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Showing posts with label pray. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pray. Show all posts

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Panting after God

Greater Harvest Ministry - Pastor #Felix Moore.

A desire to have a heart for God.  To do God's will and live Holy.


 https://fb.watch/aY0ePXbrma/

Psalm 42:1

Thursday, January 13, 2022

1/13/22 - Pray & Supplication

 Greater Harvest Ministry - Pastor #Felix Moore

#Watch & #Pray - Habakkuk 1:3 

https://fb.watch/awa270n7YT/


Tuesday, January 4, 2022

1/4/22 - Prayer & Fasting

 Greater Harvest Ministry - Pastor #FelixMoore

The Hidden Power of #Prayer & Fasting

Daniel 9:3-5, Jonah 3:5-10 

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=239310314975854&id=112673297054987

Greater Harvest Ministries COGIC: Pastor Felix Moore & First Lady Angela Moore Passion for God - Passion for People Sunday School - 9:30am Worship Service - 12 noon Tuesday night Bible Study - 6pm Thursday morning prayer. & supplication - 9:00am #FelixMoore #Fàcebook #GreàtorHarvestMinistry #ÀñgelaMoore 


Friday, December 29, 2017

Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children - Book Review

Parenting is one of the toughest jobs in the world, and today's culture isn't making it any easier. And when we feel like were struggling, it can be tempting to throw up our hands and simply declare, "All we can do now is pray!"

Once our kids have "flown the nest," our parenting will change dramatically, but our sons and daughters will always need our prayers.

Prayer is one of the most important parenting assignments we've been given. It is an eternal investment in our kids' hearts and souls, and we must never under estimate its impact.


The Battle Begins

Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes. -- Nehemiah 4:14

The things you give to God in prayer - your worries, concerns, and needs - are the ties that bind your heart to his. Our struggles are his entry points.

The more we allow the Bible to shape our prayers, the more our requests will line up with God's plan.

There is no "perfect" family.

Everyone - even that beautiful woman who sits across the aisle from you at church, the one with the daughter who just got engaged and the son who just got promoted - has issues. When it comes to raising our children and pursuing God's best for their lives, we all need huge buckets of his grace, and we are all in this together.

It's never too late to start praying God's best for your children.

It doesn't matter how old your children are. You never stop being a parent. You never stop caring.


Blessing and Releasing Your Adult Child

Our adult children have different needs, but all of them can use the prayer of blessing.

A blessing is not the same thing as an endorsement. It's a way of handing our children's future over to God.

As you pray God's blessing on your children, release your plans and trust in God to accomplish his.


Praying for Your Child's Transition to Adulthood

When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. -- 1 Corinthians 13:11 NLT

God's ways are not our ways. Ask him to show you how to pray for your children.

As your children navigate the path to adulthood, ask God to help them be wise and make the most of every opportunity.

God gave our children unique talents and abilities. Trust him to put these attributes to good use.


A Year of Prayer

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. -- Romans 12:12

Choosing one verse to pray all year long expands your time horizon and allows an awareness of God's faithfulness to take root in your prayer life.

When God gives you a promise to pray for your adult child, leave room for him to fulfill it in ways that go beyond anything you could have imagined.

Reading the Bible allows God's message to penetrate our minds, shape our desires, and give voice to our prayers.


Praying for Good Friends and Fellowship

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. -- Proverbs 27:17

We are created for connection. Ask God to bless your child with rich and meaningful relationships.

Ask God to use your children's worldly interests to connect them to people whose passion is for him.

If your child is not going to church, ask God to prompt someone to invite him.

The Bible offers several portraits of friendships marked by loyalty, dependability, and faithfulness. Jonathan became "one in spirit" with David, giving him his robe (symbolic of his identity) and making a covenant of friendship that would last between their descendants forever. Let's ask God to give our kids faithful friends and to draw them into a life-giving relationship with Jesus, the one who gave up his life "for his friends."


Praying for a Future Spouse

"Let her be the one that the LORD has chosen for my master's son. -- Genesis 24:44

When the time came for his son to get married, Abraham had one main request: Issac's bride couldn't be a Canaanite; rather,he wanted her to be someone from his own country. He sent his servant off to do the picking, and when the fellow got to Abraham's hometown, he prayed a very specific prayer: "LORD ... make me successful today ... May it be that when I say to a young woman, 'Please let down your jar that I may have a drink; and she says, 'Drink, and I'll water your camels too' - let her be the one you have chosen for your servant Issac."

Rebekah showed up, gave the servant a drink, and then offered to fetch water for the camels too - all ten of them.

Almost everyone the author has talked to said they wanted their son or daughter to marry a Christian.

When you pray for your child's marriage partner, it's okay to be specific, but be prepared for God to surprise you.

Praising God changes our perspective and releases supernatural peace, hope, and joy.

Pray that your child's sense of identity and worth will be found in Christ rather than in being single or married.


Praying for a Young Marriage

A man shall leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. This is a profound mystery. -- Ephesians 5:31-32

We do the praying; God does the changing.

When your children get married, your prayers take on a new dimension. Now you're not just praying for him or for her; you're also praying for them.

Consider using the example of biblical characters - real people, with real relationships and real problems - to shape your prayers for your children.

With a Spirit-filled marriage, all good things are possible.


Praying through a Trouble Married or a Divorce

Be patient, bearing with one another in love. -- Ephesians 4:2

Destructive family patterns can be broken. Ask God to break these bonds and set your children free.

"Let's pray to break any generational bonds or patterns of evil."

When you pray for your child's troubled marriage, remember that his or her spouse is not the enemy.

When your children go through painful trials, ask God to use their suffering to produce perseverance, character, and hope.


Praying for a Good Place to Live

God begun by making one person, and from him came all the different people who live everywhere in the world. God decided exactly when and where they must live. -- Acts 17:26 NCV

Finding a good place to live can take time. Ask God to give your children (and you, if they are at home) the strength to "walk and not be faint."

Asking God to give your child wisdom is always a good starting place for prayer.

Sometimes the best way to help our adult children isn't to give them money or even advice; it's simply to pray.


Praying for a Job

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. -- Psalm 32:8

If we want to pray with faith, we must anchor our requests in God's promises.

We can make all the plans we want - and so can our kids - but God is the one who directs our path.

Trusting God with our children's future means being willing to trust his timing.


Praying When Your Children Have Children

I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants. -- Isaiah 44:3

Praying for your grandchildren strengthens your relationship with your children and their spouses.

Ask God to provide friends and mentors who will lovingly point your grandchildren toward Christ.

If you have concerns about your grandchildren or how they are being raised, take your worries to God and give his grace time to work.


Praying through a Health Crisis

This is what the LORD ... says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you. -- 2 Kings 20:5

Trusting God when we don't know what the future holds opens the door to peace.

Sometimes the key to praying with perseverance is simply to stop looking at your problems and focus instead on who God is and what he has done.

Jesus offers this invitation: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." What a beautiful promise, particularly as we pray for our children's health and safety.

God doesn't just want to heal your child; he wants to take care of you too.


Praying for Mental and Emotional Health

I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. -- Psalm 40:1-3

When you pray your child through a mental or emotional illness, don't let shame or fear keep you from enlisting trusted prayer partners to help you carry your burden.

