Good Friday and Easter my thoughts

That Fateful Day

The cross was just a cross on that day
The nails, so ordinary could have been used in other ways.
But they became an important part of so much more,
When they were used, that day, to crucify our Lord.

In the garden where Christ prayed.

The soldiers came and took him after he had been betrayed.
Pilot asked the crowd what should be done with Christ live or die!
The crowd they cried crucify, crucify.
Then Christ, his clothes from him were stripped
And with the cat of nine tails his skin was ripped.
The whip it tore his flesh and from these stripes he bled
Then a crown of thorns was thrust on his head.
He was made to carry that cross to Golgotha hill
Where his blood for us he did spill.
Those nails were pounded through his feet and hands
Then the cross was dropped in the ground and the thump could be heard by all where they did stand.
But Christ, his resolve, never waivered while he hung there.
He never asked the angels to get him down, the torture for us he did bear.
He suffered the pain, knowing for all of us this was done
From his birth he came to die for us because he was the chosen one.
Chosen to save us from our sins, so we, who deserved to die, could live.
He gladly suffered all he did and went to the cross that day, his life he did freely give.

So remember that day and all the Lord’s suffering and pain

Remember it was done so our eternal life we could gain.
Ask forgiveness today and Give your heart to the Lord.
And when your work is done and life is no more,
The Lord will take you to heaven with him to live for evermore.


 By Deb Forbes
Copyright 2008




I have all week been thinking and reading about Christ's crucifixion and the one thing that has really stuck in my mind is the veil being torn. That isn't making light of the sacrifice Jesus made for us to take away our sins, suffering death so that we didn't have to.  It is just that it is another wonderful amazing gift that was given to us when Jesus died on the cross.

Matt. 27: 45-54 NIV


⁴⁵ From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land. ⁴⁶ About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli,^[c] lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”).^[d]
47 When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “He’s calling Elijah.”
⁴⁸ Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a staff, and offered it to Jesus to drink. ⁴⁹ The rest said, “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.”
⁵⁰ And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.
⁵¹ At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split ⁵² and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. ⁵³ They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and^[e] went into the holy city and appeared to many people.
⁵⁴ When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, “Surely he was the Son of God!”




The veil was up in front of the Holy of Most Holy in the temple the place that kept the ark of the covenant and it would be God's Most Holy Dwelling place. The veil or curtain would separate the people from God and only the priests could take the sacrifices to God for the people. 


Ex. 26: 31-34 KJV
³¹ And thou shalt make a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen of cunning work: with cherubims shall it be made:
³² And thou shalt hang it upon four pillars of shittim wood overlaid with gold: their hooks shall be of gold, upon the four sockets of silver.
³³ And thou shalt hang up the vail under the taches, that thou mayest bring in thither within the vail the ark of the testimony: and the vail shall divide unto you between the holy place and the most holy.
³⁴ And thou shalt put the mercy seat upon the ark of the testimony in the most holy place.


When Christ died on the cross his sacrifice for us tore this veil or curtain from top to bottom and made it so that we would now through Christ not only have forgiveness for our sins, but the old sacrifices were no longer necessary, Christ was that sacrifice and now we have access to God through Christ Jesus. Christ was the sacrifice for our sins, he became or intercessor to God, he gave his life so we might live. Hallelujah Praise God. He took our sins and punishment, He who didn't deserve to die, died so that we can live. The veil was torn a symbol that the only sacrifice needed for atonement for our sins had been made. All we have to do is accept this gift of forgiveness and atonement and love from God who sent his Son for us. 


1 Peter 2: 24  NIV ²⁴ “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”


1 Tim. 2:5 NIV ⁵ For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus,


When you take time today and this weekend to reflect on Christ and His crucifixion think about how he came knowing he would die for us. He chose to be the sacrifice, taking our punishment and death because he loved us that much. Think also about the veil being torn from top to bottom opening up to the Holy of Most Holy places and think how that not only proved that Jesus was the Son of God but also made through Him a way for us to God. Happy Easter and Good Friday to everyone.

