold, self confident, a risk taker. But facing death, I was terrified. I had no idea what might await me on the other side. I’d been raised as a Moslem in London , England , and I understood Allah was not a god who heals.

My only hope was in medicine.

I eventually slipped so close to death that the doctors didn’t know I could hear them when they examined me. “His immune system has simply shut down,” one of them said.

“He’s dying,” the other confirmed. “His immune system must be compromised by AIDS.”

I don’t have AIDS! I wanted to shout, but I couldn’t form the words. Then it hit me. He said I’m dying!

The doctors spoke quietly to my co-worker, Anita. “In a few hours he’ll be dead,” they said. “If by some miracle he lives, he’ll probably be blind in his right eye, deaf in his right ear, paralyzed on his right side and he may be severely brain damaged from the high fever.”

Then they left.

They left me here to die! I felt like a drowning man going down for the third time. Gathering my strength I whispered a prayer. “God, if you’re real, don’t let me die!”

In His Presence

During the darkest hour of the night, I woke and saw a man at the foot of my bed. Rays of light emanated from him, allowing me to see his outline. I couldn’t see his face, it was too bright. No one had to tell me, I knew it was Jesus.

The Koran mentions Jesus; Moslems believe He existed, not as the son of God, but as a good man and a prophet. I knew this wasn’t Mohammed. I knew it wasn’t Allah. Jesus was in my room. There was no fear, only peace.

“Why would You come to a Moslem when everyone else has left me to die?” I wondered.

Without words, he spoke to me. “I Am the God of the Christians. I Am the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.”

That’s all He said. He didn’t mention my illness. He didn’t mention my impending death. As suddenly as He appeared, He was gone.

The next morning, the same two doctors arrived to examine me. “The blisters have stopped growing!”

“We don’t know what happened, but the shingles virus has gone into remission!”

The following day, still in pain and covered with blisters, I was discharged from the hospital with a suitcase full of drugs. “Don’t leave home,” the doctor cautioned. “It will be months before the blisters go away, and when they do you’ll be left with white patches of skin and scars. The pain could last for years.”

Stepping outside into the morning sun, I looked like a cross between a leper and the Elephant Man. When people saw me, they crossed to the other side of the street. However, my mind was not on my looks; my thoughts were on Jesus. There was no doubt in my mind that Jesus’ presence in my room had stopped the shingles virus. Whatever else Jesus may be, I realized that in His presence miracles happened.

That fact left me with one consuming question: Is Jesus the Son of God as the Christians claim, or is He just a prophet as I was taught?

At home that evening, in spite of the drugs, the pain and itching was so severe I almost had to tie my hands. Even so, I fell into a restless sleep wondering about Jesus.

Learning to Live

The next morning, I woke early and turned on the television. Flipping through the channels, I froze when I saw the following words across the screen: Is Jesus the Son of God?

I listened intently as two men spent the entire program discussing this topic — answering all of my questions. Before the show went off the air, one of the men led the television audience in a prayer. My body was aflame with pain but I knelt on my living room floor anyway. Tears streaming down my face, I repeated the prayer and invited Jesus into my heart.

Immediately a voracious spiritual hunger sprang up within me. I had to know more about Jesus. In spite of my doctor’s orders to stay inside, the next day I went out and bought a Bible. First I read the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Still ravenous, I started in Genesis and read through the Bible during my sleepless nights.

Meanwhile, Anita brought me books and teaching tapes explaining the Gospel. I devoured them while continuing to study the Word of God. As my understanding of faith began to grow, I dug out a picture of how I looked before shingles. I prayed and asked God to make me look that way again.

Nasir and Anita Siddiki - Jesus, My Healer

One week after my discharge from the hospital, I woke and found my pillow covered in blisters. I must have clawed them in my sleep, I thought. I crawled out of bed and stepped into the shower. What had started on my pillow was finished in the shower: Every blister fell off my body!

Instead of being covered with patches of white and scar tissue, my skin was simply red and raw. It slowly healed, returning to its pre-shingles condition. When it did, I not only looked human, I looked like I did before I got sick, except for the scars that I still carry on my chest.

