THURSDAY'S TRIUMPHS: SELF-CONTROL!!!

HAPPY NOVEMBER! This month, we are going to delve into the depths of self-control, that, we are ALWAYS, acting according TO HIS WILL!!!

KEY to self-control, for the devout: ALWAYS consider *GOD*, BEFORE you act, or, react! IF we KEEP HIM at the forefront of our thoughts, the rest is optimized, because, we will REMEMBER what is pleasing in HIS sight, and, we must never forget, HIS sight is everywhere!!!

Self-control does NOT come easily to us; while we are raised in some self-control, we are raised from the egocentric realm, which, interferes with our control, as the egocentric being has LOTS of needs it WANTS fulfilled! So, we NEED to truly, understand HOW to master self-control, that we are EVER HONOURING, and, GLORIFYING *GOD*/CHRIST, in letter, and, deed! One of the reasons it is difficult is because of society, and, social standards, yet, society, and, social standards, unless aligned to *GOD*/CHRIST, should NOT have bearing on our thoughts, actions, and, reactions, for we live NOT for the world, but for HIM!!!

To master self-control, we need to get a handle on MANY things, such as, fear, passion, desire, anger, and, much more! Not only that, we need to understand WHY these things present such obstacles for us! So, throughout this month, we will study this imperative area, because, such is what KEEPS us in the flesh, and, removes us from *GOD*/CHRIST, even unknowingly! IF we all HAD self-control, life would be sweeter, and, the world would be a much better place!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

ALL SAINT'S DAY...

In the Catholic tradition, it is All Saint's Day!!!

All Saints' Day (in the Roman Catholic Church officially the Solemnity of All Saints and also called All Hallows or Hallowmas), often shortened to All Saints, is a solemnity celebrated on 1 November by parts of Western Christianity, and on the first Sunday after Pentecost in Eastern Christianity, in honour of all the saints, known and unknown. In the Western calendar it is the day after Halloween and the day before All Souls' Day.

In Western Christian theology, the day commemorates all those who have attained the beatific vision in Heaven. It is a national holiday in many historically Catholic countries. In the Catholic Church and many Anglican churches, the next day specifically commemorates the departed faithful who have not yet been purified and reached heaven. Christians who celebrate All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day do so in the fundamental belief that there is a prayerful spiritual bond between those in purgatory (the 'Church Suffering'), those in heaven (the 'Church triumphant'), and the living (the 'Church militant'). Other Christian traditions define, remember and respond to the saints in different ways; for example, in the Methodist Church, the word "saints" refers to all Christians and therefore, on All Saints' Day, the Church Universal, as well as the deceased members of a local congregation, are honoured and remembered...

 All Saints Day is our reminder that we are not alone. We are surrounded by “a great cloud of witnesses” who have gone before us and a vast, worldwide fellowship of believers who stand with us.

Remember, a Saint is just an ordinary person, whom had an extraordinary vision of *GOD*, and, *GODLINESS*, then, remained FAITHFUL to the end! All of *GOD'S* Children possess the potential to be Saints, and, as read above, some Doctrines declare us to be!!!

Blessed is the one who has the gumption, the audacity, and, the will to ARISE ABOVE the self, and, serve *GOD*, and, the peoples of this life!!!

LOVE ALWAYS, *GOD* BE with us, guide us, and, enable us to RISE to potential, that, we ARE the TRUE reflection of HIS HOLINESS! PEACE be with you, in the name of CHRIST, our LORD, and, SAVIOUR!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012
BIBLICAL, and/or, other references marked BOLDLY IN COLOURS

WEDNESDAY'S WISDOM: A MAN OF SUFFERING...

ISAIAH 53... 
1/ Who would believe what we have heard? To whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? 
2/ He grew up like a sapling before him, like a shoot from the parched earth; There was in him no stately bearing to make us look at him, nor appearance that would attract us to him.
3/ He was spurned and avoided by men, a man of suffering, accustomed to infirmity, One of those from whom men hide their faces, spurned, and we held him in no esteem. 

4/ Yet it was our infirmities that he bore, our sufferings that he endured, While we thought of him as stricken, as one smitten by God and afflicted. 
5/ But he was pierced for our offenses, crushed for our sins, Upon him was the chastisement that makes us whole, by his stripes we were healed. 
6/ We had all gone astray like sheep, each following his own way; But the LORD laid upon him the guilt of us all.
7/ Though he was harshly treated, he submitted and opened not his mouth; Like a lamb led to the slaughter or a sheep before the shearers, he was silent and opened not his mouth. 
8/ Oppressed and condemned, he was taken away, and who would have thought any more of his destiny? When he was cut off from the land of the living, and smitten for the sin of his people, 
9/ A grave was assigned him among the wicked and a burial place with evildoers, Though he had done no wrong nor spoken any falsehood.

10/ (But the LORD was pleased to crush him in infirmity.) If he gives his life as an offering for sin, he shall see his descendants in a long life, and the will of the LORD shall be accomplished through him. 
11/ Because of his affliction he shall see the light in fullness of days; Through his suffering, my servant shall justify many, and their guilt he shall bear. 
12/ Therefore I will give him his portion among the great, and he shall divide the spoils with the mighty, Because he surrendered himself to death and was counted among the wicked; And he shall take away the sins of many, and win pardon for their offenses. 

PRAISE HIS PRECIOUS, HOLY name, forever!!!

SUPER STORM SANDY UPDATE...

WOW! Did you read, or hear, the damage assessments from the storm? Just heart wrenching! The cost is going to be WAY higher than they imagined, which, is NOT good news for this down turned time!!! 

Sandy, no longer a hurricane, but still huge, killed at least 16 people in seven states, cut power to more than 7.4 million homes and businesses from the Carolinas to Ohio, caused scares at two nuclear power plants, and stopped the presidential campaign cold.

The good news is, not a lot of people perished, considering the magnitude, and, span of this storm; the U.S. death toll rose to 38, many of the victims killed by falling trees. Seventeen of the victims were in New York state, including 10 in New York City. The youngest one was only 8 years old! Across the Caribbean, the death toll was 69, at latest count, including an infant! In the USA, a 23 year old Woman, trying to escape the flood waters in her home, was killed by an electric wire in water. Heartfelt sympathies, and, prayers for ALL who have suffered in this monstrous storm...

MAJOR damage hit many places, right on the cusp of the Winter months! Let us pray that the efforts to restore, and, rebuild, are moved along quickly! LOTS of people had to be evacuated, even those who thought they were safe! There was an intense rescue last night, and, early today, of residents of Long Island, NY, and, Moonachie, NJ, like 1, 400, or so!!!

They are saying this a storm for the record books! Amazing how much power there is in storms, and, we have had to contend with quite a few in recent years!!!

We WILL get past this, and, recoup! We ARE resilient, and, *GOD*/CHRIST IS with us! We MUST KEEP the FAITH, and, encourage the spirit! LOOK AHEAD, and do NOT cling to what has happened, to do so is to make matters worse, and, is against FAITH!!!

Help as you can! MANY places suffered from this storm, and so, there is GREAT NEED!!!

Let us PRAY, PRAISE, and, WORSHIP! Let us STAND in FAITH, and, LOVE, that, we are continuing IN HIM! May HE BLESS us ALL, especially those who are shaken, and, suffering, from this disaster! PULL together IN HIS name, and, everything WILL be alright; different, but, it WILL be alright!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

TUESDAY'S THOUGHTS: IN TIMES OF TROUBLE, REMAIN ENCOURAGED, THE LORD 'IS' WITH YOU!!!