TBT Courageous Faith repost

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Courageous Faith

The last example of faith I want to look at is a courageous faith in God. This example of courageous faith can be found when we look at Daniel who because of his obedience and faith in God he is put into a lions den. Daniel has favor with King Darius and he is going to appoint him chief overseer of the whole kingdom and the other leaders decide they have to find away to get rid of Daniel. They could find no wrong with him so they decided to use his faith in God against him. They get the King to order a decree that no one in the kingdom can pray to anyone but the King or they would be put in the lions den. When Daniel heard this he still went three times a day with the window open and looking to Jerusalem and prayed to God just like he always did. Daniel was not afraid to stand up for his faith in God and not for his own safety to just go along with the decree. The other leaders knew that Daniel had that strong of faith in God and would not even for safety sake go along with the decree which says a lot about Daniel’s witness and his faith. Dan. 6: 3-9 3“Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm. 4Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him. 5Then said these men, We shall not find any occasion against this Daniel, except we find it against him concerning the law of his God. 6Then these presidents and princes assembled together to the king, and said thus unto him, King Darius, live for ever. 7All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions. 8Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. 9Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the decree.”(KJV) As soon as they saw Daniel praying they brought him before the king and the king could not get out of the decree he made but he was upset that he had to put him in the lions den. The king tries all day to think of a way but he couldn’t so he had Daniel brought and he put him in the lions den and sealed and then said to Daniel your God will protect you. So even the king understood Daniels strong faith in God. Dan. 6:10-18 “10Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime. 11Then these men assembled, and found Daniel praying and making supplication before his God. 12Then they came near, and spake before the king concerning the king's decree; Hast thou not signed a decree, that every man that shall ask a petition of any God or man within thirty days, save of thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions? The king answered and said, The thing is true, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. 13Then answered they and said before the king, That Daniel, which is of the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a day. 14Then the king, when he heard these words, was sore displeased with himself, and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him: and he laboured till the going down of the sun to deliver him. 15Then these men assembled unto the king, and said unto the king, Know, O king, that the law of the Medes and Persians is, That no decree nor statute which the king establisheth may be changed. 16Then the king commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast him into the den of lions. Now the king spake and said unto Daniel, Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee. 17And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his own signet, and with the signet of his lords; that the purpose might not be changed concerning Daniel. 18Then the king went to his palace, and passed the night fasting: neither were instruments of musick brought before him: and his sleep went from him.”(KJV) God closed the lion’s mouth and when the king came the next morning and opened up the den Daniel was fine. God had rewarded Daniel for his steadfast and courageous faith. The king proclaimed that all in his kingdom while he was king would worship this God of Daniel so Daniel’s faith that didn’t waiver but even in the face of death was strong brought a king and his kingdom to God. Dan 6:10-28 “19Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions. 20And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions? 21Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever. 22My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt. 23Then was the king exceedingly glad for him, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God. 24And the king commanded, and they brought those men which had accused Daniel, and they cast them into the den of lions, them, their children, and their wives; and the lions had the mastery of them, and brake all their bones in pieces or ever they came at the bottom of the den. 25Then king Darius wrote unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you. 26 I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: for he is the living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion shall be even unto the end. 27He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions. 28So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian.”(KJV)We need to have a courageous faith like Daniel and not be afraid even when it isn’t popular in the world or our families to believe and have faith in God. God will reward and protect us just like he did Daniel and the world and our families will have a witness of God and his faithfulness to us also. Never let fear come between us and God.

TBT Continue with Simple Faith in Action repost

For this throwback Thursday I am continuing with the posts from the past on Faith. This is about having Faith and putting it into action. Happy Thursday

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Simple Faith in Action

Two more examples of faith is when a ruler tells Jesus his daughter is dead but that if Jesus would just come and lay his hands on her she would live again and Jesus followed him and as they were going there in the crowd was a woman who was sick for many years and she knew if she could just touch Jesus’ garment she would be healed and when He passed the woman touched the hem of Jesus’ garment and Jesus knowing this had happened turned and told her that her faith had made her whole. Matt. 9:18-25 18 “While he spake these things unto them, behold, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live. 19And Jesus arose, and followed him, and so did his disciples. 20And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment: 21For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. 22But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour. 23And when Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise, 24He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. 25But when the people were put forth, he went in, and took her by the hand, and the maid arose” (KJV) These two people had a faith that was simply knowing that Jesus was who He said He was and they knew they just had to ask or do and it would happen plain and simple they were confident that Jesus could help them. What a faith to have to just simply know with out question that God can do what is needed but not stopping there to be bold enough to then just put into action that faith expecting the miracle to happen. Because they believed that Jesus could and would help them then because of this faith it happened. So many times we think we can’t ask God for things or if we do ask then we never believe it really will happen so we limit God by not asking or believing. We need to be like the ruler and the woman in the crowd and believe, ask and know that God will. We have at our church a sign that say Expect a Miracle. It is a reminder not to just ask for a miracle but expect it to happen too. We need to have faith and act on it knowing that if it’s God’s will it will happen. Next time you pray for someone or yourself remember to not only believe in God’s ability but have faith he will take care of your or the one you pray for. Expect and answer and Expect a miracle.

TBT Faith Like Job

For Throwback Thursday I am continuing with past post group on faith. This TBT post is on Job and his faith in God. Faith in times of trouble, never giving into despair always trusting in God and His perfect plan.

