Rejected by man; accepted by God

If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.
JOHN 15:1

God placed this in my spirit this morning and I could not let it go. "People rejected me, but God accepted me". Jesus is the Son of the Father and they hated Him without a cause. They hated Jesus because He would not compromise the word of God. They hated Jesus because He was anointed to do things that their money and their gods could not do. They hated Jesus because He was love. He walked in love, He spoke of love, He demonstrated love. And they hated Him. One thing about Jesus,..He did not once try and justify who He was because He knew who He was, and when you know that you know you don't have to make a fuss about someone recognizing the anointing that rest upon you. when you know who you are in God you don't have to try and explain to"man" to get him to accept you when God already does.

See Jesus was rejected because He could see things that people didn't want Him to see. People will tolerate you as long as you are doing what they want you to do, or as long as you do not get further along then them. Oh I know I am stepping on somebodies toes; people will tolerate you as long as you don't "pass them up". See when you was busted and disgusted they had something to talk about, but now that you are blessed and anointed they still want to talk about you; it should not affect you like it did when you were in the world, because you know that they hated Jesus as well. See that does something to me, to know that people are just that people they do not determine your destination or your relationship with the Lord.

Do not be surprised when people rise up against you and talk about you to your "friends"; if Peter denied Jesus what will our friends do to us? Do not be surprised when they come against you; the devil was an angel in heaven, but could not be content because he wanted to be God. You better here me. Some know how to walk like Jesus through religion, but God has given me the revelation to walk like Him through the blood. Stop waiting for someone to give you a word about who you are in God, and start getting in the word to find out for yourself who you are in God. I will always be rejected by man, but my Father, thank you Jesus, my Father in heaven accepts me, and honey that's all I will ever need to make it.

JOHN 15: 19,20

If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than the lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.

1.11.10-- Great time with him :)

God is an on time God, when He gave me this word this morning; I thought my God you have a word for everything we go through...everything (good or bad) How many of us really count it all joy when people come against you, when your storms, and tests seem to be pulling on you more than before? How many of us can really say; "Lord I thank you"? Not to many and that's only because flesh does not like to hurt or feel any kind of discomfort. Please allow me to take you to the word i learned from him this morning:

JAMES 1:2-4

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations

Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

*Here the scripture is talking about in life in general and the trials that come to godly Christians that try and make us fall. These negative experiences are to be accepted with great joy; know that we are suffering a light affliction compared to what Jesus Christ suffered, and in this walk I am really learning what long suffering is, and we as "Christians" will suffer long until the return of Christ. See when I am tested, and tried, and persecuted, and talked about (bad) I no longer am questioning why...instead I am looking at God because I know through my testing He's preparing me for more knowledge, more wisdom, more anointing, more wealth, etc. God I thank You, who knows the mind of God (no man).I get my focus off my storm and see what God is trying to say to me. My God can we really have faith and be humble through our storm and know that it's only for a moment. If you know like I know the devil is shaking because he does not want God's people to know that he has to get permission and if he's getting permission then God has set you aside for something powerful to take place. The natural response to adversity is to escape it, but God uses trouble to mature His people. I thank God that I am not who I use to be and that I am able to eat meat, and when the storms, and tests and trials come, it may hurt but I thank God He has shown me how to get back up....God knows all and sees all I welcome my trials and test they keep me on my face seeking God's face. I thank God for giving me word to eat....... I just have to take a moment and thank Him, Hallelujah, nobody knows but you God, nobody knows but you....and I thank you Lord God, I thank you that in my midnight hours you are faithful, I thank you that when I want to give up, You see something in me to have me continue, I thank you Lord that weeping may endure for a night, but joy......my God joy....will come in the morning....I feel like David I have a new dance.....Oh God I just thank you and I am not ashamed to praise you, thank you Lord God, thank you for the renewing of my mind.....thank you Lord God for the elevation in my walk with You. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You....when you start thanking God for just being God, just thank Him for what He has brought you through, just thank Him, just thank Him, command your mouth and hands to praise God, just take the time out to go back and remember who and what you were when you first came to Him, just cry out to the Father, go to worship with Him....Father God I thank you for Your presence filling this place , only You God, only You.........I gonna stay on this faith walk it and keep me humble...

great honor and favor from God

A card attach with the chocolate box.. :)




A letter from my hotelier which hiding inside the chocolate box!.. Woahh..(the design look like "Cari orang yg hilang " do u think so??) =p But anyway i really appreciate it!






Woahh.. I saw this on my TABLE!! fROM My company special guest which i jus send them off to KLIA..





Received this yesterday from my hoteliers @ Indonesia .. :)






What a great honor and favor from God to host them last week! :)
Glory belong to him always!! :))

Ask + Believe = Receive

When you pray and ask for something, believe that you have received it, and you will be given whatever you ask for. (Mk 11:24)

This morning ,I stopped awhile and thought of that passage as it relates to many of our dreams in life. And I was amazed at the truth I was staring at. It’s very simple yet many people often miss it. It’s actually a formula Jesus gave to us to get whatever we want in our life.
When i read it again and and again & ponder upon it for awhile. There is a formula there.
Do you see it?

If you are mathematically challenged then here it is.
Ask + Believe = Receive

I’ve read this passage so many times in the past and still I missed this until now. Here’s how I see it.All of us want something for our lives. It can be material or otherwise. Perhaps a better job, healing from sickness, pass an exam, or go abroad.

And the way we go about asking God these things is through prayer. And I don’t just mean praying it once, we pray it many times. We pray and ask for these things everyday. We pray unceasingly.
Is there anything wrong with that? YES and NO!No because God actually told us to pray at all times (Rom 12:12)

Yes it’s wrong because many of us approach prayer with the wrong attitude. Listen to how you present your request to God the next time you pray. I’m sure it begins with something similar to this tone.

Lord, I pray that you may grant me…
Lord, I ask you to help me in…
Lord, I want to lift up to you…

Sounds familiar? I know I’m guilty too.
I call this "praying to ask". But here is the thing that blew my mind, WE NEVER LACK IN ASKING! There is an abundance of asking prayers.

If you look at the formula above what we lack is BELIEVING! And that is the reason we don’t receive.

Not wanting to get too preachy here, so here’s my suggestion. If we want to receive the things we requested from God, we better start adding what’s missing. Let’s start "praying to believe".

Here are two things we can do to start "praying to believe".
1. Stop presenting your request to God. He already knows it because you said it a million times already.
2. Start a thanksgiving prayer as if you have already received your request. Do not even think that the answer is coming. Feel that the answer is already there.

Put this formula to work and watch your prayers get answered!

His word was alive!

The Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.
— Hebrews 4:12

We can accurately say that God’s Word operates on us. It cuts out of our lives the things that are hindering God’s plan for our lives. It locates and isolates the things that are fleshly and carnal, and removes them through the Holy Spirit.


Operations of any kind are never pleasant, but they are necessary at times to maintain good health. Is God trying to cut something out of your life? Is it painful? Most operations are, but they help us in the long run. If you want God’s best for your life, then you must let Him get rid of the things that are interfering with your spiritual growth. There are no shortcuts to spiritual maturity.

