SATURDAY'S SOUNDNESS: FOR MY YOKE IS EASY, AND, MY BURDEN LIGHT...

MATTHEW 11: 25-30... 
25/ At that time Jesus said in reply, "I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike.
26/ Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. 
27/ All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him. 
28/ "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. 
29/ Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for your selves. 
30/ For my yoke is easy, and my burden light."

In place of the yoke of the law, complicated by scribal interpretation, Jesus invites the burdened to take the yoke of obedience to his word, under which they will find rest; cf Jeremiah 6:16.

THE LORD IS GOOD, GOOD, GOOD, OH, HE IS GOOD TO US!!!

There ARE BLESSINGS in EVERY day,
*GOD* is just GOOD that way!!!

Troubles abound, they are all around,
But, HIS GOODNESS, is sure, steady, and, sound!!!

EACH day, I have MUCH to be thankful for,
Thus, I PRAISE, and, WORSHIP HIM, evermore!!!

Yes, the gifts of THE LORD, are sweet,
And, our needs, HE DOES, indeed, meet!!!

THANK YOU, LORD, for ALL YOU HAVE done, do, and, will do,
I am ever indebted, and, grateful TO YOU!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

GLORY TO OUR MOST HIGH KING!!!

There always has been, and forevermore, is a KING,
MIGHTY, and, POWERFUL, OVER ALL, and, EVERYTHING;
Whom SO LOVES the people of HIS KINGDOM,
That, HE sent HIS ONLY SON,
To LIGHT their way,
That, they find the entrance to HIS gates, one day...

This KING is unlike any ever known, full of compassion, kindness, and, forgiveness, too,
HIS rule is eternal; in HIS heart, HE only has the best intentions for HIS Beloved Children, HIS KINGDOM through.
HE DOES COMMAND wholesomeness, ethics, virtue, and, morality,
From HIS people, but, it is for their own good! You see,
HIS SON payed a hefty price for their ransom from kings of lesser worth,
Indeed, this SON suffered for the people, from the moment of HIS birth...

HE has a plan, to bring into HIS PALACE DIVINE, all who seek shelter from the darkness, and the torrents of evil from the rulers nearby,
In which case, they will inherit great riches, and, every tear they shed, HE will, personally, dry!
There will be great rejoicing! The PEACE of HIS LOVE, will fill every single heart,
Yes, from ALL, will every negative, eternally, depart!
Comforts of every kind,
Shall put to rest, the deception, in every mind...

It isn't easy to remain on the path, leading to HIS audience, as HE sits upon HIS infinite Throne,  yet, HIS SONS GLORY SHINES, a clear beckon,
Never diminishing, not even for a second,
Despite the throes of wickedness, placing obstacles, and worse, to cause them to lose sight,
Plus, HE has placed HIS HOLY SPIRIT in HIS intended, to guide them to what is right;
Oh, never has there been such a KING! HIS MAJESTY lives forever, hear the Angels sing,
"HALLELUJAH, HALLELUJAH, HALLELUJAH, GLORY TO OUR MOST HIGH KING"!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

THE LIGHT SHINES IN THE DARKNESS, AND THE DARKNESS HAS NOT OVERCOME IT...

JOHN 1: 1-18... 
1/ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 
2/ He was in the beginning with God. 
3/ All things came to be through him, and without him nothing came to be. What came to be 
4/ through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; 
5/ the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. 

6/ A man named John was sent from God. 
7/ He came for testimony, to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. 
8/ He was not the light, but came to testify to the light. 
9/ The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. 
10/ He was in the world, and the world came to be through him, but the world did not know him. 
11/ He came to what was his own, but his own people did not accept him. 
12/ But to those who did accept him he gave power to become children of God, to those who believe in his name, 
13/ who were born not by natural generation nor by human choice nor by a man's decision but of God.

14/ And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father's only Son, full of grace and truth. 
15/ John testified to him and cried out, saying, "This was he of whom I said, 'The one who is coming after me ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.'" 
16/ From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace,  
17/ because while the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 
18/ No one has ever seen God. The only Son, God, who is at the Father's side, has revealed him.

FRIDAY? YEP IT IS:)))

IT IS FRIDAY:))) We welcome the end of the week, for various reasons, one which is, being relieved of pressures from responsibility, not that responsibility ceases with Friday, instead, that it lessens! Most of us are drained by Friday, and, jobs are demanding, but, in this life, there are disciplines that form us into better, happier people, no matter how much we resist them:)))

Happiness can be an optical illusion, when comparing one's life with other people's lives! You never know what it is to walk in someone else's shoes, until you do so! Not all that SEEMS good is good, and, not all that entices is as wonderful as it seems from a distance!!!

In these uncertain times, HAVING a job is like, wonderful, even if it isn't what we want to be doing! There are MILLIONS upon millions who would give anything to be able to work, because jobs are scarce, for SO many! Yes, we must always be appreciative, grateful, and, content, even when circumstances are not quite right! FAITH plays an important role in enduring, persevering, and, gratitude, then, somewhere along the line, pays off! We are an impatient generation, so FAITH is difficult for many to hold onto, but, hold on we must!!!

I have much to do this weekend, and wish it wasn't so, but, I am sure I will find some joy in my busyness; I always do! My heart is always filled with LIGHT, LOVE, PEACE, HOPE, HAPPINESS, and, WARMTH, for I stand IN the presence of THE MOST HIGH *GOD*, and, am enhanced by this fact!!!

I wish you a most awesome Friday! Put on your weekend disposition, smile, dance, laugh, sing, PRAISE, WORSHIP, and, THANK *GOD* IT IS FRIDAY:)))

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

FOLLOWING IN HIS FOOTSTEPS; SOME INTERESTING THOUGHS...

Some interesting, and, profound quotes concerning Christianity... 

The depths of our spirituality does not depend upon changing the things we do, but in doing for God what we ordinarily do for ourselves. --Brother Lawrence

Being a Christian is more than just an instantaneous conversion — it is a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Christ.--Billy Graham

Few things are more infectious than a godly lifestyle. The people you rub shoulders with everyday need that kind of challenge. Not prudish. Not preachy. Just cracker jack clean living. Just honest to goodness, bone - deep, non-hypocritical integrity. --Charles ( Chuck ) R. Swindoll

We do not segment our lives, giving some time to God, some to our business or schooling, while keeping parts to ourselves. The idea is to live all of our lives in the presence of God, under the authority of God, and for the honor and glory of God. That is what the Christian life is all about. --R. C. Sproul  

One day when a certain man who wavered often and anxiously between hope and fear was struck with sadness, he knelt in humble prayer before the altar of a church. While meditating on these things, he said: "Oh if I but knew whether I should persevere to the end!" Instantly he heard within the divine answer: "If you knew this, what would you do? Do now what you would do then and you will be quite secure." Immediately consoled and comforted, he resigned himself to the divine will and the anxious uncertainty ceased. His curiosity no longer sought to know what the future held for him, and he tried instead to find the perfect, the acceptable will of God in the beginning and end of every good work. --Thomas à Kempis

We seldom realize fully that we are sent to fulfill God-given tasks. We act as if we were simply dropped down in creation and have to decide to entertain ourselves until we die. But we were sent into the world by God, just as Jesus was. Once we start living our lives with that conviction, we will soon know what we were sent to do. --Henri J. M. Nouwen  

THE LORD DOES NOT PROMISE US THE WORLD, HE PROMISES MORE, MUCH MORE!!!