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Job a faithful Servant

Job's faithfulness to God

We all remember Job. The people in the world were wicked and full of sin and Satan says to God that he is running around the world and the people are following him not God and God says have you considered my servant Job. Job 1:6-12 6 “Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them.
7And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. 8And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? 9Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth Job fear God for nought? 10Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land. 11But put forth thine hand now, and touch all that he hath, and he will curse thee to thy face. 12And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the LORD.”(KJV) Job was so faithful to God that God told Satan that it wouldn’t matter what happened Job would still be faithful to him. This means that we all should strive to be like Job that our faith is so strong that no matter what comes our way we stay faithful to God. Job lost his family, his wealth, his health and still he was faithful. Even his wife and so called friends told him to curse God and he refused to. God knew Job would stay faithful and that is why he allowed this all to happen. Sometimes, today even, people see someone going through tough times or a sickness and they say to them you better get things straightened out with God because you must have made God really mad at you, just like Job’s friends told him. Maybe God is just using that person to touch others by their faithfulness to him through trouble. When you become like Job’s friends then you show your lack of faith when you believe that God is out to get you is the only reason that trouble is there. God didn’t forget Job but trusted him to stay faithful. Because of Job’s steadfast faithfulness God gave Job more than what he had lost. Job 42:10 “And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.”(KJV) What a testimony that 1. Job was so faithful to God that God trusted him to be tried by Satan, 2. That all through the trials Job was steadfast in his faith to God even when his friends tried to get him to curse God, 3. Job even through all his troubles obeyed and prayed for his friends and 4. Because of Job’s faithfulness God rewarded him. God is always a just and loving God and he rewards our faithfulness. I hope that the next time there is a bump in the road that we like Job will be steadfast in our faith and trust in God. Let us be good uplifting friends helping those around us to be strong in their faith too and not be like Job’s friends and be more of a hindrance than a help. Let us be faithful to God so that God can say of us have you considered my servant.

TBT Faith Peter's Stroll

This is the next thought I had on Faith TBT

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Peter's Stroll

Peter Walks on water towards Jesus

The next example I think of when I think about examples of faith is Peter when Jesus came to the disciples walking on water and Peter was the only one who stepped out of the boat to go to Jesus. Matt. 14: 22-32 22 “And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. 23And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. 24But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. 25And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. 26And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear 27But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. 28And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. 29And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. 31And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? 32And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.”(KJV)Now you may question why I think this is faith when Peter failed and began to sink but really think about it. Peter was the only disciple in that boat who had enough faith to even step out of the boat onto the water and even attempt to walk to Jesus. His problem wasn’t a lack of faith but his problem was he momentarily took his eyes off Jesus and began to doubt and only then did he begin to sink; but then he showed faith because he cried out to Jesus to save him. Jesus reached out to him and they both went back to the boat. So Peter showed faith when he trusted that Jesus could and would save him. He stepped out on faith and started to Jesus but was distracted by the storm; took his eyes off Jesus, and then he began to sink. How many times do we live by faith but when it gets a little tough and storms or troubles come into our lives do we like Peter get distracted and forget to keep our eyes on God? The key to this is that we like Peter should only let our doubt last for a short time and then like Peter we should return to our faith and cry out to God to help and save us. Don’t get so distracted and forget all about your faith when trouble comes along, but remember that like Peter we can cry out to God and then believe and know that he is there to save us. Peter’s faith was not lost but was momentarily shaken by the storm but he never forgot totally his faith. How many times do Christians slip and then just beat themselves up instead of by faith call out to God for help and forgiveness. So to me Peter put his faith into action and then stumbled but recovered and again exercised his faith and asked for help. Do not be one who stumbles and slips and then continues down because of feeling like a failure. God is waiting for us to step back out on faith and call on him. Remember too that we should always keep our eyes and minds on God and then we will be less likely to stumble and be blind sided when things get bumpy in life. Step out on faith, live daily by your faith and remember that if we stumble to ask God to save us and help us and then believe he will.

TBT Faithful Abraham and Isaac or Unquestioning Faith

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Faithful Abraham and Isaac

First when we think about examples of people who showed great faith one of the first to come to mind usually is Abraham when God told him to sacrifice his son Isaac to Him. Gen 22:1-3 1 “And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am. 2And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of. 3And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son, and clave the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him” (KJV) Abraham trusted God and so took Isaac his son to sacrifice him and in so doing showing his faith and trust in God. Abraham didn’t question God he just got up; got the things he needed, and went never asking any question of God. This is true faith and trust. Again when he came to the spot that God had told him to go to he once again didn’t question God but took Isaac up bound him and took his knife and was going to slay him but God stopped him and God sent him another sacrifice and Isaac was spared because Abraham was faithful. Gen. 22:6-13 6 “And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it upon Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife; and they went both of them together. 7And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering? 8And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together. 9And they came to the place which God had told him of; and Abraham built an altar there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar upon the wood. 10And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son. 11And the angel of the LORD called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I.
12And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me. 13And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son.” (KJV) Abraham had unquestioning faith in God. When he came to the place he never once hesitated but bound Isaac and set to slaying him never asking God to spare his son but just obeying God knowing that God had things in control and would provide. What wonderful faith to never question when God asks anything of us.
I think that we have to look at Isaac as having a great deal of Faith also. He didn’t fight Abraham but had faith that his father Abraham was doing what was right and obeying God. Isaac asked where is the lamb for the offering but when Abraham bound him and laid him on the altar he didn’t fight him he trusted his father. He had faith and trust not only in his father but also in my opinion God. He showed enormous faith in the act of submitting himself to his father and ultimately to God. Isaac had to have great faith in God himself to go without fighting and pleading to be saved. So when I think of faithful men I think Isaac has to be included with Abraham.
The next time you are asked of God to do something you are uncomfortable with like witnessing to someone, or to pray for someone, or go somewhere to bring His message, then remember about Abraham’s unquestioning faith and remember God has a perfect plan and will provide for you