God is in the business of transformation, and he has promised to renew - body, mind, and spirit - day by day.

An unforgiving spirit can hinder your prayers. Ask God to search your heart - and be ready to extend grace (even to yourself) and receive God's love.


Praying for Protection from Harm

The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him. -- Psalm 34:7

If God calls your child to a place or a job that scares you, slip your hand into your heavenly Father's and pray, trusting him to guard what you give him.

Asking God to put his angels in charge of your child's safety encompasses more than just physical protection. We can trust him to stand guard over their hearts and minds too.

When you feel too frightened or overwhelmed to pray for your child's safety, remember that God's power is made perfect in your weakness.


Praying through a Job Loss or Financial Difficulty

When I said, "My foot is slipping," your unfailing love, LORD, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. -- Psalm 94:18-19

The Bible has a lot to say about money. Ask God to help your children to manage it wisely.

When we pray our kids through loss or rejection, it helps to remember that Jesus knows exactly how they feel.

God knows how our children are formed, and what they do with their lives matters to him.

Ecclesiastes 7:12 adds this: "Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: Wisdom preserves those who have it."


Praying through the Struggles of Infertility

You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing. -- Psalm 145:16

As you ask God to fulfill your children's deepest longings, pray that they will be satisfied with the gift of his presence.

When God gives your children a promise, come alongside them and believe it.



Praying for Strength to Resist a Party Culture

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. -- Matthew 5:6

Your adult children may be out of your reach, but they are never out of God's sight.

Today's party culture offers counterfeit joy. Pray that your kids will want the real thing.

We cannot glory - steal from God.


Praying for Protection from Sexual Sin

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. -- Romans 12:2

God loves us unconditionally. Ask him to help you show that same kind of love to your children, even if you don't like what they do.

God's kindness leads us to repentance. Ask God to surround your children with people who will lovingly point them toward him.

Light scatters darkness. Ask God to turn your children from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God.


Praying for Recovery from an Addiction

He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. -- Isaiah 61:1

Addiction is a formidable enemy, but the weapons we fight with - including prayer - have divine power to demolish strongholds.

God is always at work in our kids' lives, and he can use the worst things to bring about good.

We cannot control or cure our children's addictions, but we can hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, knowing that he who promised is faithful.


Praying for Your Prodigal

I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the LORD. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart. -- Jeremiah 24:7

Ask God to work in your prodigal's mind and spirit, demolishing arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God.

God knows what it's like to grieve over a prodigal child - and to rejoice over his return.

Our struggles are often God's entry points.


Is Jesus Enough?

God doesn't want us to trust in an outcome; he wants us to trust in him.

Heavenly Father...

Whom have we in heaven but you? Work in us and in our children, so that nothing compares to the desire we have for you. Be the strength of our hearts and our portion forever. Amen. -- Psalm 73:25-26

Jodie Berndt is the author of several books, including The Undertaker Wife, Praying the Scriptures for Your Children, and Praying the Scriptures for Your Teens. She and her husband, Robert, have four grown children and two son-in-laws. A Speaker and Bible Teacher, Jodie encourages readers to pursue joy, celebrate grace, and live on purpose.

















Monday, December 18, 2017

May The Faith Be With You Holy Bible - Book Review

This Bible is perfect is for ages 6-10. It includes 24 full - color pages exploring the marvel of God's creation and the meaning of faith.

This Bible is easy to read and understand. It is the New International Reader's Version. It is called the NIrV.

People who are just starting to read will understand and enjoy The NIrV. Children will be able to read it and understand it. So will people who have a hard time understanding what they read. And so will people who use English as their second language.

The NIrV is based on the NIV. The NIV Committee on Bible Translation (CBT) did not produce the NIrV. They tried to use words that were easy to understand.

This Bible has a title to almost every chapter. Sometimes they to even gave a title to a section. They did these things to help the readers understand what the chapter or section is all about.

In the New Testament the Sea of Galilee is also called the sea of Gennesaret. But in the NIrV they decided to call it the Sea of Galilee everywhere it appears.

For example, sometimes the Bible says "the River" where it means "the Euphrates River." In those places, they used the full name "the Euphrates River."

They wanted the NIrV to say what the first writers of the Bible said. So they kept checking the Greek New Testament as they did their work. That's because the New Testament's first writers used Greek. They also kept checking the Hebrew Old Testament as they did their work. That's because the Old Testament's first writers used Hebrew.

Psalm 23: David wrote this psalm as a song to praise God. Read the words below and think about all the ways God, our great Master, takes care of us.

The LORD is my shepherd. He gives me everything I need.

He lets me lie down in fields of green grass.

He leads me beside quiet waters.

He gives me new strength.

He guides me in the right paths for the honor of his name.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid.

You are with me.

Your shepherd's rod and staff comfort me.

You prepare a feast for me right in front of my enemies.

You pour oil on my head.

My cups runs over.

I am sure that your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life.

And I will live in the house of the LORD forever.


What Is Prayer?

Prayer is simply talking to God - just like you would talk to a friend. But you can tell God absolutely anything and everything, and you can talk to him anytime and anywhere!

An easy guide to prayer is to use your hands! Each finger can remind you who to pray for:

Thumb: (People closest to you.) Tell God thank you for your friends and family and ask him to take care of their needs.

Pointer: (People who point the way.) Thank God for the leaders, teachers and pastors in your life. Pray about the important work they do.

Tall Finger: (People in authority.) Our police, government and military need God's wisdom and protection. Pray for their needs.

Ring Finger: (People who are weak.) Pray for the sick and weak. Ask God to give them healing and strength.

Little Finger: (Yourself.) Ask God to forgive you for your sins. After you have prayed for others, God wants you to talk with him about what you need too!

Friday, February 24, 2017

Friday - Practice Mutal Discipline - Matthew 18:15-20 - 2/24/17

These are Jesus' guidelines for dealing with those who sin against us. Jesus' words are not a license for a frontal attack on every person who hurts or slights us. They are designed to reconcile those who disagree so that all Christians can live in harmony.

By contrast, we should go to the person first, as difficult as that may be. Then we should forgive that person as often as he or she needs it.


Ideally, the church's decisions should be God-guided & based on discernment of his Word. Handling problems God's way will have an impact now & for eternity.


Jesus looks ahead to a new day when he will be present with his followers not in body, but through his Holy Spirit. Two or more believers, filled with the Holy Ghost, will pray according to God's will, not their own; & thus their requests will be granted.

Reference summary used from Life Application Bible KJV, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois

Wednesday, December 28, 2016

Tuesday - Psalm/Tehillim 146:5-10 - Those Whose Help Is The Lord - 12/27/16

God, for his power, justice, mercy, & kingdom, is only worthy to be trusted.

Verse 5 ... Happy is he that hath the God of Ja'cob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God:

Psalm 144:15 ... (The psalmist prayeth for grace & deliverance from enemies.) Happy is that people, that is in such a case: yea, happy is that people, whose GOD is the LORD.


Psalm 146:6 ... Which made heaven, & earth, the sea, & all that therein is: which keepeth trust for ever:

Genesis 1:1 ... IN the beginning God created the heaven & earth.