*GOD* does not promise us the world, HE promises THE KINGDOM...

Affliction, and, infirmities are the evil one's hold on us, and he, cunningly, WILL promise us the world, but beware, for the world WILL be a ball of fire, come THE KINGDOM...

*GOD* DOES tell us that IF we turn to HIM, with our WHOLE being, HE will add to us, though, to what extent, is part, and, parcel with HIS WILL! We are NOT to live FOR the world, instead, to seek THE KINGDOM, in which case, because our RELIANCE is TOTALLY on HIM, HE WILL provide exceeding for our lives...

HE does not promise us a rose garden, HE GAVE us a garden of perfection, long ago, which, we neglected, in order to appease our own desires, because we ignored HIM, and listened to the devious chatter of the enemy...

HIS LOVE has forgiven those who seek HIM, all others will be like stubble, and, cease to exist, thus, today IS the day for recognizing the vast difference between the false promises of one who does NOT have our best interests in mind, instead, our imprisonment to that which, is diminishing day, by day, and, the FAITHFUL promises of THE LORD, our *GOD*...

*GOD* has LOVED us with an everlasting LOVE, thus, HE gave HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, and, the ONLY thing that can separate us from HIS LOVE, is wrong choices! Again, HE tells us there is HOPE for our future, but, this HOPE is premised upon our choice to LOVE, fear, and obey HIM, with FAITH, and, fidelity, or, choose what is of this world...

One day, we have to reckon with HIM, one day, after putting HIM in the far corners of our being, we will cry out to HIM, and, HE will say, "I knew you not", in which case, there will be no one to blame, but ourselves! THE TRUTH IS visible, obtainable, and, within our grasp, therefore, be wise, and choose what is EVERLASTING, not what is empty, and, ever passing away...

No, HE did NOT promise us the world, HE promised us MORE, MUCH MORE! This world, and, it's enticements, multiplied by millions, could NOT hold a flicker to the GLORY of what IS to come! PRAISE, and, WORSHIP HIM, for HE, ALONE, HOLDS LIFE, abundantly, for those who choose it!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

THURSDAY'S TRIUMPHS: OUR TRIUMPHANT LORD!!!

Whew, what a week this far! I am SO busy, my bones are hurting:))) I am exhausted, but, that is part of the season, me thinks!!!

Thursday's are for reflecting triumphs, so, I think of no better example of being TRULY triumphant, than our LORD, *GOD*, whom is without beginning, without end, and, can never be altered, corrupted, or, anything negative, or perverse! HE WILL remain in LOVE, eternally, despite the opposition to HIM, and, HIS WILL, because of the deceiver, and, deception of this world! If ALL those who have chance to turn to HIM, fail to do so, HE WILL PREVAIL, in eternal bliss! NOTHING can defeat HIM, NOTHING can deter HIM, NOTHING can diminish HIM, HIS WILL, HIS WAYS, HIS LOVE, nor, HIS POWERS! HE doesn't have to TRY to be triumphant, HE IS! HE doesn't have to prove anything, everything is already proven! HE IS OMNIPOTENT, OMNIPRESENT, OMNISCIENT! HE IS LIFE, and, THE LIVING! HE IS THE LORD *GOD* ALMIGHTY!!!

Sooooo, logically, and, realistically, it makes PERFECT sense to pattern our lives after HIM, because nothing, nor anyone, can hold a nano-second of measure to HIS MIGHTINESS! HE is PURE TRIUMPH, therefore, why would I waste time on following anyone, or anything else, or, using such as my example of what is just, right, good, and, whole!??

WEDNESDAY'S WISDOM: BEFORE CREATION, PROPHECY HAS BEEN IN MOTION...

In response to the ancients many infidelities towards *GOD*, prophecies concerning CHRIST have been long foretold, though, there is much dissension on whether this is actual prophecy, or, the imaginings of certain believers! Clearly, there ARE Messianic references to the arrival of THE SAVIOUR, however, that not all can see them, or, understand them, is also, prophesied!!!

JEREMIAH 23: 5...
Behold, the days are coming, says the LORD, when I will raise up a righteous shoot to David; As king he shall reign and govern wisely, he shall do what is just and right in the land.

DEUTERONOMY 18: 18...
I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their kinsmen, and will put my words into his mouth; he shall tell them all that I command him.

ISAIAH 7: 14...
Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall be with child, and bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel.

LOVE 'CANNOT' FAIL: *GOD* IS LOVE!!!

LOVE NEVER FAILS!!! Do any of us really, understand this???

In most ALL of the commentaries on this line, LOVE NEVER FAILS, 1 CORINTHIANS 13: 8, CHARITY is the gist! It is a GRACE, lasting eternally! *GOD* IS LOVE, and, through our FAITH, HOPE, and, PERSEVERANCE to the end, we will bask IN LOVE, for HIM, from HIM; for, and, with others!!!

To me, LOVE NEVER FAILS, echoes of THE LORD'S VICTORY OVER the world, without beginning, without end! While HE DOESN'T want to see anyone perish, HE, and, LOVE WILL PREVAIL eternally, without interruption, without fail! LOVE is THE LIGHT'S own instrument, FOR, and, TO THE GLORY OF *GOD*, for, and, to the health, and well-being, of HIS people! LOVE is that implement which, defies all else, eradicating it, LIGHT OVER darkness; HOPE OVER despair, FAITH OVER disbelief, STRENGTH OVER weaknesses, COURAGE OVER fear, and, so on! LOVE IS THE HEART OF HIS EXISTENCE, THE PROOF, and, THE CHIEF PRINCIPLE OF HIS WILL!!!

TO LOVE HIM, IS TO DESIRE TO PLEASE HIM...

THE LORD, our *GOD* asks us to LOVE HIM, to obey HIM, and, to repent; these 3 things, begin to lead us into the fulfillment of HIS WILL, while also, opening for us the way to being ABLE to bear worthy fruit, in HIS namesake...

It is difficult for most to get past the primary one, because LOVE is embraced from the natural plane, the egocentric, carnal realm, and, the enemy has done a sure job of making this LOVE very perplexing for the masses! WITH *GOD*, NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE, and, besides that, LOVE IS INTRINSIC, INNATE to our beings, although, the magnitude, and, soundness of this LOVE lies in the spirit; the spirit which, belongs to *GOD* alone! So, LOVE, as always, is something we should work to develop, from HIS own example, and, instructions!!!