TBT is a past post on Faith

I believe in Faith and Living it not just talking about it. Faith has seen me through many things. when I wrote this post i was still in a wheelchair but by the end of that year in sept. 2009 god decided to use me and get me out of the wheelchair. my faith let me know that god again was going to use me in a new way. my faith made me be able to know god and trust him when he said to walk. it was my faith in god that made me not hesitate to take that first step and to keep walking ever since. i thank god every day . I will for the next few weeks on tbt finish off the series of posts i wrote on faith. hope you enjoy and they are a blessing to you. please leave me a comment and let me know what you think.

MONDAY, JANUARY 5, 2009

What is this thing called Faith?

What is Faith? In Webster’s dictionary it says: Faith (1): firm belief in something for which there is no proof (2): complete trust.
In the bible it says faith is believing in that which can not be seen. Heb. 11:1 “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (KJV) So faith is believing without seeing. Faith in God is believing in Him and trusting God in every way. As a child growing up I was brought up in a Christian home and was surrounded by people that had great faith in God and who taught me about faith. My Dad and Mom showed me how to live by faith and the importance of prayer. They didn’t just talk about having faith but they daily put their faith in practice in all parts of their lives. I was lucky to have Grandparents and an Aunt that also were very strong in their faith in God. When my Grandmother was diagnosed with cancer her faith in God not only sustained her and all of the rest of the family, but it was seen by all those who came in contact with her. I can remember going into her room at the hospital and there would be Christian music playing and she would be very peaceful. She was a great witness to her doctors and nurses too because of her faith in God during her illness. She never forgot that God was in control and her love for Him and God’s love for her sustained her till He took her home. Faith then is not just believing in God but it is living for God also. It is daily walking with God as the center of our lives. When something comes along such as illness if you only talk about faith but don't really live by faith then that is when we stumble. When I got sick I had these examples from my life of faith and I had a strong faith in God and so it seemed to me only natural to rely on that faith and in God through this illness. I put my faith to work and I know and believe that God has a plan for my life and as long as I live by faith in Him and stay in His plan for me then what could be better. Even if that means having this and other illness. Faith is not just a word we say but it is a way of living with God as the center of our lives. I have and had great examples of people living by faith in my life through my family.
We can find many examples in the Bible of people of faith who not only proclaimed they had faith but also practiced their faith in their lives. This is what I want to share in the coming blogs examples of men and women of faith in the Bible. These people can show us how to be faithful and grow in our faith in God by their examples.
James 2:17-18 "Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works." (KJV)

Faith a Way of Life Repost

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Faith a Way of Life

All these examples of Faith are not just about these people having faith in God but that they exercised their faith. Faith then is believing and trusting in an all powerful, all knowing God who is the creator of everything. It is trusting that God is a loving, merciful God who will reward and protect us. Faith is living in the center of God’s will and never questioning or doubting God is watching out for us and has a perfect plan for our lives. Faith is a relationship with God not just a belief in God. Faith is just knowing that God is who He says He is and not doubting that God can and will do what He says. Faith is more than just belief though; it is a way of life. Faith is assurance that God is with us in the good and bad times and that He loves us and takes care of us. It is having courage to live for God even when it is not the popular way to live. Faith is believing and knowing without a doubt that God hears our prayers and answers them. Faith is living for God in God’s will no matter where He leads us.
When things are going smooth we say we have faith and are living for God but we need to rely on our faith when there are problems and troubles that come our way too. Faith is knowing that God is still God in good and bad times and that God is in control. Faith is a relationship with God and it is how we should live. We should continually pray and read our Bible so our faith grows. Faith is the love we have towards God and our wanting to live for God and be more like God. We should be like these examples from the Bible and our faith should be unquestioning, unwavering, obedient, unchanging, courageous faith just like these examples. Jesus says in Matt. 17:20 that all it takes is a small amount of faith and then nothing is impossible. Matt. 17:20 “And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.”(KJV) God is awesome and is able to do anything and all we have to do is have faith and believe in Him and what God can do and nothing then is impossible for us either.
As I conclude this study on faith it is important to remember that faith should be not just what we believe, but how we live in good and bad times. Exercising our faith daily is how we grow in our walk with the Lord. Do not just say I have faith but practice the faith you have. If you live by your faith then your witness to others will be great and God will be able to use you in the work he has planned for you. It is so easy when things get rough to falter, but living by faith means that we rely on God and the knowledge that God provides and takes care of His children. We don’t have to understand everything that we go through we just have to trust and believe that God is in control. In Mark it tells us that if we have faith and don’t doubt then we can move mountains or in other words nothing is impossible for us with God’s help. The key is to believe and not to doubt, to ask and expect to get an answer. Mark 11: 22-24 22“And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. 23For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. 24Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.”(KJV) My desire is to grow in my faith and to live daily in my faith. To have a faith that is unquestioning, unwavering, unchanging, obedient and courageous so that God can use me how ever He sees fit. I pray that all Christians will grow in faith and live by faith too.