Psalm 146:7 ... Which executeth judgment for the oppressed:

Psalm 103:6 ... (An exhortation to bless God for his mercy,) The LORD executeth righteousness & judgment for the oppressed:


Psalm 146:7 ... which giveth food to the hungry.

Psalm 107:9 ... (Their deliverance represented under various aspects of his providence over men.) For he satisfieth the longing soul, & filleth the hungry soul with the goodness.


Psalm 146:7 ... The LORD looseth the prisoners:

Psalm 68:6 ... (An exhortation to praise God for his mercies,) God setteth the solitary (in a house) families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains: but the rebellious dwell in a dry land.


Psalm 146:8 ... The LORD openeth the eyes of the blind:

Matthew 9:30 ... (Jesus giveth sight to two blind men;) And their eyes were opened; & Jesus straitly charged them, saying, see that no man know it.


Psalm 146:8 ... the LORD raiseth them that are bowed down: the LORD loveth the righteous.

Psalm 145:14 ... (The psalmist praiseth God for his saving mercy.) The LORD upholdeth all that fall, & raiseth up all those that be bowed down.


Psalm 146:9 ... The LORD preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless & widow:

Deuteronomy 10:18 ... (An exhortation to obedience.) He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless & widow, & loveth the stranger, in giving him food & raiment.


Psalm 146:9 ... but the way of the wicked he turned upside down.

Psalm 147:6 ... (The psalmist exhorted to praise God for his care of the church, his power, his goodness, his mercy;) The LORD lifted up the meek: he casteth the wicked down down to the ground.


Psalm 146:10 ... The LORD shall reign for ever, even thy God, O Zi'on unto all generations. Praise ye the LORD.

Exodus 15:18 (Moses song.) The LORD shall reign for ever & ever.

Scripture reference used from The KJV Bible, SouthWestern Co., Nashville, TN

Monday, May 26, 2014

God-Centered Prayer: Book Review

This is not a new book review - it is probably seven or more years older.

There are many wonderful things we can learn from the Old Testament saints. Theologian Graham Scroggie put it this way: "The New is in the old contained, and the Old is in the New explained!" Elijah, is commended for the way he prayed (James 5:17-18). We all want to pursue God with the passion of David, a man after God's heart, and with faith like Abraham.

God interrupted Moses and the children of Israel at the Red Sea, where they were trapped by Pharaoh and the world's greatest army. They cried out to God about their circumstances. What was God's response? He essentially said, "Folks, this is no time to pray. Moses, raise the rod and split the sea. And Moses did! (Exodus 14:15-16).

When Jesus arrived, HE did things on the Sabbath that the Pharisees couldn't accept. Then came the day when, with HIS disciples, HE lifted the Communion cup and said, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood" (Luke 22:20).

God responds to the prayers of those who love and honor HIM. We don't throw out the Old Testament and its prayers.

We approach God's throne of grace "with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).

I Corinthians 10:13 -- God carefully measures our trials, and HE promises that we won't face more than we can bear. (But we must also keep in mind that when we choose to walk in darkness, we move out from under God's protection).

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Matthew 5:43-45 -- Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.

Jesus was no ordinary teacher. HE was the Prince of Peace. "Mercy triumphs over judgment!" (James 2:13).

The prayers God answers are those prayed in accordance with HIS will. The Holy Spirit "searches all things even the deep things of God," and "knows the thoughts of God."

God has told us to call on HIM and he will show us great and mighty things. (Jeremiah 33:3)

As Moses prayed with his hands raised to heaven, Joshua's army was victorious. Prayer worked! (Exodus 17:8-13)

Sickly King Hezekiah lay on his death bed. He cried out to God in prayer. God gave the king fifteen years. (II Kings 20:5)



The author's daddy, Dr. Robert E. Smith (a pastor) laid at death's door in a Tyler Texas Hospital. The medical team advised the family to make his funeral arrangements. In answer to prayer, God raised him up and gave him four and a half more years.

God has created all things for his pleasure. Everything is about the kingdom.

Jesus Christ is the rightful ruler of a spiritual Kingdom, and on day, all men will bow before HIM (Philippians 2:9-10).

What do we know about any king? He's born into his position. He rules those in his kingdom with absolute authority.

Those who are chosen by the king to serve as his ambassadors do everything to symbolize the kingdom. Scripture calls us "Christ's ambassadors" (II Corinthians 5:20).

The author shares in his book that "New Science Magazine" reported a world values survey that analyzed the levels of happiness in more than sixty-five (65) countries. Of the nations surveyed, the United States ranked sixteen (16) on the list, even though the standard of living in the U.S. far exceeds that of the fifteen (15) happiest nations.

Joshua 6 -- Praise preceded the fall of Jericho walls.

II Chronicles 20:14-21 -- Praise preceded Jehoshaphat's victory.

Mark 6:30-44 -- Praise preceded the feeding of the 5,000

Acts 16:20-34 -- Praise preceded the earthquake and jailbreak in Philippi

"It is said of Leonardo da Vinci, the great artist, that he wold sit practically motionless for days at a time, meditating and getting the inspiration for his masterpieces."

Celebrate the Small Stuff!

We are to celebrate God's smallest responses to our prayers. The psalmist David said, "I will praise God's name in song and glorify HIM with thanksgiving" (Psalm 69:30). Jesus said in John 14:13, "I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father."

In Exodus 15, after crossing the Red Sea and escaping the wrath of Pharaoh and his army, the children of Israel threw a praise party to celebrate God for bringing them safely out of Egypt.

Sometimes, after God has done something wonderful that we are celebrating, the enemy throws discouragment in our path.

The author and his wife had finished teaching at the convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, and were headed toward the airport, when they began to witness to the cab driver, who was from Ghana. After a few minutes he prayed to receive Christ as his Lord and Saviour.

When the cab stopped, the driver jumped out, hugged them, and thanked them for sharing Christ's life with him.

At the ticket counter the author's wife was given a boarding pass.

Then the woman looked at the author and told him, "Sir, I'm sorry, but your ticket has been canceled. You don't have a seat on this flight."

He told th woman, "I did't cancel my ticket."

She told him the airline canceled his ticket.

She then told him that he would have to buy another $471 ticket if he planned to fly home on the flight with his wife.

The author was fuming inside as he pulled out his credit card and purchased another $471 ticket. The author said God asked him, "Eddie, why did you sell my praise for $471?" All it took was one setback, one disappointment, to shut down his "praise party" for the salvation of the cab driver. He had allowed the evil one to crash his praise party and rob God of the praise HE was due - for a measly $471.

Let's acknowledge, thank, and celebrate every victory that God sends our way.

The author shares he does not promise to teach you how to get what you want from God. But he do hope that the readers of his book will know how to be heard in heaven.


I believe that Bethany sent me a complimentary copy to review.

Eddie Smith, Author of "How To Be Heard In Heaven. He is also co-founder and president of the U.S. Prayer Center, equips intercessors worldwide through articles, books, and his international teaching ministry.

