This document is an issue of a publication called "Activated" that discusses maintaining faith through difficult times. The editor's introduction recounts the story of the prophet Habakkuk maintaining faith in God despite injustice and violence around him. The main articles provide tips for keeping faith strong, including feeding on God's word, praying, drawing strength from others' experiences, and thanking God for his goodness. The overall message is that through trusting God and his promises, one can have peace even in life's storms.
This document contains a short story about a man who maintained a positive attitude despite facing significant hardships, including losing a hand, eye, and savings due to being injured by a disgruntled employee. It discusses how the man, through volunteering at a homeless shelter, became friends with the author and his wife. Despite his medical conditions and living on a small pension, the man always tries to make others smile and finds ways to encourage people. The author argues that happiness comes from one's attitude and outlook, as demonstrated by his friend's ability to remain cheerful despite his difficult circumstances.
This document discusses how God works behind the scenes in people's lives. It begins by explaining that whatever challenges one faces are not a surprise to God, who is working to fix our situations and set the stage for our lives. It then provides examples from the Bible of people like Joseph, David, and Moses who went through difficult times but emerged stronger. The author relates their own experiences growing up in poverty and facing academic struggles, but notes that God was preparing them during this time. The overall message is that God uses dark periods in our lives to develop our character and potential, and is working behind the scenes to help us prosper and bring hope, even when it is not obvious.
This book provides a 3-sentence summary of each chapter in the book "Hope for the Soul" by Kimberly Michelle Ford. The book uses personal stories and Bible passages to encourage readers who have experienced rejection, failure, or disappointment to continue persevering and have hope. It discusses topics like overcoming the past, seeing crises as opportunities, maintaining confidence even when facing difficulties, and pressing forward despite setbacks. The overall message is that through faith in God, readers can recover from challenges and live a fulfilling life.
This summary provides the key details from the document in 3 sentences or less:
The document discusses reflections on suffering based on passages from Genesis and Job. It explores how Adam and Eve's choice to disobey God led to evil and suffering in the world. Readers are prompted to reflect on times they have chosen their own will over God's and to pray for help in developing positive character traits.
90816297 difficulties-in-ministry-joyce-meyerGin Burda
Joyce Meyer discusses 12 of the most difficult things she has dealt with in ministry, including loneliness, the silent foundation-laying years, learning to handle rejection and betrayal, learning to say no, staying fresh, being consistently confident, enjoying the ministry, waiting on God's timing, having boldness to be your unique self, dealing with people, attacks against her health, and learning how to be in ministry with her husband. The document provides biblical references and personal examples for each difficulty.
This document contains a short story about a man who maintained a positive attitude despite facing significant hardships, including losing a hand, eye, and savings due to being injured by a disgruntled employee. It discusses how the man, through volunteering at a homeless shelter, became friends with the author and his wife. Despite his medical conditions and living on a small pension, the man always tries to make others smile and finds ways to encourage people. The author argues that happiness comes from one's attitude and outlook, as demonstrated by his friend's ability to remain cheerful despite his difficult circumstances.
This document discusses how God works behind the scenes in people's lives. It begins by explaining that whatever challenges one faces are not a surprise to God, who is working to fix our situations and set the stage for our lives. It then provides examples from the Bible of people like Joseph, David, and Moses who went through difficult times but emerged stronger. The author relates their own experiences growing up in poverty and facing academic struggles, but notes that God was preparing them during this time. The overall message is that God uses dark periods in our lives to develop our character and potential, and is working behind the scenes to help us prosper and bring hope, even when it is not obvious.
This book provides a 3-sentence summary of each chapter in the book "Hope for the Soul" by Kimberly Michelle Ford. The book uses personal stories and Bible passages to encourage readers who have experienced rejection, failure, or disappointment to continue persevering and have hope. It discusses topics like overcoming the past, seeing crises as opportunities, maintaining confidence even when facing difficulties, and pressing forward despite setbacks. The overall message is that through faith in God, readers can recover from challenges and live a fulfilling life.
This summary provides the key details from the document in 3 sentences or less:
The document discusses reflections on suffering based on passages from Genesis and Job. It explores how Adam and Eve's choice to disobey God led to evil and suffering in the world. Readers are prompted to reflect on times they have chosen their own will over God's and to pray for help in developing positive character traits.
90816297 difficulties-in-ministry-joyce-meyerGin Burda
Joyce Meyer discusses 12 of the most difficult things she has dealt with in ministry, including loneliness, the silent foundation-laying years, learning to handle rejection and betrayal, learning to say no, staying fresh, being consistently confident, enjoying the ministry, waiting on God's timing, having boldness to be your unique self, dealing with people, attacks against her health, and learning how to be in ministry with her husband. The document provides biblical references and personal examples for each difficulty.
Illustrations, humor, poetry and quotations vol 2GLENN PEASE
This document contains a collection of short quotations, poems, stories and advice on various topics such as alcohol, animals, attitudes, and apologizing. Some key points:
- Several historical figures like Edison, Taft and Lincoln advocated abstaining from alcohol, comparing it to putting sand in delicate machinery.
- A Marine Corps safety officer developed the slogan "He who comes forth with a fifth on the Fourth may not come forth on the fifth" to discourage drinking over a holiday weekend.
- Attitude is likened to the position of an airplane - a good attitude can help one succeed while a bad attitude leads to poor performance, just as the position of a plane affects its flight.
This document contains excerpts from various spiritual writings focused on topics like suffering, humility, sin, and finding peace in God. Some key points:
- Suffering is necessary and intended by God to purify and heal, not as punishment. It should be borne peacefully by accepting God's will.
- True humility involves being at peace even when humiliated and focusing on obedience to God rather than desires of the ego.
- Finding relief from problems in worldly things like changing circumstances or alcohol only provides temporary relief, not healing. True healing and cleansing of sin comes only from God.
The document provides a summary of Gary Eby's approach to life coaching and overcoming fears and negative thoughts. It describes how Eby helps clients overcome challenges through a "stop and think" process of slowing down thoughts, using positive self-talk, and seeking help from others. It then gives examples of how Eby used these techniques to overcome his own fears and doubts about publishing a book, which ultimately led to him signing a publishing contract.
This document summarizes a story about a 92-year-old legally blind woman named Maurine Jones who moved into a nursing home after her husband of 70 years passed away. When told about her tiny new room, Maurine enthusiastically said she loved it. When asked why since she hadn't seen it yet, Maurine replied that happiness is something you decide on ahead of time, not based on circumstances. She said she chooses every morning to be thankful for what she can do rather than dwell on her limitations. The document emphasizes that our attitudes don't have to be dictated by circumstances, and that we each have a choice in how we live our lives.
Famous Quotes from Famous Quotation MastersJenita Guinoo
This document contains a collection of quotes, prayers, poems and reflections on topics like life, love, friendship, happiness, faith, challenges and more. Some of the key ideas expressed are:
1) Have faith that God is with you during times of crisis and weakness.
2) True happiness comes from living gratefully in the present moment rather than dwelling on past regrets or future worries.
3) Friendship, kindness, humility and forgiveness are virtues worth cultivating in life.
4) While life presents challenges, having perseverance, hope and faith in God can help one overcome difficulties.
All of my e books compiled together over a period of some time with the intention to create content that can add value with experiential learning becoming an important element!!!
HAPPY READING & LIVING WITH PURPOSE!!!
STAND BY KT, GIN AND THE WORLD TOGETHER-WITH-LOVEJohan Hendriks
This document contains the text of a group curse clearing meditation led by Johan Hendriks. It includes tapping affirmations, a preamble, curse clearing statements, gratitude statements, and calls to connect with divine beings and bring light, love and integrity. The meditation aims to release negativity and find clarity through inviting peace.
This document appears to be the beginning of a book describing a man named Dave Bentley's encounter with a "Master" who taught him secrets to success, health, wealth, and happiness. Dave was experiencing poor health and financial troubles but had a chance meeting with the Master in London who helped put him at ease. Dave accompanied the Master on a voyage back to New York where the Master began demonstrating powers and teachings about tapping into one's inherent potential and the universal laws that can be used to achieve anything if one understands how to apply them. The Master explained that true happiness comes from within and that poverty is unnecessary as humans have the power to manifest abundance.