Courageous Faith Re Post

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Courageous Faith

The last example of faith I want to look at is a courageous faith in God. This example of courageous faith can be found when we look at Daniel who because of his obedience and faith in God he is put into a lions den. Daniel has favor with King Darius and he is going to appoint him chief overseer of the whole kingdom and the other leaders decide they have to find away to get rid of Daniel. They could find no wrong with him so they decided to use his faith in God against him. They get the King to order a decree that no one in the kingdom can pray to anyone but the King or they would be put in the lions den. When Daniel heard this he still went three times a day with the window open and looking to Jerusalem and prayed to God just like he always did. Daniel was not afraid to stand up for his faith in God and not for his own safety to just go along with the decree. The other leaders knew that Daniel had that strong of faith in God and would not even for safety sake go along with the decree which says a lot about Daniel’s witness and his faith. Dan. 6: 3-9 3“Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm. 4Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him. 5Then said these men, We shall not find any occasion against this Daniel, except we find it against him concerning the law of his God. 6Then these presidents and princes assembled together to the king, and said thus unto him, King Darius, live for ever. 7All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions. 8Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. 9Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the decree.”(KJV) As soon as they saw Daniel praying they brought him before the king and the king could not get out of the decree he made but he was upset that he had to put him in the lions den. The king tries all day to think of a way but he couldn’t so he had Daniel brought and he put him in the lions den and sealed and then said to Daniel your God will protect you. So even the king understood Daniels strong faith in God. Dan. 6:10-18 “10Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime. 11Then these men assembled, and found Daniel praying and making supplication before his God. 12Then they came near, and spake before the king concerning the king's decree; Hast thou not signed a decree, that every man that shall ask a petition of any God or man within thirty days, save of thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions? The king answered and said, The thing is true, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. 13Then answered they and said before the king, That Daniel, which is of the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a day. 14Then the king, when he heard these words, was sore displeased with himself, and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him: and he laboured till the going down of the sun to deliver him. 15Then these men assembled unto the king, and said unto the king, Know, O king, that the law of the Medes and Persians is, That no decree nor statute which the king establisheth may be changed. 16Then the king commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast him into the den of lions. Now the king spake and said unto Daniel, Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee. 17And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his own signet, and with the signet of his lords; that the purpose might not be changed concerning Daniel. 18Then the king went to his palace, and passed the night fasting: neither were instruments of musick brought before him: and his sleep went from him.”(KJV) God closed the lion’s mouth and when the king came the next morning and opened up the den Daniel was fine. God had rewarded Daniel for his steadfast and courageous faith. The king proclaimed that all in his kingdom while he was king would worship this God of Daniel so Daniel’s faith that didn’t waiver but even in the face of death was strong brought a king and his kingdom to God. Dan 6:10-28 “19Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions. 20And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions? 21Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever. 22My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt. 23Then was the king exceedingly glad for him, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God. 24And the king commanded, and they brought those men which had accused Daniel, and they cast them into the den of lions, them, their children, and their wives; and the lions had the mastery of them, and brake all their bones in pieces or ever they came at the bottom of the den. 25Then king Darius wrote unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you. 26 I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: for he is the living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion shall be even unto the end. 27He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions. 28So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian.”(KJV)We need to have a courageous faith like Daniel and not be afraid even when it isn’t popular in the world or our families to believe and have faith in God. God will reward and protect us just like he did Daniel and the world and our families will have a witness of God and his faithfulness to us also. Never let fear come between us and God.