Obeying HIM is easier IF we LOVE HIM, as we ought to, and, is NOT a weight to be dragged around, with discomfort, or, disdain! Obedience is GOOD for us, and, removes all weights placed upon us, by the oppressor!!!

TUESDAY'S THOUGHTS: JOHN THE BAPTIST, PROPHET, ELIJAH...

Zechariah, the Father of John The Baptist, also known as Zachary, was a Priest, whom, when in the Sacred Sanctuary of *GOD*, performing his duties, was visited by Gabriel, the Angel of *GOD*, and, was told that his Wife, Elizabeth, a descendent from the Daughters of Aaron, would bear him a son, whom they were to name John, which, Zechariah, did not quite believe, because of his Wife's, and his, advanced years, so, Gabriel told him that surely this would come to be, but, until that time, because of his disbelief, Zechariah would remain mute, unable to speak...

John The Baptist is regarded as a prophet in Christianity, Islam, the Bahá'í Faith, and Mandaeism...

LUKE 1: 57-80... 
57/ When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. 
58/ Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. 
59/ When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, 
60/ but his mother said in reply, "No. He will be called John." 
61/ But they answered her, "There is no one among your relatives who has this name." 
62/ So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. 
63/ He asked for a tablet and wrote, "John is his name," and all were amazed. 
64/ Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. 
65/ Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. 

THE UNSURPASSED, INCREDIBLE LORD, OUR *GOD*!!!

The beautiful Masterpiece, THE WORD, leading to the birth of our LORD, and, SAVIOUR, CHRIST JESUS, should be taken to heart, the whole year through, but, is especially inspiring as we enter the celebration of HIS arrival to fulfill prophecy, and, to offer Salvation to the world, as the TRUEST EVIDENCE of LOVE, ever known!!!

I wish people could wholly, and truly, embrace the magnificently beautiful GIFT that *GOD* has given to us, as, the GIFT of HIS LOVE is like a warm, secure, safe place, which we KNOW, will never leave us cold, afraid, or, in danger; not only in this HOLY season, but, for all eternity!!!

Such GENIUS has gone into the GIFT! Such creativity! Such knowledge! Such insight beyond time! If someone asked to me explain what I feel about the beauty of HIS GIFT of LOVE, I wouldn't be able to, for it is SO BEYOND description, though, it is awesome, overwhelming, splendid, remarkable, spectacular, and, humbling! It leaves me feeling so full of admiration, respect, regard, and, humility, for I am astounded by HIS having taken every measure to ensure the safe passage of HIS Chosen! OH, PRAISE HIS HOLY name!!!

PREPARING THE WAY...

Even though CHRIST, our LORD, and, John The Baptist, relatives, were born only six months apart, John being the oldest,  from early on, was busy preparing THE WAY, for THE LIGHT of the world, proclaiming THE TRUTH!!! 

LUKE 1: 41-44...  
41/ When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the holy Spirit, 
42/ cried out in a loud voice and said, "Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. 
43/ And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 
44^/ For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy.

Elizabeth was the Mother of John The Baptist, a relative to Mary, the Mother of our LORD: Elizabeth being BLESSED in her older years, with this son, whom was destined to set the stage for the unfolding of the MOST BEAUTIFUL GIFT ever known, the GIFT of LOVE, and, Salvation for ALL Mankind, IF they so should choose to be Saved, and Mary being BLESSED with immaculate conception! Ah, the wondrous PLAN of THE LORD, our *GOD*...  

LUKE 3: 1-18... 
1/ In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias was tetrarch of Abilene, 
2/ during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the desert. 
3/ He went throughout (the) whole region of the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, 

4/ as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah: "A voice of one crying out in the desert: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths. 
5/ Every valley shall be filled and every mountain and hill shall be made low. The winding roads shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth, 
6/ and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.'

HAPPY MONDAY:)))

It was LONG weekend for many of us, and now, Monday!!! But, we ARE UP to it:))) Have a most awesome, and, inspired day, and, thank THE LORD for the gift of this day! MAKE it a great one!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

MONDAY'S MEDITATIONS: THE REASON FOR THE SEASON; LOVE ♥♥♥

Well, Thanksgiving week is past, now we gravitate into Advent, or, the celebration of the birth of our LORD, CHRIST JESUS, my 2ND favourite HOLYday! Easter is my absolute favourite, though, CHRISTmas is nose to nose with it:)))

This is the season of the celebration of THE GREATEST GIFT of LOVE, ever known, or, imagined! The GIFT of CHRIST, our LORD! Thus, it is only fitting that we celebrate HIM, BY coming closer to a true understanding of LOVE, and, to living, hourly, in LOVE!!!

There are many facets to LOVE, yet, only one origin, *GOD*, or, HOLINESS! In order for the various facets of LOVE to work in our lives, it is necessary to understand HIM, HOLINESS, and, the inner-workings of this BLESSED LOVE! It is helpful to devour THE WORD in entirety, from beginning to end, to pick up on HIS LOVE, and to, gain understanding of HOW to apply HIS HOLY LOVE to our lives! Also, memorizing 1 CORINTHIANS 13, aids greatly, for there is imperative principle, therein! The GREATEST TRUTH in existence IS: LOVE NEVER FAILS, so, IF we can grasp the meaning of this one TRUTH, we are well on our way to living in the LOVE HE requires of us!!!

SUNDAY'S SACRED SCRIPTURES: PSALM 100...

PSALM 100... 
1/ A psalm of thanksgiving. Shout joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; 
2/ worship the LORD with cries of gladness; come before him with joyful song. 
3/ Know that the LORD is God, our maker to whom we belong, whose people we are, God's well-tended flock. 
4/ Enter the temple gates with praise, its courts with thanksgiving. Give thanks to God, bless his name; 
5/ good indeed is the LORD, Whose love endures forever, whose faithfulness lasts through every age.

WITHOUT BEGINNING, WITHOUT END; THE GIFT THAT KEEPS GIVING...

As our LOVE for THE LORD deepens, it intensifies, then, inspires us to please HIM; no longer, an effort, instead, a pleasure!!!

When we LOVE, for REAL, there is NO effort in that LOVE; all within it, has rhythm, and, rhyme, pulse, and, beat, synchronicity, and, wholeness! This applies to our LOVE for HIM, for others, and, ALL in HIS CREATION! LOVE is SELFLESS, and, PURELY from the core of the being! When LOVE is from the spirit, it has no expectation in moving forth of itself, instead, is fulfilled BY moving forth of itself! A gift from THE LORD, then, from within, freely shared with ALL, and, EVERYTHING, for the sake of good, FOR, and, TO HIS GLORY, which ends again, with us, as we come into eternity...

IF we could REALLY become one with LOVE, HOLINESS would follow suit, because LOVE is ALL things just, right, good, and, wholesome!!!