None of the doctor’s dire predictions came true. My eyesight was 20/20. My hearing was normal. My speech was unimpaired. I suffered no brain damage.

My healing was miraculous, swift and complete. I never suffered from lingering pain or any other complication. Not only did I have the worst case of shingles ever admitted to Toronto General Hospital , I also had the most miraculous recovery.

Jesus, the God of the Christians, showed up in the hospital room of a dying Moslem and healed me. But that wasn’t the greatest miracle He performed. The transformation that occurred in my heart was even more dramatic than the one that occurred in my body.

An international teacher and evangelist, Dr. Nasir Siddiki is the founder of Wisdom Ministries. He lives in Tulsa , OK with his wife Anita and their two sons.

As Jesus Did...

Matthew 14:14-21

14 And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.

15 And when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals.

16 But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat.

17 And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes.

18 He said, Bring them hither to me.

19 And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.

20 And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.

21 And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.

Not everyone who followed Jesus did so because the loved or believed Him; nor because they believed IN Him or were in favor of His ministry. Yet, when He saw that the followers were hungry, and needed to be fed, He made no distinction between those who followed with pure intentions, and those who followed for evil purposes.

He said "They don't have to leave, provide them with what they need."

Not everyone in your life has your best intentions in mind. However, don't be so quick to return evil for evil. There are time when you are called to show kindness and compassion even to your enemy.

A Warning Before Destruction

1 John 4:8

...for God is love.

1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 

The sinful Christian clings to these passages in particular, so that they may find some little justification or consolation in their continued sinful practices. Yes! God is Love, and, Yes! He will forgive. There is no denying that. But, you must also acknowledge the fact that the same verse which testifies to His forgiving nature also bares witness of of His just character.

Is it justice to let a thief go unpunished when he continues to steal?

is it justice to allow a murderer to continue his spree?

Of course not! Whether the criminal receive probation or prison or even some fine, there is a punishment.

From the Old Testament to the New Testament, cautioned and warned on this subject. Let's not be those people with itching ears, refusing to receive good instruction. Let's not be those who seek after this 'other gospel' which permits and condones, excuses and covers up the flouting of the Word of God.

I do not serve a Cut'n'Paste God. I cannot pick and choose which parts of the Bible I will believe and abide by. It's all or nothing at all. When the Word points out the sins of others, it is right! When the Word points out my sin, it is right!

So here are some passages that we should all read and take to heart:

The Punishment of the Wicked:

Is from God: Le 26:18; Isa 13:11

On account of their...:

Sin. La 3:39

Iniquity. Jer 36:31; Eze 3:17-18; 18:4,13,20; Am 3:2

Idolatry. Le 26:30; Isa 10:10,11

Rejection of the law of God. 1Sa 15:23; Ho 4:6-9

Ignorance of God. 2Th 1:8

Evil ways and doings. Jer 21:14; Ho 4:9; 12:2

Pride. Isa 10:12; 24:21; Lu 14:11

Unbelief. Mr 16:16; Ro 11:20; Heb 3:18,19; 4:2

Covetousness. Isa 57:17; Jer 51:13

Oppressing. Isa 49:26; Jer 30:16,20

Persecuting. Jer 11:21,22; Mt 23:34-36

Disobeying God. Ne 9:26,27; Eph 5:6

Disobeying the gospel. 2Th 1:8

Is the fruit of their sin Job 4:8; Pr 22:8; Ro 6:21; Ga 6:8

Is the reward of their sins Ps 91:8; Isa 3:11; Jer 16:18; Ro 6:23; Heb 2:2

Often brought about by their evil designs: Es 7:10; Ps 37:15; 57:6

Often commences in this life: Pr 11:31

In this life by...:

