Depression
When we are depressed, we are “down” emotionally or mentally. It also affects our physical well-being. In spite of so many blessing and benefits, people still struggle with depression.
One of the common effects of depression was the loss of interest to do things. Our initiatives are stifled. We become slow or stop altogether. We lost our motivation. We sit and wait and become more depressed.
God gave very specific instruction to His people, instruction that can help us. He said first, "Be strong." Then He said, "Be strong." After that He said, "Be strong." Mark it in Haggai 2:4. Three times God says, "Be strong." That is spiritually based emotional resolve! It's not psychological self-help talk but divine instruction. It is also something that we must determine to do, to be strong.
God instructed one other thing-"work." It is amazing how much healing can take place when we start being constructive again.
God also said, "For I am with you." His presence indeed makes all the difference.
Haggai 2:4
(Stops & Steps 0995 01VII2009)
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Stops & Steps 0994 30VI2009
Gates
We have gates to keep people out and gates to keep people in. We have gates to enter the driveway. We have gates into and out of parking lots. We have gates to keep animals in and gates to keep them away.
We have gates to our hearts too. We allow people and God into some of the rooms of our heart. We do not let all of them. There are some thoughts that we do not want anyone to know. There are thoughts that may hurt and we do not tell anyone.
We are foolish if we do not open the gates of our heart to God. He takes a interest to learn more about our lives so He can be our saviour, friend and protector.
Psalm 24 : 7
Lift up the gates so the King of glory can come in
(Stops & Steps 0994 30VI2009)
We have gates to keep people out and gates to keep people in. We have gates to enter the driveway. We have gates into and out of parking lots. We have gates to keep animals in and gates to keep them away.
We have gates to our hearts too. We allow people and God into some of the rooms of our heart. We do not let all of them. There are some thoughts that we do not want anyone to know. There are thoughts that may hurt and we do not tell anyone.
We are foolish if we do not open the gates of our heart to God. He takes a interest to learn more about our lives so He can be our saviour, friend and protector.
Psalm 24 : 7
Lift up the gates so the King of glory can come in
(Stops & Steps 0994 30VI2009)
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Stops & Steps 0993 29VI2009
Iron Saints
As you experience all that sorrow, hardship and burden , you become more self-disciplined, are all conducive to an iron tenacity and strength of purpose, and endurance or strength, which are the indispensable foundation and framework of a noble character.
Do not draw back from suffering; bear it silently, patiently, resignedly; and be sure that it is God's way of infusing iron into your spiritual life. God wants to make an iron saint out of you and since there is no way of imparting iron to the moral nature but by letting people suffer, He lets you suffer.
Do not give up !!
Take heart; the time is not wasted; God is only putting you through the iron course of therapy. Iron is entering into your soul to make it strong and brave.
Psalm 105 : 18
His soul entered into iron
(Stops & Steps 0993 29VI2009)
As you experience all that sorrow, hardship and burden , you become more self-disciplined, are all conducive to an iron tenacity and strength of purpose, and endurance or strength, which are the indispensable foundation and framework of a noble character.
Do not draw back from suffering; bear it silently, patiently, resignedly; and be sure that it is God's way of infusing iron into your spiritual life. God wants to make an iron saint out of you and since there is no way of imparting iron to the moral nature but by letting people suffer, He lets you suffer.
Do not give up !!
Take heart; the time is not wasted; God is only putting you through the iron course of therapy. Iron is entering into your soul to make it strong and brave.
Psalm 105 : 18
His soul entered into iron
(Stops & Steps 0993 29VI2009)
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Stops & Steps 0992 28VI2009
Precious Treasure
God has given us the precious treasure of His Word.
In Psalm 147 v 15 says that God's Word runs: "He sends out His command to the earth; His word runs very swiftly." When God speaks, that Word goes out like a rapidly running messenger and accomplishes His purposes. God runs the universe by His Word. He decrees things, and they happen.
In v18 God's Word also melts obstacles. "He sends out His word and melts them" (v. 18). God's Word can melt the cold, hard heart.
Are you facing an impossible situation? The Word of God can open the way for you.
Finally, in v19-20 God's Word blesses. "He declares His word to Jacob, His statutes and His judgments to Israel.... Praise the Lord!" (vv. 19,20).
God’s Word is a great treasure that, when invested in your life, bears fruit.
God's Word runs and accomplishes His will. It melts and opens the way. And it blesses all who will receive it, obey it and trust it. God desires that you spend time daily appropriating the riches of His Word. Do you invest God's Word in your life?
Psalm 147:12-20
(Stops & Steps 0992 28VI2009)
God has given us the precious treasure of His Word.
