Self discipline
Proverbs 25 : 28 tells us that if we lack self control we are defenseless. Consistent self discipline will build up our spiritual defense system against the forces of evil. When we discipline ourselves to keep our ordinary desires under control. In Romans 6 : 18, we are reminded “having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness”
Proverbs 25 : 28
Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls
Stops & Steps 1601 28Feb2011
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Stops & Steps 1600 27Feb2011
What does it mean to seek God ?
Seeking God means God is part of your life. You desire to find out what God is like. You want to fellowship with HIM more intimately. You long to follow HIM more closely.
We seek God through our attitudes and actions. – reading the Bible, praying, ……….
God desires that we would hunger after HIM, thirst after HIM, and seek after HIM more than any other thing in the world.
God wants us to know Him as the God who loves us unconditionally. HE wants us to know HIM as the God who empowers us and enables us in every single circumstance of life to do our best and to do it well.
Stops & Steps 1600 27Feb2011
Seeking God means God is part of your life. You desire to find out what God is like. You want to fellowship with HIM more intimately. You long to follow HIM more closely.
We seek God through our attitudes and actions. – reading the Bible, praying, ……….
God desires that we would hunger after HIM, thirst after HIM, and seek after HIM more than any other thing in the world.
God wants us to know Him as the God who loves us unconditionally. HE wants us to know HIM as the God who empowers us and enables us in every single circumstance of life to do our best and to do it well.
Stops & Steps 1600 27Feb2011
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Stops & Steps 1599 26Feb2011
Virus and Sins
Has your computer ever bogged you down ? Viruses are created maliciously and these virus creators want to make our lives miserable.
Sin resembles a computer virus. Satan wants to destroy our lives by infecting our minds. Just as we let the virus into our computers, we also let darkness into our lives. We let down our guard and hardly notice the sin that infects our minds.
By confessing our sins, study God’s Word and praying, we are building defences, like firewall, to safeguard our minds. With the help of the Spirit, we will keep our minds from becoming unwitting hosts for unwanted guests.
2 Corinthians 10 : 5
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
Stops & Steps 1599 26Feb2011
Has your computer ever bogged you down ? Viruses are created maliciously and these virus creators want to make our lives miserable.
Sin resembles a computer virus. Satan wants to destroy our lives by infecting our minds. Just as we let the virus into our computers, we also let darkness into our lives. We let down our guard and hardly notice the sin that infects our minds.
By confessing our sins, study God’s Word and praying, we are building defences, like firewall, to safeguard our minds. With the help of the Spirit, we will keep our minds from becoming unwitting hosts for unwanted guests.
2 Corinthians 10 : 5
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
Stops & Steps 1599 26Feb2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Stops & Steps 1598 25Feb2011
Pillar of cloud
Exodus 13 : 21 tells us that the Lord led the children of Israel by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. In our daily lives, the Holy Spirit is this pillar of cloud. It is a GIFT to the believer who trusts in HIM. It guides the children of God. When we are led by the Spirit, our lives will be characterized by the love, joy, peace and self-control. (Galatians 5 : 16 – 22).
Exodus 13 : 21
The Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead the way.
Stops & Steps 1598 25Feb2011
Exodus 13 : 21 tells us that the Lord led the children of Israel by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. In our daily lives, the Holy Spirit is this pillar of cloud. It is a GIFT to the believer who trusts in HIM. It guides the children of God. When we are led by the Spirit, our lives will be characterized by the love, joy, peace and self-control. (Galatians 5 : 16 – 22).
Exodus 13 : 21
The Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead the way.
Stops & Steps 1598 25Feb2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Stops & Steps 1597 24Feb2011
Be reminded
In our daily busy lives we easily forget God and HIS passion for us. We forget that HE lives within and around us and loves us with eternal affection. It helps to have something to remind us of HIS presence.
Look around you and you will notice some signs that remind us of God’s love. The blue sky, the green grass and leaves, the mountains and the seas.
I like the colour green, it reminds of the green leaves around me, of God’s unfathomable love of man.
Numbers 15 : 38
Tell them to make tassels on the corners of their garments …. and to put a blue thread in the tassels.
Stops & Steps 1597 24Feb2011
In our daily busy lives we easily forget God and HIS passion for us. We forget that HE lives within and around us and loves us with eternal affection. It helps to have something to remind us of HIS presence.