The document discusses the author's childhood experiences growing up in a single mother household and dealing with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, which caused him to frequently get into trouble through reckless impulsive behaviors. He was seen as a problem child who was overactive and prone to poor judgment. Efforts were made to involve him in organized activities and introduce positive role models to help guide and supervise him.
School Thy Feelings, O My Brother by Thomas S. MonsonThomas S. Monson
The document is a talk given by President Thomas S. Monson to members of the priesthood. In 3 sentences:
President Monson counsels members of the priesthood to choose to refrain from anger, as anger is destructive and not of God. He tells the story of a couple whose marriage was destroyed by anger, which caused the husband to injure their child during an argument. President Monson testifies that with choice, it is possible to not become angry and instead have the Spirit, encouraging the priesthood holders to make that choice.
The document discusses various ways that teenagers can face difficult or "hard" situations in their lives, such as serving others, having faith, and relying on God's strength. It provides scriptural examples and counsel from church leaders on developing grit and persevering through trials. The overarching message is that with God's help, one can endure hardships and challenges.
These things hare I spoken unto you, that in me ye may
have peace. In the world ye have tribulation : but be of good
cheer ; I have overcome the world. JESUS CHRIST.
1. Jesus and his disciples were caught in a sudden, violent storm while crossing the sea. The disciples were afraid they would drown.
2. When the disciples woke Jesus, he calmed the storm with the words "Peace, be still." Jesus' ability to calm storms demonstrates his power over nature and the forces causing turmoil in people's lives.
3. True peace comes from having faith in Jesus, obeying his word, trusting him completely, bearing the fruits of the spirit, and engaging in his service by helping others. Living this way brings "perfect peace" even in difficult times.
The document is a manifesto promoting a coaching service called "Loaf Coaching" aimed at helping people reconnect with their passions and live a more fulfilling "W.I.L.D." life. It tells the author's story of following his dreams of a career in entertainment against obstacles. After initial success, he struggled in unfulfilling corporate work but was inspired to pursue his dreams again and eventually found success with his own TV shows in LA. The manifesto advocates living a life motivated by love rather than fear and encourages the reader to slow down and reconnect with their soul and dreams through the Loaf Coaching process.
The document outlines the contents and lessons of an online study on Fascinating Womanhood. It will cover topics over 8 weeks, including understanding men, masculine and feminine roles, femininity, and childlikeness. The ideal woman from a man's point of view has both angelic qualities like character, understanding of men, and domestic skills, as well as human qualities like appearance, manner, and femininity. Examples from literature are analyzed, showing that while beauty is not essential, qualities like inner happiness, gentleness, and radiating joy are attractive to men.
This document is a collection of essays and stories by Michael Keever. It begins by introducing the author and acknowledging that as an internet blogger, his credibility may be questioned. The first story describes how the author used to be arrogant and self-absorbed, only caring about himself. He realized the irony that while living only for his own gratification, his life was in God's hands. The story then describes how the author was diagnosed with cancer and a brain tumor after his mother passed away from cancer. This tragedy and diagnosis led to a period of clarity and spiritual growth for the author.
THE ROSICRUCIAN ORDER
PURPOSE AND WORK OF THE ORDER
The Rosicrucian Order, AMORC, is a philosophical and initiatic tradition. As students progress in their studies, they are initiated into the next level or degree.
Rosicrucians are men and women around the world who study the laws of nature in order to live in harmony with them. Individuals study the Rosicrucian lessons in the privacy of their own homes on subjects such as the nature of the soul, developing intuition, classical Greek philosophy, energy centers in the body, and self-healing techniques.
The Rosicrucian tradition encourages each student to discover the wisdom, compassion, strength, and peace that already resides within each of us.
It seems that laughter can be both right and wrong, and it can be a challenge to know which is right at any time. It seems that you can laugh and be sad at the same time.
The document is a church bulletin that provides updates and announcements for the East Main Church of Christ congregation. It includes the following:
1) An article from Barry Kennedy discussing a dream he had about fighting a battle alone until reinforcements arrive, and drawing spiritual lessons from the dream about remaining vigilant in faith while surrounded by temptation and supporting fellow Christians.
2) Upcoming events like a community outreach program collecting school supplies, mission trips to Brazil and Mexico, and a senior saints activity.
3) Well wishes and prayers requested for those who are sick, as well as addresses for two members in hospitals.
4) Reminders about Bible reading plans, birthdays, anniversaries, and
Illustrations, humor, poetry and quotations vol 10GLENN PEASE
This document contains a collection of quotations on various topics including action, adversity, prosperity, and problems. Some of the key points made in the quotations include:
- Adversity can make people stronger and more determined, while prosperity can make people complacent. Facing challenges helps us grow mentally and spiritually.
- Problems call forth our courage and wisdom, and it is through resolving problems that we learn and improve. Worrying does not help, while thinking and taking action can help solve issues.
- While difficulties are hard to face, viewing them in a different light and focusing on inner strength and growth can help us cope with adversity. Problems cannot always be changed, but we can change how we
This article discusses facing difficulties in life through the metaphor of a rainy day. The author was feeling discouraged due to her son's developmental delays, upcoming job and housing changes, and other challenges. Looking outside, she saw a bird hunting for worms made visible by the rain. She understood this as a message from God that the storms in her life, though difficult, have provided spiritual blessings that have fed and strengthened her, like the worms fed the bird. While challenges remain, focusing on these blessings allows her to remain hopeful even in hard times.
Illustrations, humor, poetry and quotations vol 2GLENN PEASE
This document contains a collection of short quotations, poems, stories and advice on various topics such as alcohol, animals, attitudes, and apologizing. Some key points:
- Several historical figures like Edison, Taft and Lincoln advocated abstaining from alcohol, comparing it to putting sand in delicate machinery.
- A Marine Corps safety officer developed the slogan "He who comes forth with a fifth on the Fourth may not come forth on the fifth" to discourage drinking over a holiday weekend.
- Attitude is likened to the position of an airplane - a good attitude can help one succeed while a bad attitude leads to poor performance, just as the position of a plane affects its flight.
This document contains excerpts from various spiritual writings focused on topics like suffering, humility, sin, and finding peace in God. Some key points:
- Suffering is necessary and intended by God to purify and heal, not as punishment. It should be borne peacefully by accepting God's will.
- True humility involves being at peace even when humiliated and focusing on obedience to God rather than desires of the ego.
- Finding relief from problems in worldly things like changing circumstances or alcohol only provides temporary relief, not healing. True healing and cleansing of sin comes only from God.
The document provides a summary of Gary Eby's approach to life coaching and overcoming fears and negative thoughts. It describes how Eby helps clients overcome challenges through a "stop and think" process of slowing down thoughts, using positive self-talk, and seeking help from others. It then gives examples of how Eby used these techniques to overcome his own fears and doubts about publishing a book, which ultimately led to him signing a publishing contract.
This document summarizes a story about a 92-year-old legally blind woman named Maurine Jones who moved into a nursing home after her husband of 70 years passed away. When told about her tiny new room, Maurine enthusiastically said she loved it. When asked why since she hadn't seen it yet, Maurine replied that happiness is something you decide on ahead of time, not based on circumstances. She said she chooses every morning to be thankful for what she can do rather than dwell on her limitations. The document emphasizes that our attitudes don't have to be dictated by circumstances, and that we each have a choice in how we live our lives.
Famous Quotes from Famous Quotation MastersJenita Guinoo
This document contains a collection of quotes, prayers, poems and reflections on topics like life, love, friendship, happiness, faith, challenges and more. Some of the key ideas expressed are:
1) Have faith that God is with you during times of crisis and weakness.
2) True happiness comes from living gratefully in the present moment rather than dwelling on past regrets or future worries.
3) Friendship, kindness, humility and forgiveness are virtues worth cultivating in life.
4) While life presents challenges, having perseverance, hope and faith in God can help one overcome difficulties.
All of my e books compiled together over a period of some time with the intention to create content that can add value with experiential learning becoming an important element!!!
HAPPY READING & LIVING WITH PURPOSE!!!