Sickness. Le 26:16; Ps 78:50

Famine. Le 26:19,20,26,29; Ps 107:34

Noisome beasts. Le 26:22

War. Le 26:25,32,33; Jer 6:4

Deliverance to enemies. Ne 9:27

Fear. Le 26:36,37; Job 18:11

Reprobate mind. Ro 1:28

Put in slippery places. Ps 73:3-19

Trouble and distress. Isa 8:22; Zep 1:15

Cutting off. Ps 94:23

Bringing down their pride. Isa 13:11

Future, shall be awarded by Christ: Mt 16:27; 25:31,41

Future described as...:

Hell. Ps 9:17; Mt 5:29; Lu 12:5; 16:23

Darkness. Mt 8:12; 2Pe 2:17

Death. Ro 5:12-17; 6:23

Resurrection of damnation. Joh 5:29

Rising to shame and everlasting contempt. Da 12:2

Everlasting destruction. Ps 52:5; 92:7; 2Th 1:9

Everlasting fire. Mt 25:41; Jude 1:7

Second death. Re 2:11; 21:8

Damnation of hell. Mt 23:33

Eternal damnation. Mr 3:29

Blackness of darkness. 2Pe 2:17; Jude 1:13

Everlasting burnings. Isa 33:14

The wrath of God. Joh 3:36

Wine of the wrath of God. Re 14:10

Torment with fire. Re 14:10

Torment for ever and ever. Re 14:11

The righteousness of God requires. 2Th 1:6

Often sudden and unexpected. Ps 35:8; 64:7; Pr 29:1; Lu 12:20; 1Th 5:3

Shall be...:

According to their deeds. Mt 16:27; Ro 2:6,9; 2Co 5:10

According to the knowledge possessed by them. Lu 12:47,48

Increased by neglect of privileges. Mt 11:21-24; Lu 10:13-15

Without mitigation. Lu 16:23-26

Accompanied by remorse. Isa 66:24; Mr 9:44

No combination avails against Pr 11:21

Deferred, emboldens them in sin Ec 8:11

Should be a warning to others Nu 26:10; 1Co 10:6-11; Jude 1:7

Consummated at the day of judgment Mt 25:31,46; Ro 2:5,16; 2Pe 2:9

Scripture Compilation Original Source

A Day Without a Lesson...

What makes a great day is the lesson(s) learnt for the day.

A day without a lesson is a lean day. It is lessons that fatten the day.

A day without a lesson is a wasted day. It is lessons that fill up a day.

It is lesson learnt on a previous day that makes looking forward to another exciting.

Those who learn everyday never have problem looking forward to another day.

Learning makes you hopeful, it makes you enthusiastic and optimistic.

The question is what lessons have you learn today?

XTOLZ Christian Blog: Devotion, all that I have to give

XTOLZ Christian Blog: Devotion, all that I have to give: All my world all I've lost the wrecks I've made here the lives it cost Your hand restores Your words make whole with all my soul I t...

Confessions of a Fake Saint | Thrive 80 | Reblogged

Original Source | Thrive 80

Hello, I’m a hypocrite.

I go to church.

I’ve been going since I was a kid. Always loved it. I’m involved in tons of different ministries – I play piano on the worship team, I work with the young men, I’m in a small group Bible study. I dress up too, you know, for God. Well, not really for God. I like to look good, and I think I match shirts and ties pretty well. It’s important to look good on Sunday mornings. If people knew what the week was like, then I’d really have to put up with a lot. They might actually want to know more, and I’m not quite ready to let people in that far. I don’t want them to know that the reason I’m so tired Sunday morning is that I stayed up late looking at porn, or about the lying at work that I feel so guilty about. Or the fact that I’m seriously reconsidering whether I made a good choice marrying my spouse. That stuff… it’s just, you know, too deep. What would they think? I prefer the shallow stuff – I don’t want to let them in on my mess. Sometimes I wonder if I should even go to church at all and run the risk of something deep coming up in conversation. But if I don’t go, people would wonder.

I can hold my own in theological conversations.