Remember always THE LORD is with you, if you are with HIM! When we are distressed, often HE is the last of our thoughts, but, HE MUST REMAIN the FOREFRONT of our thoughts, and, FAITH!!!

EXODUS 33: 14:
"I myself," the LORD answered, "will go along, to give you rest."

DEUTERONOMY 31: 6 & 8...
6/ Be brave and steadfast; have no fear or dread of them, for it is the LORD, your God, who marches with you; he will never fail you or forsake you." 
8/ It is the LORD who marches before you; he will be with you and will never fail you or forsake you. So do not fear or be dismayed."

PSALM 9: 10-11...
10/ The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, stronghold in times of trouble. 
11/ Those who honor your name trust in you; you never forsake those who seek you, LORD.

PSALM 16: 8-11... 
8/ I keep the LORD always before me; with the Lord at my right, I shall never be shaken. 
9/ Therefore my heart is glad, my soul rejoices; my body also dwells secure, 
10/ For you will not abandon me to Sheol, nor let your faithful servant see the pit.
11/ You will show me the path to life, abounding joy in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever.

PSALM 32: 7-8... 
7/ You are my shelter; from distress you keep me; with safety you ring me round. Selah
8/ I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk, give you counsel and watch over you.

PSALM 34: 2-10...
2/ I will bless the LORD at all times; praise shall be always in my mouth. 
3/ My soul will glory in the LORD that the poor may hear and be glad.
4/ Magnify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together. 
5/ I sought the LORD, who answered me, delivered me from all my fears. 
6/ Look to God that you may be radiant with joy and your faces may not blush for shame. 
7/ In my misfortune I called, the LORD heard and saved me from all distress.
8/ The angel of the LORD, who encamps with them, delivers all who fear God. 
9/ Learn to savor how good the LORD is; happy are those who take refuge in him. 
10/ Fear the LORD, you holy ones; nothing is lacking to those who fear him.

PSALM 46: 2-4... 
2/ God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in distress.
3/ Thus we do not fear, though earth be shaken and mountains quake to the depths of the sea, 
4/ Though its waters rage and foam and mountains totter at its surging. The LORD of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob. Selah

BE encouraged, STAND in FAITH, and, PRAISE THE LORD, our ROCK, with ALL your being! HE will NOT forsake those who cry out unto HIM, we only need to BELIEVE, and, TRUST IN HIM, OVER all else!!!

MUCH LOVE, always, and, PEACE be the strength of your FAITH!!! LOOK AHEAD!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012
BIBLICAL, and/or, other references, marked BOLDLY IN COLOURS

SUPER STORM SANDY IS FAR REACHING!!!

The super storm is reaching where I live, which is quite far from the East coast! We are getting up to 50 mile an hour winds, and, our waters are surging! It is cold too! We have been alerted that we might lose power, not fun at any time, but, when it is wet, and, cold, it is reallllllllllllly uncomfortable! But, I am thankful to *GOD* that we will not suffer as millions upon millions are, and, will! It is already estimated to be THE MOST COSTLY storm in the history of the USA! Up to 30 billion so far!!!

Have you seen the photos of what it did in Haiti, Cuba, and, other places? They got hit HARD! In Cuba, there is great destruction; RUBBLE! Haiti has been hit SO many times, and, they are so impoverished to begin with! Oh, how terrible this storm is!!!

Again, at ALL times, in ALL circumstances, PRAYER, and, petitioning TO THE LORD, our *GOD* is as opening a window to Heaven! We have to stand steadfast, endure, persevere, and, be victorious in the eye of the storm!!!

Natural disasters, devastate lives, sometimes permanently! We ALL need to understand that if we survive the disaster, this is what is most important, and, yes, I KNOW, for sure, how difficult it is to rebuild a life, but, you know as well as I do, it is not impossible, especially with *GOD*/CHRIST! We DO manage to rebuild our lives, even though it might take some time, which calls for STRONG FAITH, and, PATIENCE! It ISN'T easy, yet, we learn from this too! We become stronger, more enabled, and, more appreciative of the important things in life! We, generally, DO succeed from this point forward!!!

I hope, and, pray, those in the hardest hit areas, are safe, and, secure! I hope, and, pray you are able to turn to *GOD* in your anxiety, fear, and, distress! It is almost past, and then, life will begin anew! It might not be the same for many, but, remember, when one door closes, another is opening, just be sure to seek the opening one, and, let the closed one be closed! You CAN'T change what has happened, so, it is best to look ahead, with assurance that *GOD*/CHRIST is with you!!!

In the name of CHRIST, our LORD, BLESS you, PEACE be with you, and, may you be safe...

Let us ALL help, as we are able, SO many people are in dire need!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

WHAT CAN I DO TODAY? I CAN SERVE THE LORD, BY SERVING OTHERS...

Because I LOVE THE LORD, and, am SO grateful for HIS presence, aid, guidance, protection, and, LOVING BLESSINGS, may I HONOUR HIM each day!
Let me find actions to further elevate HIS SOVEREIGN name, and, goodness! Let me touch, if only one being, in the beauty of HIS WAY!
Lead me, LORD, to ever reflecting the wondrous lessons, which, YOU have taught me;
Ever moving me forward, with the evidence of LOVE, compassion, kindness, and, wholesomeness of YOUR WILL, for all to see!
May I be empowered, then enabled, by YOUR brilliantly radiant LIGHT,
To cut through the dark of wrong, exposing, then, encouraging what is right!
I HOPE that my footsteps leave the very impression of YOU,
That YOUR essence, fills everyone in my path, through, and, through!
Thank YOU, LORD, for being the ROCK of my every hour,
I pray that I can exemplify, adequately, the worthy benevolences of YOUR unending power;
So more, and more people find reason to PRAISE, and, WORSHIP YOUR HOLY name,
Turning, and, returning to YOU, to be renewed, restored, and, filled by YOUR SPIRIT, an everlasting flame!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

MONDAY'S MEDITATIONS: STORMS OF NATURE, STORMS OF LIFE...

Along with a 7.7 earthquake that rocked off the West coast of Canada, and, 3.9 aftershocks felt all the way down past Los Angeles, a super storm system is ready to hit the East coast of the USA, with diverse conditions, from rising waters, to high winds, to snow! Drastic preparations are being made, in advance, for the storm! Let us PRAY!!!

Storms of nature, storms of life, call for one action, UPLIFTING TO *GOD*/CHRIST! It doesn't matter the storm, they are, generally, beyond our control, expect in the midst, and, wake of them! In which case, those of FAITH, and, FAITHFULNESS, have advantage, because they RELY upon THE LORD, and, move forward, with greater ease, due to TRUST, and, BELIEF of HIS assistance, and, intervention!!!

Yes, let us PRAY! We are to pray unceasingly! Without fail! Void of the weight of obligation, instead, understanding the benefit of doing so, and, the connection TO THE ALMIGHTY LORD!!!

1 THESSALONIANS 5: 16-18... 
16/ Rejoice always. 
17/ Pray without ceasing.
18/ In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.

SUNDAY'S SACRED SCRIPTURES: HEALTH OF BODY, MIND, & SPIRIT...