神的恩典

「我原是使徒中最小的，不配稱為使徒，因為我從前逼迫神的教會。然而，我今日成了何等人，是蒙神的恩才成的，並且祂所賜我的恩不是徒然的。我比眾使徒格外勞苦；這原不是我，乃是神的恩與我同在。」（林前十五9-10）
短短兩節聖經，出現了三次「恩」字。保羅是個很認識恩典的人。恩典是什麼呢？就是「原是不配的」；保羅原是不配稱為使徒，因為按行為來說，他從前「逼迫神的教會」，是敵擋神的，只配下地獄。然而，神的恩典改變了他；恩典就是白白的，不在乎行為。保羅很清楚自己人生有這極大的改變，是神的恩典。
什麼是「使徒」呢？使徒是奉神差遣，在各地傳福音和建立教會的人。保羅從前逼迫神的教會，可見他多麼敵對主、不愛教會，但他竟然變得很愛主和教會。彼得、約翰等使徒已很勞苦，保羅卻說自己「格外勞苦」，可見他多麼愛主。
朋友，我們每個都很有盼望。保羅那麼差勁，但神將他改變得極其榮耀，在短時間內有極大轉變，所以保羅形容自己為「如未到產期而生的人」。他沒有參加過福音預工、旅行、福音聚會，然後才信主，是神親自向他顯現，以大光光照他，他有幾天時間深深思想，神就這樣改變了他。我們對自己也應充滿盼望，就算覺得自己不愛主，但神的恩典能夠改變我們。同時，也應對弟兄姊妹充滿盼望，即使他們從前不愛主和不愛教會，神也能改變他們，使他們很愛主和教會。
保羅說自己「成了何等人，是蒙神的恩才成的」。他無法形容自己有多榮耀，因此使用「何等」一詞。但請注意，他接著說：「並且祂所賜我的恩不是徒然的。我比眾使徒格外勞苦；這原不是我，乃是神的恩與我同在。」保羅得救的時候，是神的恩典大大改變他；但他很清楚自己得救之後的人生，也是神的恩與他同在。我們得救那天，固然需要神的恩典，但我們人生中的每天，也需要神的恩與我們同在。
保羅信主一段日子後，他遇見一個大難處——有一根刺加在他身上，就是撒但的差役攻擊他。他三次求神叫那刺離開他，主怎樣回答呢？「祂對我說：『我的恩典夠你用的，因為我的能力是在人的軟弱上顯得完全。』」（林後十二9）主再次提醒他，靠主的恩典！所以我們必須注意這方面。
羅馬書說，神的義是「本於信，以至於信」，又說「義人必因信得生」（羅一17）。我們需要運用信心，因為恩典不在乎行為，是因著信。保羅很認識恩典，也知道恩典很重要。
「我略略的寫了這信，託我所看為忠心的兄弟西拉轉交你們，勸勉你們，又證明這恩是神的真恩。你們務要在這恩上站立得住。」（彼前五12）
彼得勸勉弟兄姊妹說，這是「真恩」。主真的為我們從死裡復活、向我們顯現，使我們從罪魁變為王子，每天活得豐盛。同時，彼得勸弟兄姊妹「務要在這恩上站立得住」。我們無論信主多久，年紀多大，都要靠主的恩典站立得住。
在恩典之下
「罪必不能作你們的主，因你們不在律法之下，乃在恩典之下。」（羅六14）
我們是在恩典之下，而非律法之下。律法的功用是使人知罪。若我們在律法之下，犯了罪就必要受審判和滅亡。感謝神，祂的恩典臨到我們。今天，我們不在律法之下；我們接受耶穌為救主，得著完全的赦免。我們不再需要看過往的行為。保羅從前活在律法之下，他想靠自己的好行為，博取神的喜悅，但結果十分痛苦；他說：「因為立志為善由得我，只是行出來由不得我。……我真是苦阿！誰能救我脫離這取死的身體呢？」（羅七18,24）
信主越久，就越「曉得」檢討自己的行為。自我反省是好的，但也要小心，別讓自己再次活在律法之下。我們要反省，但也要記得，我們人生是靠恩典得以建立的。我們極需要恩典，不要讓仇敵控告和打倒我們，或使我們灰心，或只想到自己做得不好的地方。不論我們信主多久，都要活在神的恩愛中，充滿信心，看見祂完全悅納和愛我們！
魔鬼常乘我們檢討自己行為時控告我們，使我們灰心。現今社會著重付出和表現，這有其好處；但是我們活在神面前，要站在恩典之中。許多人被仇敵控告，常活在過往的不足和失敗之中，感到痛苦。我們卻要活在恩典中。
認識神的恩典
一、認識恩典，才真正認識神
以色列人在曠野時，神在西乃山上向摩西頒布十誡；以色列人卻在山下敬拜阿倫所造的金牛犢，以致神發烈怒，說要滅絕以色列人，只讓摩西和他的子孫進入迦南。那時，摩西不但求神不要滅絕以色列人，更求神向他顯現。神應允他的禱告，宣告自己的名，說：「耶和華，耶和華，是有憐憫、有恩典的神……」（出卅四6）神不單讓摩西認識祂的律法，也讓他認識恩典。
神渴慕「施予」，不是根據我們的行為，只要我們存信心到祂前，祂便樂意施恩；祂的美好，我們無法測透。這才是真正認識神，也最能吸引我們的心親近祂，回到祂前。神真的樂意施恩，其地步是我們沒法想像的。
若我擁有一億元，只給你十元，是不是恩典呢？當然是！然而，若我將所擁有的全給你，這恩典就大得多了。神無限偉大，祂樂意施恩至將自己和萬有白白賜給我們！
二、認識恩典，才認識神的大愛
「神愛世人，甚至將祂的獨生子賜給他們……」（約三16）
神的施予，甚至將祂的獨生子賜給我們，這使我們認識祂的愛是很深的。主竟為你為我釘在十字架上。
神無限偉大，祂將無限的事物賜給我們，這已教我們非常感動。然而，當主耶穌成為人子，當祂所餘無幾，幾乎一無所有的時候，仍將自己給我們，連命也捨去，叫我們格外感動。
「你比世人更美；在你嘴裡滿有恩惠；所以神賜福給你，直到永遠。」（詩四十五2）
這裡提到，在主嘴裡滿有恩惠。主到地上來，充充滿滿有恩典、有真理。主的一生，不論所行和所說的，都帶給人很大安慰、鼓勵和實際幫助。主白白地傾倒自己。但更使我們感動的，是祂在十字架上，手腳被釘穿之時，祂的腳不能再走到人中間，祂的手不能再撫摸有需要的人，但祂仍口吐恩言，說出安慰、鼓勵、保證的話。當我們面對很大缺乏，或有很多病痛之時，往往會自我中心；然而，主在十架上受極深痛苦之時，仍然樂意施恩，祂的口沒有一句咒詛或怨言。即使祂身邊的人沒有半句多謝，周圍的人只有辱罵、譏笑、批評，主的口仍是充滿恩惠，說出赦免的話：「父啊，赦免他們……」（路廿三34）也說出保證的話：「今日你要同我在樂園裡了。」（路廿三43）祂又將自己母親交託約翰，約翰以後便將她接到自己家裡去了。無限偉大的主，成為卑微人子、所剩無幾之時，仍將一切給我們。今天，難道主不會供應你我一切需要嗎？在我們人生每個階段，主必會全情投入，供應我們一切需要！
三、認識恩典，才認識我們的尊貴和價值，過信心生活
我們的價值，不在於能有多少外面的成就，而是在於神對我們的愛。認識恩典，才能過信心生活，因為不是看自己，而是看見神和祂所作成的。
四、認識恩典，才懂得如何待人
「並要以恩慈相待，存憐憫的心，彼此饒恕，正如神在基督裡饒恕了你們一樣。」（弗四32）
一個滿享神恩典的人，才會以恩典待人。主耶穌曾說一個比喻：有一個僕人，欠了主人一千萬銀子，主人動了慈心，免了他的債；誰知這僕人後來遇見一個欠他十兩銀子的同伴，卻揪著那人，掐住他的喉嚨，要他還清欠款。那個僕人受了恩典，卻不懂得以恩典待人（參太十八21-35）。人與人之間的相處，一大問題就是不懂以恩慈相待。主教導我們：「你們白白的得來，也要白白的捨去。」（太十8）當弟兄姊妹充滿愛，也肯付出，就很吸引人心。
五、認識恩典，才產生真正的事奉
「我拿什麼報答耶和華向我所賜的一切厚恩？我要舉起救恩的杯，稱揚耶和華的名。」（詩一一六12-13）
當我們深深體會主的恩典，才會有愛的回應。保羅說：「……心被恩感，歌頌神。」（西三16）這種事奉，才是真正喜樂、健康的事奉。神的恩典能使我們剛強壯膽，心靈安息，充滿喜樂，因為我們知道不是靠自己，是主的恩典與我們同在。
六、認識恩典，才能健康成長，渴慕親近神
如果你知道我一向以厚恩待你，你到我的家也會舒暢得很。許多詩人都說到，神用厚恩待他們（參詩十三6、一一六7、一一九17、一四二7）。主以慈愛迎接我們，吸引我們的心回到祂面前。主真的如此愛我們，樂意施恩給我們，只在乎我們是否願意領受。
如何活在神的恩典中？
一、存信心
信心是首要的，我們要有得救時那樣的信心，享受神的恩典。我們得救那天，什麼也沒有做，只是願意悔改、相信、接受，立時罪得赦免，成為神兒女。今天也一樣，只要回到神面前，便可以享受恩典。朋友，別被仇敵欺騙，以為必須多淌幾行眼淚，多做些好行為，才可以回到神前。絕對不要有遲延，立即回到神面前。舉例說，當有人遇交通意外，全身受傷，最重要當然是盡快上救護車，立即到醫院去急救；他斷不會說：「不，我要先回家沐浴更衣。」回到主前，最重要是存信心，而不是靠行為或其他事情。
二、數主恩
「數主恩，想主愛」很重要。不要以為神的恩典既是無數，就不去數算好了。大衛認識神的恩典，他說：「不可忘記祂的一切恩惠。」我們倒要一件一件數算神的恩典，因為我們的信心要根據具體的事而建立。具體看見主的恩典和作為，信心就堅固。因此，每星期參加擘餅聚會非常重要，我們需要一次一次想到祂的恩典，以致心靈得堅固和受保護，所以我們無論多麼忙碌，也不要不參加擘餅聚會。「你要保守你心，勝過保守一切……」（箴四23）中醫有「固本培元」之說，我們則要「固心培靈靠主恩」──靠主的恩典，保守自己的心靈。
三、尋求及明白神恩典的程度
「我們所領受的，並不是世上的靈，乃是從神來的靈，叫我們能知道神開恩賜給我們的事。」（林前二12）
聖靈其中一樣工作，就是「叫我們能知道神開恩賜給我們的事」。祂會開我們眼睛，但我們也要尋求和明白。舊約先知也「考察在他們心裡基督的靈」（彼前一 11），他們渴望明白這救恩。此外，天使「詳細察看這些事」（彼前一12）。他們尚且如此，何況我們這些直接承受救恩的人，豈不更要清楚這恩典嗎？
保羅極重視恩典。在我們追求的路上，必須知道：
1.神將什麼恩典賜給我們；
2.神給我們的恩典是何等浩大（恩典的程度）；
3.恩典的目的；
4.怎樣享受恩典；
5.仇敵的詭計，不讓仇敵攔阻我們享受神的恩典。
這樣，我們就在耶穌基督的恩典和知識上有長進。
神恩典的程度
保羅寫以弗所書時，一開始便數算神的恩典和屬靈福氣。以弗所教會的弟兄姊妹已相當長進，但保羅再次提醒他們神豐富的恩典，更求神照明他們的眼睛，使他們知道神的「恩召有何等指望，祂在聖徒中得的基業有何等豐盛的榮耀；並知道祂向我們這信的人所顯的能力是何等浩大……」（弗一 18-19）三個「何等」正要形容神恩典的程度是最大。我們信主越久，都知道神的恩典，但我們要更認識神恩典到達一個什麼的程度。
「我的心哪，你要稱頌耶和華！不可忘記祂的一切恩惠！……天離地何等的高，祂的慈愛向敬畏祂的人也是何等的大！東離西有多遠，祂叫我們的過犯離我們也有多遠！」（詩一○三2,11-12）
大衛認識神的恩典，他數算恩典時，也很重視恩典的程度。他不但認識神赦免他，也認識赦免的程度，因此他心被恩感。我們每天生活，或每次擘餅，也要求主開我們心靈眼睛，好叫我們看見主的恩典有多浩大，程度有多深。我每一次這樣默想時，心靈都滿溢。
在羅馬書，保羅提及神的恩典時，說到「不但如此」（羅五3,11）、「豈不更加倍」（羅五15），他很重視恩典的程度。詩人以「厚恩」形容神的恩典（詩十三6、一一六7,12、一一九17、一四二7）。當我們默想主赦罪之恩，需要求主開我們的眼睛，讓我們看清楚主赦免我們到什麼地步。我們是神的兒女，但也要體會這份親情和關係的程度，例如天父愛我們，正如祂愛主一樣；我們所享受天父的愛和親情，就是主所享受的一樣。
「並知道祂向我們這信的人所顯的能力是何等浩大，就是照祂在基督身上所運行的大能大力，使祂從死裡復活，叫祂在天上坐在自己的右邊，遠超過一切執政的、掌權的、有能的、主治的，和一切有名的；不但是今世的，連來世的也都超過了。」（弗一19-21）
我們都相信主垂聽禱告，但到什麼程度呢？保羅具體地描述神的能力是「何等浩大」！因此，我們不要輕看一句簡單的禱告：「主啊，我倚靠你！」當我們存信心祈禱，神就是以這樣的能力幫助我們，運行在我們身上，是「無敵大能」。無論我們心靈多麼軟弱，祂也能使我們提升，遠超仇敵一切攪擾。神的恩典就是這麼浩大！主愛我們，浩大至我們成為祂的佳偶。這是神的真恩，我們必須在這恩典上站立得住。
深享神恩典，就是在對付仇敵
當我們數算主恩，以及知道恩典的程度，其實已經在對付仇敵。魔鬼有兩件厲害武器，就是「放大鏡」和「縮小鏡」；將難處放至無限大，卻將主的恩典縮到無限小。很多時候，我們只會想到難處非常大，注意其程度，說：「我面對的難處何等大啊！」也覺得這個難處是神幫不了的。有些母親說：「自從我的孩子出生至今，我天天都在受氣！」是否真的這樣呢？孩子成長過程中，也有很多快樂片段吧？又有些人說：「這份工作真是『做死人』！」但沒有多少個真的死去！……人就是習慣這樣說話，將難處放大，中了仇敵的詭計。我們要謹慎，因為習慣形成性格，性格影響我們成為怎樣的人；而我們是怎樣的人，會感染身邊的人。
「探子中有人論到所窺探之地，向以色列人報惡信，說：『我們所窺探、經過之地是吞吃居民之地，我們在那裡所看見的人民都身量高大。我們在那裡看見亞衲族人，就是偉人；他們是偉人的後裔。據我們看，自己就如蚱蜢一樣；據他們看，我們也是如此。』」（民十三32-33）
十二個探子窺探迦南地回來後，其中十人向百姓報惡信，「放大」了敵人，「縮小」了自己和神的能力。這種負面情緒蔓延，使整個民族灰心起來，以致看不見神的恩典和能力。
我們要認識神的恩典，也要認識這恩典是何等浩大。正面來說，我們的心靈大得滿足和喜樂；消極方面，我們是在對付仇敵，心靈更釋放和自由。大衛和保羅等人，都深深認識神的恩典。
怎樣默想神的恩典？
我們可以逐一默想神的恩典以及其程度，例如想到「神很歡迎我」時，也同時想到「神『怎樣』歡迎我」──衝出來、連連親嘴、快樂……。浪子比喻裡的慈父，他真的很會當父親；他因為小兒子回來，歡喜得作樂跳舞。慈父的快樂表達他無比的歡迎和悅納，消除小兒子心靈裡的一切陰影。試想想，若這位父親仍舊給小兒子所需的一切，卻對他「木口木面」，冷言冷語，小兒子又怎會快樂？詩篇說，神笑臉幫助我們（參詩四十二5），當我們想到神的歡迎，該想到祂歡迎的程度是這麼大，必成為我們的幫助。
若有人說自己不懂默想神的恩典，或是工作很忙碌，那不妨試試以上方式的默想，短短三數分鐘，已對心靈有很大幫助，能夠踴躍、歡喜，充滿感謝、歡呼。
主的恩典極大，我們要學習與人分享，這會加增我們的喜樂。越肯分享，主就將越多的給我們。這樣活在神的恩典中，必定快樂無比。多想到和數算神的恩典，我們的心靈已很滿足，並且被吸引回到神面前。
有人可能會問：「神既然樂意施恩，我們為何仍要求呢？」這並非神很吝嗇，要我們懇求才勉強賜下恩典，而是因為有屬靈戰鬥。祂的心很想賜恩給我們，祂樂意施恩。因此，儘管放膽到神前面求，神必將一切最好的給我們。