In Psalm 147 v 15 says that God's Word runs: "He sends out His command to the earth; His word runs very swiftly." When God speaks, that Word goes out like a rapidly running messenger and accomplishes His purposes. God runs the universe by His Word. He decrees things, and they happen.
In v18 God's Word also melts obstacles. "He sends out His word and melts them" (v. 18). God's Word can melt the cold, hard heart.
Are you facing an impossible situation? The Word of God can open the way for you.
Finally, in v19-20 God's Word blesses. "He declares His word to Jacob, His statutes and His judgments to Israel.... Praise the Lord!" (vv. 19,20).
God’s Word is a great treasure that, when invested in your life, bears fruit.
God's Word runs and accomplishes His will. It melts and opens the way. And it blesses all who will receive it, obey it and trust it. God desires that you spend time daily appropriating the riches of His Word. Do you invest God's Word in your life?
Psalm 147:12-20
(Stops & Steps 0992 28VI2009)
Friday, June 26, 2009
Stops & Steps 0991 27VI2009
Honouring God with our lives
Let us examine our flimsy excuses for not being more purposeful about ministering to others. What keeps us from reaching out to those around us--the hurting, the grieving, the sick, or the hopeless? What makes us shrug our shoulders and walk away?
We are supposed to honor God with our lives. And yet, we have many reasons for not doing so. Money, time, and resource constraints are popular excuses. We could just bake a loaf of bread and take it to someone that God puts on my heart, then that is honoring God with our life. Sometimes it is in the simplest of acts that we make the biggest impact. Instead of making excuses and leaving ministry to other people, we can set out to do what we can with what I have.
Let us ask God to help us to act on the things He lays on our heart and not make any excuses or feel silly or inadequate. Let us ask God to help us to see the big picture in the little things.
Jeremiah 5 : 24
It never occurs to them to say, 'How can we honor our God with our lives, The God who gives rain in both spring and autumn and maintains the rhythm of the seasons.
(Stops & Steps 0991 27VI2009)
Let us examine our flimsy excuses for not being more purposeful about ministering to others. What keeps us from reaching out to those around us--the hurting, the grieving, the sick, or the hopeless? What makes us shrug our shoulders and walk away?
We are supposed to honor God with our lives. And yet, we have many reasons for not doing so. Money, time, and resource constraints are popular excuses. We could just bake a loaf of bread and take it to someone that God puts on my heart, then that is honoring God with our life. Sometimes it is in the simplest of acts that we make the biggest impact. Instead of making excuses and leaving ministry to other people, we can set out to do what we can with what I have.
Let us ask God to help us to act on the things He lays on our heart and not make any excuses or feel silly or inadequate. Let us ask God to help us to see the big picture in the little things.
Jeremiah 5 : 24
It never occurs to them to say, 'How can we honor our God with our lives, The God who gives rain in both spring and autumn and maintains the rhythm of the seasons.
(Stops & Steps 0991 27VI2009)
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Stops & Steps 0990 26VI2009
Childlikeness
CHILDLIKENESS, in its Scripture sense, is a perfectness of trust. It rests in a Father's
love, a being borne on in its power, living in it. It means lowly submission to the Father.
It is a fountain of joy in itself, always meeting the claims of the present hour and not looking back to the past. It does not make plans independently for the future. It is contented, submitting to the will of the Father.
Luke 18 : 17
Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.
(Stops & Steps 0990 26VI2009)
CHILDLIKENESS, in its Scripture sense, is a perfectness of trust. It rests in a Father's
love, a being borne on in its power, living in it. It means lowly submission to the Father.
It is a fountain of joy in itself, always meeting the claims of the present hour and not looking back to the past. It does not make plans independently for the future. It is contented, submitting to the will of the Father.
Luke 18 : 17
Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.
(Stops & Steps 0990 26VI2009)
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Stops & Steps 0989 25VI2009
HE is in control
Psalm 148:1-14
All of Psalm 148 tells us that the Word of God is in control. When He speaks in heaven, things happen on earth.
In verses 1-6 the heavens praise the Lord.
In verses 7-10 the earth praises the Lord.
And in verses 11-14, all people, young and old, praise the Lord, including kings, princes,
judges and ordinary people.
Why? Because His Word is creative.
Verse 5 tells us He commanded, and they were created. He also has "established them
forever" (v. 6).
God does not run this world by consensus but by decree. His Word is sufficient to guide our lives.
God's Word creates, establishes and fulfills His will. The next time you find yourself in a storm, do not complain; instead, surrender. Remember, the stormy wind as well as the calm wind fulfills the Word of God. Submit to God's control and to His creative Word in your life.