Look around you and you will notice some signs that remind us of God’s love. The blue sky, the green grass and leaves, the mountains and the seas.
I like the colour green, it reminds of the green leaves around me, of God’s unfathomable love of man.
Numbers 15 : 38
Tell them to make tassels on the corners of their garments …. and to put a blue thread in the tassels.
Stops & Steps 1597 24Feb2011
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Stops & Steps 1596 23Feb2011
Our stops and our steps
Sometimes life demands that we weather a storm, or puts us to the test of the boredom. We may feel stuck. What we want most is just out of reach. In such situations, we only need to trust God for guidance. HE will eventually guide us to our desired haven.
Psalm 107 : 30
HE guides them to their desired haven
Stops & Steps 1596 23Feb2011
Sometimes life demands that we weather a storm, or puts us to the test of the boredom. We may feel stuck. What we want most is just out of reach. In such situations, we only need to trust God for guidance. HE will eventually guide us to our desired haven.
Psalm 107 : 30
HE guides them to their desired haven
Stops & Steps 1596 23Feb2011
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Stops & Steps 1595 22Feb2011
Staying close to God helps us avoid life’s roadblocks
What are parables ?
They are illustrations used to communicate important spiritual truths. They still work today as much as they ever have !! Jesus used parables to convey spiritual truths that are often difficult to grasp.
Imagine that you are driving on a winding road in the country side. There was this bus in front of you, which obstructed your view ahead. You tried many times to pass this huge bus, but the winding road would not cooperate and you could not see well ahead that you need to ensure that the road was clear for you to overtake. Suddenly, the bus veered to the left to avoid an obstruction on the road. Unfortunately, you did not react quickly enough and hit the obstruction, causing great injury to yourself.
This modern-day illustration stresses the importance of a close walk with Jesus. The winding road represents life with all its twists and turns. Indeed, we never really know what lies ahead in our lives, the trees that will block our way, but we do know the one who does know; and if we choose to follow Him, we can avoid much of the trouble that lies ahead.
Matthew 13:35
I will open my mouth in parables. I will utter what has been hidden since the foundation of the world.
Stops & Steps 1595 22Feb2011
What are parables ?
They are illustrations used to communicate important spiritual truths. They still work today as much as they ever have !! Jesus used parables to convey spiritual truths that are often difficult to grasp.
Imagine that you are driving on a winding road in the country side. There was this bus in front of you, which obstructed your view ahead. You tried many times to pass this huge bus, but the winding road would not cooperate and you could not see well ahead that you need to ensure that the road was clear for you to overtake. Suddenly, the bus veered to the left to avoid an obstruction on the road. Unfortunately, you did not react quickly enough and hit the obstruction, causing great injury to yourself.
This modern-day illustration stresses the importance of a close walk with Jesus. The winding road represents life with all its twists and turns. Indeed, we never really know what lies ahead in our lives, the trees that will block our way, but we do know the one who does know; and if we choose to follow Him, we can avoid much of the trouble that lies ahead.
Matthew 13:35
I will open my mouth in parables. I will utter what has been hidden since the foundation of the world.
Stops & Steps 1595 22Feb2011
Monday, February 21, 2011
Stops & Steps 1594 21Feb2011
Made perfect in weakness
God's grace is sufficient for you. His power is made perfect in weakness.
You may be enjoying the prime of health, a bright student, a talented artist, or a gifted speaker. You may be feeling on top of the world. Suddenly, one day illness strikes you. On such a situation, remember that God’s grace and HIS written Word assures you that HE loves you. You will recover when you cling on to God’s strength.
Always remember to focus on God’s irresistible care.
2 Corinthians 12 : 9
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness”
Stops & Steps 1594 21Feb2011
God's grace is sufficient for you. His power is made perfect in weakness.
You may be enjoying the prime of health, a bright student, a talented artist, or a gifted speaker. You may be feeling on top of the world. Suddenly, one day illness strikes you. On such a situation, remember that God’s grace and HIS written Word assures you that HE loves you. You will recover when you cling on to God’s strength.
Always remember to focus on God’s irresistible care.
2 Corinthians 12 : 9
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness”
Stops & Steps 1594 21Feb2011
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Stops & Steps 1593 20Feb2011
Wisdom
When you are facing a problem, please ask God for wisdom.
God's wisdom is the key that will unlock every door in your life.
Stop wasting time asking God for things that you think you need. Instead, spend more time listening to what God has to say about your situation.