STAND BY KT, GIN AND THE WORLD TOGETHER-WITH-LOVEJohan Hendriks
This document contains the text of a group curse clearing meditation led by Johan Hendriks. It includes tapping affirmations, a preamble, curse clearing statements, gratitude statements, and calls to connect with divine beings and bring light, love and integrity. The meditation aims to release negativity and find clarity through inviting peace.
This document appears to be the beginning of a book describing a man named Dave Bentley's encounter with a "Master" who taught him secrets to success, health, wealth, and happiness. Dave was experiencing poor health and financial troubles but had a chance meeting with the Master in London who helped put him at ease. Dave accompanied the Master on a voyage back to New York where the Master began demonstrating powers and teachings about tapping into one's inherent potential and the universal laws that can be used to achieve anything if one understands how to apply them. The Master explained that true happiness comes from within and that poverty is unnecessary as humans have the power to manifest abundance.
The document discusses the author's childhood experiences growing up in a single mother household and dealing with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, which caused him to frequently get into trouble through reckless impulsive behaviors. He was seen as a problem child who was overactive and prone to poor judgment. Efforts were made to involve him in organized activities and introduce positive role models to help guide and supervise him.
School Thy Feelings, O My Brother by Thomas S. MonsonThomas S. Monson
The document is a talk given by President Thomas S. Monson to members of the priesthood. In 3 sentences:
President Monson counsels members of the priesthood to choose to refrain from anger, as anger is destructive and not of God. He tells the story of a couple whose marriage was destroyed by anger, which caused the husband to injure their child during an argument. President Monson testifies that with choice, it is possible to not become angry and instead have the Spirit, encouraging the priesthood holders to make that choice.
The document discusses various ways that teenagers can face difficult or "hard" situations in their lives, such as serving others, having faith, and relying on God's strength. It provides scriptural examples and counsel from church leaders on developing grit and persevering through trials. The overarching message is that with God's help, one can endure hardships and challenges.
These things hare I spoken unto you, that in me ye may
have peace. In the world ye have tribulation : but be of good
cheer ; I have overcome the world. JESUS CHRIST.
1. Jesus and his disciples were caught in a sudden, violent storm while crossing the sea. The disciples were afraid they would drown.
2. When the disciples woke Jesus, he calmed the storm with the words "Peace, be still." Jesus' ability to calm storms demonstrates his power over nature and the forces causing turmoil in people's lives.
3. True peace comes from having faith in Jesus, obeying his word, trusting him completely, bearing the fruits of the spirit, and engaging in his service by helping others. Living this way brings "perfect peace" even in difficult times.
The document is a manifesto promoting a coaching service called "Loaf Coaching" aimed at helping people reconnect with their passions and live a more fulfilling "W.I.L.D." life. It tells the author's story of following his dreams of a career in entertainment against obstacles. After initial success, he struggled in unfulfilling corporate work but was inspired to pursue his dreams again and eventually found success with his own TV shows in LA. The manifesto advocates living a life motivated by love rather than fear and encourages the reader to slow down and reconnect with their soul and dreams through the Loaf Coaching process.
The document outlines the contents and lessons of an online study on Fascinating Womanhood. It will cover topics over 8 weeks, including understanding men, masculine and feminine roles, femininity, and childlikeness. The ideal woman from a man's point of view has both angelic qualities like character, understanding of men, and domestic skills, as well as human qualities like appearance, manner, and femininity. Examples from literature are analyzed, showing that while beauty is not essential, qualities like inner happiness, gentleness, and radiating joy are attractive to men.
This document is a collection of essays and stories by Michael Keever. It begins by introducing the author and acknowledging that as an internet blogger, his credibility may be questioned. The first story describes how the author used to be arrogant and self-absorbed, only caring about himself. He realized the irony that while living only for his own gratification, his life was in God's hands. The story then describes how the author was diagnosed with cancer and a brain tumor after his mother passed away from cancer. This tragedy and diagnosis led to a period of clarity and spiritual growth for the author.
THE ROSICRUCIAN ORDER
PURPOSE AND WORK OF THE ORDER
The Rosicrucian Order, AMORC, is a philosophical and initiatic tradition. As students progress in their studies, they are initiated into the next level or degree.
Rosicrucians are men and women around the world who study the laws of nature in order to live in harmony with them. Individuals study the Rosicrucian lessons in the privacy of their own homes on subjects such as the nature of the soul, developing intuition, classical Greek philosophy, energy centers in the body, and self-healing techniques.
The Rosicrucian tradition encourages each student to discover the wisdom, compassion, strength, and peace that already resides within each of us.
It seems that laughter can be both right and wrong, and it can be a challenge to know which is right at any time. It seems that you can laugh and be sad at the same time.
The document is a church bulletin that provides updates and announcements for the East Main Church of Christ congregation. It includes the following:
1) An article from Barry Kennedy discussing a dream he had about fighting a battle alone until reinforcements arrive, and drawing spiritual lessons from the dream about remaining vigilant in faith while surrounded by temptation and supporting fellow Christians.
2) Upcoming events like a community outreach program collecting school supplies, mission trips to Brazil and Mexico, and a senior saints activity.
3) Well wishes and prayers requested for those who are sick, as well as addresses for two members in hospitals.
4) Reminders about Bible reading plans, birthdays, anniversaries, and
Illustrations, humor, poetry and quotations vol 10GLENN PEASE
This document contains a collection of quotations on various topics including action, adversity, prosperity, and problems. Some of the key points made in the quotations include:
- Adversity can make people stronger and more determined, while prosperity can make people complacent. Facing challenges helps us grow mentally and spiritually.
- Problems call forth our courage and wisdom, and it is through resolving problems that we learn and improve. Worrying does not help, while thinking and taking action can help solve issues.
- While difficulties are hard to face, viewing them in a different light and focusing on inner strength and growth can help us cope with adversity. Problems cannot always be changed, but we can change how we
This article discusses facing difficulties in life through the metaphor of a rainy day. The author was feeling discouraged due to her son's developmental delays, upcoming job and housing changes, and other challenges. Looking outside, she saw a bird hunting for worms made visible by the rain. She understood this as a message from God that the storms in her life, though difficult, have provided spiritual blessings that have fed and strengthened her, like the worms fed the bird. While challenges remain, focusing on these blessings allows her to remain hopeful even in hard times.
This document is a magazine from Activated Ministries that includes several articles discussing faith-related topics. The first article encourages readers to have faith in God's love, even during difficult times, by likening faith to relaxing and letting God support you like a swimmer floating. The second article discusses having faith that God is in control and will answer prayers in His timing, not ours, using the example of a squirrel empowering its observer to have faith. The third article continues discussing having faith now and forever through trusting God even when prayers seem unanswered.
Activated Special Edition: Faith in Times of CrisisSpiritualibrary
This document provides encouragement for having faith and finding peace during difficult times. It discusses how God promises to always be with us and give us strength. While life may bring hardship, we can choose to have faith in God and trust that he will never abandon us. The document also offers practical advice, such as praying, reading the Bible, and surrendering worries to find inner peace and calm even when facing challenges or uncertainty.
This document discusses Jesus' teaching that through patience, one can gain possession of their soul. It provides three key points:
1. Winning one's soul involves a continuous process of spiritual development through life experiences like sacrifice, kindness, and choosing righteousness over ease. The soul must be cultivated and is not fully formed at birth.
2. There can also be a loss or shrinkage of the soul through worldliness, selfishness, and sin. Every departure from truth and love results in less soul development.
3. Gaining one's soul is akin to self-mastery, bringing all aspects of oneself under control. True spiritual growth is an ongoing process that takes patience, and occurs gradually through life
This document contains an editor's introduction to a Christian magazine. It discusses how biblical hope is not wishful thinking but rather a joyful and confident expectation. It encourages readers facing serious troubles to find hope through Jesus and his resurrection, which promises eternal life. It also discusses how Jesus calls his followers to help and serve others in their times of need, and to share the gospel message of his life, death, and resurrection with others during the Easter season.
- Practice mindfulness and focus on the present moment rather than dwelling on past failures or future fears. Worrying often involves scenarios that never happen.