ENJOY THE WEEKEND:)))

Wishing you a perfectly lovely, and, wonderful weekend! I have been SO busy, I am exhausted, but, this is only the beginning, all the way through the HOLYdays!!! Sometimes exhaustion is good, so, I am running on that mentality! However, I AM going to get some rest today, yep, I AM!!!

Take care, keep THE LORD as the preeminence of your life, as your breath, as your source, provision, strength, and, comfort; HE IS ALL that, and, much, much, much more! THANK HIM, PRAISE HIM, WORSHIP HIM, and, HONOUR HIM, WITH your best!!!

Get some rest, relax, have some wholesome fun, and, just BE for a while! MUCH LOVE, *GOD* BLESS and BE with us ALL, and, may this time renew you, in many ways!!! OXOXOX

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

SATURDAY'S SOUNDNESS: *GOD'S* WISDOM & POWER...

JOB 38... 
1/ Then the LORD addressed Job out of the storm and said:
2/ Who is this that obscures divine plans with words of ignorance? 
3/ Gird up your loins now, like a man; I will question you, and you tell me the answers! 

4/ Where were you when I founded the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding.  
5/ Who determined its size; do you know? Who stretched out the measuring line for it? 
6/ Into what were its pedestals sunk, and who laid the cornerstone, 
7/ While the morning stars sang in chorus and all the sons of God shouted for joy? 
8/ And who shut within doors the sea, when it burst forth from the womb; 
9/ When I made the clouds its garment and thick darkness its swaddling bands? 
10/ When I set limits for it and fastened the bar of its door, 
11/ And said: Thus far shall you come but no farther, and here shall your proud waves be stilled!

LET US ALWAYS LEARN, THAT WE ALWAYS GROW IN HIM!!!

 One good reason that we are instructed by THE LORD, to learn principle, ethics, morals, virtues, and, other rightful behaviours, is that, when we are acting in *GODLY* ways, manners, dispositions, and, character, we are with power to HEAL others! For instance, a broken, suffering, Child, can be shown through LOVE, and, sound character, THE LORD, and, the good in this life! Same with a broken Adult! You see, LOVE, and it's intrinsic effects, ARE able to reach even the most lost, the most hurt, the most alone, the most suffering!!!

Now, as a person DEVELOPS a rightful spirit, and, character, they are INCLINED to reach out to others! It is innately one with goodness! So, from just one, spirals forth, wholesome restoration, for others in their path! I have seen this TRUTH, and, have experienced it, from both sides!!!

THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS: GIVING THANKS, ALWAYS...

1 CHRONICLES 29: 11-13... 
11/ "Yours, O LORD, are grandeur and power, majesty, splendor, and glory. For all in heaven and on earth is yours; yours, O LORD, is the sovereignty; you are exalted as head over all. 
12/ "Riches and honor are from you, and you have dominion over all. In your hand are power and might; it is yours to give grandeur and strength to all. 
13/ Therefore, our God, we give you thanks and we praise the majesty of your name."

Thank YOU, LORD for YOU ALONE, ARE AUTHOR, and, CREATOR of ALL, and, EVERYTHING, and, YOUR people are aware of YOUR hand in ALL that comes forth in this life! We PRAISE, WORSHIP, and, GLORIFY YOUR HOLY name, with gratitude, and, REJOICING, for YOU ARE THE LORD, *GOD* ALMIGHTY, full of LOVE, generosity, compassion, and, unending care for us, YOUR Children! BLESS YOU, LORD, and, PRAISE YOU, for ALL eternity!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING, WITH LOVE!!!

To those who celebrate Thanksgiving, I wish you, and, yours, a most joyous celebration!!!

Thanksgiving is full of traditions; from the Feast to football, shopping, and, all in between! It is a time for Family, Friends, and, other LOVED ones to share the bounty, and, to PRAISE THE LORD for ALL HE has bestowed upon us!!!

This is the kick-off for the CHRISTmas season, and, LOTS of people rush out, on Thanksgiving, after the feasting, to begin the task of finding affordable gifts for everyone on their list! MANY people have been camping out ALL week long, waiting to be the first in the stores, hoping to grab the best specials available, hardy souls they are!!!

Yep, Thanksgiving is full of tradition, and, holds something special for everyone!!!

May you continue to receive the BLESSINGS of THE LORD, in your heart, in your spirit, and, in your lives! May you continue to please HIM, and to, raise UP to HIM, HIS due GLORY, PRAISE, and, WORSHIP! I wish you well, I wish you happiness, I wish you PEACE, I wish you enough, and, I leave you with the sincerity of my LOVE!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING OXOXOXOX

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

THANK YOU, FATHER, for the food which, we are about to receive, from YOUR own hand! May this food grant us well-being, health, and, sustainment! THANK YOU for YOUR endless gifts of bounty, and, YOUR MERCIFUL, and, GRACIOUS presence in our lives! THANK YOU for those we share these gifts with, and, for the LOVE we share them with! THANK YOU for this day, and, all therein, we are most BLESSED by YOUR LOVE! And please, dear FATHER, forget not those who are suffering at this time, may they be filled, warm, and, find YOUR LOVE, to carry them through! In the name of CHRIST JESUS of Nazareth, we THANK THEE, BLESS THEE, PRAISE THEE, and, WORSHIP THEE, forevermore! AMEN!!!

THANKSGIVING: I AM GRATEFUL FOR THIS TIME!!!

Today, the day before Thanksgiving, I am grateful for this time! I thank THE LORD that HE has allotted me this time, to work the spirit, so, I will realize my rightful inheritance! THANK YOU, LORD!!!

Time used, is way different than it was, in days gone by! People have all sorts of conveniences, granting them more time, and, we have tons of ways, at our fingertips, to use this time! I, personally, was ADDICTED to the Internet, and, Social Networking for about 10 years, and, areas of my development, and, life, suffered! So, last year, I decided to give up certain aspects of the 'Net, like Facebook, because it was a vacuum, eating up my time, and, it wasn't giving much in return! I decided to prioritize my time, according to where my focus lies, which, lies in *GOD* foremost, then, in improving the spirit! So, I am grateful for HIS guidance towards using my time, more effectively, thus, more efficiently! PRAISE YOU, LORD!!!

Yes, I am SO grateful for this day, because, IF *GOD* had not found me worthy, I would not be here, in the first place, let alone, to work my spirit FOR, and, TO HIS GLORY, as death has knocked on the door of my soul more than several times in my life! HALLELUJAH, THANK YOU, LORD!!!

This moment is PRECIOUS! It is worthy of the best of my intentions, and, use, especially, FOR HIM, and, HIS WILL, thus, I celebrate the moments with HIM as the center of my attention, then, moving forth with HIM as my guide, and, I am FEELING the improvements!!!