让我们想想这些问题：
1.你是否在一個充滿欣賞、稱讚和恩典的環境中成長？你的成長過程，對你的性格有何影響？
2.面對神的恩典，我們該存怎樣的心？又該怎樣回應？
3.人容易忘記神的恩典，怎樣可以幫助自己牢記神的恩典呢？
4.神有測不透的恩典，然而什麼影響著我們享受這洪恩呢？我們該如何提醒自己活在恩典中呢？
5.你是否(a)深覺自己活在恩典中；(b)認識恩典；(c)樂意施恩？
6.你認為什麼是恩典？

Facing Life's Challenges

Whatever it is you are facing OR need to face; whether that’s facing problems, obstacles, issues, weaknesses, decisions, a wilderness experience or etc, know that through the power of the Holy Spirit that dwells in you, you can face it.
I learn 3 things that i can expect when facing life’s challenges. I encourage you in advance to be encouraged and not intimidated by them. Let it encourage you to confront the challenges you’re facing.

1.The enemy will try to put fear in you
When you make a decision to face something, one of the tactics of the devil is to embed fear in you. Convincing you to believe you can’t do it and to think of all the things that will happen as a result of you confronting what needs to be faced.
Don’t give into the schemes of the devil. We know that he comes to kill, steal and destroy and that God has NOT given you the spirit of fear, but power, love and a sound mind. Overcome the spirit of fear with faith.
2.Expect people to change on you
When Jesus was here on earth, the same people who smiled in His face were the same people who turned on Him and yelled for him to be crucified. Truth be told, when you are facing whatever it is you need to face, not every person will understand. They may smile, talk behind your back and even reject you as they did with Jesus.
Although Jesus knew this to be so, He didn’t let facing rejection, mockery, suffering and rejection stop Him from going to the cross. As the time became closer for Jesus to be crucified, He said to his disciples, “The Son of Man must suffer many terrible things,” he said. “He will be rejected by the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He will be killed, but on the third day he will be raised from the dead” (Luke 9:21)
As the time of crucifixion got even closer Jesus said, “Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine” (Luke 22:42). As you see, Jesus didn’t want to face being crucified, but He did for you and I. But while doing so, He had people, such as Judas, change and turn on him.
When you make a decision to face life’s challenges and confront the things you know needs to be faced, don’t be surprised when people begin changing on you as they did with Jesus.

“But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats” (1 Peter 3:14).

3.Expect God to work through you
The Bible never says that everything we face and go through will be good; however it does say that ALL things work out for our good. When you confront the thing God has pricked in your heart to face, expect God to work through you; revealing His glory through you to others around you.

I may not see it right now, but once I confront this thing, at the end of it all i will realize that it was for my good that i needed to confront and face it.

"I Can Face It: Final Words"
My aunt always remind me know that when you face this particular thing in your life, you can expect the devil to bring more temptation your way. Why? Because you’re actually doing something to spiritually grow in Christ.

While you were wavering and unsure on whether or not to face this particular thing, the devil didn’t need to do too much; but now that you’re facing it, expect the devil to tempt you more…but greater is He that is in you than He that is in the world.

I don’t know what you need to face, don’t allow the devil to hold you back from spiritual growth in Christ because of your fear to face this particular thing. Cancel fear with faith. Don’t allow the devil to convince you into believing you can’t face it.

If God’s been nudging at your heart to face something, do it. Don’t worry about “this or that”. You may have to make some adjustments like me ,but always remember and believe tat God will give you the strength and grace to face and confront it.

Stepping out on faith can be scary, but I am learning that when i take a step out on faith, God will help and assist me with the rest of the way. Every day with God is a faith walk…but thank God for strength, grace and mercy. Thank God for walking and being with me as i step out on faith. Glory be to God =)

He is the REASON!

I am super excited and encouraged in my spirit today.
Because God is so good! Not only is He good; He’s faithful! He’s merciful. He’s just. He is a loving God. He’s kind. He’s a provider. He’s a way-maker. He’s a deliverer. He’s a healer.
I AM HERE TO TELL YOU THAT GOD HAS PLAN FOR YOU.
Today many want to quit due to the various situations and trials facing their life. Including me..
I was stressful everytime when Monday to Friday at my workplace , been scold everytime no matter wrong o right and make me hv a thinking to quit.. Quit from job ...But Everytime i hv this think to QUIT , Holy Spirit whisper in my heart " In the midst of dicourage & hopeless , stay focused on the Word God has spoken.Dont QUIT! God has more in store. He never wants u to quit growing."

So I obey it and keep going..Sometime back from work , My spirit ,soul and body was so tired.. Been scold for one day withuout any reason.. Remember one morning 3,45am , Im so Frustration and complication ,Im i struggling in my situations..
Tat morning I pour out my spirit ,soul cry out to God.. Asking God WHY no one understand my situation , WHY im in this company? Why ..Alot of Why Why Why!!
Suddenlly he put somethings in my heart says : "THEY NOT UNDERSTAND COZ THEY NVR GO THRU.. SO WAT U EXPECT TO GET FROM THEM? BELIEVE ME , KEEP GOIN ! U GONNA BREAKTHRU IT AND GONNA HELP OTHERS IN FUTURE..SO UR STORY GONNA TOUCH & IMPACT OTHERS LIFE "
In that moment i really knw he with me .. Every situation , every tears ,every complains every hurt ,every brokeness HE ALWAYS AND ALLREADY KNW!

So this morning i came to God .. " God , today Monday .. Give me ur strength to face today .. then this come to my mind
" isa 40:27-31" My tears fall n fall n falll ... His presence really strong.. Everyone watching WC but i been filled by him.... IN him i found the the reason of every situasion.
Tat moment deeper on my heart i knw , GOD HV MORE IN STORE TO ME , HE HV THE REASON FOR ME IN THIS COMPANY ..

Wow.. I found the reason im in this company ..(HOW BOUT U ??) Sometime will be scold , sad , dicourage ..but after crying ,gonna keep on running again..this jus part of the story I experiece its important to hv connection n relantionship wit him(i still got lot n lot).. (= and i believe God want me to keep stretching, to keep pressing forward into the next level. God intends forme to have a greater impact on the world than i have had in the past..

FRENS, I knw some of u MAYB like me still asking GOd WHY WHY WHY..Also mayb like me hv a thinking to QUIT from where u r ..However, God has blessings for you that if you don’t quit you will see His promises for your life.A Hope-less situation does not mean that God has left you
Just because things don’t work out exactly how we planned them does not mean that God is not at work in your life.No matter what your situation is saying, I can tell you that God is at work in your life at the moment.(EVERYTHINGS IS ABOUT WHETHER U T.R.U.S.T in him o not)

You may be in a situation that looks hopeless, it may look like the end is near and it’s time to give up, it may look as if you’ve lost... well, it doesn’t matter what it may look like, the final outcome will come when God says it’s over. Man may count you out, the enemy may tell you you’ve lost, the chance for victory may look impossible, but it’s not over until the Lord says it’s over.Your turn around comes when you begin to hear from God. Faith comes by hearing and hearing the word of God!....