- Keep a "worry chart" to track your worries and see which are unfounded or out of your control. This can help put worries in perspective.
- Remember that God is in control of all things and works all things for good for those who love Him. Trust that He will help you through any difficulties.
- Replace worries with prayer, giving your concerns to God and receiving His peace in exchange. Focus on His presence and help rather than dwelling on problems.
- Follow Jesus' example
Our theories about God are our theology.
It is well to value them, to try our best to
keep them pure and high. But the deeper
question is. What is our religion? What are
our real thoughts of God ? In that deep and
secret place of our inmost consciousness, where
all our desires and feelings and hopes and
aspirations are born, what is God to us ? This
is the great question, the searching question.
And on the answer to it our peace, our happi-
ness, our usefulness depend.
ELEVATION: The Divine Power Of The Human Being Kelly Marie Kerrkrcdnsqxswifzizvzs
This book decodes the metaphors and symbols used in the King James version of Revelation with the aid of mystical insights and the corroboration of the latest scientific discoveries and theories. The interpretations given within this book focus on the chemistry and anatomy of the miraculous human body, and the bodies powerful electromagnetic energy which fluctuates according to one's psychological and emotional health.
"For nothing in secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither anything hid, that shall not become broad." Luke 8:17 (KJV) - meaning, nothing is concealed that will not be made known! And NOTHING IS HIDDEN THAT WILL NOT BE EXPOSED!
Everyone knows that the most famous literary masterpieces are metaphorical, and The King James Book of Revelation is no exception. King James created a cinematic masterpiece with an all-star cast, that would cloud the minds of its readers for centuries to come. With the help of many notorious experts, the mysteries in Revelation have been intricately dissected, inspected and translated to give the clearest, most enriching physical and metaphysical explanations possible. The "coincidences" revealed cannot be denied and these elucidations are not for the faint-hearted.
The document provides messages of comfort from Jesus, encouraging the reader to trust in Him during troublesome times. It emphasizes having faith in Jesus' love and ability to help overcome any problem, and advises connecting with Him through prayer and spending time with Him each morning to receive strength, wisdom and peace. The messages promise that Jesus understands the reader's struggles, wants to help, and can bring them through any difficulty or situation.
1. FROM DESPAIR TO HOPE Based on II Cor. 1:8-11
2. PAUL'S SELF-DEFENSE Based on II Cor. 1:12-17
3. OUR JESUS IS YES Based on II Cor. 1:15-22
4. GODLY CHANGE based on II Cor. 2:1-11
5. THE WEAPON OF FORGIVENESS Based on II Cor. 2:5-11
6. THE FACE OF GOD based on II Cor. 4:1-6
7. SEEING THE INVISIBLE based on II Cor. 4:8-18
8. THE SECOND BODY BASED ON II COR. 5:1-10
9. A HEAVENLY HABITATION BASED ON II COR. 5:1-10
10. THE BRIDGE OF RECONCILIATION Based on II Cor. 5:27-21
11. THE COST OF CHRISTMAS Based on II Cor. 8:1-9
12. THE GREATEST GIFT Based on II Cor. 8:9
13. GLAD GENEROSITY Based on II Cor. 9
14. MOTIVES FOR GIVING Based on II Cor. 9
15. HEAVEN CAN BE HARMFUL TO YOUR HEALTH II Cor. 12:1-10
The document is a worship program that includes songs, scripture readings, and a sermon about living outside of one's "own little world" and seeing greater purpose in serving others. It discusses different types of love, including God's unconditional love. The program includes prayers, communion, and blessings to conclude.
This document discusses how God uses difficulties and struggles to strengthen and shape people's character. It provides several examples of people who overcame disabilities or illnesses to accomplish great things, such as Helen Keller becoming an author and speaker despite being deaf and blind. The document argues that while troubles are hard, God uses them for good and to bring spiritual benefits if people trust in Him during difficult times.
"He endured, as seeing him who is invisible." —
Heb. 11 : 27.
HE endured. The word here means more
than if it were said, he bore his bur-
den well; and more than that he
waited with long suffering until the end came.
It means that he had strength to be stedfast.
There was a deep and constant force from
within with which he met the strange vicissi-
tudes of his life.
God uses difficulties and struggles to strengthen our character. While troubles are never enjoyable, they help us grow spiritually and rely on God. Many great figures throughout history overcame significant obstacles and used their hardships to inspire others. Though challenges may seem overwhelming, God promises to help us through any trial and use it for our ultimate good.
Obstacles are meant to be overcome, as God uses difficulties and struggles to strengthen our character. While troubles are not pleasant, they provide benefits by shaping us into better people. When facing trials, we should trust God and remember that he is greater than any challenge we face. Though troubles feel overwhelming, putting them in perspective by considering what others have endured can provide comfort. God's timing is perfect, and what seems like a curse may actually be a gift in disguise. With patience and faith, difficulties can produce hope and glory as God works through our struggles.
Contato - A lista de pedidos de Jesus para o NatalSpiritualibrary
O documento discute como o verdadeiro significado do Natal pode ser esquecido na correria das compras e preparativos. Contém histórias que ilustram como momentos simples com a família e uma conexão genuína com Jesus Cristo são mais importantes do que presentes ou festividades. Conclui enfatizando a necessidade de parar para apreciar o que o Natal realmente significa.
O documento discute o verdadeiro significado do Natal, que é a celebração do nascimento de Jesus Cristo, o Filho de Deus. Apesar de ter nascido humildemente, Jesus trouxe uma mensagem de amor, esperança e salvação para o mundo. Ele ensinou sobre o amor a Deus e ao próximo e realizou muitos milagres, porém foi rejeitado e crucificado. No entanto, ressuscitou três dias depois, vencendo a morte. Jesus é o maior presente que Deus deu à humanidade.
O documento descreve várias tradições natalinas em diferentes partes do mundo, como enfeitar árvores, presépios, troca de presentes e costumes religiosos. O Natal é celebrado de maneiras únicas em cada cultura, mas sempre com o objetivo comum de lembrar o nascimento de Jesus e espalhar alegria.
1) O documento apresenta cinco histórias pessoais sobre experiências vividas no Natal que, apesar das diferenças, compartilham o foco em dar ao próximo em vez de receber.
2) A história de Misha, uma criança órfã na Rússia, que ao ouvir sobre o nascimento de Jesus quis ficar com Ele na manjedoura para sempre.
3) Os oito milagres associados ao primeiro Natal de Jesus, como a concepção virginal, os anúncios angélicos e os sinais celestes que acompan
O documento discute como o Natal significa coisas diferentes para pessoas diferentes e como as mesmas tradições de Natal podem ser interpretadas de maneiras diversas. Em três frases, resume-se: O Natal traz alegria para alguns, solidão para outros. Alguns veem as decorações como símbolos de esperança, enquanto outros preferem gnomos musicais ao presépio. O documento reflete sobre os diferentes significados que o Natal pode ter.
O documento discute a importância de passar o Natal com as pessoas que amamos, compartilhando amor e atenção, em vez de nos concentrarmos apenas nas compras e presentes materiais. Também reflete sobre Jesus, o verdadeiro motivo do Natal, e como Ele deseja receber nosso amor e convite para viver em nosso coração.
O documento descreve uma viagem de Natal feita pelo autor para visitar os pais. No caminho, ele para para ajudar um motorista que teve problemas com o carro e acaba passando o Natal com essa família, tendo a oportunidade de compartilhar sobre Jesus.
Este documento conta a história de um casal missionário que enfrentou dificuldades financeiras e de saúde ao tentar manter sua obra missionária. Eles acolheram uma jovem grávida expulsa de casa e ajudaram-na. A história mostra como Deus cumpriu Sua promessa de forma inesperada ao ajudá-los nesse momento difícil.
Libri, ebook e riviste gratuiti - www.spiritualibrary.com
devozioni, devozione, giovani, adulti, vita cristiana, la vita cristiana, auto-aiuto, auto-miglioramento, relazioni con altre persone, capacità di comunicazione, capacità di lavorare in gruppo, etica,
The Enchantment and Shadows_ Unveiling the Mysteries of Magic and Black Magic...Phoenix O
This manual will guide you through basic skills and tasks to help you get started with various aspects of Magic. Each section is designed to be easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions.