PRAISE, AND, WORSHIP THE LORD, OUR *GOD*, for HE, ALONE, HAS brought forth ALL, and, EVERYTHING, be they for lessons, strength, courage, HOPE, or REJOICING; HE, ALONE IS giver of what we need!!!

Now, back to work, I go:)))

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

WE ARE BETTER THAN THE THINGS WE DO...

It pains me deep inside, to see, read, or hear,
Of the events of the day, be they, far, or near,
Because, I believe we are better than the things we do,
I KNOW what THE TRUTH can overcome, and, lead us to...

Within us, lies a LOVE, incorruptible,
Which, the enemy shrouds, but, it IS visible;
We only have to stop, and consider,
WHY we CHOOSE to live, in conditions, wrong and bitter...

This LOVE, buried beneath the world's lies,
Has MUCH more power, than the collective span of all before our eyes,
And, in it's nature, there exists everything we need, or, hope for,
With the ALMIGHTY inclination, to bestow upon us, even more...

I understand that, many things are the way they are, to cause us to lose heart,
So, we will, from what is good, what is right, depart;
I will NEVER give up HOPE for what I KNOW, lives inside of humanity,
THE LORD, HIMSELF, planted it there, you see...

For SURE, we ARE better than the things we do,
This IS a fact, and, remains true;
Let us PRAY that the blindness caused from deception, falls like scales from our eyes,
That, we come full circle to the joyous PEACE of LOVE, which oppression, denies...

Dear FATHER, who ART in HEAVEN, let us FIND THE WAY,
Through the obscurity of this day;
Lead us with YOUR LOVING GRACE,
As, the REALITY of LOVE, we DO, finally, and deeply, embrace...

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

WEDNESDAY'S WISDOM: EXHORTATION TO PREPAREDNESS...

2 PETER 3: 10-18... 
10/ But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a mighty roar and the elements will be dissolved by fire, and the earth and everything done on it will be found out. 
11/ Since everything is to be dissolved in this way, what sort of persons ought (you) to be, conducting yourselves in holiness and devotion, 
12/ waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved in flames and the elements melted by fire. 
13/ But according to his promise we await new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.

14/ Therefore, beloved, since you await these things, be eager to be found without spot or blemish before him, at peace. 
15/ And consider the patience of our Lord as salvation, as our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, also wrote to you, 
16/ speaking of these things as he does in all his letters. In them there are some things hard to understand that the ignorant and unstable distort to their own destruction, just as they do the other scriptures. 
17/ Therefore, beloved, since you are forewarned, be on your guard not to be led into the error of the unprincipled and to fall from your own stability. 
18/ But grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory now and to the day of eternity. (Amen.)

 The second coming of Christ and the judgment of the world are the doctrinal bases for the moral exhortation to readiness through vigilance and a virtuous life; cf Matthew 24:42, 50-51; Luke 12:40; 1 Thes 5:1-11; Jude 1:20-21. To avoid the dangers of error and loss of stability, Christians are forewarned to be on guard and to grow in grace and knowledge (2 Peter 1:2) of Christ.

MAY THE LORD OF PEACE HIMSELF, GIVE YOU PEACE AT ALL TIMES, AND, IN EVERY WAY. THE LORD BE WITH ALL OF YOU (2 THESSALONIANS 3: 16)!!!

EVERY single day in this life, things happen, even worsen; prophecies are being fulfilled, and, truths are being divulged, WHICH, has been happening since the earliest peoples!!!

WHAT can we do? PRAY, PRAISE, WORSHIP, and, move closer to our ROCK, our FORTRESS, our DELIVERER, while, doing what good we can, and, remaining steadfast in FAITH, and, FAITHFULNESS, despite the quivers of the oppressor!!!

Read JAMES 1...

We must deal with what is at hand, remembering that ALL things are working for the good, for those who LOVE HIM, and, FOR HIS GLORY! The tactics of the evil one are inexhaustible, thus, we must move through, around, and, over them, IN SOLID, UNFALTERING FAITH, HOPE, LOVE, and, TRUST!!!

THANKSGIVING: SO GRATEFUL FOR THE LORD!!!

Today, I am grateful to THE LORD, for embedding in me, sense, and, sensibility, as these HAVE played a role in my discernment between the wrongs, and, rights, the lies, and, THE TRUTHS, the deception, and, the REALITY of my existence in this time! PRAISE YOU, LORD, for LOVING me enough to spare, and, save me, while, bending me, shaping me, molding me, and, forming me, into even the slightest semblance of worth, that YOU are GLORIFIED!!!

Yes, I wandered around for many years, lost, and, obstructed, though my deeply rooted sense, and, sensibility CONVINCED me that this was NOT my lot, and so, I KEPT searching through the heaviness of darkness, FOR THE LIGHT, KNOWING it WAS ever closer, NEVER being overtaken by what was working hard to bind me! THANK YOU, LORD!!!

I SAW, and, experienced the world, and, could have been ruined, but, the sense, and, sensibility, placed in my spirit, by the hand of THE LORD, TOLD me there was reason for this misadventure, yet, was NOT to be considered as the end fact of my life! OH, HOW I APPRECIATE YOU, LORD!!!

If I had never been through the maze of evil, it is possible I would not be so SURE of THE LIGHT! Like too many others, I would have nothing to measure the drastic differences between falsehood, and, TRUTH! THANK THE LORD, for HIS WISDOM, for this is the insight TO REALITY!!!

Yes, I have BEEN through the stark, dark valley of death, HOWEVER, was LED by the ALMIGHTY hand of THE LORD, FOR HIS own purpose, and, GLORY! Thus, I WORSHIP HIM, EXALT HIM, and, REJOICE IN HIS LOVE, forever, and more, in the sincerity, and, best of my abilities!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

TUESDAY'S THOUGHTS: FOR THE LOVE OF *GOD*!!!

1 JOHN 2: 15-17... 
15/ Do not love the world or the things of the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 
16/ For all that is in the world, sensual lust, enticement for the eyes, and a pretentious life, is not from the Father but is from the world. 
17/ Yet the world and its enticement are passing away. But whoever does the will of God remains forever.

 The world: all that is hostile toward God and alienated from him. Love of the world and love of God are thus mutually exclusive... 

Sensual lust: literally, "the lust of the flesh," inordinate desire for physical gratification. Enticement for the eyes: literally, "the lust of the eyes," avarice or covetousness; the eyes are regarded as the windows of the soul. Pretentious life: literally, "pride of life," arrogance or ostentation in one's earthly style of life that reflects a willful independence from God and others.

TODAY IS THE DAY: SPIRITUAL RICHES, OR, SPIRITUAL BANKRUPTCY!!!

If tomorrow never comes, today is the final analysis of the truth of my heart, my choices, my life...

Today is the day I can strive to gather worldly riches, which includes pursuing pleasures of the flesh, or, spiritual ones; if I choose worldly riches, I stand in spiritual bankruptcy, and, have no one to blame but myself...