Who is talking to you, which report do you believe?
I knw Words have power.and learn Speak the word POCITIVELY !LEARN Prophesy the word! Declare the Word!
Your situation awaits instruction .... Your situation awaits direction, the spirit buying and selling in your life awaits order. If you fail to give order, it will remain like that.
Ephesians 3:20 - according according, according, according, to the power that works in you. God will work according to the power that works in you.
If you can speak, your situation will be sorted. It’s not over for you!

I didnt say im fully breakthru , but what i can say I ON MY WAY to breaktru it :) No matter hw upsad, dicourage im , I learn to stay n focus to his spoken words(bible.) ..Yea i understand sometime is difficult ,tats y we need always connect and hv a closer relantionship with him..Reading his words , talk to him , listen to him, honour him and etc...
He is the reason i keep fighting. Keep praying. Keep fasting cause it ain’t over. No! Keep pressing….progressing. Keep moving cause it ain’t over. No! Keep reading…interceding. Keep believing. Keep trusting. Keep trying. Keep travailing cause it ain’t over. Keep living. Keep giving. Keep going cause it ain’t over! So keep fighting until the victory is won!!!!”
When people say i can’t, I always remember He can….He can. When i don’t know what to do, I always remember He has the master plan.
It ain’t over until He says it’s over! I don’t care what it looks like. It ain’t over until God says it’s over!!! God, and God alone has the final say! It ain’t over! God will not let you go through more than i can handle.
My heart full of Thankgiving for he putting great leaders n family around me!
Leaders who always support me gv me advice n pray for me..
Family always love me ,be with me , cheer me up,listen to me and pray 4 me..
(Sandra,Shirley,Sharon ,Naomi(gugu) ) ---

Frens , this my recently fresh n true story(part 1) ... Jus wanna encourage u , Keep goin and build the strong relantionship with HIM! He the reason I keep Pressing on! He is the reason i woke early early morning to PRAY!

Gambateh!

Because of you !

because of his LOVE LETTER (bible) to me , Not matter wat happen ; I still holding his promises!
When i no brave to forward, he gv me brave!
when i no strength he gv me strength .
when i am down ,he cherr me up .
when i no hope ,he gave me hope .
when i discourage , he gv me courage .
when i fall down , his hand there for me .
when i say i cant ,he say he can .
when no one understand , but he say i understand.
When i say "It's not worth it" but he say It will be worth it .
When i say i not Able , but he say i able .
when i say I can't figure things out , but he say i will direct your step.

Don’t quit, don’t quit on Jesus, because Jesus never quit on you...
Because of Jesus, you get another chance!

Half 2010 has gone ... So the next 6 month of 2010 let back and look at ur 2010 vision which we wrote beginning of the year..
Lets back to the track ! Keep moving and dun give! :)

Cant stop Thanks Him.

Psalms 50:14-50:14

I found a lot a lot reasons For Thankgiving to God.. Cant stop thanks him...

I Chronicles 16:8 Give thanks unto the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people.

Psalms 50:14 Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High:

Psalms 68:19 Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.

Psalms 107:22 And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.

• Some people act as if they had nothing to be thankful for!
• A lack of thankfulness is a lack of thoughtfulness.
• Ingratitude is probably the less attractive attitude anyone could possess.

Reasons to be Thankful to God Gleaned Form Bible.

BECAUSE OF THE PROSPERITY HE HAS GIVEN US.
Deuteronomy 8:10 When thou hast eaten and art full, then thou shalt bless the Lord thy God for the good land which he hath given thee.

BECAUSE HE HAS MADE US “MEASURE UP” TO THE ABILITY TO BE GOD’S CHILDREN.
Colossians 1:12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:

BECAUSE IT IS THE WILL OF GOD
I Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

BECAUSE OF HIS RIGHTEOUS DECISIONS.
Psalms 119:62 At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee because of thy righteous judgments.

BECAUSE OF HIS ENABLING US TO MINISTER.
I Timothy 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;

BECAUSE IT IS A GOOD THING TO DO. [AND CHRISTIANS DO GOOD!]
Psalms 92:1 (A Psalm or Song for the sabbath day.)
It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High:

BECAUSE OF THE HEALING HE HAS PROVIDED.
Luke 17:16 And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.

BECAUSE OF THE VICTORY HE HAS GIVEN US OVER SIN AND DEATH
I Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

BECAUSE OF THE UNSPEAKABLE GIFT OF HIS SON JESUS CHRIST.
II Corinthians 9:15 Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.

Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

God alone has the final say!

Ezekiel 37:1-37:14

I am super excited and encouraged in my spirit today.
Because God is so good! Not only is He good; He’s faithful! He’s merciful. He’s just. He is a loving God. He’s kind. He’s a provider. He’s a way-maker. He’s a deliverer. He’s a healer.
I AM HERE TO TELL YOU THAT GOD HAS PLAN FOR YOU.
Today many want to quit due to the various situations and trials facing their life. However, God has blessings for you that if you don’t quit you will see His promises for your life.
I want to talk to people that have hopeless situation at the moment.
A Hope-less situation does not mean that God has left you
Just because things don’t work out exactly how we planned them does not mean that God is not at work in your life.
No matter what your situation is saying, I can tell you that God is at work in your life at the moment.
The visions my devotion tis morning, Ezekiel 37- included dialogue between God and Prophet Ezekiel in the case of the valley of dry bones-
The place is a graveyard, it is a cemetery, they are dry bones
The symbolism is of- a people- whose hope- has died- and has been dead- for- a long time.
This is a situation where there is no future, just bones ,no body, just bones, no signs of life.
The Lord asked him a question that God is asking you today about your situation – CAN THIS DRY BONE LIVE
Ezekiel looks at the bones, he sees no possibility of a return to life
Ezekiel said there seems to be no human solutions- for this hope-less situation for they are very dry and it’s only you God that knows.
Ezekiel said "Lord- you know". In other words he is saying I don’t God but you do.
Why did he said that? He believes this situation is so out of human comprehension.

Lord you know if it’s going to work out for you,
God know if you are going to be healed you know-
It’s only God that knows if you and God knows if you are going to be delivered.
It’s only God that knows if you are going make it or not.
I know you don’t know, but God know
There are some situations we face in which human solutions
will not work- the only thing that will work will be--- hearing from God!
Ezekiel hears from God, Ezekiel receives instructions from God that he must prophesy, he must speak to the dry bones now.
Ezekiel had to go down to the graveyard and tell dead dry bones that God’s word said It ain’t over until God says it’s over.
Ezekiel had to go down to the cemetery and tell the dead dry bones that God is not thru with them yet for I know you feel like dying, but God is not thru, I know you’ve lost hope but God has not finish with you yet.
Ezekiel had to go down to the valley of the shadow of death and tell death that God will enter them.
Listen the transformation and restoration all started by hearing of word. The word was the beginning of the process that brings back these hopeless back to life.
You may be in a situation that looks hopeless, it may look like the end is near and it’s time to give up, it may look as if you’ve lost... well, it doesn’t matter what it may look like, the final outcome will come when God says it’s over. Man may count you out, the enemy may tell you you’ve lost, the chance for victory may look impossible, but it’s not over until the Lord says it’s over.
Your turn around comes when you begin to hear from God. Faith comes by hearing and hearing the word of God!....
Who is talking to you, which report do you believe?
Words have power. Speak the word! Prophesy the word! Declare the Word!
God asked Ezekiel to preach, speak to dry bones but notice what happens when he preaches- God’s word---- to these bones.
V 7- Says that ssomething happens in the middle of the valley there is a noise a sudden "rattling sound“. Praise God!

DRY BONES HAVE EARS, IF ONLY YOU CAN SPEAK!
MOUNAINS HAVE EARS ONLY IF YOU CAN COMMAND!
YOUR WOMB HAS EARS!
MONEY CAN HEAR!
CANCER, FYBROID, DIABETES DOES HAVE EAR IF YOU CAN PREACH TO THEM!
WHEN EZEKIEL COME FACE TO FACE WITH DRY BONE HE WAS ONLY ASKED TO DO ONE THING, BECAUSE THEY HAVE EAR EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE BONES AND VERY DRY.
V4, PROPHESY, TO YOUR SITUATION, TO UR WOMB, BECAUSE THEY RESPOND TO PROPHESY.
EVERY SITUATION AND CIRCUNSTANCES HAVE EARS AND THEY ARE CAPABLE OF RESPONDING TO PROPHESY. What u cannot see have ear.
They may not have physical ear but they have spiritual ears.
Your situation awaits instruction .... Your situation awaits direction, the spirit buying and selling in your life awaits order. If you fail to give order, it will remain like that.
Ephesians 3:20 - according according, according, according, to the power that works in you. God will work according to the power that works in you.
AS SOON AS EZEKIEL PROPHESY, BONES BEGAN TO SORT THEMSELVES OUT
If you can speak, your situation will be sorted. It’s not over for you!

Everyone thought it was over for Daniel when he was thrown into the lion’s den, but God didn’t say it was.
Job’s wife thought it was over and encouraged her husband to curse God and die, but the Lord didn’t say it was over.
It Ain’t Over Until God Says It’s Over!
I don’t know WHAT the future holds...but I state with complete certainty that I know WHO holds my future!
When most people think it’s over, God asks, "Did I say it was over?"
Weeping may last for a night, but Joy comes in the morning.” It’s not over until God says it’s over.
It ain’t Over- until- God says it’s over because
A business can come back together-
A dream can come back together-
Hope can come back together-
(Why??????????????????) Cause it ain’t over….until God says it’s over.

Keep fighting. Keep praying. Keep fasting cause it ain’t over. No! Keep pressing….progressing. Keep moving cause it ain’t over. No! Keep reading…interceding. Keep believing. Keep trusting. Keep trying. Keep travailing cause it ain’t over. Keep living. Keep giving. Keep going cause it ain’t over! So keep fighting until the victory is won!!!!”
When people say you can’t, remember He can….He can. When you don’t know what to do, please remember He has the master plan.
It ain’t over until He says it’s over! I don’t care what it looks like. It ain’t over until God says it’s over!!! God, and God alone has the final say! It ain’t over!

The Secret Place

Prayer is more than just going to God with your wish list and saying, “My name’s Madonna , so gimme, gimme, gimme!” It’s about having intimate fellowship with Jesus where He communicates the Father’s loving heart and divine purposes for our lives.