The forces involved in this witchcraft spell will re-establish the loving bond between you and help to build a strong, loving relationship from which to start anew. Despite any previous hardships or problems, the spell work will re-establish the strong bonds of friendship and love upon which the marriage and relationship originated. Have faith, these stop divorce and stop separation spells are extremely powerful and will reconnect you and your partner in a strong and harmonious relationship.
My ritual will not only stop separation and divorce, but rebuild a strong bond between you and your partner that is based on truth, honesty, and unconditional love. For an even stronger effect, you may want to consider using the Eternal Love Bond spell to ensure your relationship and love will last through all tests of time. If you have not yet determined if your partner is considering separation or divorce, but are aware of rifts in the relationship, try the Love Spells to remove problems in a relationship or marriage. Keep in mind that all my love spells are 100% customized and that you'll only need 1 spell to address all problems/wishes.
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Why is this So? ~ Do Seek to KNOW (English & Chinese).pptxOH TEIK BIN
A PowerPoint Presentation based on the Dhamma teaching of Kamma-Vipaka (Intentional Actions-Ripening Effects).
A Presentation for developing morality, concentration and wisdom and to spur us to practice the Dhamma diligently.
The texts are in English and Chinese.
A Free eBook ~ Valuable LIFE Lessons to Learn ( 5 Sets of Presentations)...OH TEIK BIN
A free eBook comprising 5 sets of PowerPoint presentations of meaningful stories /Inspirational pieces that teach important Dhamma/Life lessons. For reflection and practice to develop the mind to grow in love, compassion and wisdom. The texts are in English and Chinese.
My other free eBooks can be obtained from the following Links:
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The Hope of Salvation - Jude 1:24-25 - MessageCole Hartman
Jude gives us hope at the end of a dark letter. In a dark world like today, we need the light of Christ to shine brighter and brighter. Jude shows us where to fix our focus so we can be filled with God's goodness and glory. Join us to explore this incredible passage.
A375 Example Taste the taste of the Lord, the taste of the Lord The taste of...franktsao4
It seems that current missionary work requires spending a lot of money, preparing a lot of materials, and traveling to far away places, so that it feels like missionary work. But what was the result they brought back? It's just a lot of photos of activities, fun eating, drinking and some playing games. And then we have to do the same thing next year, never ending. The church once mentioned that a certain missionary would go to the field where she used to work before the end of his life. It seemed that if she had not gone, no one would be willing to go. The reason why these missionary work is so difficult is that no one obeys God’s words, and the Bible is not the main content during missionary work, because in the eyes of those who do not obey God’s words, the Bible is just words and cannot be connected with life, so Reading out God's words is boring because it doesn't have any life experience, so it cannot be connected with human life. I will give a few examples in the hope that this situation can be changed. A375
Hajj and umrah notes short procedure with important duas and translation
Activated: Keeping the faith
1. C H A N G E Y O U R L I F E . C H A N G E Y O U R W O R L D .
KEEPING THE
FAITH
6 tips to help yours
thrive
The Secret Place
Perfect protection,
perfect peace
Spiritual Growth
Is it something you can
plot?
Vol 21 • Issue 4
3. How to Run
One fine day, my wife and I took
Kristen, our 13-month-old daughter,
to the beach. It was perfect, beautiful
weather. As we strolled down the
sand, each holding a little hand, she
excitedly smiled and chattered in that
special encrypted language of hers.
As we got to the water and the
first little wave rolled over her feet,
her expression suddenly changed.
The water was considerably more
frigid than the sand, and unsure of
what to do, she stood absolutely still
until the sand eroded under her and
she fell on her bottom with a thud.
We picked her up with a laugh and a
hug, then waited for the next wave.
Now she started anticipating and
would turn to run when the water
began to close in. Here I noticed
something interesting. Kristen would
By Chris Mizrany
tempted to run as fast as I can out
of the situation. But as you know,
situations have a way of catching up
and still sweeping us off our feet. So
what’s the solution? I need to follow
my daughter’s example and face the
problem boldly. That doesn’t mean
facing it alone. Beside me stands my
strong, capable Savior, and He can
hold me up despite any “wave.” I just
need to quit trying on my own and
run to Him!
When I am weak, I can be strong
through His strength.1
Jesus is still
the master of the winds, the waves,
and any other elements that besiege
our lives.2
So let’s go to Him right
away when we see the tide coming
in. He won’t let us be overwhelmed.3
Chris Mizrany is a full-time
missionary, photographer, and
web designer with Helping
Hand in Cape Town, South
Africa. ■
1. See 2 Corinthians 12:10.
2. See Luke 8:25.
3. See Matthew 14:30–31.
turn and run to one of us, in spite of
the fact that she had to get through
more water to reach us than just
running straight back to shore. Even
when she had to struggle through
what to her was knee-high water,
she would choose running to us over
what seemed like immediate relief.
And we would meet her halfway,
making sure she stayed safe.
What would entice a little girl
to brave more of the very thing
that scared her, rather than take the
“quick and easy” way out? I think
it is simple trust. She trusted that
we would take care of her, and that
being with us in the midst of cold
water was better than trying to get to
shore alone.
Often when a problem hits me,
my first reaction is panic. I stand
absolutely still as my mind sifts
through options, and I end up
falling and failing. Then, the next
time I see a problem coming, I’m
From Waves
3
4. There is a story, versions
of which can be found on several
websites, about the world-famous vio-
linist Itzhak Perlman. It illustrates a
beautiful principle about God’s grace
and power, how He can take whatever
we have to offer Him in this life and
make it into something beautiful. I’d
like to recount it for you.
Itzhak Perlman was playing to a
packed house one evening when, in
the middle of a piece, that sound,
dreaded by every violinist on stage,
pierced the air—the sound of a violin
string breaking!
The suspense was palpable as the
orchestra stopped, waiting to see
what Itzhak would do. But rather
than calling for a different violin, he
paused for a moment and signaled
for the conductor to continue with
the piece; as he took on what most
would say was an impossible task:
to play a complex piece of music on
a violin with only three strings. He
seemed to somehow be reworking
the notes in his head as he played.
When he finished, there was a
stunned silence followed by a roar of
applause and cheering from both the
audience and the other musicians.
Itzhak Perlman had been no
stranger to challenges in his life, hav-
ing been struck down as a child with
polio that had left him permanently
in leg braces and on crutches. Amid
the cheers, he struggled to his feet
and motioned for the audience to
quiet down.
Then he humbly said, “You know,
sometimes it is the artist’s task to find
out how much music you can still
make with what you have left.”
As I pondered this story, it
reminded me of the gifts we have in
this life and how they come in all
forms and shapes and sizes. Some
seem obvious: the beautiful voice,
the highly skilled athlete, the brilliant
musician, the computer genius, and
so many others.
But how often do we stop to
think about those other gifts that
also fill the lives of so many—the
THEVIOLIN
ANDTHE
BROKEN
STRINGByMariaFontaine
4
5. blindness that develops other senses
to such a degree that the person is
able to accomplish even greater feats,
or the weakness of body that with
God’s love creates a compassion and
wisdom that is able to turn the lives
of countless others around and bring
them new hope, direction, and joy?
Life is filled with blessings—
things we see as good—and
setbacks—things we see as bad—but
whatever we face, when we do it with
God’s help, becomes an opportunity
to use what we have in order to
create something wonderful.
Itzhak’s ability to turn defeats into
greater accomplishments didn’t just
happen by chance. He chose to turn
his own lifelong suffering into a tool
for good that then became a passion
to see every obstacle as an opportu-
nity to go even further. His physical
struggles produced a humility that
helped to shield him from the
corruption of pride, even in the areas
where he was highly accomplished.
Too often people turn to self-vic-
timization when faced with hardship,
blaming everyone and everything
else, even God. The better choice is
to ask God for His wisdom, strength
and grace to help us deal with the
challenges in our lives, and thereby
develop qualities that can enable us
to shine brightly with His love right
where we are.