(Stops & Steps 0989 25VI2009)
Psalm 148:1-14
All of Psalm 148 tells us that the Word of God is in control. When He speaks in heaven, things happen on earth.
In verses 1-6 the heavens praise the Lord.
In verses 7-10 the earth praises the Lord.
And in verses 11-14, all people, young and old, praise the Lord, including kings, princes,
judges and ordinary people.
Why? Because His Word is creative.
Verse 5 tells us He commanded, and they were created. He also has "established them
forever" (v. 6).
God does not run this world by consensus but by decree. His Word is sufficient to guide our lives.
God's Word creates, establishes and fulfills His will. The next time you find yourself in a storm, do not complain; instead, surrender. Remember, the stormy wind as well as the calm wind fulfills the Word of God. Submit to God's control and to His creative Word in your life.
(Stops & Steps 0989 25VI2009)
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Stops & Steps 0988 24VI2009
Nowhere to hide
The teaching of Jesus’ parable of the lighted candle tells us that we can never successfully hide our sin from God
Luke 8:16-17 records, "No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candle-stick, that they which enter in may see the light. For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither anything hid, that shall not be made known and come abroad."
God searches even the innermost secrets of men. No sin, however large or small, escapes the eye of God.
Exodus 2 describes how Moses spied an Egyptian smiting a Hebrew, and he looked this way and that way, and when he saw no man watching him he slew the Egyptian and hid him in the sand (Exodus 2:12). The very next day however Moses' sin was discovered and he had to flee from the land of the Pharaoh and spend the next forty years in Midian. Moses' sin was unsuccessfully hidden.
Beloved King David had a similar experience. After sinning with Bathsheba and attempting to cover his sin through the death of Uriah the Hittite, the trespass of David soon came to light when Nathan the prophet pointed his finger in the king's face and said, "Thou art the man" (2 Samuel 12:7). In remorse King David said, "O God, Thou knowest my foolishness; and my sins are not hid from Thee" (Psalm 69:5).
From all these stories we learn well the truth that sin is never successfully hidden. We cannot hide our sin from God; we only can deal with it. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). Don't try to hide sin today; let God forgive it instead.
(Stops & Steps 0988 24VI2009)
The teaching of Jesus’ parable of the lighted candle tells us that we can never successfully hide our sin from God
Luke 8:16-17 records, "No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candle-stick, that they which enter in may see the light. For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither anything hid, that shall not be made known and come abroad."
God searches even the innermost secrets of men. No sin, however large or small, escapes the eye of God.
Exodus 2 describes how Moses spied an Egyptian smiting a Hebrew, and he looked this way and that way, and when he saw no man watching him he slew the Egyptian and hid him in the sand (Exodus 2:12). The very next day however Moses' sin was discovered and he had to flee from the land of the Pharaoh and spend the next forty years in Midian. Moses' sin was unsuccessfully hidden.
Beloved King David had a similar experience. After sinning with Bathsheba and attempting to cover his sin through the death of Uriah the Hittite, the trespass of David soon came to light when Nathan the prophet pointed his finger in the king's face and said, "Thou art the man" (2 Samuel 12:7). In remorse King David said, "O God, Thou knowest my foolishness; and my sins are not hid from Thee" (Psalm 69:5).
From all these stories we learn well the truth that sin is never successfully hidden. We cannot hide our sin from God; we only can deal with it. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). Don't try to hide sin today; let God forgive it instead.
(Stops & Steps 0988 24VI2009)
Monday, June 22, 2009
Stops & Steps 0987 23VI2009
Praise God always
Every new valley that we go through, every new mountaintop we climb, every experience of life ought to be writing on our hearts a new song of praise. When we face a difficulty, we have an opportunity to have renewed faith and see God do new things.
God gives us different experiences so we may learn new dimensions of His love and grace. What difficulty are you facing today? Don't simply endure or waste it. Use it as an opportunity to find a new song of praise to God.
Psalm 149:1
"Praise the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song"
(Stops & Steps 0987 23VI2009)
Every new valley that we go through, every new mountaintop we climb, every experience of life ought to be writing on our hearts a new song of praise. When we face a difficulty, we have an opportunity to have renewed faith and see God do new things.
God gives us different experiences so we may learn new dimensions of His love and grace. What difficulty are you facing today? Don't simply endure or waste it. Use it as an opportunity to find a new song of praise to God.
Psalm 149:1
"Praise the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song"
(Stops & Steps 0987 23VI2009)
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Stops & Steps 0986 22VI2009
Searching for God
Men spend thousands of man-hours and hundreds of thousands of dollars to find legendary treasure.