It isn't that I won't trip, stumble, or fall, in this day, I very well, may, because the crafty one does not like me, well, my allegiance to THE LORD; instead it is that I SEEK what is right, and, TRY to improve, and, that I ALWAYS arise after the fall...

Each day IS an opportunity to correct what needs correcting, and, to come closer to THE LORD! Each day IS an opportunity to serve HIM, and, others! Each day IS THE DAY that counts!!!

We have a strange tendency to take time for granted, when, we know NOT the length of our days! Why we do this, probably finds it's base in deception! So many have the belief that what they do with this time, is NOT imperative to THE DAY of THE LORD, but, according to Scripture, it IS! THE LORD is not seeking cold, nor, lukewarm spirits to share eternity with, HE is seeking the sincere, the devout, the principled, those who have SEEN, despite the heavy shroud, THE LIGHT, THE TRUTH, THE WAY, in MORE than casual acceptance, or understanding! HE is seeking those who KNOW their TRUE self, the spirit, understanding the meaning of serving HIM, and others, through the TRUTH of LOVE, and, have gone the distance to improvement, and, development, IN HIS example!!!

THE YEAR OF FAITH...

Pope Benedict XVI has proclaimed a Year of FAITH, beginning October 11, 2012, and, concluding on November 24, 2013, the feast of CHRIST THE KING!!!

I am not Catholic, yet, I believe that ALL Christians might make this year a year of FAITH, and, I don't believe in segregation in the Churches of FAITH! After all, FAITH is the foundation of Christianity! And, the deeper our FAITH, the more we reflect HIM! FAITH has many attributes, which we will delve into in the course of this year!!!

FAITH is to be made perfect, much more than the casual FAITH so many have! FAITH is more than a product of HIS Saving GRACE, it is a way of life; a life which, GLORIFIES HIM, at ALL times, and, can open to a more fulfilled living experience!!!

In FAITH we are more inclined, and, prepared to resist the evil one, his tactics, and, his ambushes! Come the day of *GOD*, the deceiver will assail those of FAITH with unrelenting viciousness, as he fights to take away from THE LORD, what is HIS!!!

In coming posts, throughout this year, we will dig deeper into the security, and, usefulness of spirit deep FAITH!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

MONDAY'S MEDITATIONS: GRATITUDE OPENS 'UP' TO MORE!!!

I believe each of us, no matter our circumstances, have much to be thankful for! I believe that gratitude opens UP to a more BLESSED life! I believe that contentment frees the spirit, in many ways, especially from the weight of need, and, corruption! I believe that we should put forth as much effort as is feasible, towards improving our lives, and, our spirits, while, relying on THE LORD!!!

I am grateful for each gift of a day, as, it is from THE LORD! I pray that I can honour HIM in each day, because HE HAS been SO generous, in SO many ways!!!

Next, I am grateful for the people in my life; those who are here to stay, those who were passing through, and then, gone, those dearly departed, and, those yet to come, for EACH has added to the bounty of my heart, and, soul! More than any of these people realize they have brought something very imperative to the development of my spirit, be their contribution right, or wrong!!!

Thanksgiving week is more than a feast of pleasure, it is a rod of measure! A rod that should be dipped into the soul, in retrospective reflection, that we KNOW for sure, just how much we HAVE to be thankful for!!!

PRAISE, and, WORSHIP THE LORD, our *GOD*, for HIS tireless generosity, and, continued presence in our lives; HIS LOVE IS heartwarming, and, everlasting!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

WITH YOUR 'WHOLE' HEART, STAND 'IN' THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD, YOUR *GOD*!!!

Have you ever wondered what *GOD* means when HE says that people stand afar from HIM???

We have some insight into this from ISAIAH 29:13, MATTHEW 15: 8-9, MARK 7: 6-7, COLOSSIANS 2: 22, and, even more!
ISAIAH 29: 13...
The Lord said: Since this people draws near with words only and honors me with their lips alone, though their hearts are far from me, And their reverence for me has become routine observance of the precepts of men,

IF *GOD* is NOT the pulse of your time, if HE is not revered, prayed to, or, given the respect, and regard, of HIS absolute presence, and, provision in our lives, we are standing far from HIM! IF we do not believe that HIS hand IS in EVERYTHING, we are denying HIM! IF we do not give HIM credit for ALL, and, EVERYTHING, we are incomplete in our belief of HIM!!!

SUNDAY'S SACRED SCRIPTURES: THANKSGIVING WEEK; THANKFUL FOR HIS LOVE!!!

This week, we begin Thanksgiving week; a time of tradition, to reflect, and, count our BLESSINGS! A week to be grateful, and, appreciative for the endlessness of THE LORD'S provisions to us!!!

HIS LOVE is the greatest BLESSING, for it has provided for us, since the beginning, and will, throughout eternity! In this LOVE, HE gave us THE WAY, THE LIGHT, THE TRUTH, THE BODY, THE CHURCH, CHRIST, our LORD, JESUS, along with eternal inheritance to HIS KINGDOM!!!

It is LOVE that has provided ALL things for us, and, that LOVE will carry us beyond this life, into more BLESSINGS than we could imagine, or, hope for! SO GREAT is THE LORD'S LOVE for us, SO VERY GREAT!!!

DEUTERONOMY 7: 9...
Understand, then, that the LORD, your God, is God indeed, the faithful God who keeps his merciful covenant down to the thousandth generation toward those who love him and keep his commandments,

TRUST HIS DIVINE PLAN...

From the beginning, until this very moment, what has happened, is working according to DIVINE plan! And yes, within it, lots of it is bad, wrong, painful...

But, we must understand that certain things HAVE to happen, in order for THE LORD'S WILL to be accomplished! Throughout THE WORD, HE speaks of having put HIS SPIRIT into people to make them act in ways, which WILL lead them to fulfilling a greater purpose, than the suffering their actions inflicted! ALL things work FOR the GOOD of *GOD*, even IF they seem senseless, and, overwhelming to those who are in line with this fact!!!

THE GRACIOUS CHRISTIAN...

A serious Christian is like an energy; exuding POSITIVITY, wholesomeness, goodness, and, LOVE! They should be able to develop rapport with anyone in this life, never being over-bearing, intimidating, callous, crass, nor aggressive! They should be kind, gentle, patience, tolerant, understanding, and, all things which encourage others, or, put them at ease! They should be able to spend time in the company of non-believers, without creating dissension, discord, or hostility! They should be able to tear down the walls of differences, with their behaviours, manners, and, characters, for they are to be patterned after THE LORD!!!

A mature Christian should be able to journey with non-believers, and, leave a lasting impression; the impression of THE LORD! Never should they imply that they are better, more righteous, nor any other behaviour seeming self-assuming! We are simply, to reflect HIM, THROUGH our understanding, and, growth, that, there MIGHT be greater understanding, and, direction for those who are not in HIM!!!