2004/05 Moments of Peace in the Presence of God: Book Review

Book Review . Peace . Shalom . God . Elohim . Devotional . Talents . Pray . Gifts . Spiritual Gifts, Love, Hope, Happiness . LORD

You know the story, I reviewed this book while being a Baptist Editor/Host for a site around the end of 2004 or 2005.


Through inspiring psalms and meditations this devotional book invites you into the presence of God/Elohim , where the gift of peace/Shalom awaits. In its pages you can discover that God is nearer to you than you are to yourself.

Reflections of Love, Hope, & Happiness.

This is the best gift that you could give to yourself.

NEVER ALONE
At sometime in your life you experience loneliness.
Loneliness is natural and should be appreciated rather than feared. In seasons of loneliness, you discover that you are never truly alone.

A Prayer
God, during those times when I feel the ache of loneliness, help me to remember that you are never more than a whispered prayer away. Amen.


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SECOND CHANCES
Even when your mistakes are so devasting that you cannot return to the life you once knew, God's light can break through the clouds and splash spectacular color across your life.


BEGINNING AGAIN
In many ways, your life is as fragile as that tiny plant. Cold winds may blow over you, leaving you feeling withered and ruined. But then God shines his light on your life and you can blossom once more.




A BRIGHT NEW DAY
Past failures and disappointments can hover over you like leaden clouds, refusing to yield to the promise of sunlight and clear skies. When you find yourself surrounded by gray thoughts and gray feelings, it may seem difficult to dream of happier times. But there is great hope. When you find yourself in such a situation, God is there to help.


THE LORD WANTS TO USE YOUR TALENTS
You should ask for his direction and pray for his guidance so you may use your gifts/Spiritual Gifts fruitfully.

Since this a 2004/2005 Review I did, I believe that that I received a complimentary copy from Bethany Publishing.

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Unfork Your Tongue ... 2/23/2014 Sunday School Lesson

Sheminith . Psalm/Tehillim 12 . Philistines . Shochoh . Judah . Azekah . Esphesdammin . Saul . men of Israel . Valley of Elah . Goliah of Gath . 6 cubits & span . 5,000 shekels of brass . II Chronicles 15 . Spirit of God . Azariah - son of Oded . Benjamin . great vexations . prophecy of Oded . Mt. Ephraim - renewed altar of Lord - porch of Lord . Ephraim & Manasseh - Simeon . Jerusalem - 3rd month - 15th year offered unto Lord - spoil . Covenant . Be ye strong . Nehemiah 1 . Nehemiah . Hachalial . Chisleu (December) - 20th year - Shushah the palace . Shushan (Esther 1:2; Daniel 8:27) . Wall of Jerusalem . sat down - wept- mourned - fasted - prayed - God of Heaven . day & night - confess - sinned . commandments - Moses . mercy - this man . this man - Persian king . kings cupbearer (Nehemiah 2:1) . Genesis/Bereshith 24 . well . master Abraham . well of water . vigin cometh draw water for camels - woman whom Lord hath out - master's son - Rebekah came - pitcher . daughter of Bethuuel, Nahor's son . Milcah . earring upon face - bracelet upon hands . bowed head - worshipped Lord . right hand or left. Laban & Bethuel . earth . Proverb/Mishle 18. fool. wisdom . talebearer . Lord . strong tower . righteous runneth - safe . James 3 . tongue - little - boasteth great things - fire kindleth . tongue - no man can tamed . same mouth - blessings & cursings . can fig tree bear olive berries - vine fig . no fountain both yield salt water & fresh . Sunday School Lesson . Psalm/Tehillim 12:5 (Victory Over Enemies & Trouble) . Nehemiah 1:5 (The Upright Are Blessed & Prospered) . Nehemiah 1:9 (Pardon for Inquities & Sins) . Proverbs/Mishle 18:10 (Safety from Harm & Danger)

The Sunday School Lesson for 2/23/2014 is shared from James 3:1-12 (Background Scripture: James 3:1-12; Devotional Reading: Proverbs/Mishle 18:2-13)

The Sunday School Lesson for 3/2/2014 is shared from II Samuel 7:4-16 (Devotional Reading: Psalm/Tehillim 98; Background Scripture: II Samuel 7:1-17)

Sheminith ... 8th, & probably refers here to an instrument of strings

Esphesdammin ... coast of Dammim, called Pasdammim (I Chronicles 11:13)

Philistines (wanderers), people of Philistia. In the SW corner of Palestine(Then)/Holy Land(Now)lived the Philistines, who are said to have come from Caphtor; & apparently descendants of Mizraim. (Mizraim: dual - plural name of Egypt) (Caphtor: knob, pomegrante, in Upper Egypt)

Shochoh (I Samuel 17:1)

Judah (praise), son of Jacob, pledges himself for Benjamin, tribe of blessed by Moses, Jews derived from Judah, Israelites first called Judah

Azekah (plowed), a town of Judah

Saul ... troubled by an evil spirit, favors David & seeks to destroy him

Goliath (shining?)

Gath(a wine-press), David flees to, taken by David

6 cubits & span ... about 11 ft & 1/2

Spirit of God, the Holy Spirit, Holy Ghost, God

Azariah (Jehovah helps) ten others

Oded (strengthening), prophet

Benjamin (son of the right hand), youngest son of Jacob, tribe of apostle Paul

Mt. Ephraim, a mountain; (wood of - one of the oak woods to the SW)

Ephraim & Manasseh blessed by Jacob

Simeon (hearing), son of Jacob

Covenant ... promise, unchangeable, everlasting

Nehemiah (Jehovah comforts), his grief & prayer for Jerusalem

Hachalial (Jehovah saddens)

Chisleu/Kislev (November - December), 9th month

Shushah ... capital of Persia

Commandments ... law, 10 delivered, fulfilled by Christ, end of the commandment is charity - love

Moses (saved from water), an Egyptian name, meets God in Mount Sinai, delivers law to people

Abraham (Abram), sends for a wife for Issac his son, father of a multitude, called by God (children of: Genesis/Bereshith 21:2-3; 25:1-4; I Chronicles 1:32-34)

camels ... In common use among Jews & other nations of Palestine(Then)/Holy Land(Now) was the Arabian or one-humped camel, 'camelus arabicus.'