Maria Fontaine and her
husband, Peter Amsterdam,
are directors of the Family
International, a Christian
community of faith. Adapted
from the original article. ■
While wealth and power
accumulate.
And the more man learns, the less
he knows,
And the more involved his thinking
grows
And, in his arrogance and pride,
No longer is man satisfied
To place his confidence and love
With childlike Faith in God above.
Oh, Father, grant once more to men
A simple childlike Faith again.
And, with a small child’s trusting
eyes
May all men come to realize
That Faith alone can save man’s
soul
And lead him to a Higher Goal.
—Helen Steiner Rice
Fa i t h i n G o d I s . . .
...believing in the unseeable.
Faith is tranquil when it’s very stormy.
Faith is not passive; it acts out what it believes.
Faith is asking God for what you need.
Faith is taking God at His Word, and trusting that what He has promised
He is able to perform.
Faith is creating a vacuum in your heart for God to fill.
Faith is not only believing that God can, but that God will!
Faith is not surprised at the answer. Faith expected it to happen.
—David Brandt Berg (1919–1994)
“Jesus loves me, this I know
For the Bible tells me so.”
Little children ask no more,
For love is all they’re looking for,
And in a small child’s shining eyes
The Faith of all the ages lies.
And tiny hands and tousled heads
That kneel in prayer by little beds
Are closer to the dear Lord’s heart
And of His kingdom more a part
Than we who search, and never
find
The answer to our questioning
mind.
For Faith in things we cannot see
Requires a child’s simplicity
For, lost in life’s complexities,
We drift upon uncharted seas
And slowly Faith disintegrates
A C H I L D ’ S FA I T H
5
6. “did not waver at the promise of
God through unbelief, but was
strengthened in faith … being fully
convinced that what He had prom-
ised He was also able to perform.”2
Some people think of faith as
something very mysterious and far
beyond their reach. Others think
of faith as a gift assigned at birth—
some have it to a great degree, while
others don’t. Both of those are
misconceptions.
God has dealt to each person a
measure of faith,3
but many people
don’t use their faith. If you don’t use
your faith, it becomes flabby, just like
muscles when you don’t use them.
For faith to grow, you’ve got to keep
exercising it.
Faith operates in an entirely
different realm from our five senses,
but some of the same principles
apply. Faith conveys to us evidence of
spiritual truths, just as our five senses
convey evidence of physical things.
Just as we accept what our five senses
tell us, we must accept as evidence
what our faith tells us. When we
By Virginia Brandt Berg
A friend of mine asked the
manager of a supermarket
if he had ever cashed a bad
check for a stranger. “No, I
never did,” he said, “because I never
look at the check—I look at the
man. If I can trust the man, I take
his check.” What a lesson in faith!
In Hebrews 10:23 we find these
words: “He who promised is faithful.”
Who makes the promises in God’s
Word?—God does. Look at the Maker
of the promises, and then there can be
no question as to their absolute valid-
ity. God’s Word says, “Now acquaint
yourself with Him, and be at peace;
thereby good will come to you.”1
To know God is to be sure that
He keeps every promise He has
made. Abraham knew God and
1. Job 22:21
2. Romans 4:20–21
3. See Romans 12:3.
4. Matthew 8:13
5. John 14:13
6. Jeremiah 33:3
7. 2 Peter 1:4 NIV
do, our faith brings that thing to
pass and makes it real. “As you have
believed, so let it be done for you.”4
Take God at His word. When the
troubles and trials come, instead of
letting them grow and grow, open
your Bible, find a promise, and claim
it in Jesus’ name. Here’s one that’s
surely too big for me to comprehend,
but I often claim it: “Whatever you
ask in My name, that I will do, that
the Father may be glorified in the
Son.”5
And here’s another one: “Call
to Me, and I will answer you, and
show you great and mighty things,
which you do not know.”6
No
wonder the Bible calls these promises
exceedingly great and precious and
tells us that through them we can
“participate in the divine nature.”7
Virginia Brandt Berg
(1886–1968) was an American
evangelist and author. Read
more about her life and work at
http://virginiabrandtberg.org.
Adapted from the original
article. ■
THE
MEASURE
OF FAITH
6
7. to those who are the called accord-
ing to His purpose.”5
Look for and
focus on that good, and your faith
will be buoyant enough to face your
challenges.
Draw from the experience of
others. Reading accounts of what
God has done for others will increase
your faith. What God has done for
them, He can do for you!
Thank God for His good-
ness. Praising God for His goodness
propels us into His presence. “Enter
into His gates with thanksgiving,
and into His courts with praise.
Be thankful to Him, and bless His
name.”6
The more you thank God for
His goodness, the more you’ll find to
be thankful for and the more He will
bless you. It’s an upward spiral that
helps you to draw near to God so
that He can draw near to you.7
■
KEEPING
THE
FAITH
Answers to Your Questions
Feed on the Word of
God. Faith is built by faithful study
of God’s Word. As you read and
absorb it daily, as you think about its
truths and how they apply to you,
your faith will grow. “Faith comes by
hearing, and hearing by the Word of
God.”1
Jesus promises, “If you abide
in My Word, you are My disciples
indeed. And you shall know the
truth, and the truth shall make you
free.”2
Pray and meditate. God wants
to have a personal relationship with
you through His Son, Jesus. “There is
1. Romans 10:17
2. John 8:31–32
3. 1 Timothy 2:5
4. James 2:26
5. Romans 8:28
6. Psalm 100:4
7. See James 4:8.
one God and one Mediator between
God and men, the Man Christ
Jesus.”3
Communing in spirit with
Jesus—sharing your heart with Him
and receiving His love, encourage-
ment, and answers in return—will
strengthen your connection and
deepen your relationship and your
faith in Him.
Live your faith. “Faith without
works is dead,”4
but conversely, put-
ting faith into action brings it to life.
As you apply God’s Word to daily
living, its principles and promises
will prove to be true time after time,
and your faith in it and its Author
will grow.
Look for the good. Our faith
can be sorely tested when we face
adverse circumstances, but the Bible
promises, “All things work together
for good to those who love God,
Question:
My family and most of the people I’m around
every day aren’t interested in spiritual matters.
How can I “keep the faith” in what seems to
be an increasingly skeptical world?
Answer:
Faith is at the core of our spiritual lives, so it’s
worth fighting for. Here are a few tips that can
help your faith not only survive, but thrive:
7
8. Psalm 91:1: He who dwells
in the secret place of the
Most High shall abide
under the shadow of the
Almighty.
Where is the “secret place of the
Most High”? It is found in intimate
fellowship with God. The phrase
“shadow of the Almighty” symbolizes
God’s protection. When you’re in
close personal fellowship with God,
you’re under His shadow, under His
protection.
That promise comes with a
condition: we have to do our part by
staying close to Him. We do that by
reading His Word in the Bible and
doing our best to follow it, by keep-
ing Him and His guiding spiritual
principles present in our thoughts
and decisions.
Verse 2: I will say of the Lord, “He
is my refuge and my fortress; My
God, in Him I will trust.”
In Bible times, stone fortresses
provided the best protection in times
of trouble or war, but God is an even
surer defense.
The Secr
A Meditation on Psalm 91
By Ronan Keane
1. John 17:17
2. Ephesians 6:16
3. Hebrews 12:11
4. See Romans 8:28.
5. See Matthew 18:10.
Verse 3: Surely He shall deliver
you from the snare of the fowler and
from the perilous pestilence.
This passage promises deliverance
from those who intentionally seek
to snare God’s people and from
physical maladies such as plagues or
epidemics.
Verse 4a: He shall cover you with
His feathers, and under His wings
you shall take refuge.
The picture is of God keeping
His children safe, like a hen spreads
her wings over her chicks to protect
them.
Verse 4b: His truth shall be your
shield and buckler.
A buckler was a small shield,
about the size and shape of a dinner
plate, which protected a soldier’s
wrist.
What is the truth of God? Jesus
once said in a prayer to His Father,
“Your word is truth.”1
Another
passage tells us to carry “the shield
of faith with which you will be
Place
8
9. able to quench all the fiery darts of
the wicked one.”2
Faith in God’s
promises is our best protection.