Heck, I even bring up theology in social settings. I went to Bible college. I’ve built up a repertoire of phraseology, gestures, analogies, and logical arguments by which I nail my opponents to the floor in any debate about substitutionary atonement. These help me hide my insecurity and fears that I’m not good enough, that I won’t match up to expectations, that people will see what’s really inside me. My knowledge and quick tongue help to soothe my wounded ego when people aren’t paying enough attention to me. They also let people know that I’m firm in my faith. I mean, if they knew the doubts that run circles in my head at night, the fears that maybe I’m not truly saved, the debates in my gut about sin and punishment… Where’s the self-respect in that? How are people going to respect me at all if I’m truthful about my beliefs (or lack thereof)? I don’t know, studying theology just makes me question God more. Which won’t work. I’m a Bible student – people expect me to have answers, not questions.

I raise my hands in worship when the Spirit is moving.

I mean, I kind of wish I knew the difference between the Spirit and some kind of manufactured tingle. But that’s not the biggest issue. I guess I have a tendency to think a lot about the musicians up on stage, and how I could do so much better. I mean, if I was playing the piano up there right now, you’d be hearing much more musical stuff. I was trained in it. I was top in my class. Two-hundred people came to my senior recital. She’s not doing it good enough; in fact, I’m pretty sure God would be glorified so much better if I was playing. And leading. Seriously, who picked that song? Don’t they realize the theological inconsistencies? The chords are so simple a child could play it, and the rhythms are so screwy a Juilliard-trained percussionist couldn’t follow it. Well, the least I can do is fulfill my responsibility to worship even if the musicians stink.

I love my family.

God says to love them, right? The person who doesn’t love his family is worse than a pagan, and I’m definitely not one of those. I get angry sometimes. I yell sometimes. I say mean things. But most of the time I’m cool with them and they’re cool with me. I don’t think too much about it – I mean, I live with them, so they know I love them. Besides, if people knew about the grudges I hold, the demeaning things I say about my wife when I’m out with my buddies (all in jest, of course!), the difficulty I have with my thoughts when I hang out with that girl at work… Well, let’s just say they might try to help me. I don’t want them to know. I can handle it on my own. I want to handle it on my own, at least. It’s… kind of harder that way, I guess, but at least no one knows that I struggle.

I pray and read the Bible.

You know, this part of the Christian life is still a mystery to me. People always say they get so much out of the Bible, that they feel a real connection when they pray. I don’t. The New Testament is so radical sometimes; the Old Testament is just confusing. I usually stick to the Epistles and the Psalms - they make more sense and I feel good about those. I can usually sync those books with my life (takes some wrangling sometimes, but so do the sermons on Sunday morning). And prayer – I must admit, I doubt sometimes that it actually does anything. Not that I do it enough to know. I’m too used to feeling like nothing will get done unless I do it myself.

I live a consistent lie.

I’ve been living in places where it’s not okay to share my deepest fears and struggles because… well, what would people think? My reputation matters to me – and not just because of my pride, but because I really do want to give God a good showing, to not disappoint Him. But maybe even that is because of my pride. I sometimes doubt that God is powerful enough to clean up all the mess I’ve made of my life, but I guess when it comes down to it, I doubt myself even more. That’s why I live a lie. Because I can’t stand myself – I’m not good enough, deep down I know that. All my life I’ve had these expectations of myself, whether impressed on me by others or just buried in the darkest parts of my inner being. And those expectations cripple me so that the ways I present myself become crutches to hold up my reputation in the midst of all those perfect believers out there. All those people who look like they have it good, who never seem to struggle, who never talk about their issues.

Just like me.

But what would happen if we did, huh? Dragging all that mess into the light would be painful, devastating, difficult. My reputation would be ruined, my porn addiction and anger issues and near-infidelity would be exposed for all to see. What about my position in the church? What about my job? What about my life, the way I want it, the way I see it, the way I expect it to happen? No, coming into the light is too hard. If that’s what it takes for Jesus to help me out, I don’t want it. I can fix everything. And then maybe, when it’s all fixed… than maybe I can actually have real relationships. Then maybe I can love people like I really do want to love them. Then maybe I’ll be strong enough. Then maybe I’ll be fulfilled.

If that ever happens.