SIRACH 30: 14-25... 
14/ Better a poor man strong and robust, than a rich man with wasted frame 
15/ More precious than gold is health and well-being, contentment of spirit than coral. 
16/ No treasure greater than a healthy body; no happiness, than a joyful heart! 
17/ Preferable is death to a bitter life, unending sleep to constant illness. 
18/ Dainties set before one who cannot eat are like the offerings placed before a tomb.
19/ What good is an offering to an idol that can neither taste nor smell? 
20/ So it is with the afflicted man who groans at the good things his eyes behold! 
21/ Do not give in to sadness, torment not yourself with brooding; 
22/ Gladness of heart is the very life of man, cheerfulness prolongs his days.
23/ Distract yourself, renew your courage, drive resentment far away from you; For worry has brought death to many, nor is there aught to be gained from resentment. 
24/ Envy and anger shorten one's life, worry brings on premature old age.
25/ One who is cheerful and gay while at table benefits from his food.

SIRACH 17...

SIRACH 17... 
1/ The LORD from the earth created man, and in his own image he made him.
2/ Limited days of life he gives him and makes him return to earth again. 
3/ He endows man with a strength of his own, and with power over all things else on earth.
4/ He puts the fear of him in all flesh, and gives him rule over beasts and birds.
5/ He forms men's tongues and eyes and ears, and imparts to them an understanding heart.
6/ With wisdom and knowledge he fills them; good and evil he shows them. 
7/ He looks with favor upon their hearts, and shows them his glorious works,
8/ That they may describe the wonders of his deeds and praise his holy name. 
9/ He has set before them knowledge, a law of life as their inheritance;
10/ An everlasting covenant he has made with them, his commandments he has revealed to them. 
11/ His majestic glory their eyes beheld, his glorious voice their ears heard. 
12/ He says to them, "Avoid all evil"; each of them he gives precepts about his fellow men. 
13/ Their ways are ever known to him, they cannot be hidden from his eyes.
14/ Over every nation he places a ruler, but the LORD'S own portion is Israel.

15/ All their actions are clear as the sun to him, his eyes are ever upon their ways.
16/ Their wickedness cannot be hidden from him; all of their sins are before the LORD. 
17/ A man's goodness God cherishes like a signet ring, a man's virtue, like the apple of his eye. 

SATURDAY'S SOUNDNESS: SINCE THE BEGINNING HISTORY HAS NOT ONLY REPEATED ITSELF, BUT, HAS AMPLIFIED ITSELF IN WRONGNESS...

Immorality, and other wrong behaviours, have been around, since the first people's of this world, with the same problems, throughout every generation, although, some generations, have gone over the top in their reveling, and, disdain for THE LORD!!!

Sex, money, addictions, pride, greed, envy, sloth, wrath, gluttony, and, other such, have been the traps into which Mankind has fallen, for a long, long, long, long time! Though, it is unlikely, throughout history, that such behaviours have been so tolerated by the Churches, and, by society as a whole, as this present time! Today, there are some SICK things occurring, and, people are like, "To each his own!", which is fine, if you don't care that people perish, but, I DO care! Not only that, the sickness being tolerated is like a rapidly spreading disease, affecting all, in epidemic proportions! Especially, thanks to the 'Net, where people who live 2, or 3 lives, can get as sick as they want, and, feel hidden! WRONG ANSWER! NOTHING is hidden from the ONE *GOD*, whom IS going to judge even the dead!!!

The more commonplace these behaviours become, the more sin will reign! Then, innocent little Children, which is happening even now, will be subjected to lives ruled by things they would have never considered, but, thanks to the uncontrolled desires of the adults of this world, they will be influenced in ways, which, has the potential to create an extremely wicked generation! There is a REASON we are adults; to TEACH the Children ways which will, benefit them, promote them, and, optimize their overall, as well as continued well-being!!!

PRAYER IS ESSENTIAL & VITAL TO LIFE!!!

EACH day, we should PRAY for every living being on this planet, but especially:
The orphaned
The widowed
The Fatherless
The ignorant
The innocent
The Children
The Elderly
The needy
The suffering

HALLOWEEN PRAYERS...

Traditional Scottish Prayer, though, it is also, a traditional English prayer:
From ghoulies and ghosties
And long-leggedy beasties
And things that go bump in the night,
Good Lord, deliver us!

Eve of All Saint's Prayer:
 Father,
All-Powerful and Ever-Living God,
Today we rejoice in the holy men and women
of every time and place
May their prayers bring us your forgiveness and love
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer to CHRIST Against All Evil:
Christ Our Lord
You suffered and were tempted.
You are powerful to come to the aid
of those who are assailed by the devil,
For you are the support of Christian people.
O Lord, protect with Your Right Hand
those who trust in Your Name.
Deliver them from the Evil One,
and grant them everlasting joy. Amen
St. Gregory of Khandzta (759-861)

FRIDAY IS FOR FREEDOM:)))

Friday is for FREEDOM! Freedom from the week's weights; time to shed those shackles, and, PRAISE THE LORD for having made it through this week, and, for the many BLESSINGS of this week! THANK YOU, LORD!!!

It is also, the weekend when Halloween is celebrated around here! NOT my favourite event, but, millions of others LOVE it! There are like, 14 countries that celebrate Halloween, however diverse their celebration, or, the name of their celebration! People around these parts, do it to the nines! You ought to see the homes, the costumes, and, the small fortunes they pour into this celebration! Myself, I don't 'get' it, but, is interesting to say the least! I do understand the historical traditions behind this celebration! I would never get in the way of some much needed fun, and of course, I am obligated to participate, to some extent:)))

For the past 2 days, we had temps near 80, but, woooooo, what a turnaround today, and, it looks like, according to the extended forecast, that was the end of the warm weather! Time for the reality of the season! Just in time for Halloween!!!

Weekends are for RELEASE; release of the week past, as well as release of our inner most appreciation of *GOD*/CHRIST! Fridays are like the bells at school, that mark the end of the week, and, one, or both, Saturday, & Sunday, are for deep reflection, as well as, reverence of THE LORD, with REJOICING, PRAISE, & WORSHIP for HIS HOLY influence, & intervention in our lives! The weekend is also, time to delve deeper into LOVE; LOVE of *GOD*/CHRIST, Family, Friends, & others; that, this LOVE carries us through what is to come, by the GRACE of *GOD*! Weekends include a variety of experiences, which should be, pleasing to the senses, & the being, beginning & ending with *GOD*, but also including, rest, relaxation, enjoyment, and, the sharing of the bounties of HIS wondrous presence!!!

I pray that YOUR weekend is one of renewal, rejuvenation, and, increased PEACE, in the name of CHRIST, our LORD, *GOD*! I wish you plenty, I wish you happiness, I wish you LOVE, I wish you mostly, increased connection to HIM, that, you ARE better provided for, in ways, healthy to the being, the spirit! *GOD* BLESS, and, BE with us ALL! MUCH LOVE to you, ENJOY!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

ALL THAT GLISTENS, GLITTERS, SPARKLES, SHINES, GLIMMERS, & RADIATES...

HOW can one explain to the impoverished, that all that glistens, is not perfect? And, HOW can you explain to the overly wealthy, that wealth CAN'T buy you what you most need???

There is ONE source to TRUE wealth, and, TRUE health; *GOD*!!!

The Heavens Above, glisten, sparkle, and, glimmer; they are of *GOD*! *GOD* HIMSELF appears as a LIGHT so bright, humans cannot bear it! HIS radiance far exceeds that of the sun, in LIGHT, and, in duration! You see, not all things that glitter, sparkle, shine, radiate, and, glimmer, are for the flesh to touch, to have, to hold! Instead, they are for the spirit's health, and, well-being; the TRUE self, which, belongs to *GOD*, and, IS enriched, to PURE fulfillment WITH HIM as the focus of our intent!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

*GOD* FIRST: GLORY TO HIM MEANS GLORY FOR US!!!