Bible say "But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.” (Matthew 6:6).
• God is calling us to seek his face in the secret place of prayer.
• He wants us to shut the door to all of the distractions in our lives.
• There is a magnet on the inside of us that is longing to connect with our Creator. When people turn to drugs, alcohol, or sexual relationships, they are trying to find satisfaction and fulfillment. However, this can only be found when we draw near to Jesus!
• The whole story of the Bible is God longing for a personal relationship with human beings. From the first words that God spoke to Adam and Eve in Genesis when they sinned, “Where are you?” to the words of Jesus to the church in Revelation 3:20: “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” God wants our hearts!
• When we pray, we are spending time with our loving Heavenly Father.
• The more time we spend in the secret place, the more we learn to hear His voice.
• “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27).

PROPHETIC WORD: “Awake” from my personal prayer time two weeks ago.
God is calling us to “Wake up O sleeper, and rise from the dead, and Christ will give you light!”
He’s calling us to return to our first love, to the secret place of prayer.

THE SECRET PLACE:
“A Psalm of David when he was in the wilderness of Judah. O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You In a dry and thirsty land Where there is no water.” (Psalm 63:1).
“For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, And floods on the dry ground; I will pour My Spirit on your descendants, And My blessing on your offspring.” (Isaiah 44:3).
• What is soaking? If we aren’t soaking in His love, we become cracked and dry.
• So soaking in the secret place means to come into your prayer closet with no agenda but let Jesus pour out His love on you.
• “Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” (Romans 5:5).
• When we neglect our personal quiet time with Jesus, and don’t meditate on His love, that’s when we get disappointed and lose hope.
• SOAKING = also known as “Abiding in Jesus” – John 15. Abide in Him and bear much fruit!

I Respond to the call of Jesus to meet with him in the secret place of prayer!
Get alone in your prayer closets until your not alone anymore…

REFRESHING VISION FOR 2010

2TIM. 1:3-8

Paul had to write his second letter to renew Timothy’s vision for the church. It is good to have spiritual leader who is sensitive enough to feel the need to refresh our vision and help us realign our discourage heart.

if somewhere along the way, discouragement finds its way to darken your vision for whatever endeavor you are doing for God, for your family or for your country, so then this message is right also for you. You need to refresh your vision and rejuvenate your heart and mind.

I don’t know on what stage your situation might be today. I encourage you to refresh your original vision for God and for your family before it’s too late. Let us study the word of encouragement of Paul to Timothy to renew his vision for God.

God has a vision for the Church and it should be also our own dream for our personal lives as we grow closer in our relationship with God.

1. A VISION TO GIVE GLORY TO GOD IN WORSHIP
2Ti 1:3 I thank God Whom I worship with a pure conscience, [1] in the spirit of my fathers, when without ceasing I remember you night and day in my prayers, (AMP)

Worship is more than attending a mass or a worship service. Worship is a way of life. It is how you conduct yourselves and behave even in the secret of your own room as Paul said; I worship with a pure conscience.

Worship is the very reason why God created us with the capacity to choose between good and evil. God made us with free will so that we can choose to love or disobey Him. We are not a robot or a computer which will follow whatever program was installed to it. God will be more happy to receive our love and obedience if it is from our own decision to love and obey him and this is what we called worship.

First and foremost, God made us to worship Him. And we will only found the true value and worth of our existence if we fulfilled the very first reason why God created us. That is the very reason why many people in the world are lonely and unfulfilled in spite of their accomplishments, wealth and fame. It is because they failed to discover the meaning and purpose of their lives which is to give glory to God in worship.

David discovers the joy and satisfaction of spending time with God in worship. He develops the habit of playing instruments and singing to God even during his youth while he is alone watching his flocks as a shepherd in the desert of Bethlehem. All the time spent with God in worship and his close relationship with God prepare the heart of David for all the coming test and trials in his life before he receive the throne as king of Israel. And even after many ups and downs in the history of his faith in God, he always find himself returning and falling on the hands of God as He discover that the presence of God is the best hiding place and the safest refuge against the enemies. No wonder he was called the man after God’s own heart.

In our Text, Paul is exhorting Timothy that like David, we can always get the spiritual strength that we need through worship. There is river of God’s Spirit that will flow to refresh our weary and thirsty soul if we’ll just raise our hands and lift our hearts to God in worshiping Him. In worship, angels can bring the spiritual fire to enliven our dying passion, to recharge our drained hope, to energize our failing strength and enlighten our glooming vision so that we can continue our journey for God

*****We shall grow stronger through Worship.

2. A VISION TO GENUINELY CARE FOR BRETHREN IN FELLOWSHIP
2Ti 1:4 Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. (NIVUK)

We are living in a lonely world and everyone is looking for somebody who genuinely cares, a place where they can feel they are needed and their value mattered. Yes, the world need a church where its people are opening their hands to say what Paul said; “ I long to see you ” because your presence filled me with joy

There are five unspoken questions before anyone join a church
• Acceptance – Do I fit here?
• Friendship – Does anybody have interest to know me?
• Value – Am I needed?
• Benefit – What is the advantage of joining?
• Expectation – What is required of members?

No man is an island. We are born for the joy of our family. We are here in the church to care for our brother and sisters in Christ. As our body is composing of many members and every part is dependent on other parts, so we must be united in love in the family of God. There is power in unity. Divided we fall, together we stand.

******* We shall grow warmer through Fellowship

3. A VISION TO GROW SPIRITUALLY IN DISCIPLESHIP
2Ti 1:5 I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.(NIVUK)

On the above text, Paul is fully convinced that the faith of Timothy’s parents has been successfully passed on to him, a member of third generation. This is indeed a wonderful example of discipleship.

From the very beginning, the plan of God is to make us in the likeness of His Son, Jesus Christ. Gen 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness:… However, we all know that the original design has been marred by the fall of man. The sin entered the picture and disfigured the image.

In spite of our failure, God in His wisdom has a better plan. He sent His Son and redeems us, sent His Spirit to transform us until we become like clay in the hands of the potter. Yes He will break and mold us according to His will so that we became precious vessel in His sanctuary ready for noble purpose in our lives. God’s ultimate goal for your life on earth is not comfort, but character development. He wants you to grow up spiritually and become like Christ. If you failed to understand this truth, you will become discourage and looser due to some hardship and difficulties that may come into your life in order to change and correct your character.

2Co 3:18 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

Disciple – Someone who is trained to be like his master (Jesus)
Discipleship – A process of life’s training that a Christians undergo to build his character and faith so that he can be like Jesus

Php 2:5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:

*****Our Church shall grow Deeper through Discipleship

4. A VISION TO SERVE AND USE ALL GIFTS FOR THE MINISTRY
2Ti 1:6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. (NIVUK)
2Ti 1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

When God gave gifts and talents, He distributed them distinctively and differently to everyone. My gifts and talents are different from yours. This is to let us know that we need each others. Our gifts were not given only for our own benefit but for the benefit of everyone. Gifts were also given to cultivate and develop. And we can only nurture them buy constant use of it for the benefit of everyone. For this same reason that Paul exhorted Timothy to “fan into flame the gift of God”

God gave the gift of wisdom in management to Joseph. And because of that gift he was able to save Egypt and even his family from 7 years food crisis. God gave gift of interpretation of dreams to Daniel and because of that gift He was able to save the lives of his friends and even other people.

What is your gift today that can be useful for others? You may be a good gossiper, well; you can use it to spread the gospel of Christ to many people today instead of talking about the personal lives of other people. Just remember that our talents and gifts are always related to our personal calling from God and we are accountable to God to use them for His Glory.
****Our Church shall Grow Broader through Ministry

5. A VISION TO SAVE OTHER’S SOUL THROUGH EVANGELISM
2Ti 1:8 So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God,

Jesus has already provided salvation for everyone who will believe in His name. However, the task of spreading the good news to all people about this glorious salvation lies on our shoulder. And God specially prepared a crown for a soul winner. Aside from that, there is undoubtedly feeling of joy and satisfactions whenever we convince someone to gave and surrender their lives to the Lord. Every time those spiritual children are born in heaven, there are celebrations among the angels and the soul winner become like a hero for them.

Every Christians have a mission. And it is the mission of Evangelism. The captain of our salvation commissioned us to go like a disciplined soldier of God. Go and save people today before they become next victim of hell! Go and preach the gospel to the dying world! Go and become the agent of change in our community! Go and never give up until our task is finish!

Mat 28:19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Mat 28:20 "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.

THE REASONS FOR STORMS IN OUR LIVES

Proverbs 6:23, Romans 8:28-29

Trials, tragedies, and misfortunes will come to the righteous as well as the unrighteous (Matthew 5:45), the wise as well as the foolish (Matthew 7:24-27), the committed as well as the uncommitted (Luke 6:46-48). Therefore, we must learn how to rightly handle our storms.

Some common questions that we all ask are:
• What are the reasons for storms coming against us?
• Why does God allow trials, tragedies, and misfortunes to come our way?

In answering these questions for myself, I’ve come to the conclusion that there are three main reasons why God sends storms our way:

1 Storms Help To Expose The Heart
The first reason for storms is that storms help to bring to the surface the real person. Circumstances that are hard and difficult will bring out the best and worst in people. It is not when everything is going right, but, rather, when everything seems to go wrong that the real person on inside rises to the surface. Trials, tragedies, and misfortunes have a way of exposing the true heart of a person.

Proverbs 6:23, in the New King James Version, tell us, “Reproofs of instruction are the way of life”. The American Standard Version reads, “And reproofs for discipline are the way of life”. And the New International Version says, “ And the corrections of discipline leads to life”.

To reprove means, “to expose, to surface, to correct”. Yes, the LORD uses the circumstances in life to expose, to bring to the surface the things in our hearts, with the intent to correct us and to bring us back on track.

How do you respond when things go wrong? Do you establish a strong testimony for Christ or do you allow the enemy to steal your opportunity to glorify Christ in the midst of your storm?


2 Storms Help To Open The Heart

The second reason is that storms help to open the heart of man to God.
One of the key spiritual points we can learn from storms is that, it is in the midst of difficulties and hard times, that hearts become open to the LORD. (The reason for this is that people will quickly realize in the midst of a huge, gigantic storm, how small and powerless they really are!)