Simple Faith in Action Re Post

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Simple Faith in Action

Two more examples of faith is when a ruler tells Jesus his daughter is dead but that if Jesus would just come and lay His hands on her she would live again and Jesus followed him and as they were going there in the crowd was a woman who was sick for many years and she knew if she could just touch Jesus’ garment she would be healed and when He passed the woman touched the hem of Jesus’ garment and Jesus knowing this had happened turned and told her that her faith had made her whole. Matt. 9:18-25 18 “While he spake these things unto them, behold, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live. 19And Jesus arose, and followed him, and so did his disciples. 20And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment: 21For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. 22But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour. 23And when Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise, 24He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. 25But when the people were put forth, he went in, and took her by the hand, and the maid arose” (KJV) These two people had a faith that was simply knowing that Jesus was who He said He was and they knew they just had to ask or do and it would happen plain and simple they were confident that Jesus could help them. What a faith to have to just simply know with out question that God can do what is needed but not stopping there to be bold enough to then just put into action that faith expecting the miracle to happen. Because they believed that Jesus could and would help them and because of this faith it happened. So many times we think we can’t ask God for things or if we do ask then we never believe it really will happen, so we limit God by not asking or believing. We need to be like the ruler and the woman in the crowd and believe, ask and know that God will. We have at our old church a sign that says Expect a Miracle. It is a reminder not to just ask for a miracle but expect it to happen too. We need to have faith and act on it knowing that if it’s God’s will it will happen. Next time you pray for someone or yourself remember to not only believe in God’s ability but have faith He will take care of you or the one you are praying for. Expect an answer and Expect a miracle.

Job A Faithful Servant Repost

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Job a faithful Servant

Job's faithfulness to God

We all remember Job. The people in the world were wicked and full of sin and Satan says to God that he is running around the world and the people are following him not God and God says have you considered my servant Job. Job 1:6-12 6 “Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them.
7And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. 8And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? 9Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth Job fear God for nought? 10Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land. 11But put forth thine hand now, and touch all that he hath, and he will curse thee to thy face. 12And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the LORD.”(KJV) Job was so faithful to God that God told Satan that it wouldn’t matter what happened, Job would still be faithful to him. This means that we all should strive to be like Job, that our faith is so strong that no matter what comes our way we stay faithful to God. Job lost his family, his wealth, his health and still he was faithful. Even his wife and so called friends told him to curse God and he refused to. God knew Job would stay faithful and that is why he allowed this all to happen. Sometimes, today even, people see someone going through tough times or a sickness and they say to them you better get things straightened out with God because you must have made God really mad at you, just like Job’s friends told him. Maybe God is just using that person to touch others by their faithfulness to him through trouble. When you become like Job’s friends then you show your lack of faith, when you believe that God is out to get you is the only reason that trouble is there. God didn’t forget Job but trusted him to stay faithful. Because of Job’s steadfast faithfulness God gave Job more than what he had lost. Job 42:10 “And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.”(KJV) What a testimony that 1. Job was so faithful to God that God trusted him to be tried by Satan, 2. That all through the trials Job was steadfast in his faith to God even when his friends tried to get him to curse God, 3. Job even through all his troubles obeyed and prayed for his friends and 4. Because of Job’s faithfulness God rewarded him. God is always a just and loving God and he rewards our faithfulness. I hope that the next time there is a bump in the road that we like Job will be steadfast in our faith and trust in God. Let us be good uplifting friends helping those around us to be strong in their faith too and not be like Job’s friends and be more of a hindrance than a help. Let us be faithful to God so that God can say of us have you considered my servant.

Noah's Faith Repost

 

Sometimes when life seems overwhelming we need to look back at the examples of faith that we see in the Bible. Here is todays re post

 

Thursday, January 8, 2009

Noah's Faith

Noah Builds An Ark

Another example of a man of faith is Noah.Gen.6:12-22 12 “And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth. 13And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth. 14Make thee an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch. 15And this is the fashion which thou shalt make it of: The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits, the breadth of it fifty cubits, and the height of it thirty cubits. 16A window shalt thou make to the ark, and in a cubit shalt thou finish it above; and the door of the ark shalt thou set in the side thereof; with lower, second, and third stories shalt thou make it. 17And, behold, I, even I, do bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh, wherein is the breath of life, from under heaven; and every thing that is in the earth shall die. 18But with thee will I establish my covenant; and thou shalt come into the ark, thou, and thy sons, and thy wife, and thy sons' wives with thee. 19And of every living thing of all flesh, two of every sort shalt thou bring into the ark, to keep them alive with thee; they shall be male and female. 20Of fowls after their kind, and of cattle after their kind, of every creeping thing of the earth after his kind, two of every sort shall come unto thee, to keep them alive. 21And take thou unto thee of all food that is eaten, and thou shalt gather it to thee; and it shall be for food for thee, and for them. 22Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.” (KJV)God told Noah to build an ark and Noah did. He showed faith because he built the ark even though the world was ridiculing him. He obeyed God even though he didn’t understand all that God was asking of him. He shows faith in just being picked by God to build the ark. God picked him because he was faithful. Gen 6:8 “But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.” (KJV) God knew that Noah was faithful and that he had been following him so he laid this job on Noah and Noah stepped up to the task and not only started it but faithfully completed it. Noah exercised his faith by building the ark and doing it exactly as God asked and not straying from the plan God had and trying to make it his own. Noah was a faithful man of God so that is why God could use him. We should try to be this faithful also so that God can use us in anyway He sees fit. Then Noah had a complete faith in God and God’s plan and did exactly what he was told. How many times do we tell God your will be done and then try to tell God how we think it should be done. We try to improve on God’s plan and in the end we just mess everything up. Or better yet we tell God we will do his will and we start doing the job God has for us only to never finish it because it becomes hard or we get bored or we decide we aren’t getting enough attention for our work. What ever the reason we just never get it finished. We need to be more like Noah with our faith and follow through on our work for God. Noah completely trusted God and did what was asked of him with out question. Gen 6:22 “Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.”(KJV) We should strive to be faithful and live for God so that he is able to use us for his work and then like Noah to follow God completely and finish the task as God has for us to do. We should have a complete and trusting faith in God. That is my prayer to be ready at any time for God to use me.