Solomon noted, however, that if we put the same amount of time and effort into a relationship with God as we do into searching for earthly treasure, we will find a fortune that is far greater. The reward for our efforts will not be silver or gold but an intimacy with God that is far more meaningful. Speaking as one of the richest men who ever lived, Solomon knew that living in the presence of an awesome God is the greatest treasure that can be found.
There is nothing wrong with material treasures. Abraham, Job, David and Solomon were all blessed with great wealth. But the focus of their lives was not on gaining possessions; it was on knowing God. Today, Christians face the same challenge.
In a materialistic world that urges us to gather and hoard an abundance of things, what we really need is a closer relationship with God. That’s the real treasure.
Make sure that you aren’t cheated by earthly treasure. Put as much effort into drawing closer to God as you do in collecting possessions. Let your life be filled with His awesomeness, and you’ll never want for wealth.
Seeking God always yields treasure.
Proverbs 2:3–5
Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.
(Stops & Steps 0986 22VI2009)
Men spend thousands of man-hours and hundreds of thousands of dollars to find legendary treasure.
Solomon noted, however, that if we put the same amount of time and effort into a relationship with God as we do into searching for earthly treasure, we will find a fortune that is far greater. The reward for our efforts will not be silver or gold but an intimacy with God that is far more meaningful. Speaking as one of the richest men who ever lived, Solomon knew that living in the presence of an awesome God is the greatest treasure that can be found.
There is nothing wrong with material treasures. Abraham, Job, David and Solomon were all blessed with great wealth. But the focus of their lives was not on gaining possessions; it was on knowing God. Today, Christians face the same challenge.
In a materialistic world that urges us to gather and hoard an abundance of things, what we really need is a closer relationship with God. That’s the real treasure.
Make sure that you aren’t cheated by earthly treasure. Put as much effort into drawing closer to God as you do in collecting possessions. Let your life be filled with His awesomeness, and you’ll never want for wealth.
Seeking God always yields treasure.
Proverbs 2:3–5
Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.
(Stops & Steps 0986 22VI2009)
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Stops & Steps 0985 21VI2009
Never satisfied
Instead of focusing on what we do not have, we need to relax and seek the intangible peace of God, which never goes out of style.
God is not surprised with us for our discontentment. As far back as the Israelites, He has heard the moaning and groaning, griping and complaining of dissatisfied individuals.
Proverbs 14 : 30
A relaxed attitude lengthens life ; jealousy rots it away
(Stops & Steps 0985 21VI2009)
Instead of focusing on what we do not have, we need to relax and seek the intangible peace of God, which never goes out of style.
God is not surprised with us for our discontentment. As far back as the Israelites, He has heard the moaning and groaning, griping and complaining of dissatisfied individuals.
Proverbs 14 : 30
A relaxed attitude lengthens life ; jealousy rots it away
(Stops & Steps 0985 21VI2009)
Friday, June 19, 2009
Stops & Steps 0984 20VI2009
Compassion
Compassion was a main element of Jesus’ life. Jesus was constantly being bombarded by people who had needs. He truly felt their pain, and used His abilities to help them. Jesus still has more compassion than we can ever understand. He has compassion for each and everyone of us to do the best job possible. When we need sympathy or help, go to Jesus, and He will be there for us.
Luke 7 : 13
When the Lord saw her, his heart overflowed with compassion. “Do not cry!” he said.
(Stops & Steps 0984 20VI2009)
Compassion was a main element of Jesus’ life. Jesus was constantly being bombarded by people who had needs. He truly felt their pain, and used His abilities to help them. Jesus still has more compassion than we can ever understand. He has compassion for each and everyone of us to do the best job possible. When we need sympathy or help, go to Jesus, and He will be there for us.
Luke 7 : 13
When the Lord saw her, his heart overflowed with compassion. “Do not cry!” he said.
(Stops & Steps 0984 20VI2009)
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Stops & Steps 0983 19VI2009
Just follow His instructions
Sometimes it seems as if God asks us to do illogical things or things we think would not work.
Peter (Simon) was a fisherman when Jesus borrowed his boat to stand on while he spoke to a shore filled with people. After he finished speaking, Jesus told Peter (Simon) to go out a little farther and his nets would be full of fish. Although Peter (Simon) knew he had fished all night and had gotten nothing, yet he trust Jesus and try again. They took in so much fish that the boat nearly sunk.
When God ask you to do something that does not seem to make sense, go for it. Do not hesitate !!
Luke 5 : 5
‘Master.’ Simon replied, ‘we worked hard all last night and did not catch a thing. But if you say so, we’ll try again.’