Rebekah ... Daughter of Bethuel, grand-niece of Abraham, becomes Issac's wife, mother of Esau & Jacob

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Bethuel (house of God) son of Nabor, father of Rebekah

Nahor (snoring), Abram's brother

Milcah (queen), wife of Nahor & mother of Bethueln

Right hand ... right side - act was often the sign of a pledge, right, straight, righteous

Left ... left hand, good name

Laban (white), hospitable, gives Jacob his two daughters, envies & oppresses him, made a covenant with him

earth ... country, ground, land, world, created by God

fool ... character & conduct, folly, depise understanding & wisdom

wisdom ... given by God, obtained in answer to prayer by Solomon, danger of despising, of Joseph, Solomon, Daniel

tongue ... unruly


James 3:1-12 ... Teachers & the tongue (Sins, Social, & Spiritual)

Verses 1-4

Verse 1 ... Man Redeemed; Duties & Graces Of The New Life; Government of the Tongue, Required

Verse 2 ... Man Redeemed; Duties & Graces Of The New Life; Government of the Tongue

Verse 3 ... Civil & Social Life; Manners & Customs; Travelling, Different Modes

Verse 4 ... Industrial Employments & Products; Ships & Navigation; Working Ships, Steering

(James 1:19,26; 4:11-12; 5:12; Psalm/Tehillim 39:1 ... Reference Scriptures in Sunday School Book)


Verses 5-8

Verses 5,6,8 ... Man Redeemed; Duties & Graces Of The New Life; Government of the Tongue

Verse 7 ... External Nature; Man & The Animal Creation; Man's Dominion over Animals



Verses 9-12

Verses 9,10 ... Man Redeemed; Duties & Graces Of The New Life; Government of the Tongue

Verses 11,12 ... External Nature; Water; Wells & Fountains, Figurative

Verse 12 ... Industrial Employments & Products; Tilling The Ground; Fig Trees & Figs

(Revelation 3:16)


Monday - 2/17/2014 - Lying & Flattering Lips - Psalm/Tehillim 12

David's destitute of human comfort, craveth help of God. He comforteth himself with God's judgment on the wicked, & confidence in God's tried promises.... Psalm of Supplication: Expressing trust in god; Didactic (instruct/teach) Psalm: showing the blessing of God's people & the misery of HIS enemies


Tuesday - 2/18/2014 - Words that Imtimidate - I Samuel 17:1-11

The Israelites & Philistines being ready to battle. Goliath challenges a combat;


Wednesday - 2/19/2014 - Words that Lead to Repentance - II Chronicles 15:1-12

Judah makes a solemn covenant with God


Thursday - 2/20/2014 - Words that Lead to Mourning - Nehemiah 1

Nehemiah understanding by hannai the afflicted state of Jerusalem, mourns, fasts, & prays, his prayer


Friday - 2/21/2014 - Words that Lead to Worship - Genesis/Bereshith 24:42-52

Abraham sendeth his servant to get a wife for his son, Issac; he obtaineth Rebekah


Saturday - 2/22/2014 - Words Guided by Wisdom - Proverbs/Mishle 18:2-13

The Proverbs of Solomon ... wise & foolish man, righteous & wicked, sound advice on words & tongue, lazy man/slack work, pverty & wealth


Sunday - 2/23/2014 - Taming the Tongue - James 3:1-12

We must not rashly or arrograntly reprove others: the importance of governing the tongue.


Scripture reference used/taken from: KJV Topical Edition Bible, The International Teacher's Handy Bible Encyclopedia/Concordance KJV Precious Promise Bible, Zondervan Bible Commentary, Vine's Expository Dictionary of O.T. & N.T. Words & The Strongest Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Of The Bible








Live What You Believe ... 2/16/2014 Sunday School Lesson

II Thessalonians 1 . I Timothy 6 . perdition . I Thessalonians 3 . Timotheus . Luke 7 . Capernaum . Pharisees . Simon . Colossains 2 . Laodicea . James 2 . Abraham . Issac . Rahab . God . your faith . charity . Churches of God . tribulations . Jesus/Yeshua . Lord Jesus . Heaven . flaming fire . punished . pray always . Lord Jesus Christ . godliness . content . destruction . love of money . righteousness - love - patience - meekness . fight good fight of faith . lay hold - Eternal Life . stand fast - in Lord . night & day praying . God - our Father . love . certain centurion's servant - sick - ready to die . elders of Jews . servant whole - had been sick . woman in city - sinner -alabaster box of ointment . certain creditors - debtors - forgave them both . her sins - are many - forgiven - for she loved much . any man beguile you - enticing words . steadfastness . walk in HIM . thanksgiving . faith - works . one God - devils believe & tremble . justified by works - received messengers . Sunday School Lesson . heal. Israel . faith - works


The Sunday School Lesson is shared from James 2:14-26 (Background Scripture: James 2:14-26; Devotional Reading: Luke 7:1-10) for 2/16/2014.

The Sunday School Lesson for 2/23/2014 is shared from James 3:1-12 (Background Scripture: James 3:1-12; Devotional Reading: Proverbs/Mishle 18:2-13)

perdition ... utter destruction, eternal damnation

Timotheous (Timothy), accompanies the apostle Paul. Timothy had been left in Ephesus to check erroneous (containing errors) doctrine, while Paul went on to Macedonia to visit his loved Philippians

Capernaum (village of comfort), a city on the west shore of the sea of Galilee

Phariesees ... the word derived from the Hebrew word 'to separate,' & this title was given to the Pharisees, because of their superior strictness in adhering to the law. A class among the scribes - but not identical to scribes. Spirtually proud - without moral excellence.

Simon, reproved Pharisee

Laodicea, a city of Phrygia ( a district of Asia Minor/Turkey), near Colasse

Abraham (father of a multitude), his faith counted for righteousness - his faith in offering Issac

heal ... cure, to care for the sick, to treat, made whole, spiritual healing, to save, medical service, Divinely imparted gifts in he Churches in Apostolic times, reaching completion.

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Israel (God fights), Jacob so called

faith(Hebrews 11), trust without seeing - works (action)

Works by love (I Timothy 1:5; Hebrews 10:23)

faith without works is dead (James 2:17,20)


James 2:14-26 ... faith & works (Sins, Social,& Spiritual: James 2:1-5:6)

Verses 14-17

Verses 14,17 ... Man Redeemed; Faith; Relation of Faith to Works, Faith Without Works Insufficient

Verses 15,16 ... Man Redeemed; Duties & Graces Of The New Life; Ministering to the Necessity of Saints


Verses 18-22

Verse 18 ... Man Redeemed; Faith; Relation of Faith to Works, Faith Without Works Insufficient

Verse 19 ... Angels, Evil Angels, Are Not Believers

Verse 20 ... Man Redeemed; Faith; Relation of Faith to Works; Faith Without Works Insufficient

Verses 21,22 ... Man Redeemed; Faith; Relation of Faith to Works; Works Required in Order to Justification

Verse 21 (Genesis/Bershith 22:1,14)

(Matthew 8:29; Mark 5:7; Galatians 3:6-29 ... Reference Scriptures in Sunday School Book)






Verses 23-26

Verse 23 ... Man Redeemed; Justification; Faith the Instrumental Clause

Justification ... to justify. All that was necessary on God's part for our justification had been effected in the Death of Christ. He was raised from the dead. The propitation (atonement) being perfect & complete.