Peter's Stroll Re Post

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Peter's Stroll

Peter Walks on water towards Jesus

The next example I think of when I think about examples of faith is Peter when Jesus came to the disciples walking on water and Peter was the only one who stepped out of the boat to go to Jesus. Matt. 14: 22-32 22 “And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. 23And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. 24But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. 25And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. 26And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear 27But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. 28And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. 29And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. 31And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? 32And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.”(KJV)Now you may question why I think this is faith when Peter failed and began to sink but really think about it. Peter was the only disciple in that boat who had enough faith to even step out of the boat onto the water and even attempt to walk to Jesus. His problem wasn’t a lack of faith but his problem was he momentarily took his eyes off Jesus and began to doubt and only then did he begin to sink; but then he showed faith because he cried out to Jesus to save him. Jesus reached out to him and they both went back to the boat. So Peter showed faith when he trusted that Jesus could and would save him. He stepped out on faith and started to Jesus but was distracted by the storm; took his eyes off Jesus, and then he began to sink. How many times do we live by faith but when it gets a little tough and storms or troubles come into our lives do we like Peter get distracted and forget to keep our eyes on God? The key to this is that we like Peter should only let our doubt last for a short time and then like Peter we should return to our faith and cry out to God to help and save us. Don’t get so distracted and forget all about your faith when trouble comes along, but remember that like Peter we can cry out to God and then believe and know that he is there to save us. Peter’s faith was not lost but was momentarily shaken by the storm but he never forgot totally his faith. How many times do Christians slip and then just beat themselves up instead of by faith call out to God for help and forgiveness. So to me Peter put his faith into action and then stumbled but recovered and again exercised his faith and asked for help. Do not be one who stumbles and slips and then continues down because of feeling like a failure. God is waiting for us to step back out on faith and call on him. Remember too that we should always keep our eyes and minds on God and then we will be less likely to stumble and be blind sided when things get bumpy in life. Step out on faith, live daily by your faith and remember that if we stumble to ask God to save us and help us and then believe he will.

Faithful Abraham and Isaac Re Post

Here is the re post of the second part of the devotion on Faith I wrote back in 2009. When we are struggling or need encouragement we can always look to the Bible and find great examples of men and women of Faith.

 

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Faithful Abraham and Isaac

First when we think about examples of people who showed great faith one of the first to come to mind usually is Abraham when God told him to sacrifice his son Isaac to Him. Gen 22:1-3 1 “And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am. 2And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of. 3And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son, and clave the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him” (KJV) Abraham trusted God and so took Isaac his son to sacrifice him and in so doing showing his faith and trust in God. Abraham didn’t question God he just got up; got the things he needed, and went never asking any question of God. This is true faith and trust. Again when he came to the spot that God had told him to go to he once again didn’t question God but took Isaac up bound him and took his knife and was going to slay him but God stopped him and God sent him another sacrifice and Isaac was spared because Abraham was faithful. Gen. 22:6-13 6 “And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it upon Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife; and they went both of them together. 7And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering? 8And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together. 9And they came to the place which God had told him of; and Abraham built an altar there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar upon the wood. 10And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son. 11And the angel of the LORD called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I.
12And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me. 13And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son.” (KJV) Abraham had unquestioning faith in God. When he came to the place he never once hesitated but bound Isaac and set to slaying him never asking God to spare his son but just obeying God knowing that God had things in control and would provide. What wonderful faith to never question when God asks anything of us.
I think that we have to look at Isaac as having a great deal of Faith also. He didn’t fight Abraham but had faith that his father Abraham was doing what was right and obeying God. Isaac asked where is the lamb for the offering but when Abraham bound him and laid him on the altar he didn’t fight him he trusted his father. He had faith and trust not only in his father but also in my opinion God. He showed enormous faith in the act of submitting himself to his father and ultimately to God. Isaac had to have great faith in God himself to go without fighting and pleading to be saved. So when I think of faithful men I think Isaac has to be included with Abraham.
The next time you are asked of God to do something you are uncomfortable with like witnessing to someone, or pray for someone, or go somewhere to bring his message, then remember about Abraham’s unquestioning faith and remember God has a perfect plan and will provide for you.