(Stops & Steps 0983 19VI2009)
Sometimes it seems as if God asks us to do illogical things or things we think would not work.
Peter (Simon) was a fisherman when Jesus borrowed his boat to stand on while he spoke to a shore filled with people. After he finished speaking, Jesus told Peter (Simon) to go out a little farther and his nets would be full of fish. Although Peter (Simon) knew he had fished all night and had gotten nothing, yet he trust Jesus and try again. They took in so much fish that the boat nearly sunk.
When God ask you to do something that does not seem to make sense, go for it. Do not hesitate !!
Luke 5 : 5
‘Master.’ Simon replied, ‘we worked hard all last night and did not catch a thing. But if you say so, we’ll try again.’
(Stops & Steps 0983 19VI2009)
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Stops & Steps 0982 18VI2009
Wisdom and knowledge
Solomon had taken over the job as King of Israel from his father, David. God was pleased with what Solomon had done and offered to give him anything he wanted. Solomon had other goals in mind. His first thought was for the responsibilities and ministry God had given him. He simply asked God for more wisdom and knowledge to rule his people properly.
What would happen if more leaders, today, pray and ask God for wisdom and knowledge to lead the people. It would be great to add wisdom and knowledge to love !!!
2 Chronicles 1 : 10
Give me wisdom and knowledge to rule them properly, for who is able to govern this great nation of yours ?
(Stops & Steps 0982 18VI2009)
Solomon had taken over the job as King of Israel from his father, David. God was pleased with what Solomon had done and offered to give him anything he wanted. Solomon had other goals in mind. His first thought was for the responsibilities and ministry God had given him. He simply asked God for more wisdom and knowledge to rule his people properly.
What would happen if more leaders, today, pray and ask God for wisdom and knowledge to lead the people. It would be great to add wisdom and knowledge to love !!!
2 Chronicles 1 : 10
Give me wisdom and knowledge to rule them properly, for who is able to govern this great nation of yours ?
(Stops & Steps 0982 18VI2009)
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Stops & Steps 0981 17VI2009
The teacher
God comforts us and holds us. The Holy Spirit teaches us through His Word all we need to know for now and for eternity.
Let God be your teacher today !!
John 14 : 26
But when the Father sends the Counselor as my representative – and by the Counselor I mean the Holy Spirit – he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I myself have told you
(Stops & Steps 0981 17VI2009)
God comforts us and holds us. The Holy Spirit teaches us through His Word all we need to know for now and for eternity.
Let God be your teacher today !!
John 14 : 26
But when the Father sends the Counselor as my representative – and by the Counselor I mean the Holy Spirit – he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I myself have told you
(Stops & Steps 0981 17VI2009)
Monday, June 15, 2009
Stops & Steps 0980 16VI2009
Nothing is lacking
Most parents will agree that there is no instruction manual in raising children. You do not have all the answers. There will never be. On the other hand, sometimes we are bombarded with too many answers ! Everyone has an opinion. Answers will come from every angle. But are they the right answers. And how will you know ??
With God you lack nothing !! He will give you the answers you seek, if you only ask.
Nehemiah 9 : 21
For forty years you sustained them in the wilderness. They lacked nothing in all that time….
(Stops & Steps 0980 16VI2009)
Most parents will agree that there is no instruction manual in raising children. You do not have all the answers. There will never be. On the other hand, sometimes we are bombarded with too many answers ! Everyone has an opinion. Answers will come from every angle. But are they the right answers. And how will you know ??
With God you lack nothing !! He will give you the answers you seek, if you only ask.
Nehemiah 9 : 21
For forty years you sustained them in the wilderness. They lacked nothing in all that time….
(Stops & Steps 0980 16VI2009)
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Stops & Steps 0979 15VI2009
Feelings of discontentment
Are you overwhelmed with feelings of discontentment ? Do you keep telling yourself that whatever you do, no matter how hard you tried, nobody will appreciate your work ??
Stop right there !! If you give in to such feelings, you would have fallen into Satan’s trap. Instead, count your blessings – your home, your health, your loved ones. Your work may not go unnoticed. Do not let Satan fool you into believing that you are unappreciated.
Genesis 3 : 1
Now the serpent was the shrewdest of all the creatures the Lord God had made. “Really!” he asked the woman. “Did God really say you must not eat any fruit in the garden?”
(Stops & Steps 0979 15VI2009)
Are you overwhelmed with feelings of discontentment ? Do you keep telling yourself that whatever you do, no matter how hard you tried, nobody will appreciate your work ??
Stop right there !! If you give in to such feelings, you would have fallen into Satan’s trap. Instead, count your blessings – your home, your health, your loved ones. Your work may not go unnoticed. Do not let Satan fool you into believing that you are unappreciated.