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
Stops & Steps 1593 20Feb2011
When you are facing a problem, please ask God for wisdom.
God's wisdom is the key that will unlock every door in your life.
Stop wasting time asking God for things that you think you need. Instead, spend more time listening to what God has to say about your situation.
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
Stops & Steps 1593 20Feb2011
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Stops & Steps 1592 19Feb2011
Be humble
Meekness in no sense means or implies lack of will power. In truth, genuine meekness is patience in the face of injuries, insults, abuse and persecution, whether physical or mental. It is not cowardice or a surrender of our rights. Rather it is the opposite of anger, malice, prejudice or resentment.
Meekness is seen to allow God to be our defense instead of making an effort to avenge real or imagined hurts. It is patience in the midst of extreme difficulties or humility under fire, as described in 1 Corinthians 13.
Those who are meek have remarkable, controlled strength and are calm and peaceful when all around there is confusion and chaos. These are the ones who will inherit the earth, who will be sought out as leaders. They are the ones who will help to build a better world.
Matthew 5:5
The meek and lowly are fortunate! for the whole wide world belongs to them
Stops & Steps 1592 19Feb2011
Meekness in no sense means or implies lack of will power. In truth, genuine meekness is patience in the face of injuries, insults, abuse and persecution, whether physical or mental. It is not cowardice or a surrender of our rights. Rather it is the opposite of anger, malice, prejudice or resentment.
Meekness is seen to allow God to be our defense instead of making an effort to avenge real or imagined hurts. It is patience in the midst of extreme difficulties or humility under fire, as described in 1 Corinthians 13.
Those who are meek have remarkable, controlled strength and are calm and peaceful when all around there is confusion and chaos. These are the ones who will inherit the earth, who will be sought out as leaders. They are the ones who will help to build a better world.
Matthew 5:5
The meek and lowly are fortunate! for the whole wide world belongs to them
Stops & Steps 1592 19Feb2011
Friday, February 18, 2011
Stops & Steps 1591 18Feb2011
What is your course of action ?
You've been
walking by faith.
believing God to meet your need.
But the results seem slow in coming and you are tempted to give up?
Be patient! Do not give up.
Hebrews 6:12
...be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
Stops & Steps 1591 18Feb2011
You've been
walking by faith.
believing God to meet your need.
But the results seem slow in coming and you are tempted to give up?
Be patient! Do not give up.
Hebrews 6:12
...be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
Stops & Steps 1591 18Feb2011
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Stops & Steps 1590 17Feb2011
Circumstances Beyond Control
Do you often become discouraged and weary when circumstances appear to be out of your control ?
You can be assured that God is in control and HE knows the whole story right from the start to the finish.
Proverbs 3 : 5 - 6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your path.
Stops & Steps 1590 17Feb2011
Do you often become discouraged and weary when circumstances appear to be out of your control ?
You can be assured that God is in control and HE knows the whole story right from the start to the finish.
Proverbs 3 : 5 - 6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your path.
Stops & Steps 1590 17Feb2011
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Stops & Steps 1589 16Feb2011
Dealing with difficult people
Wherever you are, you will find difficult people.
What if you enjoy your job, but not your boss?
How can you get along with your colleagues when you find it difficult to get along with yourself?
Dealing with difficult people is more than just doing certain things. It is to become a certain kind of person. Yes, to follow the example set by Jesus – patience, compassion, honesty, willingness to extend grace and be forgiving. Sounds impossible to do ??
Humble – admit your own mistake.
Acceptance – extend your patience, be more flexible and accept the faults of others
Love – accept others with the love of Christ and wait for the transformation to take place.
Stops & Steps 1589 16Feb2011
Wherever you are, you will find difficult people.
What if you enjoy your job, but not your boss?
How can you get along with your colleagues when you find it difficult to get along with yourself?
Dealing with difficult people is more than just doing certain things. It is to become a certain kind of person. Yes, to follow the example set by Jesus – patience, compassion, honesty, willingness to extend grace and be forgiving. Sounds impossible to do ??
Humble – admit your own mistake.
Acceptance – extend your patience, be more flexible and accept the faults of others
Love – accept others with the love of Christ and wait for the transformation to take place.
Stops & Steps 1589 16Feb2011
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Stops & Steps 1588 15Feb2011
Never Alone
You will never be lonely if you know what to do to feel God’s presence
• Meditate upon His Word day and night.