Verse 23 (Genesis/Bereshith 15:6; Isaiah 41:8; II Chronicles 20:7)

Verses 24,25 ... Man Redeemed; Faith; Relation of Faith to Works, Works Required in Order to Justification

Verse 25 (Joshua 2:1,21)

Verse 26 ... Man Redeemed; Faith, Relation of Faith to Works, Faith Without Works Insufficient

(Genesis/Bereshith 15:6; II Chronicles 20:7; Isaiah 41:8; Joshua 2:1-21)


Monday - February 10, 2014 - The Work of Faith With Power - II Thessalonians 1:3-12

Prayer & Encouragement


Tuesday - February 11, 2014 - Faith Distracted by Loving Money - I Timothy 6:6-12

False teachers (I Timothy 6:3-10) ... The man of God (I Timothy 6:11-16) ... Regarding Relationships (I Timothy 5:1-6:21)


Wednesday - February 12, 2014 - Completeing What's Lacking in Faith - I Thessalonians 3:4-13

apostle Paul & The Thessalonian Church (I Thessalonians 2:17-3:13)


Thursday - February 13, 2014 - An Example of Great Faith - Luke 7:1-10

The centurion's servant ... The Return To Galilee (Luke 4:14-8:56)


Friday - February 14, 2014 - A Faith that Saves - Luke 7:36-50

The anointing of Jesus/Yeshua


Saturday - February 15, 2014 - Living Your Life in Christ - Colossians 2:1-7

apostle Paul's Ministry ... Christ's Person & Work (Colossians 1:3-2:7)


Sunday - February 16, 2014 - Faith Demonstrated through Works - James 2:14-26


Scripture reference used/taken from: The International Teacher's Handy Bible Encyclopedia/Concordance KJV Precious Promise Bible, KJV Topical Editon Bible, KJV Special Arrangement New Testament, Vine's Expository Dictionary of O.T. & N.T. Words, Zondervan Bible Commentary, & Merriam Webster's Deluxe Dictionary

Saturday, February 1, 2014

Letter From God: Book Review 2002 - 2004

Excerpts from a Book I Reviewed between 2002 - 2004...

By: Angela Watkins

Let us pray for all leaders, presidents and kings where we may lead a peaceable and quiet life.

On a serious note make sure you do know who your Heavenly Father is.....

By: Angela Doreathy Glass Watkins Bring every big and little thing to God in prayer for help, advice, or sharing your joy! Our Heavenly Father loves us. Sharing a note from a book I have reviewed.

Shared by Angela Doreathy Glass Watkins

Letter From God .....

My Precious Daughter,

I can't wait to hear from you! You are the joy of My heart! I created you to have fellowship with Me, and I love your company when you pray to Me.


You are so important to Me that I want you to bring every big and little thing to Me for help, advice, or sharing your joy! I am always available.





Prayer is the way you reach Me. Whether it's an arrow prayer or a lengthy one, I welcome all.

Don't worry if you continue to take back your worries. I am patiently waiting for you to turn them back over to Me again and again,.

I know that you'll grow stronger each time you focus on Me. I'm confident that My Spirit will continue to work in you to learn this challenging surrender, so don't think I'm upset or unhappy with you. I'll never stop drawing you into My loving embrace.

My daughter, you are valuable and precious to Me. Talk to Me often. Relate your worries to Me.

I stand ready to respond and take your burdens.

I love you.

Your Heavenly Father



This review was shared from "Partly Cloudy with Scattered Worries" Finding Peace In All Kinds of Weather By Kathy Collard Miller. She has appeared on the 700 Club and other radio and television programs and has spoken in five countries besides the United States.


Angela Doreathy Glass Watkins

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

2013 .. A Promise Kept ... 10/13/2013 'Sunday School Lesson'

Sarai/Sarah . Issac - promise . Haran . Hagar . Ishmael . Pray for all that we may lead a peaceable life . Pray for Christian Arabs . Canaan . Abraham . Kirjath-arba . Heth . Genesis/Bereshith . Isaiah 51 . Sunday School Lesson

The Sunday School Lesson is shared from Genesis 17:15-17; 18:9-15; 21:1-7 (Devotional Reading: Isaiah 51:1-6; Background Scripture: Genesis 17:15-17; 18:9-15; 21:1-7). In order to gain a good understanding of this lesson, you will need to read/study the Daily Home Bible Readings that go with this lesson at the end of this article. ... My study came from two different KJV Bibles (one of them from around 1915).

Sarah (princess)

Issac, promise child

Haran, town of Padan-aram (field of Aram), country of Mesopotamia. Aram, country northeast of Palestine(Then)/Holy Land(Now), usually called Syria.

Hagar (flight), mother of Ishmael

Ishmael (God hears), son of Abraham

Kirjath-arba (city of Baal)

Heth, father of Hittities (early dwellers in Asia Minor (Turkey), Syria & parts of Palestine(Then)/Holy Land(Now).


Genesis 17:15-17 ... Circumcision instituted. Issac with a numerous issue is promised. Sarai her name is changed, & she is blessed. Issac is promised.

Genesis 18:9-15 ... Sarah reproved. Sarah is reproved for laughing at the strange promise.

Genesis 21:1-7 ... Issac is born. He is circumcision. Sarah's joy.

Isaiah 51:1-6 ... The righteous exhorted, after the pattern of Abraham, to trust in Christ: certainity of his salvation.






Genesis 18:9-15

Verse 9 ... Industrial Employments & Products; Human Abodes; Tents, Used by Abraham & the Hebrews.

Verses 10,14 ... Miracles; Miracles Considered; Miracles Foretold.

Verses 11,12,13,15 ... The Family; Parents & Children; Barreness, Miraculously Removed

(Genesis 17:115-17; 18; John 1:18; Genesis 18:2; 12; 15; 17; Habakkuk 2:3 ... Reference in Sunday School Book)









Verses 21:1-7

Verses 1,2,5,6,7 ... Miracles; Supernatural Bodily Gifts & Deprivations; Gift or Denial of Children

Verse 3 ... The Family; Parents & Children; Naming at Birth

Verse 4 ... Sacred Rites & Forms; Sacraments, Worship, & Church-Fellowship; Circumcision, Applied by Abraham

(Genesis 21; 17:12; 17:17; 18:16-20; 18:19; 17:9-14; 17:12-13)



Monday - October 7, 2013 - A Childless Wife - Genesis 11:27-32

The generations of Shem & of Terah. Terah goeth from Ur to Haran.


Tuesday - October 8, 2013 - A Beautiful Wife - Genesis 12:10-20

Canaan promised.


Wednesday - October 9, 2013 - A Threatened Wife - Genesis 16:1-6

Sarai, being barren, giveth Hagar to Abram. Hagar fleeth from her mistress.


Thursday - October 10, 2013 - The Promise of a Covenant - Genesis 17:18-22

Issac is promised.


Friday - October 11, 2013 - Dispelling the Competition - Genesis 21:8-14

Sarah's joy. Hagar & Ishmael are cast forth.


Saturday - October 12, 2013 - Mourning a Beloved Wife - Genesis 23:1-6

The age & death of Sarah. The purchase of Machpelah.


Sunday - October 13, 2013 - Bearing a Child of Promise - Genesis 17:15-17; 18:9-15; 21:1-7


Scripture reference used/taken from: KJV Topical Edition Bible & The International Teacher's Handy Bible Encyclopedia/Concordance KJV Precious Promise Bible

2007 ... Abraham & Hagar Have a Son Ishmael ... Sunday School Lesson

One of my 2007 Writings, that is at a couple other another sites....

What season are we in?...And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows.

GOD has a plan....GOD Is In Total Control.

God keeps HIS promises. God is All Powerful, HE Knows All Things, Sees ALL Things.

9-23-07 Sunday School Lesson: Genesis 21:9-21

Sharing my sunday school notes (Read Genesis 21:9-21)

9-30-07 Lesson (Next Week) "Issac & Rebekah" Genesis 24:34-40, 42-45, 48

Genesis 21:12-13 "God said unto Abraham....also of the son of the bondwoman will I make a nation, because he is thy seed."