Genesis 3 : 1
Now the serpent was the shrewdest of all the creatures the Lord God had made. “Really!” he asked the woman. “Did God really say you must not eat any fruit in the garden?”
(Stops & Steps 0979 15VI2009)
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Stops & Steps 0978 14VI2009
Painful lessons
Have you observed how an eagle teaches its young to fly ?
First the eaglet climbs into his mother’s wing and holds on tightly. Soon his mother flutters her wings, flips upside down and shakes the poor eaglet loose, dropping her young ones onto the air.
The mother circles the dropping eaglet, catching him on her wing, and begins the process again. Over time, the eaglet becomes strong enough to fly on its own.
God does the same for His people. He asks that we step out in faith and hold firmly on to His promises, even when things look impossible. When we trust Him, we will soar !!
Deuteronomy 32 : 11
Like an eagle that rouses her chicks and hovers over her young, so he spread his wings to rake them in and carried them aloft on his pinions
(Stops & Steps 0978 14VI2009)
Have you observed how an eagle teaches its young to fly ?
First the eaglet climbs into his mother’s wing and holds on tightly. Soon his mother flutters her wings, flips upside down and shakes the poor eaglet loose, dropping her young ones onto the air.
The mother circles the dropping eaglet, catching him on her wing, and begins the process again. Over time, the eaglet becomes strong enough to fly on its own.
God does the same for His people. He asks that we step out in faith and hold firmly on to His promises, even when things look impossible. When we trust Him, we will soar !!
Deuteronomy 32 : 11
Like an eagle that rouses her chicks and hovers over her young, so he spread his wings to rake them in and carried them aloft on his pinions
(Stops & Steps 0978 14VI2009)
Friday, June 12, 2009
Stops & Steps 0977 13VI2009
Harsh words
Does your weakness lie in your mouth ? Sarcasm, Anger, Criticism, Harness ….
Are you yelling instead of instructing ?
Isaiah 51 : 16 has a solution to this problem. Let us immediately pray and ask God to put His words into our mouth today so we only speak as He would speak
Isaiah 51 : 16
And I have put my words in your mouth …
(Stops & Steps 0977 13VI2009)
Does your weakness lie in your mouth ? Sarcasm, Anger, Criticism, Harness ….
Are you yelling instead of instructing ?
Isaiah 51 : 16 has a solution to this problem. Let us immediately pray and ask God to put His words into our mouth today so we only speak as He would speak
Isaiah 51 : 16
And I have put my words in your mouth …
(Stops & Steps 0977 13VI2009)
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Stops & Steps 0976 12VI2009
Always praying
Throughout the joys and struggles of our daily lives, we must be consistently reminded to be ready to pray. We must offer our thanksgiving, and ask for wisdom and strength. God, in return, is ready to listen and to supply everything we need.
Ephesians 6 : 18
Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere.
(Stops & Steps 0976 12VI2009)
Throughout the joys and struggles of our daily lives, we must be consistently reminded to be ready to pray. We must offer our thanksgiving, and ask for wisdom and strength. God, in return, is ready to listen and to supply everything we need.
Ephesians 6 : 18
Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere.
(Stops & Steps 0976 12VI2009)
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Stops & Steps 0975 11VI2009
Prayer
Today most of us are totally overwhelmed. We have too much to do and too little time to do it. We have work problems, family issues, health concerns and financial commitments to look into. Our common respond is ‘There is no earthly way to make it’ Right, there is no human way but God delights in doing the impossible for us.
Prayer is the answer.
James 5 : 16
Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results
(Stops & Steps 0975 11VI2009)
Today most of us are totally overwhelmed. We have too much to do and too little time to do it. We have work problems, family issues, health concerns and financial commitments to look into. Our common respond is ‘There is no earthly way to make it’ Right, there is no human way but God delights in doing the impossible for us.
Prayer is the answer.
James 5 : 16
Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results
(Stops & Steps 0975 11VI2009)
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Stops & Steps 0974 10VI2009
Staying focused
Those who do some bit of gardening would know that it is a common practice or habit for one to pick out weeds and cast them away. In Philippians 4 : 8 we are reminded to focus on the good, not on the bad. Goodness and beauty are much more pleasant. If we are too busy concentrating on the bad, we miss the good.
The same principles apply to how we relate to those around us. Each person has good qualities, yet something makes us automatically focus on the negative qualities. Then we stew about how to tell them. It is not our job to change them. God call us to focus on the good things about others. We should put more energy into doing that !!