*GOD*/CHRIST should be the beginning of our day, the end of our day, and, kept involved, throughout the day! HE should be the fore-runner, and, the hind-runner, and, all in between! HE should be the primary, centralized focus at all times, that, as we live our lives, we live accordingly to HIS WILL, which then, opens UP to HIS benevolences!!!

Our mentality should be to please HIM, or better yet, to GLORIFY HIM, that HIS GLORY is also, our glory, OVER all worldly matter! Such glory there is for the *GOD* focused being! It may not be measured, or, even visible to the world, because our glory is HIGHER than the world, NOT of the world, and, IS everlastingly beneficial! I don't need a whole lot of money, or things, because I have *GOD*, and, that is more than I could ever hope for! The years I was separated from HIM, due to my egocentricity, even though HE was ever nearby, taught me just how imperative HE is TO my life, my health, and, my overall well-being!!!

HE IS THE MASTER, AUTHOR, and, CREATOR of ALL CREATION, who but HE, can claim this? Who but HE, can ADD to our lives, in ways imperishable, vital, and, enhancing? HE deserves ALL the BEST I can muster, and, the continuance of my improvement, that HE IS visible through me, for ALL in existence to bear witness to!!!

THURSDAY'S TRIUMPHS: STRONG & STEADFAST TO THE END!!!

2 TIMOTHY 2: 2-7...
2/ And what you heard from me through many witnesses entrust to faithful people who will have the ability to teach others as well. 
3/ Bear your share of hardship along with me like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
4/ To satisfy the one who recruited him, a soldier does not become entangled in the business affairs of life.
5/ Similarly, an athlete cannot receive the winner's crown except by competing according to the rules.
6/ The hardworking farmer ought to have the first share of the crop.
7/ Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary: 
As our trials increase, we need to grow stronger in that which is good; our faith stronger, our resolution stronger, our love to God and Christ stronger. This is opposed to our being strong in our own strength. All Christians, but especially ministers, must be faithful to their Captain, and resolute in his cause. The great care of a Christian must be to please Christ. We are to strive to get the mastery of our lusts and corruptions, but we cannot expect the prize unless we observe the laws. We must take care that we do good in a right manner, that our good may not be spoken evil of. Some who are active, spend their zeal about outward forms and doubtful disputations. But those who strive lawfully shall be crowned at last. If we would partake the fruits, we must labour; if we would gain the prize, we must run the race. We must do the will of God, before we receive the promises, for which reason we have need of patience. Together with our prayers for others, that the Lord would give them understanding in all things, we must exhort and stir them up to consider what they hear or read.

WHEN WE ARE HURT, WE MOVE CLOSER TO *GOD*!!!

When someone, or, others hurt us, especially those who are close to us, there comes a certain sorrow, that is really hard to get rid of! And sometimes, it goes so deep as to make us ill! No matter how many times we say we are going to let it go, that we are over it, the sorrow lingers!!!

Even those of strong FAITH, can fall into sorrow from others, especially, if what happened was for no apparent reason, or, out of the blue, or, those who caused the pain, are unwilling to work it through, let alone, admit their part! FAITH is tested by the evil ruler of this world, in ways we don't even think about! Yep, that deceiver is always in the wind with devastation of some sort! So, knowing this, one should pray, forgive, ask for mercy for the offenders, thank *GOD*/CHRIST, heal, and, move on; even if there is never a resolution!!!

It is rather odd that we ALWAYS seek closure, and, resolution, but rarely, do we get it! If you think about this, you will see that it is rare to get resolution, especially from people who INTENDED to hurt you, so, why would we expect closure? Well, we CAN find closure, through THE LORD! HE WILL be there to dry our tears, to hear our agony, and, to heal the scars they left behind!!!

GLORY TO *GOD*, THE SUSTENANCE OF MY DAYS!!!

EVERY day is a precious, noteworthy gift from THE FATHER ABOVE,
Full of HIS own deep, and, endless LOVE;
Enriched with HIS MERCY, and, GRACE,
As HE watches over us, from HIS THRONED place!!!

HE misses nothing that is going on down here,
There isn't anything, which remains obscure;
HE hears the cries of those most in need,
And, the FAITHFUL, HE does heed!!!

How wonderful is the presence of our LORD,
Whom, protects us with the might of a HOLY sword;
Even moving mountains, when necessary,
To lead us according to HIS WILL, you see!!!

Each morning, I have to thank HIM, and, give HIM PRAISE,
For, HE ALONE, IS the sustenance of my days!
Where would I be if it were not for HIM? Would I be alive?
Oh, I humbly understand, without HIM, who could survive?!!

When times are bad, I exalt HIS name, when times are good, I rejoice!
No matter what the time, I LIFT UP to HIM, my heartfelt voice,
Because, in ALL of CREATION, there is none more worthy,
Than, my *GOD*, who so obviously, LOVES, and, cares for me!!!

I thank YOU, with ALL my being, FATHER, SON, and, HOLY SPIRIT,
THE LIGHT who draws me, ever near it,
Enveloping me in YOUR refinement, YOUR TRUTH, YOUR WAY,
May I HONOUR YOUR infinite GLORY, in ALL I do, think, or say!!!

PRAISE THE LORD, WORSHIP HIM, BE the reflection of HIS GLORY, for ALL to bear witness to, and, THANK HIM for the AMAZING gifts of HIS HOLINESS!!! YES, THANK YOU LORD!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

YES, WE NEED TO SMILE, TO LAUGH, TO ENJOY:)))

Wednesday's are that day when, from our vantage point, we look forward to the last days of the week! Some of us have had enough already, some are just gaining momentum, some are working on making it just one more day! We can ALL use a reason or two, to smile, to think, to take a break from wishing for the weekend:))) 

The Two Ushers

Six-year-old Angie and her four-year-old brother Joel were sitting together in church.
Joel giggled, sang, and talked out loud. Finally, his big sister had had enough. 'You're not supposed to talk out loud in church.'  'Why? Who's going to stop me?' Joel asked.
Angie pointed to the back of the church and said, 'See those two men standing by the door?
They're hushers.' 

 THE SECRET BOX

A preacher was told by his doctor that he had only a few weeks left to live.
He went home feeling very sad, and when his wife heard the sad news she said to him, "Honey, if there's anything I can do to make you happy, tell me."
The preacher answered, "You know, dear, there's that box in the kitchen cabinet with what you always called "your little secret" in it and you said you never would want me to open it as long as you lived. Now that I'm about to go home to be with the Lord, why don't you show me what's in that secret box of yours?"
The preacher's wife got out the box and opened the lid.
It contained $10,000 and three eggs.
"What are those eggs doing in the box?" the preacher asked. "Well, Honey," she replied, "every time your sermon was really bad I put an egg in the box.
Now the preacher had been preaching for over forty years, and seeing only three eggs in that old shoe box, he started to feel very proud about himself and it warmed his soul.
"And what about that $10,000?"" he asked.
"Oh, you see," she whispered softly, "every time there were a dozen eggs in the box, I . . . ummm . . . sold them . . . and put a dollar in the box."

WEDNESDAY'S WISDOM: JUDE...

THE BOOK OF JUDE: 
1/ Jude, a slave of Jesus Christ and brother of James, to those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept safe for Jesus Christ
2/ may mercy, peace, and love be yours in abundance.
3/ Beloved, although I was making every effort to write to you about our common salvation, I now feel a need to write to encourage you to contend for the faith that was once for all handed down to the holy ones.
4/ For there have been some intruders, who long ago were designated for this condemnation, godless persons, who pervert the grace of our God into licentiousness and who deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.