Have you ever been in a big storm where the winds and the rain were so intense it knocked out the power in your area and left everyone in the dark? When that happens we quickly realize how dependent we are on electricity and now, suddenly, in a quick moment, how little we are and how powerless we’ve become. The truth speaks on this wise, the bigger the storm the smaller and powerless we feel. Storms are good in that they help us to see who really holds the power and who really is in charge. Storms helps us to see how big and powerful God is, and how little and powerless we are. Most people think to high of themselves and to little of God.

Pharoah had this problem. He thought he had the power and he was the one in charge, that is, until God shook his kingdom up with the ten plagues. (Exodus 7-13)

Nebuchadnezzar, had the same problem. He thought he was so high and mighty... until God took away his reason and sanity. His personal life, his wealth as well as his health, was shaken for seven years. Nebuchadnezzer was able to regain himself, but only after he humbled himself before the God of heaven and repented of his sin of pride. (Daniel 4)

King Herod, also, had this problem of thinking to highly of himself and to lowly of God. (He was, simply stating, someone who is full of self!). He knew that Jesus was the greater king and that meant he needed to humble himself by getting off his throne and allowing Jesus to now rule in him. He knew what he needed to do, but sadly, he simply chose not to do it. (Matthew 2)

When we refuse to surrender to the LORD, we end up plagued, in darkness, unable to think straight, unable to rightly reason; and in a true sense we become men and women unfulfilled and most miserable.

Two great promises for every believer are found in Psalm 46:1-2, which tells us, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea:"

What great securing words of promise to us!
Take note to those verses again, "God being our refuge and strength..."
1) He promise to shelter and protect us!

"A very present help..."
2) He promises to be right there for us no matter what we may face.

Two great promises that couldn’t be said any better, Praise GOD!

3 Storms Help To Improve The Heart

The third reason is that storms help to improve our heart. They help us to grow. The apostle Paul specifically tells us in I Thessalonians 3:3, that our afflictions are God appointed. That means God specially designs our trials to the right specifications with the intent of reaching our hearts!

Like in life, God send us the right storm to fit our growth and development. Each storm fit to order and specifically designed by God to help grow.

How has your life been to this point in time?

- In your life’s journey so far, has there been any real hardships or difficulties?
(Yes, no, or maybe so?)

- Have you faced things that outwardly you considered as big, bad and ugly?
(Then you’ve been through a storm.)

- Have you experienced things that have come against you, against your marriage, against your children?
(That’s a storm also!)

- Have you faced difficulties in areas relating to your work or business?

– How about in the areas of your finances, friendships, or perhaps your health?
These things are what we call storms.

Are you seeing these difficulties and hardships from God’s perspective?

Is the LORD using this storm that you are in, to open your heart, surface your heart or to improve your heart in helping you to grow?

Romans 8:28-29 tells us, "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
For whom He did foreknow, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren."


CHALLENGE: -------

In your storm, what is surfacing in your heart?

Are we allowing your storm to open and improve your heart, to better you, to shape you and to make you to become more like Jesus?

Joy in the Journey - Being Positive In A Negative World

Philippians 2:14-2:16

Complaining kills joy. It makes you unhappy. It makes everyone around you unhappy too. How many of you like to be around complainers?

The problem is – that once we start to complain – it is hard to stop. Complaining can become a habit – and to tell you the truth – it is a bad habit. We can find something to complain about all the time. If it is raining – of course we can complain about that. But we could also rejoice that the ground is being refreshed and watered. If it is sunny we could complain about that saying, “Oh no – I will probably get sun-burned.”

We are somewhat conditioned by our society to complain. Look at the headlines in your newspapers and on television. I would say that most of what you see is bad news. We are bombarded continuously with what’s wrong with everything. By our own nature and by our conditioning we tend to develop the habit of complaining. But that is not how the Bible tells us to respond in a negative world. Look at Philippians chapter two with me:

“Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.” Philippians 2:14-16 (NKJV)

The Bible tells us that Christians are to be different than the rest of the world. I like the way the Message Bible states these verses:

“Do everything readily and cheerfully—no bickering, no second-guessing allowed! Go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in this squalid and polluted society. Provide people with a glimpse of good living and of the living God. Carry the light-giving Message into the night so I’ll have good cause to be proud of you on the day that Christ returns. You’ll be living proof that I didn’t go to all this work for nothing.” Philippians 2:14-16 (MSG)

HOW TO CONQUER COMPLAINING

The Bible says "Do everything without complaining and arguing." How do you do that?

1. Admit There Is A PROBLEM

If you are a constant complainer – you have a problem. For one thing it is not how God wants you to approach the world. He wants you to - “Do all things without complaining and disputing.”

Proverbs chapter twenty-eight says:

“People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.” Proverbs 28:13 (NLT)

One of the most difficult parts of correcting a problem – is to admit that you have one. Take some time this week and listen to yourself. Ask yourself: How much time do I spend griping, complaining, arguing and saying – life is rotten. If you spend a major amount of your time verbalizing the negative – you have a problem. Admit it.

In the verse we just read from Proverbs twenty-eight it gives us two steps on the way to correct the problem. Go ahead and circle the words “confess” and “turn”. We need to confess when we are doing wrong and we also need to stop doing it. I know this is easier said than done – but the first step to solving a problem is to admit that you have one.

2. Change your SELF-TALK

I think that people talk to themselves most of the time. I know that I do. I don’t mean this in a negative way – but when I am trying to think things through – I use language. How else can I think? I do not think without the use of language. That is self-talk. What you are thinking in your mind – what you are saying to your self – what you are meditating on – that is your self-talk. Be very careful of your self-talk. We can easily slip into negative self-talk.

3. Speak POSITIVELY

Not only should you think positive thoughts – you should also speak positive words. Lift people up – don’t tear them down.

Complaining is a habit – it’s a bad habit. Habits are only broken by replacing them with something else. Take out the complaining and replace it with positive speaking. The Bible tells us in Ephesians:

“No foul language is to come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29 (HCSB)

The Bible says we’re going to give an account of every careless word that we speak. Follow along with me as I read from Matthew chapter twelve:

“I tell you that on the day of judgment people will have to account for every careless word they speak.” Matthew 12:36 (HCSB)

I personally believe that we will have to give account for every word we have spoken whether it was a careless word or not - whether it was intentional or non-intentional.

Paul is saying – don’t let any junk come out of your mouths but only that which helps people with their needs – that benefits them. We have all heard – “If you can’t say something good, don’t say anything at all.” Even though it is not a Biblical saying – it is a wise saying to live by. Replace your criticisms and complaints with compliments. Be positive in your speaking.

4. Take Responsibility For Your Own LIFE

Many times complaining is just an attempt to blame other people for the problem. If I have brought the problem on myself – I need to take responsibility for it. I don’t need to complain or blame others for the problems that I got myself into. I’m the cause of it – I need to take responsibility for it. This practice goes back a long way. Do you remember the fall of Adam and Eve? After Adam ate the fruit – do you remember what he did? He blamed Eve for giving him the fruit. Then he blamed God for creating the woman. It is easy to blame others for our own mistakes. In Proverbs nineteen the Message Bible says:

“People ruin their lives by their own stupidity, so why does God always get blamed?” Proverbs 19:3 (MSG)


Adam blamed God for the mistake he made – we blame God for our mistakes sometimes too. All of our actions have consequences. If I drop the ball do I need to complain when it bounces back? You know the Bible says: “Whatever a man sows he will also reap.” Galatians 6:7b (HCSB)

When I bring problems into my life, I have no legitimate right to complain about it. You are free to do whatever you want in your life – sometimes we make wise choices – sometimes we make stupid choices – but whatever the choices we make – we need to take responsibility for them. The consequences will follow.

Accept responsibility for your own life and the choices that you make. The changes that are going to take place are because of the decisions you choose.

There are three kinds of people in life: accusers, excusers, and choosers.

Accusers are always going around saying "It’s your fault." When Adam sinned he blamed his wife and then blamed God. He was an accuser.

Excusers say "I’m a product of my environment. It’s not really my fault."

The people that are really successful in life are neither accusers nor excusers – they are choosers. They accept responsibility for their own decisions. When they reap what they sow they accept it and move ahead.

Point five:

5. Develop An Attitude Of GRATITUDE

The Bible tells us in First Thessalonians:
I
“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV)

Go ahead and circle the word “everything”.

God says "I want you to be thankful in everything – in all situations and in all circumstances – give thanks." Notice that the verse does not say "FOR” every situation or circumstance. You cannot always be thankful for your circumstances – but you can be thankful in the situation.

I know that God is working all things for my good. That is what Romans chapter eight tells me. Follow along as I read verse twenty eight:

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NKJV)

God is big enough to take even the bad stuff in my life and work it for my good. God has a purpose for you and me – and He fits even the bad things in our lives into that purpose for our good. God’s purpose for my life is greater than my problems – so in everything I can give thanks.

I should develop the attitude of gratitude because I know that God is in control. He is more powerful than any problem – He is more faithful than any failure I can experience – He is truer than any trouble I can find myself in. My God is bigger than any problem. He is stronger than any situation. He is constantly working for my good in every circumstance that I will ever find myself in. This fact a tremendous antidote for complaining. Whenever we are complaining – we are usually getting our eyes off the powerfulness of our God and focusing on our problems. You can focus on either the negative or the positive – that choice is yours. Is the cup half empty or half full? It all depends on how you look at it.

Of course there are things in your life that are not perfect – they are not supposed to be. You are not living in Heaven yet. You are still on earth where things still break and fall apart. Things get dirty – they wear out – they get holes in them – they get stained – they get ruined and you have to deal with it. But God is more concerned with your holiness than He is with your happiness. He is more concerned with you character than He is with your comfort. “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” God is in the process of changing your life. He wants you to be more like Jesus – develop an attitude of gratitude – for that is God’s will for your life.

Point six:

6. Look For God In Every SITUATION

If you are a Christian – God is always active in your life. He is there in each and every situation. You may not be aware of it – but He is there. The Bible says:

“I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” Philippians 1:6 (HCSB)

If you want to get victory over complaining, look for God’s hand in all of your situations and circumstances. If you are going through some rough times – be aware – God is there. Second Corinthians chapter four says:

“For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!” 2 Corinthians 4:17 (NLT)

Look for God in every situation. Paul is saying that problems will come into our lives – there is no doubt in this fact – but be aware – God is there – and He cares how you handle them. Your problem – no matter how big it seems – is temporary. It’s small – in light of how long you’re going to live in eternity. So look for God’s hand in the circumstances. Positive people realize that God is in control. God is fitting everything into a pattern and His purpose is greater than your problem.