We must focused on God’s beauty in others
Philippians 4 : 8
Fix your thoughts on what is true and honourable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
(Stops & Steps 0974 10VI2009)
Those who do some bit of gardening would know that it is a common practice or habit for one to pick out weeds and cast them away. In Philippians 4 : 8 we are reminded to focus on the good, not on the bad. Goodness and beauty are much more pleasant. If we are too busy concentrating on the bad, we miss the good.
The same principles apply to how we relate to those around us. Each person has good qualities, yet something makes us automatically focus on the negative qualities. Then we stew about how to tell them. It is not our job to change them. God call us to focus on the good things about others. We should put more energy into doing that !!
We must focused on God’s beauty in others
Philippians 4 : 8
Fix your thoughts on what is true and honourable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
(Stops & Steps 0974 10VI2009)
Monday, June 08, 2009
Stops & Steps 0973 09VI2009
True repentance
Many times we confess that we are certainly sorry for our actions but are we really repentant.
When we do something wrong, it is not enough to just confess. True repentance means being sorry enough that we change our behaviour. We must be sorry enough to change.
Matthew 3 : 8
Prove by the way you live that you have really turned from your sins and turned to God
(Stops & Steps 0973 09VI2009)
Many times we confess that we are certainly sorry for our actions but are we really repentant.
When we do something wrong, it is not enough to just confess. True repentance means being sorry enough that we change our behaviour. We must be sorry enough to change.
Matthew 3 : 8
Prove by the way you live that you have really turned from your sins and turned to God
(Stops & Steps 0973 09VI2009)
Sunday, June 07, 2009
Stops & Steps 0972 08VI2009
Trusting God’s choices
Very often we ask for many things in our prayers. Very often our prayers are answered. Somehow, we may not like the answer that God gives to us. We remain doubtful if that was the right answer to our prayer. It is only after some time, or maybe a long, long time that we come to realize that God is correct all along. We have doubted His choice!!
Why do we take so long to trust Him and the way He chooses to answer our prayers ??
We must learn to take that ‘leap of faith’ to believe God’s choice is always the best.
Nahum 1 : 7
The Lord is good. When trouble comes, He is a strong refuge. And He knows everyone who trusts in Him
(Stops & Steps 0972 08VI2009)
Very often we ask for many things in our prayers. Very often our prayers are answered. Somehow, we may not like the answer that God gives to us. We remain doubtful if that was the right answer to our prayer. It is only after some time, or maybe a long, long time that we come to realize that God is correct all along. We have doubted His choice!!
Why do we take so long to trust Him and the way He chooses to answer our prayers ??
We must learn to take that ‘leap of faith’ to believe God’s choice is always the best.
Nahum 1 : 7
The Lord is good. When trouble comes, He is a strong refuge. And He knows everyone who trusts in Him
(Stops & Steps 0972 08VI2009)
Saturday, June 06, 2009
Stops & Steps 0971 07VI2009
How to lead
In John 21 : 21 – 23, Jesus had just given Peter some news about his future. Instead of talking to Jesus further about his own life, Peter pointed to John and said, “Well, what about him. Lord ? What is going to happen to him ?”
Jesus replied, “Do not worry about him. You follow me.”
In this world, we face pressure to conform to other people’s standards and convictions – some stricter and more lenient than ours. As leaders, we have to set down the rules and guidelines as we feel God is leading us ; not as anyone else dictates
We must be strong in our belief even if others do not agree.
John 21 : 22
Jesus replied. ‘If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You follow me.’
(Stops & Steps 0971 07VI2009)
In John 21 : 21 – 23, Jesus had just given Peter some news about his future. Instead of talking to Jesus further about his own life, Peter pointed to John and said, “Well, what about him. Lord ? What is going to happen to him ?”
Jesus replied, “Do not worry about him. You follow me.”
In this world, we face pressure to conform to other people’s standards and convictions – some stricter and more lenient than ours. As leaders, we have to set down the rules and guidelines as we feel God is leading us ; not as anyone else dictates
We must be strong in our belief even if others do not agree.
John 21 : 22
Jesus replied. ‘If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You follow me.’
(Stops & Steps 0971 07VI2009)
Friday, June 05, 2009
Stops & Steps 0970 06VI2009
Setting a good example
How do we instill purity in the young minds when we, as adults, face our own temptations. Psalm 119 : 9 applies to both young and matured minds. The young ones see the ways we handle temptations. They note if we make excuses to do wrong or if we stand strong. They often follow the example we set.
A wise leader maintains a pure life, by reading, studying, and following God’s Word
Psalm 119 : 9
How can a young person stay pure ? By obeying your word and following its rules
(Stops & Steps 0970 06VI2009)
How do we instill purity in the young minds when we, as adults, face our own temptations. Psalm 119 : 9 applies to both young and matured minds. The young ones see the ways we handle temptations. They note if we make excuses to do wrong or if we stand strong. They often follow the example we set.