I want you to keep your mind on this but this was not in my sunday school book for some reason my mind went to this --- Acts 2:8-11, 16, 20, 38, 41, 42 - The Pentecostal Beginning, Realized. What season are we in? Now I have never been to seminary nor theology school but this is my thought.

Genesis 21:9-21

Verses 9, 10, 11, 12, 20, 21 --- OTHER Nations, Offshoots of The Abrahamic Stock, Ishmaelites


(My understanding the Arabs are from Ishmael & Abraham)

And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian (Genesis 16:1) which she had born unto Abraham(Genesis 16:15)

Abraham was a man of faith. Abraham was a father of two sons at this time by two different women and they were all living in the same dwelling place - home.

Was it and is it possible for two women that have had a child by the same man to dwell - live in peace all under the same roof with one man? Abraham was grievous when he had to send his son, Ishmael away.





Verse 14 -- THE FAMILY, Polygamy (more than one wife or husband at the same time) & Concubinage (to dwell or live together) Practised Trouble From It

And Abraham rose up ...... early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave it unto Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, and the child, and sent her away: (John 8:35) and she departed, and wandered in the wilderness in Beer-sheba.










Abraham was kind for he prepared water and bread for Hagar and his son before sending them away from his dwelling place. This is how men should care for their child(children) making preparations for them.

Beer-shea .......... Genesis 21:14 Hagar was relieved there, I Kings 19:3 Elijah flees there

Verses 15, 16 -- THE FAMILY, Family Affections, Parent & Children, Love to Children

And the water was spent in the bottle, and she cast her child under the shrubs.

And she went, and sat her down over against him.....a good way off, as it were a bowshoot, for she said, Let me not see the death of the child.....And she sat over against him, and lifted up her voice, and wept.

Food for thought -- Was she praying for her child? What mother, what good mother would not have been praying for their child hoping that they would be heard? Was her cry heard?

Verse 17 -- Angels, The Angel of The LORD, OR, OF God, Instances of HIS Appearing

And God heard the voice of the lad; (Exodus 3:7) and the angel of God....called to Hagar....out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not, for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is.

God ask Hagar what aileth thee...God called her by name. God told her not to fear for he had heard the lad -- the lad was her son.

Food for thought -- What was Moses? Do you remember what Moses calling was?

Exodus 3:7 --- The Hebrews, ISRAEL in Egypt, God Remembers HIS Covenant

And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows.

Verse 18 -- Angels, The ANGEL Of The LORD, OR, OF God, Utters Predictions

Arise,.....lift up the lad, and hold him in thine hand; for I will make him a great nation (Genesis 21:13)

him - Ishmael

Verse 19 -- MIRACLES, Supernatural Bodily Gifts, Gifts of Bodily Vision

And God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went and filled the bottle with water, and gave the lad a drink.

Food for thought --- Pray, Pray seriously, Believe, ACTION "ASK, SEEK, KNOCK"

Genesis 25:12-17

Verses 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 --- Descendants of Ishmael

Verse 16 -- 12 princes according to their nations

Verse 17 -- Other Nations, Ishmaelites, Ishmael lived 137 years

Scripture reference taken from KJV, Topical Bible, Crusade Bible Publishers, Mt. Juliet, TN

Book Reviewer, Web Content Provider/Writer/Blogger, Researcher, Sunday School Teacher

Friday, May 31, 2013

Freefall to Fly: A Breathtaking Journey Toward a Life of Meaning ... Book Review



Book Review . Anxiety . Depression ., Down Syndrome . Journey . Dreams . Talents . New York . Mental Health . Christian Life . Women Issues . Virginia . Maya Angelou . non profit . international missions . Manhattan . Greek isles . relaxation . Heavenly treasures . corporate ladder . pray

Rebekah Lyons is a brave woman to share her personal story and I hope that it will inspire and help others.

"It is never too late to be what you might have been." ... George Eliot

Depression and anxiety have many faces. More than 57.7 million American adults suffer from some form of mental illness, including 18.1 million who have been diagnosed with depression.

Even more shocking is the number of women suffering from depression. From anxiety attacks, as in Rebekah case, to mood disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and so on women are under siege. And the majority of women who are wrestling with depression fit nicely in the twenty-five to forty-four-year-old age bracket.

Rebekah is no medical doctor, and she has no degree in psychology,but she loves to listen to the stories of women.

Thanksgiving had barely faded into autumn's wake when Rebekah received the news of her aunt Martha's death. The doctor had handed her a diagnosis of advanced pancreatic cancer just five months prior, but none of the family thought the disease would steal her life so quickly.

Her thoughts flipped to the person noticeably absent for the funeral the weekend: her dad.

She was aware of the state of his mental health when she was fifteen. He was admitted to a psychiatric hospital hospital for a week.

He lost his job teaching for the county. Administrators didn't consider him fit to be responsible for a classroom.

Perhaps one of the worst effects of such an illness is the lack of respect the individual gets from those closest to them. The survivor never seems to receive the benefits of the doubt. Always looked at as a mental case.

She found herself thinking of her father.

Would she end up in the same bed, her mind unable to sustain her body? She worried that his present might be her future.

Her father and her firstborn son, which has Down Syndrome were connecting in a way they were unable to. Beyond logic and reason. A brokenness that is whole. Beautiful.

A man who'd lived a life of suffering, of struggle, of mental anguish never turned his back on God. He had been faithful. His grandchildren delighted in his presence.

As you know, New York is bleak in wintertime.

Rebekah was invited to lunch with a few women in her Church who were looking to start conversations among their parish Churches concerning what "living fully" looked like for the women in the city. She'd been asked to provide insight and talking points, but she was wrestling with God.

She was beginning to put pen to paper about her journey over the past two years - the story of her own struggle with depression and anxiety.




She thought of Jesus. And what had to have been a horrific night in the Garden of Gethsemane the night before He was Crucified, when He prayed on His face for hours.

We all wonder how long we must wait and when the rescue will come. And God says in the waiting, "Turn your face to Me, focus on Me.

So we wait.

"If the future road looms ominous or unpromising, and the roads back uninviting, then we need to gather our resolve and, carrying only the necessary baggage, step off that road into another direction." ... Maya Angelou

These technological creations, while interesting for everyone else, have the opposite effect on us. Instead of confirming our worth, they only add to the pressure to perform and strive. Have you made every recipe on your Pinterest board? Rebekah admits she haven't. How many of us have homes that look like the images we pin?

Rebekah loves knowing what her friends are up to, near and far. Technology helps her feel more connected to them. But unless she reach out and actually talk to them, the closeness is limited to a newsfeed.

Her husband, Gabe is a helpful barometer to keep her accountable. He knows when the real Rebekah, and the virtual ones grow disconnected. And he raises a red flag when her iPhone gets more attention than he does.

For a few of us, our parents saw a gift in us and nurtured it to full bloom. Sadly for many, like Rebekah our uniqueness was squelched by peer pressure, feelings of inadequacy, or disapproval from a parent.