• Confess all known sins.
• Aggressively obey His commandments.
• Talk to Him about everything as you would your dearest friend.
• Tell everyone who will listen about Him so that they too can experience with you the supernatural life which comes only from allowing the supernatural power of the indwelling Christ to be reflected in and through you.
John 14 : 18
No I will not abandon you or leave you as orphans in the storm, I will come to you
Stops & Steps 1588 15Feb2011
You will never be lonely if you know what to do to feel God’s presence
• Meditate upon His Word day and night.
• Confess all known sins.
• Aggressively obey His commandments.
• Talk to Him about everything as you would your dearest friend.
• Tell everyone who will listen about Him so that they too can experience with you the supernatural life which comes only from allowing the supernatural power of the indwelling Christ to be reflected in and through you.
John 14 : 18
No I will not abandon you or leave you as orphans in the storm, I will come to you
Stops & Steps 1588 15Feb2011
Monday, February 14, 2011
Stops & Steps 1587 14Feb2011
A painful task !!
Prayer of repentance is difficult. Sins that we refuse to confess or acknowledge is a barrier between us and God. It is painful to admit our bad attitudes, destructive behaviour and wrong reactions to God. But God has promised and we have a guarantee that regardless of the deeds we have done, if we confess, HE will forgive.
Psalm 66 : 18
If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened
Proverbs 28 : 13
He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy
1 John 1 : 9
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness
Stops & Steps 1587 14Feb2011
Prayer of repentance is difficult. Sins that we refuse to confess or acknowledge is a barrier between us and God. It is painful to admit our bad attitudes, destructive behaviour and wrong reactions to God. But God has promised and we have a guarantee that regardless of the deeds we have done, if we confess, HE will forgive.
Psalm 66 : 18
If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened
Proverbs 28 : 13
He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy
1 John 1 : 9
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness
Stops & Steps 1587 14Feb2011
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Stops & Steps 1586 13Feb2011
Be forgiving
It is always easier to gossip about someone who has done you wrong.
Instead we should go to the person who has done you wrong, to keep the damage contained to just both of you and work on a reconciliation.
I must ask God
to forgive my foolish and selfish ways
to give me courage to lovingly go to those who sinned against me
to help me to bring about a reconciliation
Matthew 18 : 15
If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over.
Stops & Steps 1586 13Feb2011
It is always easier to gossip about someone who has done you wrong.
Instead we should go to the person who has done you wrong, to keep the damage contained to just both of you and work on a reconciliation.
I must ask God
to forgive my foolish and selfish ways
to give me courage to lovingly go to those who sinned against me
to help me to bring about a reconciliation
Matthew 18 : 15
If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over.
Stops & Steps 1586 13Feb2011
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Stops & Steps 1585 12Feb2011
Commitment
Total commitment is the commitment of our intellects, our emotions and our wills
to do the will of God in every situation
with faith that we can, as promised,
trusting Him to help us to do whatever HE calls us to do
Psalm 37 : 5
Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust Him to help you do it and He will
Stops & Steps 1585 12Feb2011
Total commitment is the commitment of our intellects, our emotions and our wills
to do the will of God in every situation
with faith that we can, as promised,
trusting Him to help us to do whatever HE calls us to do
Psalm 37 : 5
Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust Him to help you do it and He will
Stops & Steps 1585 12Feb2011
Friday, February 11, 2011
Stops & Steps 1584 11Feb2011
Be contented
We long for approval, possessions and position. We are never satisfied with what we have. We have this problem because we focus on what we lack rather than on what we have. We are discontented.
Contentment is a choice and it is an ongoing process. We must learn to choose wisely.
1 Timothy 6 : 6
But godliness with contentment is great gain.
Stops & Steps 1584 11Feb2011
We long for approval, possessions and position. We are never satisfied with what we have. We have this problem because we focus on what we lack rather than on what we have. We are discontented.
Contentment is a choice and it is an ongoing process. We must learn to choose wisely.
1 Timothy 6 : 6
But godliness with contentment is great gain.
Stops & Steps 1584 11Feb2011
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Stops & Steps 1583 10Feb2011
Forgive and forget
Forgiveness is a choice. It is a choice you make for yourself. You do not just forgive for someone else's sake; you do it for your own sake. It is the only way to be free of the anger in the depth of your heart and from the bitterness that is a result from the betrayal.