Verses 5–8: You shall not be afraid
of the terror by night, nor of the
arrow that flies by day, nor of the
pestilence that walks in darkness, nor
of the destruction that lays waste at
noonday. A thousand may fall at your
side, and ten thousand at your right
hand; but it shall not come near you.
Only with your eyes shall you look,
and see the reward of the wicked.
Even if danger is on every side,
God will care for you and can bring
you through it unscathed.
Verse 9: Because you have made
the Lord, who is my refuge, even the
Most High, your dwelling place…
If the Lord is your refuge and
dwelling place, in a sense you’re
already dwelling in His presence,
because you’ve made your home with
Him.
Verse 10: No evil shall befall you,
nor shall any plague come near your
dwelling.
Of course, bad things do
happen, even to people who pray
for God’s protection. They get
hurt, seriously ill, and have plenty
of other problems. How could the
statement “no evil shall befall you”
be true?
Well, consider what is “evil.”
When God lets seemingly bad things
happen to His children, they often
teach us something or strengthen and
build our character. When our wise
and loving heavenly Father allows
this, He does so for our own good,
and it “yields the peaceable fruit of
righteousness to those who have been
trained by it.”3
He also promises that
all things work together for good to
those who love Him.4
Verses 11–13: For He shall give
His angels charge over you, to keep
you in all your ways. In their hands
they shall bear you up, lest you dash
your foot against a stone. You shall
tread upon the lion and the cobra,
the young lion and the serpent you
shall trample underfoot.
God’s angels watch over you
continually, including your personal
guardian angel, whose job is you.5
Verse 14, God speaking: “Because he
has set his love upon Me, therefore I
will deliver him; I will set him on high,
because he has known My name.”
There are conditions attached to
God’s promises: He protects those
who know and love Him. Your love,
trust, and faith in God and His
ability to deliver you give you the
privilege of His protection.
Verses 15–16: “He shall call upon
Me, and I will answer him; I will be
with him in trouble; I will deliver him
and honor him. With long life I will sat-
isfy him, and show him My salvation.”
There are six things God will do for
us when we call on Him for help: 1)
He will answer us, 2) He will be with
us in trouble, 3) He will deliver us, 4)
He will honor us, 5) He will give us a
long, full life on this earth, and 6) He
will show us His salvation. ■
ret
9
10. NOTALONE!
I was tired and had nod-
ded off while on the tram.
When I arrived at my destination, I
was startled awake and barely made
it off in time. Unfortunately, it wasn’t
until after my dentist appointment
that I realized I’d left my laptop on
the tram! Yikes! Work files from the
last 20 years were on that laptop,
along with the backup drives in the
bag with it—now all lost! I felt about
5 centimeters high, or as the saying
goes, so low I’d have to reach up to
scratch a worm’s ankle. I began to
berate myself, recalling how my wife
had warned me to leave the laptop at
home. The conversation replayed in
my head: “You might lose it.” “Nah,”
I’d answered, “not me.”
Then the other voice, the one I
call “The Living Word,” kicked in: If
you ask anything in My name, I will
do it. Ask, and it will be given to you.
Whatever things you ask when you pray,
believe that you receive them, and you
will have them.1
In that particular dilemma, it
was easy to know what to ask for. I
called my friend Andy and told him
my plight and we prayed together
for the laptop to be retrieved. I gave
the situation to God to take care of,
praying “continually,” as the Bible
says.2
It was all I could do anyway. I
could bang my head against the wall
screaming in remorse, or I could go
to my next appointment. I opted for
the latter.
After the dentist, I boarded
another tram and headed to my
next destination. I was still think-
ing and talking to God about what
had happened when I spotted a
young girl moving up to the driver
with a familiar-looking bag in her
hand! My laptop bag! Ecstatically,
By Curtis Peter van Gorder
I ran up to her and explained what
had happened and recovered my
laptop. I thanked her profusely
for finding it and gave her an
Activated magazine as a token of
my appreciation.
I calculated that 33 trams had
passed that stop during the time
my laptop was lost. What were the
chances of boarding the exact same
tram and finding my laptop after it
had been lost for three hours?
Having faith in God doesn’t mean
that we’ll always recover lost items
or have all our prayers answered,
but we can know that He will be
with us and help us to overcome our
troubles in some way. The difference
faith makes is that we aren’t alone in
our trials and tribulations, we have a
Friend to call on!
Curtis Peter van Gorder is a
scriptwriter and mime artist3
in Germany. ■
1. John 14:14; Matthew 7:7; Mark 11:24
2. See 1 Thessalonians 5:17.
3. http://elixirmime.com
10
11. Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton (1874–1922)
was an Irish explorer who is best remembered for
his Antarctic expedition of 1914–1915 in the ship
Endurance, described in his book South. Less known is
that Shackleton had an unseen source of strength to draw
from—his faith.
The journey over the frozen deep was fraught with
danger. The Endurance became trapped in pack ice and
was ultimately destroyed by it. The crew had to abandon
ship. After trekking over the ice, dragging three of
the ship’s lifeboats they had salvaged from the wreck,
they managed to get to Elephant Island. From there,
Shackleton and four other men set out to summon help.
In the largest of the three boats, they journeyed 750 miles
(1,200 km) through rough seas to the southern Atlantic
Ocean island of South Georgia, where Shackleton and
two others crossed glaciers and razorback ridges to reach a
whaling station. Of that epic journey, Shackleton wrote:
“When I look back on those days I have no doubt that
Providence guided us. I know that during that [final] long
and racking march of thirty-six hours over the unnamed
THE
PRESENCE
mountains and glaciers of South Georgia, it seemed to me
often that we were four, and not three. I said nothing to my
companions on the point, but afterward Worsley said to
me, ‘Boss, I had a curious feeling on that march that there
was another Person with us.’ Crean confessed to the same
idea. One feels ‘the dearth of human words, the roughness
of human speech’ in trying to describe things intangible,
but a record of our journeys would not be complete without
a reference to a subject so very near to our hearts.”
Shackleton made one last expedition, from which
he did not return. Just before leaving, he repeated his
testimony concerning their unseen companion and quoted
the Bible. “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can
I flee from Your presence?
If I ascend into heaven, You are
there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.
If I
take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost
parts of the sea,
even there Your hand shall lead me, and
Your right hand shall hold me.”1
On his last voyage, Shackleton took a recording of the
song “Abide with Me.” A London writer commented at
the time, “Just think of those words—‘I need Thy presence
every passing hour’—ringing out across the icebound
wastes of the Antarctic!” ■1. Psalm 139:7–10
A b i d e w i t h M e
—Henry F. Lyte (1793–1847)
I need Thy presence every passing hour.
What but Thy grace can foil the tempter’s power?
Who, like Thyself, my guide and stay can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me.
By Alex Peterson
11
12. out Adam and Eve in
the Garden of Eden,
God has desired intimate
communion with mankind.4
But
sin caused a breach in our relation-
ship with the Creator, and we are
unable to keep His commandments
no matter how hard we try. As the
Apostle Paul said, “When I want
to do what is right, I inevitably do
what is wrong.”5
The Bible says
that the breach between God and
mankind has been bridged through
Jesus Christ.6
Jesus’ life on earth, His
death, and His resurrection paved
the way for reconciliation and a
new relationship with our heavenly
Father. And having that relationship
restored means new hearts that are
responsive to God’s will for our lives.
Uday Paul is a freelance
writer, volunteer, and
teacher based in India. ■
Forbidden
FRUIT
By Uday Paul
In his classic autobiog-
raphy Confessions, Saint
Augustine, a theologian of the early
church, narrates an incident which
happened when he was a teenager.
There was a pear tree near his family’s
vineyard loaded with fruit that wasn’t
even attractive in appearance or taste.
Yet he and some friends stole pears
from the tree. They did so not to eat
them themselves, but to throw them
to the pigs. He says that he and his
friends committed the theft simply
because they had pleasure in doing
something that was forbidden, a tale
as old as that of Adam and Eve in the
Garden of Eden.