The reason why over and over in the Bible we are told not to complain is this – complaining leaves God out of the situation. When I complain about my circumstances I’m really saying: "God isn’t big enough to take care of me." If you are a constant complainer – you need to take a good long look at your faith in God. He will never leave you. He will always take care of you.

What are the positive results of non-complaining life?

Let’s look at our focal verse again:

“Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.” Philippians 2:14-16 (NKJV)

Do you remember how the Message Bible said it? Let’s read that again too:

“Do everything readily and cheerfully—no bickering, no second-guessing allowed! Go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in this squalid and polluted society. Provide people with a glimpse of good living and of the living God. Carry the light-giving Message into the night so I’ll have good cause to be proud of you on the day that Christ returns. You’ll be living proof that I didn’t go to all this work for nothing.” Philippians 2:14-16 (MSG)

This means that when you don’t complain – you are changing the atmosphere of the world you live in. You are “a breath of fresh air.” You are different than most people. You carry a message of hope – you carry the “Good News” in a world that is filled with bad news. You carry a message of light in a dark world. Jesus said it this way:

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:14 (NKJV)

Our culture needs some good news. It needs someone to bring them a message of hope.

You can help change the world. Check your attitude. Be positive in a negative world.

HOW TO BE JOYFUL IN ANY SITUATION

1 Thessalonians 5:18-5:18

“How To Be Joyful In Any Situation”

“Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will (for you) in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (CSB)

Thoughts on Gratitude:
1. Gratitude is the attitude that keeps my life flying at a steady altitude regardless of the storm I’m in.
2. Being thankful is unnatural.
• It’s our nature to be ungrateful.
• It’s our culture to be ungrateful.
3. The power of thanking is that it keeps my heart giving.
• Giving is like your heart pumping. When you stop giving your “spiritual heart” stops pumping. You stop breathing. You die.
Because the moment you stop giving you start dying. When someone hurts us we shut down and stop loving. The moment you stop loving you start dying, because you’re not giving anymore. Loving is giving. Your “spiritual heart” isn’t pumping. Nothing’s getting to it.
4. Gratitude helps me learn to dance in the rain instead of run from the storm.
• In tough times we naturally shut down. When you’re in a storm you retreat inside, close the door and shut the windows. You do everything you can to close yourself off to the outside. But gratitude helps me learn to dance in the rain rather than run inside from the storm. Instead of close myself off I can learn to open myself up to new possibilities.
• Question: Is there a connection between childlikeness and gratitude? I’m thinking of Wesley and “puddles are for jumping” dad. If I am in a puddle I complain. If Wesley steps in a puddle he would dance.

3 Different Types of situations we face:
1. Toxic Situations: Conflict
2. Tragic Situations: Death, Great loss, suffering
3. Chronic Situations: Situation goes on and on, feels like it will never end

“3 THINGS I CAN BE THANKFUL FOR IN ANY SITUATION”
1. Rejoice that I am “in Christ”. – “…in Christ Jesus.”

• Thank God for the salvation I’m in not the situation I’m in.
• What does it mean to be “in Christ”? Paul uses this phrase throughout his writings in the New Testament.
• My Salvation is permanent. My situation is temporary.
• Even when you’re “in trouble” you’re “in Christ”. – Romans 8
• Even when you’re “In over your head” you’re “in Christ”. – Romans 8
• Even when you’re “in pain” you’re “in Christ”. – Romans 8
• Even when you’re “in despair” you’re “in Christ”. – Romans 8

2. Rejoice that I am “in God’s will”. – “…for this is God’s will for you…”

• The situation may not be God’s will but my reaction can be God’s will.
• Painful situations are inevitable, but a negative disposition is optional.
• God cares not only about WHAT you’re going through but HOW you’re going through it.
• Is the negative situation souring my disposition?

3. Rejoice that I am “in God’s thoughts and prayers”. – “…God’s will for you…”

• I am never off God’s mind. He is continually thinking about me and praying for me and working for, in and through me.
• Is there ever a moment when God is not thinking about me? If there is never a moment God is not thinking about me, then He is thinking about me all the time, in everything. If God is thinking about me in everything, then I don’t have to worry about anything.
• If God is thinking about me, how He will take care of me, how he will help me, how he will provide for me, how He will strengthen me, then that means I don’t need to.
• If God is thinking about me so much I don’t need to think about myself as much. I can leave that to God and trust Him instead of worry about myself in this situation.
• This is an issue of trust, of faith in God.

HOW TO BE JOYFUL IN ANY SITUATION

1 Thessalonians 5:18-5:18

“How To Be Joyful In Any Situation”

“Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will (for you) in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (CSB)

Thoughts on Gratitude:
1. Gratitude is the attitude that keeps my life flying at a steady altitude regardless of the storm I’m in.
2. Being thankful is unnatural.
• It’s our nature to be ungrateful.
• It’s our culture to be ungrateful.
3. The power of thanking is that it keeps my heart giving.
• Giving is like your heart pumping. When you stop giving your “spiritual heart” stops pumping. You stop breathing. You die.
Because the moment you stop giving you start dying. When someone hurts us we shut down and stop loving. The moment you stop loving you start dying, because you’re not giving anymore. Loving is giving. Your “spiritual heart” isn’t pumping. Nothing’s getting to it.
4. Gratitude helps me learn to dance in the rain instead of run from the storm.
• In tough times we naturally shut down. When you’re in a storm you retreat inside, close the door and shut the windows. You do everything you can to close yourself off to the outside. But gratitude helps me learn to dance in the rain rather than run inside from the storm. Instead of close myself off I can learn to open myself up to new possibilities.
• Question: Is there a connection between childlikeness and gratitude? I’m thinking of Wesley and “puddles are for jumping” dad. If I am in a puddle I complain. If Wesley steps in a puddle he would dance.

3 Different Types of situations we face:
1. Toxic Situations: Conflict
2. Tragic Situations: Death, Great loss, suffering
3. Chronic Situations: Situation goes on and on, feels like it will never end

“3 THINGS I CAN BE THANKFUL FOR IN ANY SITUATION”
1. Rejoice that I am “in Christ”. – “…in Christ Jesus.”

• Thank God for the salvation I’m in not the situation I’m in.
• What does it mean to be “in Christ”? Paul uses this phrase throughout his writings in the New Testament.
• My Salvation is permanent. My situation is temporary.
• Even when you’re “in trouble” you’re “in Christ”. – Romans 8
• Even when you’re “In over your head” you’re “in Christ”. – Romans 8
• Even when you’re “in pain” you’re “in Christ”. – Romans 8
• Even when you’re “in despair” you’re “in Christ”. – Romans 8

2. Rejoice that I am “in God’s will”. – “…for this is God’s will for you…”

• The situation may not be God’s will but my reaction can be God’s will.
• Painful situations are inevitable, but a negative disposition is optional.
• God cares not only about WHAT you’re going through but HOW you’re going through it.
• Is the negative situation souring my disposition?

3. Rejoice that I am “in God’s thoughts and prayers”. – “…God’s will for you…”

• I am never off God’s mind. He is continually thinking about me and praying for me and working for, in and through me.
• Is there ever a moment when God is not thinking about me? If there is never a moment God is not thinking about me, then He is thinking about me all the time, in everything. If God is thinking about me in everything, then I don’t have to worry about anything.
• If God is thinking about me, how He will take care of me, how he will help me, how he will provide for me, how He will strengthen me, then that means I don’t need to.
• If God is thinking about me so much I don’t need to think about myself as much. I can leave that to God and trust Him instead of worry about myself in this situation.
• This is an issue of trust, of faith in God.

How Are You Facing Life?Difficulties?

How Are You Facing Life?Difficulties?

Matthew 7:24-7:27

"Where a person is living, will determine when, and how long the hurricane season will be."

Let us first start off by defining what a spiritual storm really is.

What Is A Spiritual Storm?
Definition: A spiritual storm is a trial, tragedy, or misfortune.

Let me share with you some of my observations about storms:

1. Storms are happening everywhere all over the earth.
All of us experience storms in life. Someone somewhere is experiencing a storm of some sort even now!

2. Storms are a part of life.
No one is exempt from storms, (Even God-loving, God-fearing, God’s favorite Christians are not exempt!).

All of us will experience storms in life.
The Bible tells us that the same storm came to the righteous as well as the unrighteous (Matthew 5:45), the wise as well as the foolish (Matthew 7:24-27).

3. Storms can come and will come to us in all shapes and sizes.
The Book of James 1:2-4, tells us that trials and temptations come in diver shapes, color, and sizes (Pastor Sid’s paraphrase!).

4. Storms can either make us or break us, depending on how we respond.
Trials, tragedies, and misfortunes can either be a stepping stone or a stumbling block for us depending on our heart’s response.
1 Peter 2:5-10
Psalm 119:23-24

5. Storms expose areas of weakness or unpreparedness in our lives.
Trials, tragedies, and misfortunes expose our character to surface strength or weakness in our character.
It is not when everything is going well that our true character is revealed but it is when things go wrong.

6. Storms can bring good to us, if we have the right attitude and if we prepare ourselves rightly.

7. Disaster can be overcome, if we prepare.
Every person can escape the disastrous effects of a storm, if they properly prepare.

The way a storm develops is when contrary winds collide and escalate from what is know as a disturbance to a depression, to a bigger depression, then to a super depressions known as a super typhoon or hurricane!

Having stability and consistency in our prayer life, our reading and studying of God’s Word, our attendance in the House of God, our serving, our giving, our witnessing, our character, our family time, our life mission of serving the LORD, are so importance in minimizing the disastrous effects of a trial, tragedy or misfortune.
1 Corinthians 15:58

Growing In Our Walk And Building A Good Testimony Requires:
1) Having a consistent prayer time - Mark 1:35, Psalm 91:1
2) Being consistent in reading, studying and meditating in God’s Word - Isaiah 34:16, 2 Timothy 2:15, Psalm 1:1-3, Joshua 1:9
3) Being consistent in being in the House of God -Acts 2:42,
Hebrews 10:24-25
4) Being consistent in serving especially in the House of God -
Galatians 6:10
5) Being consistent in our giving - Malachi 3:8-12
6) Being consistent in our character (especially at home)-
Psalm 101:2
7) Being consistent in our family time - Joshua 24:15
8) Being consistent in our life mission - Joshua 24:15

The Challenge
Storms (trials, tragedies, and misfortunes) can be very devastating especially, if we do not heed the warnings to rightly spiritually prepare our hearts.