Reality Check

folks, don't deceive yourselves into thinking that satan is some completely powerless non-threat. if that was the case, we wouldn't have so much evil and trouble in the world.

the Bible refers to him as 'the god of this world.'
while he does not have infinite and unchecked power, he does indeed have some limited form power.

let me clarify that statement before you guys pull out your AK's:

deception is a form of power.
when you lie to someone in order to get them to do something you want done, you have in effect exercised a form of power over them. you have more or less forcing them to act in a way that you desired, but in a way that they would not have acted of their own accord.

manipulation is a form of power.
have you [or someone you know] ever over-drafted on your bank, then called and acted all innocent so they would knock off the fees?

sexual attraction is a form of power.
do i really have to lay it out how we [men and women] use it to our advantage when we know that someone is or may be attracted to us?

yes it's true that he has to have permission to operate, but did you realize that that permission can come from you? whether you give him overt permission by doing something stupid like selling your soul and signing a contract in blood [exaggerated for emphasis, but don't think it doesn't happen...], or you're a 'casual horoscope reader,' you are giving your consent (and most likely you haven't read the big print, let alone the fine print.)

when you sign a blood transfusion consent form before surgery, you agree to accept donor blood. you don't get to pick and choose black blood only, or no blood from short people, or only blue from people with blue or green eyes. no. you get a mixture of blood produced from merger of donations from people across the nation.

when you agree to allow the devil to operate in your life in the area of, let's say, divination, you can't say 'oh, by the way lucifer, you can only wotk in my life thru horoscopes...' not at all. it just does not work that way. you effectively give permission for him to run horoscopes, palm reading, crystal ball gazing, channeling, telekinesis, and all other forms or divination right thru your front door.

you have given him permission to exercise his limited power to the max!

i'm just saying...

Sin, Sacrifice, Salvation

Coming to Jesus is not suppose to be an experimental thing to make your life better. We need Jesus to avoid God's wrath and judgement. If you have ever lied, stolen, looked at someone with sexual intentions, spoke God's Name in vain, or hated someone, you are a breaker of the Ten Commandments. The punishment for that is condemnation to Hell. (See John3:18)

Hell is described as the second death, eternal fire. A burning that will never end or be quenched, you will wish for a drink of water but never be relieved. You will look upon all the people who made it to Heaven, not having a chance to go because you didn't make it right with God while you had a chance.

REPENT, you have sinned against God and Him only. But, there is hope. Jesus paid the price for your forgiveness when He died on the cross as a sacrifice. They laid Jesus in a tomb, but on the third day God raised Him from the dead, justifying us by His resurrection. Jesus became a "Substitute" He stood in our place for the punishment we deserve. I say we because I also deserve this punishment, I have also broken Gods Law.

If you are truly sorry that you have sinned against God, right now come to God and say "God, I ask that you forgive me, I have sinned against you and you only, I believe that Jesus died on the cross for my sins. Lead me and guide me to what I need to do next, I want to live my life for You and I ask that You come into my heart! In Jesus Name amen!

ORIGINAL SOURCE

The Character & Fruits of a Christian

Abundant life
John 10:10:
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.


Citizenship
Romans 13:1-7:
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.


Titus 3:1
Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good.


Cleanliness
2 Corinthians 7:1
Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.


Consecration
Romans 12:1,2
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.


Contentment
Philippians 4:11-13
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.


1 Timothy 6:6
But godliness with contentment is great gain.


Courage
Psalm 27:14
Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.


Diligence
Romans 12:11
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.


Duty
Luke 20:21-25
So the spies questioned him: "Teacher, we know that you speak and teach what is right, and that you do not show partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?"
He saw through their duplicity and said to them, "Show me a denarius. Whose portrait and inscription are on it?"
"Caesar's," they replied.
He said to them, "Then give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's."


Endurance
Luke 21:9-19
When you hear of wars and revolutions, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away."
Then he said to them: "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.
"But before all this, they will lay hands on you and persecute you. They will deliver you to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name. This will result in your being witnesses to them. But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. All men will hate you because of me. But not a hair of your head will perish. By standing firm you will gain life.