When we hold unforgiveness in our heart, it goes completely against God's advice to us.
Romans 12:19
Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written, 'It is mine to avenge, I will repay,' says the Lord
If you have been wronged and it is hanging on and dragging your spirit down, acknowledge the hurt and the hate. Then make a choice to forgive the offending person. Release the situation to God's care and He will deal fairly with him
Stops & Steps 1583 10Feb2011
Forgiveness is a choice. It is a choice you make for yourself. You do not just forgive for someone else's sake; you do it for your own sake. It is the only way to be free of the anger in the depth of your heart and from the bitterness that is a result from the betrayal.
When we hold unforgiveness in our heart, it goes completely against God's advice to us.
Romans 12:19
Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written, 'It is mine to avenge, I will repay,' says the Lord
If you have been wronged and it is hanging on and dragging your spirit down, acknowledge the hurt and the hate. Then make a choice to forgive the offending person. Release the situation to God's care and He will deal fairly with him
Stops & Steps 1583 10Feb2011
Stops & Steps 1816 02Oct2011
Changing names
Some people assume new names to disguise their identity. Other people change their names when they move to a new country to make them more pronounceable.
Society today is also good at changing the name of things that honor God. Having standards is now called intolerance. Taking a stand for what you believe is understood as dedication.
Change in names is also used to disguise their original meanings. Adultery is called
an affair. Drunkenness is now alcoholism.
Despite all these changes, God's principles have not changed.
Guide your life by God's Word, and you will be pleasing to the Lord no matter what the world calls it. After all, what is in a name? Not much if God is not in it.
Changing the name does not change the truth.
Daniel 1:6–7
Now from among those of the sons of Judah were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. To them the chief of the eunuchs gave names: he gave Daniel the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abed-Nego.
Stops & Steps 1816 02Oct2011
Some people assume new names to disguise their identity. Other people change their names when they move to a new country to make them more pronounceable.
Society today is also good at changing the name of things that honor God. Having standards is now called intolerance. Taking a stand for what you believe is understood as dedication.
Change in names is also used to disguise their original meanings. Adultery is called
an affair. Drunkenness is now alcoholism.
Despite all these changes, God's principles have not changed.
Guide your life by God's Word, and you will be pleasing to the Lord no matter what the world calls it. After all, what is in a name? Not much if God is not in it.
Changing the name does not change the truth.
Daniel 1:6–7
Now from among those of the sons of Judah were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. To them the chief of the eunuchs gave names: he gave Daniel the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abed-Nego.
Stops & Steps 1816 02Oct2011
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Stops & Steps 1582 09Feb2011
HE is in control
Jesus urges us to keep our minds filled with the idea of God’s control behind every thing.. We must maintain an attitude of perfect trust and a willingness to ask and seek
Fill your mind with the idea that God is always there to help you. Armed with this idea that is formed so powerfully within you, we can go to God to get all difficulties and problems solved.
Nothing happens in any particular unless God's will is behind it, therefore you can rest
in perfect confidence in Him. Prayer is not only asking, but an attitude of mind which produces the atmosphere in which asking is perfectly natural. "Ask, and it shall be given you."
Mathew 7 : 11
How much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him?
Stops & Steps 1582 09Feb2011
Jesus urges us to keep our minds filled with the idea of God’s control behind every thing.. We must maintain an attitude of perfect trust and a willingness to ask and seek
Fill your mind with the idea that God is always there to help you. Armed with this idea that is formed so powerfully within you, we can go to God to get all difficulties and problems solved.
Nothing happens in any particular unless God's will is behind it, therefore you can rest
in perfect confidence in Him. Prayer is not only asking, but an attitude of mind which produces the atmosphere in which asking is perfectly natural. "Ask, and it shall be given you."
Mathew 7 : 11
How much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him?
Stops & Steps 1582 09Feb2011
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
Stops & Steps 1581 08Feb2011
Do you plan ahead ?
I can reasonably plan for today, tomorrow, the next few weeks and even months. But that does not mean that my plan will actually be feasible. This is because I cannot see into the future with a certainty.
God says to you and me, "Call to me." In other words, "Talk to me." If we will simply ask God, He promises to, "answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know."
God is able to go beyond our limited physical, human abilities. He can go beyond anything that we are capable of thinking, or dreaming, or conceiving in our minds. He is above us in His capabilities. His vision is not limited. He knows what will happen tomorrow with a certainty. He knows what will happen next year, and the year after with a certainty.