5/ I wish to remind you, although you know all things, that (the) Lord who once saved a people from the land of Egypt later destroyed those who did not believe. 
6/ The angels too, who did not keep to their own domain but deserted their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains, in gloom, for the judgment of the great day. 
7/ Likewise, Sodom, Gomorrah, and the surrounding towns, which, in the same manner as they, indulged in sexual promiscuity and practiced unnatural vice, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.
8/ Similarly, these dreamers nevertheless also defile the flesh, scorn lordship, and revile glorious beings.
9/ Yet the archangel Michael, when he argued with the devil in a dispute over the body of Moses, did not venture to pronounce a reviling judgment upon him but said, "May the Lord rebuke you!"
10/ But these people revile what they do not understand and are destroyed by what they know by nature like irrational animals.
11/ Woe to them! They followed the way of Cain, abandoned themselves to Balaam's error for the sake of gain, and perished in the rebellion of Korah. 
12/ These are blemishes on your love feasts, as they carouse fearlessly and look after themselves. They are waterless clouds blown about by winds, fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead and uprooted.
13/ They are like wild waves of the sea, foaming up their shameless deeds, wandering stars for whom the gloom of darkness has been reserved forever.
14/ Enoch, of the seventh generation from Adam, prophesied also about them when he said, "Behold, the Lord has come with his countless holy ones
15/ to execute judgment on all and to convict everyone for all the godless deeds that they committed and for all the harsh words godless sinners have uttered against him."
16/ These people are complainers, disgruntled ones who live by their desires; their mouths utter bombast as they fawn over people to gain advantage.

17/ But you, beloved, remember the words spoken beforehand by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ,
18/ for they told you, "In (the) last time there will be scoffers who will live according to their own godless desires." 
19/ These are the ones who cause divisions; they live on the natural plane, devoid of the Spirit.
20/ But you, beloved, build yourselves up in your most holy faith; pray in the holy Spirit.
21/ Keep yourselves in the love of God and wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.
22/ On those who waver, have mercy;  
23/ save others by snatching them out of the fire; on others have mercy with fear, abhorring even the outer garment stained by the flesh.
24/ To the one who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you unblemished and exultant, in the presence of his glory,
25/ to the only God, our savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord be glory, majesty, power, and authority from ages past, now, and for ages to come. Amen.

ROMANS 7:15-25: FLESH TO SPIRIT TO HOLINESS...

ROMANS 7: 15-25...

15/ What I do, I do not understand. For I do not do what I want, but I do what I hate.

16/ Now if I do what I do not want, I concur that the law is good.

17/ So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.

18/ For I know that good does not dwell in me, that is, in my flesh. The willing is ready at hand, but doing the good is not.

19/ For I do not do the good I want, but I do the evil I do not want.

20/ Now if (I) do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.

21/ So, then, I discover the principle that when I want to do right, evil is at hand.

22/ For I take delight in the law of God, in my inner self,

23/ but I see in my members another principle at war with the law of my mind, taking me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members.

24/ Miserable one that I am! Who will deliver me from this mortal body?

25/ Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Therefore, I myself, with my mind, serve the law of God but, with my flesh, the law of sin.

TUESDAY'S THOUGHTS: INSPIRED INTELLIGENCE VS. WORLDLY INTELLECT: THE FINAL ASSESSMENT...

Tuesday is for thoughts, and, thoughts I have, exceedingly:))) I apologize for this post being late, but, yesterday, I could not post; I was having more computer woes than ever, so, after a whole day of off, and, on battling, I shut down! Things happen, and, I still don't know what the problem was, but, it seems to be much better today! Scans, and, checking into systems, revealed everything to be normal, yet, I could not post!!!

So far, I have over 2,000 posts on this site, some in draft, the rest published! The reason I am mentioning this is, there ARE going to be posts which seem to be near replicas, though, they are NOT! Some messages deserve as much exposure as is feasible, in order for them to become familiar, therefore, sinking into the spirit!!!

Daily, I am striving, and, working, diligently, towards betterment of being, from the spirit outwardly, noticing actual development, and, growth, though, the more I understand, the more I am amazed at how ignorant I have been for so many years, without realizing it! It was ALL before me, but, little was able to infiltrate through the deception, confusion, lies, and, the heavy shroud over, my innate soundness! I am surprised at how dense the shroud of deception, truly is, and, how effectively it does blind us!!!

ROMANS 8: 28: IT'S ALLLL GOOD, BECAUSE IT IS ALLLLL *GOD*!!!

ROMANS 8: 28...
We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary:
ROMANS 8: 28...
That is good for the saints which does their souls good. Every providence tends to the spiritual good of those that love God; in breaking them off from sin, bringing them nearer to God, weaning them from the world, and fitting them for heaven. When the saints act out of character, corrections will be employed to bring them back again.

And here is the order of the causes of our salvation, a golden chain, one which cannot be broken.
1. Whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son. All that God designed for glory and happiness as the end, he decreed to grace and holiness as the way. The whole human race deserved destruction; but for reasons not perfectly known to us, God determined to recover some by regeneration and the power of his grace. He predestinated, or before decreed, that they should be conformed to the image of his Son. In this life they are in part renewed, and walk in his steps.
2. Whom he did predestinate, them he also called. It is an effectual call, from self and earth to God, and Christ, and heaven, as our end; from sin and vanity to grace and holiness, as our way. This is the gospel call. The love of God, ruling in the hearts of those who once were enemies to him, proves that they have been called according to his purpose.
3. Whom he called, them he also justified. None are thus justified but those that are effectually called. Those who stand out against the gospel call, abide under guilt and wrath.
4. Whom he justified, them he also glorified. The power of corruption being broken in effectual calling, and the guilt of sin removed in justification, nothing can come between that soul and glory. This encourages our faith and hope; for, as for God, his way, his work, is perfect. The apostle speaks as one amazed, and swallowed up in admiration, wondering at the height and depth, and length and breadth, of the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge. The more we know of other things, the less we wonder; but the further we are led into gospel mysteries, the more we are affected by them. While God is for us, and we keep in his love, we may with holy boldness defy all the powers of darkness.

MONDAY'S MEDITATIONS: DEAR MONDAY:)))

Monday! Hello Monday! You are NOT a favoured day, yet, your purpose is as imminent as any, so, I welcome you, mostly, because you are a gift of *GOD*, and, because, true purpose does not derive from favouritism!!!

I look to you, Monday, to inspire me to fulfill the WILL of *GOD*, this week, and, to teach me, what it is I most need to know!!!

Oh, I will drag around a bit, and, wish that it were some other day, but, I am confident that, in you, there will lie some BLESSINGS, and, necessity towards my growth, and, continuance! I may even doze off for a moment or two, you just have that effect on me, but, this too, opens up to betterment!!!

How is it that you became the least favoured of the days? I know it is not by your choice! I can relate, so, I will TRY to be kinder in my embracing of you!!!

You are doing nothing more than serving *GOD*, and, my countenance should be the same! Each day is special, therefore, with my mind, I will attempt to remember this, as I look upon you, in the morning light, assured that, though you have already clouded my mind with your presence, there IS something commendable, and, PRAISE worthy in your hours! Besides that, *GOD* made you, so, in the LOVE I have for HIM, I feel the need to LOVE you more, plus, you are gone before I know it, so WHY should I hold anything against you??!