As for her gift of writing, that one snuck up on her. Though she could be found often with a book in her hand during her youth. As she wrote fervent questions of prayers, she felt His presence near.

Some days she's on edge for no reason, unsure if she should trust her surroundings or even her friends.

Upon graduation, she landed the perfect job at Blair Communications, a respected PR firm in Virginia. The idealism lasted for nine months, until she felt pulled toward a nonprofit focused on international missions.

What is God's unique plan for the headstrong leader and wise counselor with a fierce ambition for love for writing?

She loved her children and her husband and, in many ways, the life she had created. After months of misery, she had begun the journey toward meaning by unearthing her unique gifts. And like Manhattan's spring tulips, she was now bursting with life.

"Every now and then go away and have a little relaxation. To remain constantly at work will diminish your judgment. Go some distance away, because work will be in perspective and a lack of harmony is more readily seen." ... Leonardo Da Vinci

Like children anticipating Christmas morning, Gabe and Rebekah were anxious to steal away. His parents had offered to let the grandkids run free on their five wooded acres in Virginia's heartland so they could spend uninterrupted time together.

Scrounging together airline miles, hotel points, and a bit of money they had tucked away for such an occasion, they booked a trip to Greek isle of Santorini.

At night, they dined in front of Mediterranean sunsets.

Gabe and her had one assignment: to reconnect. They had grown distant during her freefall months in New York. Her anxiety attacks had understandably placed him on edge. They aimed to steal away and reignite the spark they once had.

They didn't know they would go with little sleep for a decade-facing financial uncertainly and loss, burying their dear friend, birthing a son who would change the way they saw the world. And God would make them new through all of it. A lesson they continue to learn.

When packing for the trip, she made sure to cram in as many many books as her luggage could hold.

She remembered a story from the Gospel of Matthew where Jesus teaches His disciples some cornerstone principles about treasure. He explains that storing up earthly treasures is a worthless endeavor. Houses, money, livestock - they all rust or are eaten by moths. Jesus describes a different kind of treasure. Heavenly treasures.

She have felt the fading in her own life. Battling a lifelong struggle with anxiety and despair.

How might life be different for women like her if they believed a treasure awaits them?

She have found community with people who are living out the calling God has breathed into their hearts. Not a story of climbing a successful corporate ladder for personal gains, but one that carries a humble heaviness for burdens that break their hearts.

That evening she packed with fury in anticipation of returning home. But now she was discovering something greater. Treasure. Meaning.

"The wise man in the storms prays to God, not for safety from danger, but deliverance from fear," ... Ralph Waldo Emerson

They returned home to find New York had shed its summer skin, with fall nearly in full swing.

Life was going so well.

Soon sleep beckoned, thought less restful than she had hoped for. She tossed and tossed between dreams, resisting each one like an uninvited guest.

Panic whispered.

She shook Gabe awake, begging him between gaps to help her get to the elevator. Their children stayed asleep as the alarm clock glowed 3:20 a.m.

They were painfully aware that the attacks she had avoided the past nine months were back.

She had begun experiencing an onslaught of attacks daily, each distinctly different from what she had fought the year before. These episodes took place in wide-open spaces as she gasped for air on the playground bench while her kids played in the distance.

She began to believe she would never change a thought that brought sadness and new depths of desperation.

Just as life was looking up the floor was dropping out from beneath her.

3:02 a.m. another panic attack.

Her husband prayed, "God take this panic attack away. You are not a God who invokes fear, but faith. Give us faith. Help Rebekah to breathe, to calm, to release."

She cried out, "RESCUE ME!"

The physical bondage that she had been battling for more than a year-gone in an instant. She had never come out of a panic attack like that before.

Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Jesus yoke is easy and the burden He gives is light."

For many, prescription medication has been a lifesaver in moments of severe struggle, and some need it to even out imbalance in the brain.

God had met her in her darkest hour.

Write down the turning points in your life.

Write down your talents.

Write down your greatest burden.

If you aren't married or if your husband isn't willing to offer his support, the journey may be more difficult (particularly for single moms). Look for a trusted friend - a person who believes in you - who encourages you along the way.

Note those in your life who will help you on this journey.

I'm convinced God wants to use you to bring someone else's gift to life.

I received a copy of this book for review from Tyndale House Publishers. I review books for Authors, Ministries, Businesses, Publicists & Publishing Companies.


Rebekah Lyons is a mother of three, wife, dog walker of two living in New York. As a self-confessed mess, she wears her heart on her sleeve, a benefit to friends and readers alike. She serves alongside her husband, Gabe, as cofounder of Q Ideas, an organization that helps winsomely engage culture.

Monday, May 13, 2013

We Will Have Consequences of Our Sin/Wrong Doing ... 8/9/2007



Psalm 18 . King David. Sin . El Elyon . Pray . Tragedy . Sunday School Lesson . Book of Job . Ezekiel 18 . Suffering . Storms . Jesus . Lord . Repent . Ezekiel/Yehezkel

The below is not a new article, but an article I shared at a website 8/9/2007.

I pray that we have been seriously in prayer for all the Tragedy that have taken placed. Is The Most High God - El Elyon Sleep? No HE is not. Genesis 14:18 - 20, Isaiah 14:14b.

And yes my heart has been heavy this week from all that I could see going on but I know that angels are holding back the 4 winds of heaven (Revelation 7:1). Keep praying and look up. (My newsletters will not be this lengthy every week)

My Sunday School lesson notes is coming first in this newsletter and I do pray that someone is encouraged, helped in their christian walk, their personal walk, their job, their career and their business walk.

I am still looking at the Book of Job. As Job we are to trust God through the storms/the things we do not understand.

All suffering/storms do not mean that someone has done something wrong it can be "tests." Do we have the patience of Job? Matthew 8:23-27 Tells me about the Disciples and Jesus in the storm. Jesus does have the power to speak and yes even the wind/storm/sea will obey HIM.

Angela's Sunday School Lesson Notes for 8-12-07

Devotional Reading - Psalm 18:20 - 24

Background Scripture - Ezekiel 18

We Will Have Consequences of Our Sin/Wrong Doing

Psalm 18: 20 - 24

A Psalm of David, who spoke unto the LORD, that the LORD would deliver him from the hand of all his enemies

verse 20 - Obeying God, Rewards of Obedience

verse 21, 22, 23 - Obeying God, Examples of Obedience

verse 24 - Works of God, Their Prosperity

Ezekiel 18:4, 20 - 23, 30 - 32

Ezekiel/Yehezkel (name meaning strengthen by God) He was a prophet, and his wife took sick and she died. His message was twofold (1) coming destruction (2) comfort and looking for the Kingdom of God.

verse 4 - Behold, """all"""" souls are mine; - God the absolute owner of man

verse 20 - Other sins not to be suffered for

verse 21, 22 - Repentance, Encouragement to repentance, promises to the penitent(those who repent from sin/wrong doing)

verse 23, 31, 32 - The Purposes of God, Has no pleasure in their death

verse 30 - Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the LORD God.

"Repent," and "turn" yourselves all your transgressions (sins/wrong doing); - Repentance, Repentance a Duty

Scripture reference taken from Crusade Publishers, Inc. Mt. Juliet, Tn