Examples of Faith

Back in 2009 I wrote a series of posts on examples of faith and thought I would re post them this week. I am having to make a life change for my health and I know that with God's help it will be done. I know it isn't anything difficult but still a challenge. I need to lose weight for me, my health and to prevent diabetes and it is for this reason I need to make a life change. I will update how it is going from time to time but for this week I hope the posts on Faith will encourage you. God has seen me through so many things and we just see this as another way God will use to help me grow and to witness and glorify Him.

Monday, January 5, 2009

What is this thing called Faith?

What is Faith? In Webster’s dictionary it says: Faith (1): firm belief in something for which there is no proof (2): complete trust.
In the bible it says faith is believing in that which can not be seen. Heb. 11:1 “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (KJV) So faith is believing without seeing. Faith in God is believing in Him and trusting God in every way. As a child growing up I was brought up in a Christian home and was surrounded by people that had great faith in God and who taught me about faith. My Dad and Mom showed me how to live by faith and the importance of prayer. They didn’t just talk about having faith but they daily put their faith in practice in all parts of their lives. I was lucky to have Grandparents and an Aunt that also were very strong in their faith in God. When my Grandmother was diagnosed with cancer her faith in God not only sustained her and all of the rest of the family, but it was seen by all those who came in contact with her. I can remember going into her room at the hospital and there would be Christian music playing and she would be very peaceful. She was a great witness to her doctors and nurses too because of her faith in God during her illness. She never forgot that God was in control and her love for Him and God’s love for her sustained her till He took her home. Faith then is not just believing in God but it is living for God also. It is daily walking with God as the center of our lives. When something comes along such as illness if you only talk about faith but don't really live by faith then that is when we stumble. When I got sick I had these examples from my life of faith and I had a strong faith in God and so it seemed to me only natural to rely on that faith and in God through this illness. I put my faith to work and I know and believe that God has a plan for my life and as long as I live by faith in Him and stay in His plan for me then what could be better. Even if that means having this and other illness. Faith is not just a word we say but it is a way of living with God as the center of our lives. I have and had great examples of people living by faith in my life through my family.
We can find many examples in the Bible of people of faith who not only proclaimed they had faith but also practiced their faith in their lives. This is what I want to share in the coming blogs examples of men and women of faith in the Bible. These people can show us how to be faithful and grow in our faith in God by their examples.
James 2:17-18 "Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works." (KJV)

Standing Up For Your Faith and Week 4 of Challenge

I am behind on my memorizing challenge in picking new verses to memorize. I hope everyone has been able to memorize along with me. I have picked verses this week to go along with something that happened to my Dad the other day at a restaurant. Before we get to that let's recap the last three weeks.

Wk 1:
Ps. 119:11
Matt. 22:37
Wk 2:
Prov. 3:5-6
John 3:16-18
Wk 3:
Ps 23:1-6
Isaiah 41:10

First I must say I come from a family who loves God and has taught us to know and love God. My Mom and Dad are Christians and they raised us setting a good example as Christians. Dad and Mom the other day sat down at a restaurant to eat and when their food came my Dad prayed over their meal. They are not flamboyant, they quietly hold hands and Dad or Mom says the prayer.  On this occasion though, at the table next to them, a gentleman told my Dad that he couldn't  pray and to stop. Dad said the man had been drinking to much he thought, but still he told Dad to stop. My Dad politely told him to mind his own business, but the man continued to blame Christians for all his troubles. Dad finally told him to mind his own business and he was sorry the man didn't know Christ. The man stopped at that and my parents prayed and ate their meal. My Dad and Mom were not ashamed of their faith and did not cower when accosted for that faith, and that is the point to these verses I decided to memorize this week, that I am not ashamed of my God and my faith. I will not cower when persecuted. It would have been probably easier for my Dad to just stop with out praying but that would be denying the importance of his love for God and his Faith. What would you have done? I would hope I would have done the same as my Dad and maybe even told the man I would pray for him. I think this man does need prayer and I hope Dad has been praying for him. We are to love everyone even those who persecute us, and the best way is to pray that they come to know the love of God and hopefully we can be the one to show them that love.

The verses for this week are:

Rom. 16:1 NIV "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile."

Phil 1:21 KJV " For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain."

Matt. 5:10 KJV "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

Hope you are still memorizing the Word with me. Let me know how it is going for you.