I should also, apply this psychology, to every person, event, and, circumstance that is within your hours, and, of the coming week!!!

You can't help being the least favoured day, and, we can't help finding you less favourable, yet, that ISN'T set in stone, is it? Therefore, I will have a change of heart towards you, from today onward, in hopes that perhaps it isn't you, it is me!!!

ANYTHING can be improved! It begins in the mind, and, works through the heart, then, into reactions, and, actions!!!

Yes, you are here, Monday, and, I apologize for never giving you a fair chance; it is silly of me, and, wrong, but, as *GOD* CREATED you, and, me, I will certainly, approach you with more compassion, and, generosity, that you, are not hindered by the likes of me:)))

Have a MOST BLESSED, and, awesome Monday, people of life, and, PRAISE THE LORD for this day; the start of a week that HE has designated should unfold! MUCH LOVE, and, may HE BLESS us ALL! THANK YOU LORD, for this day, and, all therewithin, may I HONOUR YOU every step of the way!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

SUNDAY'S SACRED SCRIPTURES: MATTHEW 5: 13-16: SALT OF THE EARTH...

MATTHEW 5: 13-16...

13/ "You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

14/ You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden.

15/ Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house.

16/ Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.

 

Ye are the salt of the earth. Mankind, lying in ignorance and wickedness, were as a vast heap, ready to putrify; but Christ sent forth his disciples, by their lives and doctrines to season it with knowledge and grace. If they are not such as they should be, they are as salt that has lost its savour. If a man can take up the profession of Christ, and yet remain graceless, no other doctrine, no other means, can make him profitable. Our light must shine, by doing such good works as men may see. What is between God and our souls, must be kept to ourselves; but that which is of itself open to the sight of men, we must study to make suitable to our profession, and praiseworthy. We must aim at the glory of God.

 

By their deeds the disciples are to influence the world for good. They can no more escape notice than a city set on a mountain. If they fail in good works, they are as useless as flavorless salt or as a lamp whose light is concealed.

 

MATTHEW 28:19-20...

19/ Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit,

20/ teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age."

 

Therefore: since universal power belongs to the risen Jesus (Matthew 28:18), he gives the eleven a mission that is universal. They are to make disciples of all nations. While all nations is understood by some scholars as referring only to all Gentiles, it is probable that it included the Jews as well. Baptizing them: baptism is the means of entrance into the community of the risen one, the Church. In the name of the Father . . . holy Spirit: this is perhaps the clearest expression in the New Testament of trinitarian belief. It may have been the baptismal formula of Matthew's church, but primarily it designates the effect of baptism, the union of the one baptized with the Father, Son, and holy Spirit.

 

All that I have commanded you: the moral teaching found in this gospel, preeminently that of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). The commandments of Jesus are the standard of Christian conduct, not the Mosaic law as such, even though some of the Mosaic commandments have now been invested with the authority of Jesus. Behold, I am with you always: the promise of Jesus' real though invisible presence echoes the name Emmanuel given to him in the infancy narrative; see the note on Matthew 1:23. End of the age: see the notes on Matthew 13:39 and Matthew 24:3.

 

Some say that there is NO effort in our walk with *GOD*, but, CHRIST would have ALL followers, not only BE as HIM, but, become Disciples! EFFORT is synonymous with THE COVENANT; we are to, BY EXAMPLE teach, lead, and, shine through the darkness, as, there are MANY trapped, and, lost in that darkness, whom, NEED to be brought into THE LIGHT/THE TRUTH/THE WAY/CHRIST! How people imagine that we can do this without study, learning, embracing, and, utilizing HIS WILL, and, WAY, is beyond me! You don't think it takes any knowledge, wisdom, or, understanding to snatch others from the darkness, or, to BE VISIBLY IN CHRIST? How can that be, when we are at war within? The flesh battles with the spirit, constantly, thus, the more we put into true knowledge OF CHRIST, the more the spirit rules, and, the more visible the spirit, the more we exemplify THE TRUTH!!!

 

It is difficult enough for the individual to bear worthy fruits as a grafted-in branch, let alone, to lead others to their rightful place on THE VINE, SO, EFFORT is imperative! Effort becomes as a habit, then, after some time, becomes second nature, which then, shines forth, and, testifies to TRUTH!!!

 

10, 000, 000 could surround me, screaming in my ear, that I do NOT have to put forth any effort to please *GOD*, but, I am deaf to them, only hearing THE WORD! *GOD* COMMANDS obedience, does this come so easy for us that we need not put forth effort? NO WAY! IF it came that easily for us, CHRIST would NOT HAVE HAD to endure what HE endured for us!!!

 

I know, everyone wants to live IN the world, AND, in *GOD*, but, it doesn't work that way, even though, we ARE in the world, we are to BECOME spirit, the TRUE self, and, this takes amazing effort, endurance, perseverance, tolerance, obedience, knowledge, wisdom, and, understanding, in order to MANIFEST as TRUTH!!!

 

I LOVE YOU, in the name of *GOD*/CHRIST! May HE always BE with us, guiding us to greater understanding, and, inclination to BE HIS WILL! PRAISE HIM, BLESS HIM, WORSHIP HIM, & GLORIFY HIM in thought, action, and, reaction, and you WILL be as the salt of the earth, a savoury seasoning to the minds of humanity!!! BLESS YOU, have a most awesome day!!!

 

REV. LWINSOR © 2012
BIBLICAL, and/or, other references marked BOLDLY IN COLOURS

SATURDAY'S SOUNDNESS: FEAR NOT, *GOD* IS WITH YOU!!!

We ARE going to make mistakes, stumble, and, fall; we are human, though, the just person is ever working the spirit! We must NOT give up, no matter how many times we are tripped!!!

PROVERBS 24: 16...
For the just man falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked stumble to ruin.

The just man overcomes every misfortune which oppresses him...

The GOOD LORD KNOWS our predicament here, and, patiently awaits us; some HE waits to turn to HIM, and, those who have, to reach full maturity! IF we STAY in THE WORD, we are better equipped to deal with EVERYTHING, including, being tripped! Though, we SHOULD be aware, at all times, of what causes us to stumble, because the more aware we are, the less likely we are to do so!!!

We should study the SOUNDNESS of HIS WILL, constantly, that, we are informed, understanding, and, wise, in all of our dealings! CHRIST, alone, was able to avoid ALL incidents that would lead to sin, and while, we SHOULD be following HIS example, we are not HIM, therefore, we WILL, at times, err, in which case, we confess to HIM, repent, and, work to make necessary corrections! We RELY on HIM for the GRACE, MERCY, LOVE, and, strength we need to come into some semblance of HIS example! We STRIVE to do so, with FAITH, FAITHFULNESS, HOPE, and, encouragement! We are NOT able to completely desist from err! We were born into sin/err, and, we will die in err/sin, BUT, along with FAITH of our salvation, we work TOWARDS our salvation with fear, and, trembling, TO the BEST of our knowledge, understanding, and, abilities!!!

ALL of what we face, endure, learn, and, live, is in DIVINE order, or DIVINE PROVIDENCE! HE KNEW us BEFORE HE CREATED us, and so, is fully aware of our shortcomings, and, the extent of our ability to overcome what is displeasing to HIM! Some say effort doesn't mean a thing, and, I have to disagree, because, if there is no effort towards pleasing HIM, our part of the COVENANT is null! It takes sincere, and, constant effort to remain humble, and, to serve HIM, for we are caught in a battle between flesh, and, spirit!!!