A wise leader maintains a pure life, by reading, studying, and following God’s Word
Psalm 119 : 9
How can a young person stay pure ? By obeying your word and following its rules
(Stops & Steps 0970 06VI2009)
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Stops & Steps 0969 05VI2009
His gracious favour
Paul asked God to remove his weakness three times, and God’s “no” answer brought him much comfort. Even before we acknowledge our many flaws, God’s power is available to us. Despite our doubts and our tendency to meet everyone’s needs before our own, God’s Word lets us know HE is by our side, every step of the way.
God’s gracious favour and power are all we truly need.
2 Corinthians 12 : 9
…my gracious favour is all you need. My power works best in your weakness
(Stops & Steps 0969 05VI2009)
Paul asked God to remove his weakness three times, and God’s “no” answer brought him much comfort. Even before we acknowledge our many flaws, God’s power is available to us. Despite our doubts and our tendency to meet everyone’s needs before our own, God’s Word lets us know HE is by our side, every step of the way.
God’s gracious favour and power are all we truly need.
2 Corinthians 12 : 9
…my gracious favour is all you need. My power works best in your weakness
(Stops & Steps 0969 05VI2009)
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Stops & Steps 0968 04VI2009
Good advice
In ancient days when warriors fought with bows and arrows, they found the best way to keep their bows tight was to unstring them at night, giving the wood a chance to relax. Such period of rest made them better and tighter tools.
Today we do not seem to have enough hours in the day to meet the demand put upon us. How then should you refresh yourself ??
The best way is to start the day alone with God. God will replenish you and give you energy and the wisdom to meet the demands of a new day. Let God fill you and remind you how much you mean to Him.
Matthew 6 : 33
And He will give you all you need from day to day if you live for Him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern
(Stops & Steps 0968 04VI2009)
In ancient days when warriors fought with bows and arrows, they found the best way to keep their bows tight was to unstring them at night, giving the wood a chance to relax. Such period of rest made them better and tighter tools.
Today we do not seem to have enough hours in the day to meet the demand put upon us. How then should you refresh yourself ??
The best way is to start the day alone with God. God will replenish you and give you energy and the wisdom to meet the demands of a new day. Let God fill you and remind you how much you mean to Him.
Matthew 6 : 33
And He will give you all you need from day to day if you live for Him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern
(Stops & Steps 0968 04VI2009)
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Stops & Steps 0967 03VI2009
Waiting
Abraham was one of those in the Bible who had to wait. God had promised him a son, but years passed and he was still childless. He and Sarah were getting impatient. Finally Abraham impregnated his wife’s maid, planning that he and his wife would raise the child. What a mess Abraham made !!
Waiting on God is tough. It is necessary to keep believing He will do what He promises. When we are waiting on God, we must trust that He has perfect timing.
Genesis 21 : 1
Then the Lord did exactly what he had promised
(Stops & Steps 0967 03VI2009)
Abraham was one of those in the Bible who had to wait. God had promised him a son, but years passed and he was still childless. He and Sarah were getting impatient. Finally Abraham impregnated his wife’s maid, planning that he and his wife would raise the child. What a mess Abraham made !!
Waiting on God is tough. It is necessary to keep believing He will do what He promises. When we are waiting on God, we must trust that He has perfect timing.
Genesis 21 : 1
Then the Lord did exactly what he had promised
(Stops & Steps 0967 03VI2009)
Monday, June 01, 2009
Stops & Steps 0966 02VI2009
Unnecessary harsh words
Have you in your impatient moments shout and scream at those around you ??
We must ask God to forgive us of unnecessary harsh words. We need to let others hear words of encouragement and quiet instruction rather than shouting and screaming. God gently reminded us He is infinitely patient with us, speaking with a loving voice, and we should be the same with those around us.
We need to think how we sound to others before we speak !!
Ecclesiastes 9 : 17
The quiet words of a wise person are better than the shouts of a foolish king
(Stops & Steps 0966 02VI2009)
Have you in your impatient moments shout and scream at those around you ??
We must ask God to forgive us of unnecessary harsh words. We need to let others hear words of encouragement and quiet instruction rather than shouting and screaming. God gently reminded us He is infinitely patient with us, speaking with a loving voice, and we should be the same with those around us.
We need to think how we sound to others before we speak !!
Ecclesiastes 9 : 17
The quiet words of a wise person are better than the shouts of a foolish king
(Stops & Steps 0966 02VI2009)
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