Jeremiah 33:3.
Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know
Ephesians 3:20-21.
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Stops & Steps 1581 08Feb2011
I can reasonably plan for today, tomorrow, the next few weeks and even months. But that does not mean that my plan will actually be feasible. This is because I cannot see into the future with a certainty.
God says to you and me, "Call to me." In other words, "Talk to me." If we will simply ask God, He promises to, "answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know."
God is able to go beyond our limited physical, human abilities. He can go beyond anything that we are capable of thinking, or dreaming, or conceiving in our minds. He is above us in His capabilities. His vision is not limited. He knows what will happen tomorrow with a certainty. He knows what will happen next year, and the year after with a certainty.
Jeremiah 33:3.
Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know
Ephesians 3:20-21.
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Stops & Steps 1581 08Feb2011
Monday, February 07, 2011
Stops & Steps 1580 07Feb2011
Pray
Prayer is much more than asking for our needs. We need to pray at least part of a day. We need to pray many times a day because of the many obstacles we face and God will answer our prayers over and over again.We must be thankful to God because HE is always faithful to us. HE will never ignore or neglect us
2 Timothy 2:14
If we are faithless (do not believe and are untrue to Him), He remains true, (faithful to His Word and righteous character), for He cannot deny Himself
Stops & Steps 1580 07Feb2011
Prayer is much more than asking for our needs. We need to pray at least part of a day. We need to pray many times a day because of the many obstacles we face and God will answer our prayers over and over again.We must be thankful to God because HE is always faithful to us. HE will never ignore or neglect us
2 Timothy 2:14
If we are faithless (do not believe and are untrue to Him), He remains true, (faithful to His Word and righteous character), for He cannot deny Himself
Stops & Steps 1580 07Feb2011
Sunday, February 06, 2011
Stops & Steps 1579 06Feb2011
Learning to walk by faith
By faith, Abraham was on his way to a land known only to the Lord. Regardless of the personal cost and the opinion of others, Abraham began his journey. He left his family home of Ur and headed toward a new land known only by God. It was to be a place of promise and blessing. (Hebrews 11:8-10).
Abraham was not a poor man. He was a leader among his people. God had given him the ability to see beyond the immediate challenge to the blessings of the future. Abraham did not shy away in fear. He trusted the Lord and, in doing so, was able to touch the hem of heaven’s garment. (Luke 8:40-56) Scripture tells us that Abraham believed God, and his belief was "reckoned" to him as "righteousness" (Genesis 15:6).
Learning to live by faith involves a lot more than heroic feelings. The desire to obey God regardless of personal sacrifice is overriding.
What do you do when facing a challenge that seems overwhelming?
Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs you to "trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."
The first requirement of living a life of faith is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. First we must know HIM in order to discern HIS will for our lives. God has a design in mind for every situation we face. There are no coincidences with God. There are blessings that come our way, and God is the architect behind each one. In times of trial and sorrow, He is working in ways unknown to us to bring goodness and hope out of each difficulty.
We must believe that He does what He has promised to do. Hebrews 11:6 tells us that "without faith it is impossible to please [God], for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him."
No matter how small our faith seems at times, God is pleased when we trust Him. Even the slightest step of faith does not go unnoticed by Him. And we can be sure that just as He was faithful to the promise He made to Abraham, He will be faithful to us. Perhaps, one of the greatest blessings Abraham received was being called the friend of God. (Isaiah 41:8)
In times of failure, God does not want us to focus on our shortcomings. Instead, He wants us to set the focus of our hearts on Him. This is where faith springs to life.
We may falter. We may fail, but we must get up and keep moving forward. When Peter denied knowing Christ, Jesus did not deny knowing Him.
Stops & Steps 1579 06Feb2011
By faith, Abraham was on his way to a land known only to the Lord. Regardless of the personal cost and the opinion of others, Abraham began his journey. He left his family home of Ur and headed toward a new land known only by God. It was to be a place of promise and blessing. (Hebrews 11:8-10).
Abraham was not a poor man. He was a leader among his people. God had given him the ability to see beyond the immediate challenge to the blessings of the future. Abraham did not shy away in fear. He trusted the Lord and, in doing so, was able to touch the hem of heaven’s garment. (Luke 8:40-56) Scripture tells us that Abraham believed God, and his belief was "reckoned" to him as "righteousness" (Genesis 15:6).