We, again, RELY upon THE LORD to carry us through this life! We TRUST IN HIM, OVER all else, especially, in our own powers!!!

ISAIAH 41: 10...
Fear not, I am with you; be not dismayed; I am your God. I will strengthen you, and help you, and uphold you with my right hand of justice.

HE WANTS us to be with HIM, and, takes NO pleasure in seeing anyone perish, though, TRUTH says none, not one is worthy, THEREFORE, those who MAKE the conscious effort to TRY to mature into HIS WILL, ARE those HE protects, comforts, guides, and, leads TO HIM!!!

The SOUNDNESS of HIS PLAN to rescue us from ourselves, and, the evil of this world, is mind-boggling, and, we can only fathom it in part, but, HOPEFULLY in that partiality, enough to work towards HIS promises!!!

PRAISE THE LORD, our *GOD*, and, SAVIOUR, who LOVES us without fail, and, HOPES for us with a heart of PURITY, while encouraging us to DO OUR BEST, FOR, and, TO HIS GLORY!!! AMEN!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

ALWAYS MOVING FORWARD, ENCOURAGED IN FAITH!!!

2 CORINTHIANS 4: 16-18...

16/ Therefore, we are not discouraged; rather, although our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.

17/ For this momentary light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison,

18/ as we look not to what is seen but to what is unseen; for what is seen is transitory, but what is unseen is eternal.

 

PHILIPPIANS 3: 12-16...

12/ It is not that I have already taken hold of it or have already attained perfect maturity, but I continue my pursuit in hope that I may possess it, since I have indeed been taken possession of by Christ (Jesus).

13/ Brothers, I for my part do not consider myself to have taken possession. Just one thing: forgetting what lies behind but straining forward to what lies ahead,

14/ I continue my pursuit toward the goal, the prize of God's upward calling, in Christ Jesus.

15/ Let us, then, who are "perfectly mature" adopt this attitude. And if you have a different attitude, this too God will reveal to you.

16/ Only, with regard to what we have attained, continue on the same course.

 

EPEPHESIANS 3: 14-21...

14/ For this reason I kneel before the Father,

15/ from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named,

16/ that he may grant you in accord with the riches of his glory to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in the inner self,

17/ and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, rooted and grounded in love,

18/ may have strength to comprehend with all the holy ones what is the breadth and length and height and depth,

19/ and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

20/ Now to him who is able to accomplish far more than all we ask or imagine, by the power at work within us,

21/ to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

 

HEBREWS 10: 19-24...

19/ Therefore, brothers, since through the blood of Jesus we have confidence of entrance into the sanctuary

20/ by the new and living way he opened for us through the veil, that is, his flesh,

21/ and since we have "a great priest over the house of God,"

22/ let us approach with a sincere heart and in absolute trust, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water.

23/ Let us hold unwaveringly to our confession that gives us hope, for he who made the promise is trustworthy.

24/ We must consider how to rouse one another to love and good works.

 

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;

FRIDAY: CHIT CHAT...

May the garden of your heart, be ever nourished, that your spirit does bloom,
As you ascend, to your *GOD* designated, HOLY home, and, room;
May your thoughts always take in the beauty of HIS MIGHT,
And, as you make the climb to righteousness, may you be encompassed in the healthy wonders of HIS LIGHT!!!
REV. LWINSOR © 2012

Wow! It is Friday? Already? I can't believe it!!!

I would like to thank those of you who take time to share the world of *GOD*/CHRIST, with me! I sincerely, appreciate your presence here! One day, I hope to have the means to make this more user friendly, with chat, video posts, and, other such! IF *GOD* WILLS it, it will be! As I look around the board, I see that I am lacking much in the way of advanced technology, however, sometimes the purpose of sharing gets lost in such!!!

According to CHRIST, our SAVIOUR, our LORD, *GOD*, what we see on Earth, ain't nothin' compared to what will be, AND, what will be, will NEVER fade away! People spend SO much time trying to gather ALL in the world, as if it were lasting, but, it is not, because this is ALL temporal, fading, and, does NOT satiate the being! Granted there are endless gifts of *GOD* to take in, and, to marvel over, but, most of these are not collectible, save for in the soul! These gifts are to further HIM, and, to inspire us to grow closer to HIM! Thus, we need to be able to discern between what is illusional attraction, and, what is spiritually optimizing! We need to be able to discern what is OF *GOD*, and, what has been placed to entice, then, ensnare us!!!

Happiness of the worldly kind, is, largely, optical illusion! Happiness of the spiritual kind, has NO illusion, delusion, or, confusion, and, is rarely, visible, yet, has long lasting, deep effects! ONLY *GOD* can give us TRUE happiness!!!

When we are able to recognize the egocentric being, we are able to retrain the entire being towards allegiance with the REAL self, the spirit, hence, with *GOD*! The egocentric being is the center of most of our problems, and, troubles in this life, and, IS most difficult to break through, though, it is IMPERATIVE to breakthrough, because the TRUE being, the spirit, is worthy!!!

IF we lived as *GOD* intended, do you realize there would be NO poverty, hunger, ill-health, suffering, pain, disease, or, anguish? IF ALL people aligned to *GOD*, Eden would be our reality! Isn't that something? And, the harsh truth is, it IS within us NOW, to make it happen, but, deception, lack of LOVE for *GOD*, and, others, and, the throes of negative forces from the worldly rulers, mask, then, diminish this truth!!!

People seek GOOD NEWS, always, yet, how many adhere to the meat of this news? How many are WILLING to make the ultimate sacrifice, to exist in this news? How many are SERIOUS seeking it, to the point that they KNOW what *GOD*/CHRIST has instructed, in order for it to BE???

The best news I can offer is this, IF you TRULY seek *GOD*/CHRIST, humble yourself, LEARN to LOVE HIM, and, others, do good, and, be good, seek what is to come OVER the world, and, remain in THE WORD, you are on the right path, and, will begin to find the BLESSINGS on that path!!!

I LOVE YOU, people of life! We are backwards in many ways, but, WITH *GOD*, we are set aright! We are wrong in many ways, but, WITH HIM, we LEARN what is right, what is justice, what is LOVE, what is mercy, what is wholesome, what is good, and, what is pleasing to HIM! May we HONOUR HIM, BY becoming the TRUE being, the spirit, and, SHINING through the darkness, FOR, and, TO HIS GLORY, for HE IS worthy, AMAZING, AWESOME, and, SO PRECIOUS!!!

Have a beautifully BLESSED day! PRAISE, and, WORSHIP HIM, while, giving thanks for HIS many gifts, and, be sure to PRAY for ALL!!! OXOXOX

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

BE CONTENT IN WHATEVER CIRCUMSTANCES, SEEK YE FIRST THE KINGDOM OF *GOD*, &, WAIT ON HIM!!!

*GOD'S* favoured people, from Adam to CHRIST, and, beyond, have had tough lives! Each of HIS Chosen, has had to endure, and, persevere! Each has had some very obvious trials, and, tribulations to work through, overcome, and, perfect!!!

So many of us complain about our lives, but, if we take a good, long look at the lives of our examples, our complaints seem silly! Of course, there are starving people, suffering people, and, much to contend with, yet, this is nothing new, and, does not reflect *GOD*, but, the lack of lessons learned, by us, in areas such as LOVE, virtue, and, righteousness...