SATURDAY'S SOUNDNESS: THE POWER OF *GOD'S* PROMISE...

2 PETER 1: 3-12...
3/ His divine power has bestowed on us everything that makes for life and devotion, through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and power. 
4/ Through these, he has bestowed on us the precious and very great promises, so that through them you may come to share in the divine nature, after escaping from the corruption that is in the world because of evil desire. 
5/ For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, virtue with knowledge, 
6/ knowledge with self-control, self-control with endurance, endurance with devotion, 
7/ devotion with mutual affection, mutual affection with love. 
8/ If these are yours and increase in abundance, they will keep you from being idle or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 
9/ Anyone who lacks them is blind and shortsighted, forgetful of the cleansing of his past sins. 
10/ Therefore, brothers, be all the more eager to make your call and election firm, for, in doing so, you will never stumble. 
11/ For, in this way, entry into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ will be richly provided for you. 
12/ Therefore, I will always remind you of these things, even though you already know them and are established in the truth you have.

Christian life in its fullness is a gift of divine power effecting a knowledge of Christ and the bestowal of divine promises (2 Peter 3:4, 9). To share in the divine nature, escaping from a corrupt world, is a thought found elsewhere in the Bible but expressed only here in such Hellenistic terms, since it is said to be accomplished through knowledge (2 Peter 1:3); cf 2 Peter 1:2; 2:20; but see also John 15:4; 17:22-23; Romans 8:14-17; Hebrews 3:14; 1 John 1:3; 3:2. 

Note the climactic gradation of qualities (2 Peter 1:5-7), beginning with faith and leading to the fullness of Christian life, which is love; 

Perseverance in the Christian vocation is the best preventative against losing it and the safest provision for attaining its goal, the kingdom.

TIME IS, OH SO PRECIOUS, WORK IT FOR THE LORD'S GLORY!!!

Several times a week, I go to visit with the Elderly, particularly, Dementia, and, Alzheimer's patients, in a Retirement/Nursing home, which, has had some profound effects upon me, to say the least!!!

I have been working with the Elderly for a decade now, and, have been enlightened through them, in many ways! Today, growing old, is nothing like it was back in the day, partly because of Insurance companies, and, other factors, which, places many of these people in circumstances they are not willing to deal with, in which case, takes much of the joy away from their final days in this life, and, even shortens their remaining time...

PRAISE THE LORD FOR WEEKENDS!!!

ECCLESIASTES 2: 24-25... 
24/ There is nothing better for man than to eat and drink and provide himself with good things by his labors. Even this, I realized, is from the hand of God. 
25/ For who can eat or drink apart from him?

PSALM 118: 24-29... 
24/ This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice in it and be glad. 
25/ LORD, grant salvation! LORD, grant good fortune! 
26/ Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD. We bless you from the LORD'S house. 
27/ The LORD is God and has given us light. Join in procession with leafy branches up to the horns of the altar. 
28/ You are my God, I give you thanks; my God, I offer you praise. 
29/ Give thanks to the LORD, who is good, whose love endures forever.

JEREMIAH 29: 11-14... 
11/ For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare, not for woe! plans to give you a future full of hope. 
12/ When you call me, when you go to pray to me, I will listen to you. 
13/ When you look for me, you will find me. Yes, when you seek me with all your heart, 
14/ you will find me with you, says the LORD, and I will change your lot; I will gather you together from all the nations and all the places to which I have banished you, says the LORD, and bring you back to the place from which I have exiled you.

PSALM 98: 4-9... 
4/ Shout with joy to the LORD, all the earth; break into song; sing praise. 
5/ Sing praise to the LORD with the harp, with the harp and melodious song. 
6/ With trumpets and the sound of the horn shout with joy to the King, the LORD. 
7/ Let the sea and what fills it resound, the world and those who dwell there. 
8/ Let the rivers clap their hands, the mountains shout with them for joy, 
9/ Before the LORD who comes, who comes to govern the earth, To govern the world with justice and the peoples with fairness.

YAH BABY, IT IS FRIDAY:)))

Well, it is Friday! PRAISE THE LORD!!! We made it through another week, hopefully, with ease, some sanity, and, some good notes!!!

This weekend kicks off the BUSY time for me! Thanksgiving is nearly here, and, I have LOTS to do between now, and, CHRISTmas Eve! I am a bit ahead of the game, but, it is always busy, nonetheless, still, that is partly, what makes the season go by faster! We are almost into that dreary, cold, Winter mode, and, the festivities keep us from feeling the blahs!!!

SPEND WHAT REMAINS OF ONE'S LIFE, ON THE WILL OF *GOD*!!!

1 PETER 4: 1-2...
1/ Therefore, since Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same attitude (for whoever suffers in the flesh has broken with sin),
2/ so as not to spend what remains of one's life in the flesh on human desires, but on the will of God.

Willingness to suffer with Christ equips the Christian with the power to conquer sin... 

The work of a Christian is twofold—doing the will of God and suffering his pleasure. This chapter directs us in both. The duties we are here exhorted to employ ourselves in are the mortification of sin, living to God, sobriety, prayer, charity, hospitality, and the best improvement of our talents, which the apostle presses upon Christians from the consideration of the time they have lost in their sins, and the approaching end of all things... 

The people of THE LORD, ought to be very busy! Busy studying, learning, embracing, understanding, and, utilizing the instructions which, optimize our lives, and, further the maturity of the spirit! Busy PRAYING for others! Busy THANKING, PRAISING, and, WORSHIPING THE LORD, our *GOD*! Busy BEING HIS reflection in the darkness! Busy grabbing those on the down-slide! Yes, BUSY IN HIS WILL, and, HIS WAYS!!!

THURSDAY'S TRIUMPHS: OH YAH, I CHOOSE THE JOY OF POSITIVITY!!!

 

If I could compile a list of all the negative words in existence, A - Z, which would be thousands, for sure; this would be a guide of ways that deception works in us, and, every time we noticed one of these in our character, or behaviour, we would be reminded that we are not acting in *GOD*!!!

Of course, then we would have to add the negative feeling words, and, the list would be even longer!!!

Some of the negative words of this life are stress, distress, discord, dissatisfaction, anger, arrogance, broken, closed-minded, selfish, impatient, and, so on! These are simply words, but, open up to discovering the MANY imperfections we weigh the TRUE self, the spirit, down with! These descriptors are indications of our egocentric, carnal being, yet having power over the TRUE self, the spirit, which CHRIST has told us to rid of, for HE, though scorned, rejected, abused, ridiculed, thrashed, beaten, and, nailed to the cross, NEVER resorted to ANY negative reaction, instead, HE RELIED upon THE WILL OF *GOD*, to overcome, and, be victorious OVER such!!!