1. See Exodus 14:31.
2. See Exodus 32:1–6.
3. See Jeremiah 7:9.
4. See Genesis 3:9.
5. Romans 7:21 NLT
6. See Romans 5:1.
“If you love me, obey my
commandments. Those
who accept my commandments and
obey them are the ones who love
me. And because they love me,
my Father will love them. And
I will love them. All who love
me will do what I say. My
Father will love them, and
we will come and make
our home with each of
them.”—Jesus, John
14:15,21,23 NLT
Many generations earlier, when
God brought the people of Israel out
of bondage in Egypt and led them
to the Promised Land, the people
initially believed in and feared the
Lord.1
But when they faced difficult
circumstances in the course of their
journey, they had a crisis of faith
and turned away from God and
Moses. While Moses was at the top
of Mount Sinai receiving God’s Law,
they made a golden idol of a calf to
worship and sacrifice to.2
In the fol-
lowing centuries, the people of Israel
and Judah continued to anger God
with their idolatry and sinful actions,
in spite of His goodness, miraculous
protection and promises to them.3
Since the time of creation when
the Bible tells us that God sought
12
13. In a class by
HIMSELF!
Why did Jesus die?
Why would the Lord of the uni-
verse, God in the flesh, allow Himself
to be captured, falsely accused, tried
and condemned, whipped, stripped,
and nailed to a cross like a common
criminal? The answer is simple:
because He loved you and me!
All of us have done wrong. The
Bible says, “Everyone has sinned;
we all fall short of God’s glorious
standard.”2
But Jesus took our punish-
ment on Himself, so that we might
find forgiveness and freedom from our
sins.
Jesus loves you and stands at the
door of your heart, asking to be let in.
You can receive Him by praying this
prayer:
Jesus, I want to know You personally,
so I invite You to come into my heart.
Thank You for dying for me, so I could
be forgiven for my sins, find peace of
heart and mind here and now, and
receive God’s gift of eternal life. Amen. ■
Alexander, Caesar, Charlemagne,
and I have founded empires. But
on what did we rest the creations of
our genius? Upon force. Jesus Christ
founded His empire upon love; and
at this hour millions of men would
die for Him.
—Napoleon Bonaparte (1769–1821)
Jesus Christ has done more
to change history, the course
of civilization, and the condition of
man than any other leader, group,
government, or empire before Him
or since. He has given the love of
God to billions and made the way
for as many as will believe in Him to
receive eternal life.
Jesus Christ is not merely a
philosopher or teacher or rabbi or
guru or prophet, though He has been
called all these things. He is the Son
of God. God the Father is a Spirit
and is all-powerful, all-knowing,
everywhere, and in everything. He
is so far beyond our limited human
comprehension that He had to send
His Son, Jesus, in the form of a man,
to show us what He Himself is like
and to bring us to Himself.
Although many great teachers
have spoken about love and God,
Jesus is love and He is God. Jesus is
the only One who died for the sins
of the world and rose from the dead.
He’s in a class all by Himself because
He’s the only Savior. He said, “I
am the way, the truth, and the life.
No one comes to the Father except
through Me.”1
—David Brandt Berg (1919–1994)
Points to Ponder
1. John 14:6
2. Romans 3:23 NLT
13
14. my spiritual growth. No, not one.
I loved the first part, because
in my older contemplative years,
I enjoy poetic musings about the
simple things of life. But his phrase
to “devote not one more minute to
monitoring my spiritual growth. No,
not one”—what does that mean?
I reread the sentence a few times
slowly until the word grace came
to mind. Walking with God is a
spiritual journey that will last this
lifetime and beyond. God doesn’t
seem to be in a hurry, and as we go
along together, He points lessons
out to me. Sometimes I get it the
first time around, and other times
it seems like He needs to repeat the
lesson several times before I get the
point. Just like parents have to do
with their children.
SPIRITUAL
GROWTHBy Sally García
Have you ever been happily
reading an enjoyable book
when suddenly a sentence
hits you right between
the eyes? In The Furious Longing
of God ,1
Brennan Manning writes:
I’ve decided that if I had my life
to live over again, I would not only
climb more mountains, swim more
rivers, and watch more sunsets; I
wouldn’t only jettison my hot water
bottle, raincoat, umbrella, parachute,
and raft; I would not only go bare-
foot earlier in the spring and stay out
later in the fall; but I would devote
not one more minute to monitoring
But our lives aren’t about climbing
a ladder to get to the top of our field
of spiritual expertise, hoping we can
earn extra points or more blessings if
we try hard enough. Jesus said that
if we seek first His kingdom, then
everything else will fall into place.2
So do I need to be working
toward something or not? The author
finished his thought by writing:
What would I actually do if I had
it to do all over again? … I would
simply do the next thing in love.
I think if I live under the shadow
of His grace and His love, then
everything else in my life will fall
into place.
Sally García is an educator,
missionary, and member of the
Family International in Chile. ■
1. Brennan Manning, The Furious
Longing of God (David C. Cook, 2009).
Kindle
2. See Matthew 6:33.
You can’t make
yourself grow spiritually.
It doesn’t come by self-effort.
It comes by living close to Jesus,
living in His Word, soaking up His
love, being filled with His Spirit,
and engaging in heart-to-heart
communication with Him.
—Virginia Brandt Berg
(1886–1968)
14
15. approach to his faith. When he has
a question about the meaning of a
verse, or hears something quoted but
isn’t convinced of the context, he’ll
get on his Bible app looking at vari-
ous translations, referencing Greek
and Hebrew words, cross-referencing
what he finds with supporting verses,
etc. His faith has no basis in his
emotions, but rather grows from his
continual study of God’s Word and
evidence of its truth.
I admire his discipline. He’s taken
the Bible’s recommendation to “Do
your best to present yourself to God
as one approved, a worker who
does not need to be ashamed and
who correctly handles the word of
truth.”1
In a podcast I was listening to
recently, the speaker was saying that
our faith can be supported logically.
And that the modern Christian
should be prepared to defend their
beliefs logically. So I listen to pod-
casts, cross-reference verses, debate
By Marie Alvero
For most of my life I’ve
described my faith as a
“Jesus-loves-me-this-I-
know” type of faith. Jesus
said He loved me. The Bible tells me
so. I didn’t have a lot of questions.
And when I did I was usually satisfied
with answers like “only God knows”
or “you just have to take this one by
faith.” In other words, logic may not
apply here, but believe anyway. I was
surprisingly okay with this.
Part of it was the fact that I
received a pretty solid foundation in
the Bible, and it served me well. My
faith was deep and grounded. Part of
it could also be classified as lethargy. I
didn’t always want to do the work of
finding answers, defending my faith,
and actually seeking a logical basis for
my beliefs.
My husband is the opposite. He
has a very conscientious, studious
with my husband, read my Bible,
and put in the effort. Not a huge
amount of work, but more effort
than I ever have.
When it comes to faith, there
will always be the part that is
simply standing on God’s Word.
Hebrews 11 chronicles several
great stories of faith and notes
that “Every one of those people
died. But they still had faith, even
though they had not received what
they had been promised.”2
These
great men and women of faith may
not have always been sure, but they
wanted to believe and were willing
to be persuaded. I pray that I will
pursue faith the way the heroes of
Hebrews 11 did.
Marie Alvero is a former mis-
sionary to Africa and Mexico.
She currently lives a happy,
busy life with her husband
and children in Central
Texas, USA. ■
1. 2 Timothy 2:15 NIV
2. Hebrews 11:13 CEV
GREAT
FAITH
15
16. THROUGH
THE STORMFrom Jesus with Love
Remember the account when I calmed the sea?1
My disciples were panicking and
thought that they would certainly perish. But when they looked to Me for help, rather
than looking at their circumstances, I came to their rescue, in spite of the waves and the
storm.
It’s the same for you. There are many waves, and you may even see storms brewing on
the horizon of your life, but if you look to Me and the assurances of My love and care
for you, and My wisdom to guide you, you will find the answers you need. The situa-
tion around you is like waves washing over you and your little boat. Your worries about
the future are like a menacing storm. At times you might be tempted to think you will
capsize.
If you will ask Me to calm the storm, I will. Or I will show you how to weather the
storm. I will do it, just as I have always done it in all these years you have so faithfully
trusted in Me. Remember that I am in the boat with you.
1. See Mark 4:37–41.