Again, as we stated, no one is exempt from trials, tragedies, and misfortunes in life. But we can minimize these storms from turning into disasters, if we develop stability and consistency in our walk with the LORD.

Are you hearing the call of the Spirit to prepare your life to live above the storms of life?

Are you growing and developing a stable consistent walk with the LORD?

I trust that you are.

Facing the Impossible

Ezekiel, Chapter 37 beginning with verse 1.

I know many of you are familiar with this passage. In it we find the prophet Ezekiel in the valley of dry bones.

1 The hand of the LORD came upon me and brought me out in the Spirit of the LORD, and set me down in the midst of the valley; and it was full of bones. 2 Then He caused me to pass by them all around, and behold, there were very many in the open valley; and indeed they were very dry. 3 And He said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?”
So I answered, “O Lord GOD, You know.”
4 Again He said to me, “Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, ‘O dry bones, hear the word of the LORD! 5 Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: “Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live. 6 I will put sinews on you and bring flesh upon you, cover you with skin and put breath in you; and you shall live. Then you shall know that I am the LORD.”’”
7 So I prophesied as I was commanded; and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and suddenly a rattling; and the bones came together, bone to bone. 8 Indeed, as I looked, the sinews and the flesh came upon them, and the skin covered them over; but there was no breath in them.
9 Also He said to me, “Prophesy to the breath, prophesy, son of man, and say to the breath, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD: “Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe on these slain, that they may live.”’” 10 So I prophesied as He commanded me, and breath came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet, an exceedingly great army.
11 Then He said to me, “Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel. They indeed say, ‘Our bones are dry, our hope is lost, and we ourselves are cut off!’ 12 Therefore prophesy and say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD: “Behold, O My people, I will open your graves and cause you to come up from your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel. 13 Then you shall know that I am the LORD, when I have opened your graves, O My people, and brought you up from your graves. 14 I will put My Spirit in you, and you shall live, and I will place you in your own land. Then you shall know that I, the LORD, have spoken it and performed it,” says the LORD.’”

Pray

Verse 1: The hand of the Lord came upon me and brought me out in the Spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley; and it was full of bones.

Verse 2: Then he caused me to pass by them all around, and behold there were very many in the open valley; and indeed they were very dry.

Verse 3: And he said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?”


And here we find God asking Ezekiel – a prophet of God who had seen miracle after miracle occur – we find God asking him a question that doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. – can these bones live?

Now there have been some mighty fine miracles I’ve read about in this book. Lazarus was dead 4 days and at the sound of Jesus’ voice, he rose from the dead.

Impossible? Not with God.

What about the children of Israel? They found themselves against the red sea. No hope in sight. The army of Egypt was upon them and they knew escape was impossible. Ha! Not with God. With a mighty wind – He parted the red sea and the children of Israel escaped.

Daniel faced a den of lions – and escaped with out a scratch.

Remember the fiery furnace? God’s Word tells us that their clothes didn’t even smell like smoke!

How about the time Joshua commanded the sun to stand still in the sky – and it did!

And what about the greatest miracle of all? What about our God who left His throne in heaven and came to earth as a man…who walked among us – and went to the cross. Taking upon Him our sins – dying for us…and rising again. Ahhh…many would say that was impossible – but it happened, didn’t it?

Time after time we read in this Bible about the impossible being made possible by God.

But what about this time? This time seemed the most impossible of all!

After all, these were old, dried out bones. And God said, “Son of man – can these bones live?”

What impossible situation are you facing today?

“Son of man – can these bones live?”

No money in the bank? “Son of man – can these bones live?”

No job? “Son of man – can these bones live?”

Incurable disease? “Son of man – can these bones live?”

Broken relationship? “Son of man – can these bones live?”

Loneliness, despair, depression? “Son of man – can these bones live?”

Unsaved loved one? “Son of man – can these bones live?”

Your own salvation? “Son of man – can these bones live?”

And Ezekiel answered him.

“O Lord God – you know.”

Looking out over the valley of death – when asked if the impossible was possible, Ezekiel simply answered, “O Lord God – you know.”

Do you know tonight that God knows tomorrow? Do you know today that God not only knows tomorrow, but He holds it in His hand – and He is in control of it?

“O Lord God – you know.”

God knows about that situation you’re facing. He knows about addictions…your broken heart…the fact you have no food in the house for your children.

He knows the about the nights you’ve been so lonely, so frightened, so sad…that you’ve cried yourself to sleep.

He knows your heart aches because your loved ones are gone and you’re left behind.

He knows about the struggles you face at work, at home, with your teenagers…

But not only that…for some of you…I want you to know that God knows about the secret sin you hide so well. The one you’re sure no one knows about. The one that has a hold on you so strongly that you don’t know a way out.

And He knows that others are sitting here tonight unsaved and headed for an eternity separated from Him.

“O Lord God. You know.”

Say it with me. O Lord God. You know.

Do you really know that tonight?

Verse 4: Again He said to me, “Prophesy to these bones, and say to them ‘O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord!

Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live. I will put sinews on you and bring flesh upon you, cover you with skin and put breath in you; and you shall live. Then you shall know that I am the Lord.”


Verse 7 holds an important key for you and for me: So I prophesied as I was commanded.

What’s God telling you to do?

God told Ezekiel to prophesy to old dry bones telling them to live (in other words – God told Ezekiel to take a step of obedience in faith) – and he obeyed God.

Do you know that God expects obedience from you even if the situation seems hopeless?

That means you have to pay that tithe when you don’t know how you’re going make it till the end of the month.

You’ve got to love that abusive husband of yours even when you don’t feel like it.

You have to keep praying for that lost son or daughter, that sister or brother, or that parent of yours even when they reject you and what you have to say.

You have to admit your sin – and acknowledge Him as Lord and Savior of your life.

Why? Because God expects you to! And here’s something else you need to get a hold of tonight: He will not work outside your obedience.

Now, that’s important. So important I’ll save that one for another sermon. But I want to repeat it so you get it. God will not work outside your obedience.

Remember the fishermen in the book of Luke who fished all night long and caught nothing? Jesus said to Peter “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” But Peter answered and said to Him “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing…NEVERTHELESS… by Your word I will let down the net.”

What happened when they dropped the net? They caught so many fish their net broke! They filled two boats so full of fish, both boats started to sink!

Peter knew the situation was impossible. After all these were professional fishermen. They knew what they were doing.

But Jesus said. “Do it” and they obeyed.

What is God telling you to do that you aren’t doing?

If you are in a place of disobedience , God cannot help you out of your situation. Church hear me now: You have to obey God and when you do…ahh…that’s when the impossible becomes possible.

We find in verse 8 that indeed the bones were restored – but the word tells us there was no breath in them.

Now, I find that interesting. God asked Ezekiel in the beginning of the chapter if the bones could live. God obviously wants them to. Ezekiel did as God asked. And something happened, didn’t it?

Verse 8: I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them, but there was no breath in them.

No breath in them? just on verse 8. You see verse 8 is for those of you sitting out there that have no power! You come to church, make a good appearance, but you’re empty. Oh, sure there’s meat on your bones and clothes on your back. But you’re not filled with breath. There’s no life in you. The Spirit of God isn’t in control of your life. That’s not what God wants for you! He wants more! So much more – but you have to be willing to surrender…oh what victory lies ahead for the saint of God who is willing to die to self and surrender all to Jesus!!


We know that God told Ezekiel to prophesy – and we know that Ezekiel obeyed God. So…is God unable to make the bones live? To be full of life – and full of breath?

Or is there something else God wants us to see tonight?

Read on…Verse 9: And God said to Ezekiel: Prophesy to the breath, prophesy son of man and say to the breath “Thus says the Lord God – Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe on these slain, that they may live.”

And so I prophesied as He commanded me.

Ah – verse 7 and verse 9 say the same thing – Ezekiel did what God told him to do – twice!!

Did you get that? Ezekiel had to obey God twice before the bones came to life.

Making the impossible possible may take more than one step of obedience.

How many times have you thrown your hands up in defeat – when you should have trusted? How many times have you given up when you should have persevered?

I want you to know that it’s not too late. God is still in the miracle business – and today He wants to take that impossible situation in your life and turn it into a possibility.

But you have to be willing to surrender to God. You see Ezekiel could have looked out at that valley of dry bones and walked away. After all – the situation WAS impossible, at least from his view.

But we can’t operate in faith if we look at situations from our human perspective. I wonder what we could do if we’d ask God to show us the situations we face from His point of view?

Ezekiel could have walked away when the bones didn’t fully come to life. But he didn’t. You see, Ezekiel realized that someone greater was in control. Remember well his words in verse 3: “Oh Lord God, you know.”

I want us to look at the reason Ezekiel knew. The key lies in the very first verse: The hand of the Lord came upon me. You see, Ezekiel knew because the hand of the Lord was upon him.

Ah…the hand of the Lord. What does that exactly represent? Many may think that is where the power is. Others may see it as a place of protection. I think it represents both. I see it much as AW Tozer did – a dwelling place. You see, Ezekiel KNEW because he KNEW God. And, the only way to know God is to surrender your life to Him and abide in His presence. Then, the Hand of God is with you at all times – no matter your need.

Ezekiel’s vision of the Valley of the dry bones shows us his ability to see as God sees. Without the Hand of God in our lives, all we can see is dry bones…unsaved loved ones…broken relationships…empty wallets…and impossibilities.

But from God’s point of view – we see something else. We see the very breath of God breathing life back into the dry bones. We see life. We find hope. We see the impossible become possible.

Do you need that miracle? Are you facing the impossible? Is the mountain just too high? Then it is the time to to take step to surrender it to Jesus.

Is your financial situation impossible? It just seems that no matter what, you can’t ever seem to make ends meet? surrender it to Jesus.

Is there a loved one in your family that is lost in sin? surrender it to Jesus.

Is there a situation with your job that is hopeless unless God intervenes? Come to & surrender to Jesus.

Are you ready to surrender your life to Christ? The Bible tells us that now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.

You see, Jesus is waiting for your step of obedience. And He promises you will not walk away disappointed.

In fact, I want to share with you His very words from the last verse of Ezekiel: You shall know that I, the Lord, have spoken it and performed it.”

Let God take the impossibilities in your life and show you that He is capable of doing far more than you can ever ask or imagine.