What am I getting at? We are raised in the negatives of this world, more than we know, until we begin to peel off the carnal self, and, stand in the spirit! Don't forget, these negative inclinations include opposition to virtues, morals, ethics, integrity, and more; not that we are without these, but that, they are not brought to the LIGHT of their powerful potentials, leaving our lives more negative than POSITIVE!!!

Now, on the other hand, ALL that is OF *GOD*/CHRIST, is POSITIVE, just, right, whole, good, and, pure! So, the words from the aspect of this stance, are all enhancing, inspiring, building UP the being, encouraging, fortifying, strengthening, healing, healthy, optimizing, and, so on! THIS list is the list we should be most familiar with, since these words incline us in a affirmative LIGHT, and, which FREE the being!!! 

In a study, it was proven that negative words dominate our language, regardless of age, or culture! A test was done in Mexico City, and, Chicago; the group in Mexico City in the 20's, and, the group in Chicago in their 60's! BOTH groups, were asked to compile a list of words expressing emotions, and, BOTH groups had the same outcome; 50% of their words were negative, 30% were positive, and, 20% were neutral! There is, of course, some sound psychological reasoning for this, but, it is kind of negative too, stating that people are likely to express negative words for emotions, due to survival, and, our quality of life may be at stake... Hmmmn, interesting...

I WILL NEVER FORSAKE YOU, OR ABANDON YOU...

HEBREWS 13: 5-6... 
5/ Let your life be free from love of money but be content with what you have, for he has said, "I will never forsake you or abandon you." 
6/ Thus we may say with confidence: "The Lord is my helper, (and) I will not be afraid. What can anyone do to me?"

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary: 
The design of Christ in giving himself for us, is, that he may purchase to himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works; and true religion is the strongest bond of friendship. 

Here are earnest exhortations to several Christian duties, especially contentment. The sin opposed to this grace and duty is covetousness, an over-eager desire for the wealth of this world, with envy of those who have more than ourselves. Having treasures in heaven, we may be content with mean things here. 

Those who cannot be so, would not be content though God raised their condition. Adam was in paradise, yet not contented; some angels in heaven were not contented; but the apostle Paul, though abased and empty, had learned in every state, in any state, to be content. 

Christians have reason to be contented with their present lot. This promise contains the sum and substance of all the promises; "I will never, no, never leave thee, no, never forsake thee." In the original there are no less than five negatives put together, to confirm the promise: the true believer shall have the gracious presence of God with him, in life, at death, and for ever. Men can do nothing against God, and God can make all that men do against his people, to turn to their good.

WEDNESDAY'S WISDOM: HEBREWS 12: 25-29...

HEBREWS 12: 25-29... 
25/ See that you do not reject the one who speaks. For if they did not escape when they refused the one who warned them on earth, how much more in our case if we turn away from the one who warns from heaven. 
26/ His voice shook the earth at that time, but now he has promised, "I will once more shake not only earth but heaven." 
27/ That phrase, "once more," points to (the) removal of shaken, created things, so that what is unshaken may remain. 
28/ Therefore, we who are receiving the unshakable kingdom should have gratitude, with which we should offer worship pleasing to God in reverence and awe. 
29/ For our God is a consuming fire.

*GOD* WILL PROVIDE FOR YOU!!!

One of the most misconstrued messages? *GOD* will provide for you! Many of us tend to think that this means that HE will lavish us with worldly riches, and yes, in some cases, HE has done so! Many imagine that the message, 'Seek first the KINGDOM of *GOD*, and, HE will add to you', means that HE will shower down worldly goods! This is an area that needs MUCH consideration, because, as I have said repeatedly, *GOD* IS NOT a genie, a wizard, a magician, a wish box, or, anything less than what HE IS, THE ALMIGHTY *GOD*!!!

Yes, this is an area of great difficulty for believers! We also, misunderstand what HE means by riches, in the first place! HE is GENERALLY, speaking of spiritual riches, the ones that will safeguard us to our arrival in HIS KINGDOM!!!

And, of course, for those who are in dire straits, homeless, starving, and, otherwise without, find HOPE in believing that HE will lavish them, which, is fine, to some degree, but, is motivated by need, not from understanding. You see, IF the world lived in the LOVE HE COMMANDS of us, there would be NO such suffering, for ALL would be provided for! The Christian Comm'UNITY' was instructed in this matter, well, and, frequently, as found in MATTHEW 6: 24, MATTHEW 19: 21, LUKE 16: 10-13, ACTS 4: 32-35, ACTS 20:35, 1 TIMOTHY 6: 17-19; in fact, from GENESIS all the way through THE WORD, we are reminded, again, and again, to CARE for the poor, the Fatherless, the orphaned, the widowed! So, you see, much of the blame is on us!!!

TUESDAY'S THOUGHTS: PRIDE, THE THIEF OF GLORY!!!

Where does GLORY derive from? From THE LORD, our *GOD*! ALL GLORY is HIS, of which, we bask in! There is no room for vainglory in HIS GLORY, because we understand that ALL GLORY IS HIS, and, the glories we receive, are OF HIM, in the moment, and, ever-after...

Vainglory is from the natural plane, and, is always fleeting, without lasting! It is of the world, and, belongs to the world, fully optimized by the enemy, the oppressor, the deceiver, who knows just HOW to rob us of the very spirit *GOD* has given to us, FOR, and, TO HIS GLORY!!!

*GOD* detests our pride, which once used, has the power to increase, until we, the TRUE self, the spirit, are trapped beneath the puffed egocentric being! Most of our err/sin, derives from pride, though, is totally against the WILL of THE LORD! Thus, we are told to humble ourselves, and to realize, that we are nothing without HIM! HE IS THE AUTHOR, and, CREATOR of ALL in existence, and, no matter what we can do, it is not our ingenuity at work, it is HIM, HIS movement, and, gifts in our lives, THAT HIS WILL be done!!!

OH, HOW I LOVE THE LORD, MY *GOD*!!!

How I LOVE THE LORD! HE is the heart of my soul,
Only with HIM, can I be fully whole!
Each day I awake, HE is first on my mind,
At night, I whisper more thanks to HIM, as I leave all else behind...

Nothing in this world, has touched me, as has HE,
From HIM, comes the HOPE for what will be;
In HIS companionship, I flourish as never before,
And I shall, forever, and, more...

It wasn't always this way,
I faced many a dark, cold day,
But, after lessons had been taught,
Into HIS MIGHT, I was caught...

HE threw me to my knees, and, humbled me, right there,
Since, wondrously, with me, HE does share,
The TRUTH of HIS LIGHT, HIS WAY, HIS WILL,
In me, HIS LOVE, does exceedingly, overspill...

Grateful am I for HIS having picked me up from the depths,
HE, alone, knows the many tears I have wept;
Thus, to PRAISE, and, WORSHIP HIS HOLY name, constantly,
Is a great, and, awesome honour, for me...

REV. LWINSOR © 2012