Learning to live by faith involves a lot more than heroic feelings. The desire to obey God regardless of personal sacrifice is overriding.
What do you do when facing a challenge that seems overwhelming?
Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs you to "trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."
The first requirement of living a life of faith is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. First we must know HIM in order to discern HIS will for our lives. God has a design in mind for every situation we face. There are no coincidences with God. There are blessings that come our way, and God is the architect behind each one. In times of trial and sorrow, He is working in ways unknown to us to bring goodness and hope out of each difficulty.
We must believe that He does what He has promised to do. Hebrews 11:6 tells us that "without faith it is impossible to please [God], for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him."
No matter how small our faith seems at times, God is pleased when we trust Him. Even the slightest step of faith does not go unnoticed by Him. And we can be sure that just as He was faithful to the promise He made to Abraham, He will be faithful to us. Perhaps, one of the greatest blessings Abraham received was being called the friend of God. (Isaiah 41:8)
In times of failure, God does not want us to focus on our shortcomings. Instead, He wants us to set the focus of our hearts on Him. This is where faith springs to life.
We may falter. We may fail, but we must get up and keep moving forward. When Peter denied knowing Christ, Jesus did not deny knowing Him.
Stops & Steps 1579 06Feb2011
Saturday, February 05, 2011
Stops & Steps 1578 05Feb2011
How do you respond to your trials?
Is it possible for you to "Be happy when you are blamed and accused wrongly”. When we run into difficulties or accusations, we can choose to respond in joy or react negatively
In such situations, we have the chance to see all the bitter, hostile or self-pitying responses that our sinful soul wants to spew out.
Watch and see if any of these poisons come out of us when our spirit is pricked by an accusation. Only then can we see ourselves as we are, and confess our sin that is within us and forsake ourselves again into the Lord's care."
We choose to respond with joy in every difficulty or nuisance that comes our way . It is an act of affirming that God is the blessed controller of all things.
James 1:2 - 4
Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the "testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing"
Stops & Steps 1578 05Feb2011
Is it possible for you to "Be happy when you are blamed and accused wrongly”. When we run into difficulties or accusations, we can choose to respond in joy or react negatively
In such situations, we have the chance to see all the bitter, hostile or self-pitying responses that our sinful soul wants to spew out.
Watch and see if any of these poisons come out of us when our spirit is pricked by an accusation. Only then can we see ourselves as we are, and confess our sin that is within us and forsake ourselves again into the Lord's care."
We choose to respond with joy in every difficulty or nuisance that comes our way . It is an act of affirming that God is the blessed controller of all things.
James 1:2 - 4
Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the "testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing"
Stops & Steps 1578 05Feb2011
Friday, February 04, 2011
Stops & Steps 1577 04Feb2011
Lost !!
Many of us today feel that we have lost contact with God. We are puzzled as to why HE has withdrawn HIS blessing from us. We have alternately obeyed God and disobeyed HIM. When we obey HIM, HE blessed us and when we disobeyed HIM, HE disciplined us. Our enemies’ main intent is always to destroy. They want to destroy us with lust, pride, jealousy, materialism, financial indebtedness, physical illness, resentments, antagonism, criticism and discrimination
When we are in such a situation, the only remedy is to go to God’s Word, confess our sins and claim God’s victory over those areas of our lives that are destroying us, ask God to reveal the idols of our lives and we must turn away from idol worshipping.
1 Samuel 7:3
At that time Samuel said to [the Israelites], 'If you are really serious about wanting to return to the Lord, get rid of your foreign gods and your Ashtaroth idols. Determine to obey only the Lord; then He will rescue you from the Philistines'
Stops & Steps 1577 04Feb2011
Many of us today feel that we have lost contact with God. We are puzzled as to why HE has withdrawn HIS blessing from us. We have alternately obeyed God and disobeyed HIM. When we obey HIM, HE blessed us and when we disobeyed HIM, HE disciplined us. Our enemies’ main intent is always to destroy. They want to destroy us with lust, pride, jealousy, materialism, financial indebtedness, physical illness, resentments, antagonism, criticism and discrimination
When we are in such a situation, the only remedy is to go to God’s Word, confess our sins and claim God’s victory over those areas of our lives that are destroying us, ask God to reveal the idols of our lives and we must turn away from idol worshipping.