2 Timothy 2:3
Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.


Faith
Matthew 8:5-13
When Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him, asking for help. "Lord," he said, "my servant lies at home paralyzed and in terrible suffering."
Jesus said to him, "I will go and heal him."
The centurion replied, "Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and that one, 'Come,' and he comes. I say to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."
When Jesus heard this, he was astonished and said to those following him, "I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith. I say to you that many will come from the east and the west, and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. But the subjects of the kingdom will be thrown outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."
Then Jesus said to the centurion, "Go! It will be done just as you believed it would." And his servant was healed at that very hour.


Mark 11:22-24
"Have[a] faith in God," Jesus answered. "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.


Faithfulness
Matthew 25:23
His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'


Forgiveness
Mark 11:25-26
And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."


Ephesians 4:31-32
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.


Freedom
John 8:31-36
To the . Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
They answered him, "We are Abraham's descendants[a] and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?"
Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.


Fruitfulness
John 15:1-8
"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.


Godliness
Titus 2:11-14
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.


Happiness
Matthew 5:3-12
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evilagainst you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.


Holiness
1 Peter 1:13-16
Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."


Honesty
2 Corinthians 8:21
For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men.


Honor: Parents, others
Ephesians 6:1-3
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. "Honor your father and mother"—which is the first commandment with a promise— "that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth


1 Peter 2:17
Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.


Hope
1 Peter 1:13
Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.


Humility
Luke 18:9-14
To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told this parable: "Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood up and prayed about[a] himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers — or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.'
"But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.'
"I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."


Philippians 2:3-11
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death — even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.


Joy
Luke 10:20
However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.


John 15:11
I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.


Kindness
Colossians 3:12-13
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.


Labor
John 9:4
As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.


Love
Luke 10:27
He answered: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'[a]; and, 'Love your neighbour as yourself.'


1 Corinthians 13
If I speak in the tongues[a] of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames,[b] but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.


Obedience
John 14:15-24
"If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him."
Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, "But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?"
Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.


Acts 5:29
Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men!


Overcoming
John 16:33
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."


Patience
Hebrews 10:36
You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.


Peacefulness
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.


Romans 12:18
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.


Perseverance
Mark 13:5-13
Jesus said to them: "Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am he,' and will deceive many. When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains."You must be on your guard. You will be handed over to the local councils and flogged in the synagogues. On account of me you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit."Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child. Children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.


Prayer
Luke 11:1-13
One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples."He said to them, "When you pray, say:
" 'Father,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come.
Give us each day our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins,
for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.' "
Then he said to them, "Suppose one of you has a friend, and he goes to him at midnight and says, 'Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, because a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I have nothing to set before him.'
"Then the one inside answers, 'Don't bother me. The door is already locked, and my children are with me in bed. I can't get up and give you anything.' I tell you, though he will not get up and give him the bread because he is his friend, yet because of the man's boldness he will get up and give him as much as he needs.
"So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
"Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"


Ephesians 6:18
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.


Pure thinking
Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.


Purity
Matthew 5:27-32
You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.'But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.
"It has been said, 'Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.' But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery


2 Timothy 2:22
Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.


Reading the Bible
John 5:39
You diligently study[a] the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me


Psalm 1:2
But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.


Psalm 119:97
Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.


Resolution
Ephesians 6:10-18
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.


Righteousness
Matthew 5:6
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,for they will be filled.


Matthew 6:33
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.


Sincerity
Philippians 1:9-10
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ,


Steadfastness
1 Corinthians 15:58
Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.


Stewardship
1 Corinthians 4:2
Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.


2 Corinthians 9:6-7
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.


Temperance
1 Thessalonians 5:6-8So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled. For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.


Trust
Psalm 37:3-5
Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this


Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.


Truth
John 14:6
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.


John 17:17
Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.


Ephesians 4:14-15
Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.


Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.


Victory
1 Corinthians 15:57
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.


1 John 5:4
for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.


Watchfulness
Mark 13:34-37
It's like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with his assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch."Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'Watch!'


Worship
John 4:23-24
Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."


Zeal
Romans 12:11
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

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