In several chapters of several BOOKS of THE BIBLE, the ease of some is discussed! David said that he was once envious of those who seemed to have perfect lives, and, almost lost his own footing, UNTIL he discovered that they are un*GODLY* people, referring to them as standing on a slick incline, which, at one time, they will be hurled down to the pit (PSALM 73: False Happiness of the Wicked)!!!

You see, there is TRUE, lasting happiness, which, can ONLY come from *GOD*, and, settles in the spirit, then, there is false, fading happiness, which does NOT take in the spirit, instead, pacifies the carnal, fleshy, egocentric being; which MANY attach to, because they are appeased for a short while, and, because they are uniformed, or, ignorant TO THE LORD!!!

BE CAREFUL what you wish for! If you spend your time wishing for worldly comforts, and, devote your time to this, such might well be, your eternal lot! REMEMBER always, you are not living for the external being, instead, for the internal, and, TRUE being, the spirit, which, BELONGS to *GOD*, in which case, HE desires to bring home to HIM, but, those who refuse, ignore, or, deny the spirit, while finding temporal gratification, are lost TO the world. In PHILIPPIANS 4, Paul speaks of learning to be content in whatever circumstances. Pride, unbelief, vain hankering after something we have not got, and fickle disrelish of present things, make men discontented even under favourable circumstances. When we are brought low, through trials, and, tribulations, those who are SOUNDLY grounded in THE LORD, will be obvious, and, the others will slip away, as they rush, to secure what can be touched, or seen, while ignoring the inner wealth, health, and, well-being; they deny THE HOLY SPIRIT, and, choose to fight for worldly comforts...

As tough as some had it, in their devotion, and, obedience to *GOD*, HE supplied them, generously! So, as is written, SEEK YE FIRST THE KINGDOM OF *GOD*, and, HE WILL ADD TO YOU! But, as did the HIGHLY esteemed forefathers, learn to wait on HIM, for HIS time is not as ours!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

THURSDAY'S TRIUMPHS: TOTAL RELIANCE ON THE LORD...

IF we can keep *GOD*/CHRIST, in the forefront of our thoughts, hearts, actions, and, reactions, at ALL times, we are triumphant over the world, even though, we may experience the tugs of it trying to bring us down to it!!!

REMAINING IN HIM, is power absolute! When we have our entire focus upon HIM, relying solely, upon HIM, HE draws ever nearer to us, while, providing for us in a multitude of ways! HE LOVES those who LOVE HIM, having an especially kind, and, generous disposition towards these, and, by now, everyone should know that we CAN'T do this without HIM...

Of the BIBLICAL characters we know, and, LOVE, there are but handfuls of those who TRULY, relied upon HIM, and, remained in HIM, obediently, and even some of these, sinned against HIM, at least once! King David, the shepherd boy, is a great study of humility, devotion, FAITH, and, obedience to *GOD*! He was a human after *GOD'S* own heart, who continuously revered *GOD'S* justice! He waited on *GOD*, and, worshipped HIM constantly, out of deep LOVE, respect, and, regard! David always yielded to *GOD'S* rebuke when he erred, and, accepted humbly, whatever *GOD* gave him, in punishment, or, whatever! He always appealed to *GOD*, when he needed a way to overcome anything, never seeking self-glory, or, self-vindication, and, he carried out *GOD'S* instructions without fail! David's life was not an easy one; he had much to contend with, but, HE KNEW HE had been BLESSED by THE LORD, throughout it all! There are other remarkable characteristics, and, behaviours concerning David, all which left him transparent, and, sharp in awareness of his humanness, whom, enjoyed an open, friendly relationship with THE LORD! He, eventually sinned, and, spent much time confessing, repenting, and, prayer, in which case, *GOD* forgave him, yet, HE also, altered the relationship, by placing certain restrictions, that were not there before! It didn't change HIS LOVE for David, but, sin upsets our LORD, greatly, and, the consequences ARE evident, and, ARE effective, according to HIS WILL!!!

Anyway, the point is, that David SO LOVED *GOD*, he walked in integrity of HIS LAWS, STATUTES, and, PRECEPTS, all of the days of his life, even after sinning against HIM, and this earned *GOD'S* favour, HIS personal attention to every detail of his life, as well as the promise HE made to him, concerning his descendants, his seed, and, his witnessing all *GOD* promised!!!

We can half-step all we want, and, complain when it seems HE is not listening to us, but, TRUTH would have it, that we come FULLY TO HIM, body, mind, and, spirit, with TOTAL reliance on HIM, and, TRUST in HIS GRACIOUS LOVE for us!!!

We CAN be triumphant OVER all in this life, we only NEED to get our priorities straight, as we walk IN HIS WILL! PRAISE HIM for giving us ALL we need to make this journey! THANK YOU LORD, for YOUR LOVE, and, YOUR gifts, tools, instructions, and, YOUR sacrifice!!!

REV. LWINSOR © 2012

A SMILE A DAY...

A Little Boy's Prayer...

"Dear God, please take care of my daddy and my mommy and my sister and my brother and my doggy and me.
Oh, please take care of yourself, God. If anything happens to you, we're gonna be in a big mess."

Big Trouble...
There were two brothers, 8 and 10 years old, who were exceedingly mischievous. Whatever went wrong in the neighborhood, it turned out they had had a hand in it. Their parents were at their wits' end trying to control them. Hearing about a priest nearby who worked with delinquent boys, the mother suggested to the father that they ask the priest to talk with the boys. The father agreed.
The mother went to the priest and made her request.
He agreed, but said he wanted to see the younger boy first and alone.
So the mother sent him to the priest.
The priest sat the boy down across from him at a huge impressive desk.
For about five minutes they just sat and stared at each other.
Finally, the priest pointed his forefinger at the boy and asked, "Where is God?"
The boy looked under the desk, in the corners of the room, all around, but said nothing.
Again, louder, the priest pointed at the boy and asked, "Where is God?"
Again the boy looked all around but said nothing.
A third time, in a louder, firmer voice, the priest leaned far across the desk and put his forefinger almost to the boy's nose, and asked, "Where is God?"
The boy panicked and ran all the way home.
Finding his older brother, he dragged him upstairs to their room and into the closet, where they usually plotted their mischief.
He finally said, "We are in BIG trouble."
The older boy asked, "What do you mean, 'BIG trouble'?"
His brother replied, "God is missing and they think we did it!"

Brand New You...

A middle aged woman had a heart attack and was taken to the hospital. While on the operating table she had a near death experience. Seeing God, she asked "Is my time up?"

God said, "No, you have another 43 years, 2 months and 8 days to live."

Upon recovery, the woman decided to stay in the hospital and have a facelift, liposuction and a tummy tuck. She even had someone come in and change her hair color. Since she had so much more time to live, she figured she might as well make the most of it.

After her last operation, she was released from the hospital. While crossing the street on her way home, she was killed by an ambulance.

Arriving in front of God, she demanded, "I though you said I had another 40 years?"

God replied, "I didn't recognize you."

Challenging God...

One day, an atheist professor who constantly tries to disprove God stood up on a podium in front of his class and said, "Today class I will disprove God! If God really exists then he will knock me off this podium within 15 minutes!" The professor then took his watch and started to keep time.
...
"10 minutes to go God!"
...
"5 minutes to go God!"
...
Now a football player was outside the door and heard the teacher counting. When he heard what the teacher was doing, he was furious and waited.
"1 minute left! Well class as you can see there is no possible way that I will come off this podium now so your God is..."
At that moment the football player came charging in and tackled the professor off the podium and onto the floor. Stunned the professor stammered, "Wh-where did you come from?!"
The football player smirked and replied, "God was busy so he sent me."