1 Samuel 7:3
At that time Samuel said to [the Israelites], 'If you are really serious about wanting to return to the Lord, get rid of your foreign gods and your Ashtaroth idols. Determine to obey only the Lord; then He will rescue you from the Philistines'
Stops & Steps 1577 04Feb2011
Thursday, February 03, 2011
Stops & Steps 1576 03Feb2011
Forever friends
Friends in life are important and provide us with much encouragement and comfort. Sometimes friends do disappoint us and do us wrong.
However, as there is a friend who will not only show Himself friendly, but he will stick closer to us than a brother. HE is Jesus Christ. All our other friends may turn away and leave us stranded. Jesus will never do that. HE will always be there waiting for us to return to Him. HE is the only one friend that you can count on forever. He has proven His love by dying for you on the cross (Romans 5:8). There is no greater love, no greater friendship than that.
Proverbs 18:24
A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother..
John 15:12-14.
This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends. You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.
Stops & Steps 1576 03Feb2011
Friends in life are important and provide us with much encouragement and comfort. Sometimes friends do disappoint us and do us wrong.
However, as there is a friend who will not only show Himself friendly, but he will stick closer to us than a brother. HE is Jesus Christ. All our other friends may turn away and leave us stranded. Jesus will never do that. HE will always be there waiting for us to return to Him. HE is the only one friend that you can count on forever. He has proven His love by dying for you on the cross (Romans 5:8). There is no greater love, no greater friendship than that.
Proverbs 18:24
A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother..
John 15:12-14.
This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends. You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.
Stops & Steps 1576 03Feb2011
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
Stops & Steps 1575 02Feb2011
Conflict
Differences of opinion are normal, natural and healthy. It is the means we have of going through ideas and issues to come to the best possible conclusion for the entire team. Differences in personality help bring wholeness as we offer different perspectives.
We will be destroyed if we are divided in our purpose. If someone always needs to be right or needs to feel powerful, then their own agenda will replace the purpose of the whole team and the result is hurt and division. “…every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand” (Matthew 12:25).
If you are experiencing conflict, find out if you and the other person have the same purpose at heart. If you both have the same desire, then look afresh at the goal. Focusing together on what is the ultimate purpose will help bring perspective to the differing opinions and personalities. Differences can become the tools that help carve out new paths and better solutions. Jesus must have known how hard it would be for us to stay in unity. His last prayer, before He was betrayed in the garden, was for all believers to be brought to complete unity so the world would know that God sent Him and that He loves them (John 17:20-23).
Stops & Steps 1575 02Feb2011
Differences of opinion are normal, natural and healthy. It is the means we have of going through ideas and issues to come to the best possible conclusion for the entire team. Differences in personality help bring wholeness as we offer different perspectives.
We will be destroyed if we are divided in our purpose. If someone always needs to be right or needs to feel powerful, then their own agenda will replace the purpose of the whole team and the result is hurt and division. “…every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand” (Matthew 12:25).
If you are experiencing conflict, find out if you and the other person have the same purpose at heart. If you both have the same desire, then look afresh at the goal. Focusing together on what is the ultimate purpose will help bring perspective to the differing opinions and personalities. Differences can become the tools that help carve out new paths and better solutions. Jesus must have known how hard it would be for us to stay in unity. His last prayer, before He was betrayed in the garden, was for all believers to be brought to complete unity so the world would know that God sent Him and that He loves them (John 17:20-23).
Stops & Steps 1575 02Feb2011
Tuesday, February 01, 2011
Stops & Steps 1574 01Feb2011
Spend more time praying
The single most important daily activity to engage in is spending time with God, meditating on His word and praying.
When God does not respond immediately to our prayer, what has gone wrong ?
The answer is very simple : prayer is a continuous effort
We must expect interference and harassment each time we pray. Satan knows that a devoted believer is dangerous. Make prayer our top priority, set aside time to talk to God.
Colossians 4:2 - 4
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.
Stops & Steps 1574 01Feb2011
The single most important daily activity to engage in is spending time with God, meditating on His word and praying.
When God does not respond immediately to our prayer, what has gone wrong ?
The answer is very simple : prayer is a continuous effort
We must expect interference and harassment each time we pray. Satan knows that a devoted believer is dangerous. Make prayer our top priority, set aside time to talk to God.
Colossians 4:2 - 4
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.
Stops & Steps 1574 01Feb2011
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