Make Your S.H.I.F.T. - Book Review

An excellent guide for individuals, those changing places of employment, getting a new job, getting a better handle on your finances, learning new skills, losing weight, going to college, starting a business. ..................... Avenues to learning new skills: visit the library and read books and magazines that interest you, take a class or hire a coach. ............................ Define and list your obstacles. .............................. Have a Plan "B." ............................... Define and set your goals - Financial, Spiritual, Family, etc. .................. Place your goals, dreams, plans, and desired outcomes in writing. ................ Stakeholders are people in our lives who can play a role to help us, or thwart us as we make our shift. ..................................... Brainstorm - List all ideas, or things that come to your mind. (Now I have not seen this word in a book since 1992, when I was in college in night school. Now I do not have a degree but the time I spent in night school was most rewarding). ............ Be grateful for what you have, no matter how much you have or don't have. BE thankful that you are still alive. .................................. Be confident in yourself, and understand your strengths and weaknesses. ............. Be positive. Stop focusing on your shortcomings. ................................. Beware of Naysayers. Do not share your plans or ideas when you are trying to accomplish a task, because some might not be supportive of your goals or dreams. .... Stop the cycle of generational dysfunction. ............................... Learn to listen, be silent. It takes two to argue. .......................... Keep your plan, goals, or dreams realistic. ................................. Our approach to change is personal and individual. ............................... Human beings are responsible for change, whether it is change in their personal or their professional life. Change requires the motivation to keep up a sustained effort, and a commitment to getting to the desired place. ...................... In the past twenty-five years, Mrs. Flaxington have been on many roles, in business and in working with individuals as a hypnotherapist, that have allowed her to observed many individuals intent on achieving personal change. She is, and have been, a hypnotherapist, a corporate consultant, a senior-level executive, a college professor, and a professional coach. ..................... The S.H.I.F.T. Model@ ................... Specify the desired outcome. ............................ Highlight obstacles and categorize ................................. Identify the human factor. ..................................... Find alternatives. ................................... Take disciplined action. ..................................... Being able to specific what you want and even more to the point, identifying something that you actually want to achieve, requires a very focused effort. ....... It always starts with defining exactly what you want to achieve in your life, and very importantly, why you want to achieve it. ............................... Depending on your goals and where you're starting from, these obstacles could include things like family, relationships, money, work, and even more internal issues, such as your own confidence and ability to believe in yourself. ....................... You will find out there are three types of obstacles: ones we can control, one we cannot control but can influence, and ones that are out of our control. ........... Among other things, this step looks at behavioral style, how we tend to take a different approach to problem solving and communication, and how these different approaches can hamper our ability to connect and work together most effectively. .... This step looks at the issues you might have within yourself and within your network of relationships. It looks at factors such as toxic friendships or poor self-esteem that might hold you back. Other things, like a supportive spouse or good self-confidence, might give an advantage in a particular area. ............................ In a kind of business sense, this is where skills like project-management skills, time-management skills, and resource-management skills come into play. ........... It is not enough to hate your 9-5 job and decide to start a home-based business. You have to know what skills you have, what impact it will have on your family, etc. ... Unless you have virtually unlimited resources, you can't just wake up one morning and pull a business idea out of a hat deciding to take it upon yourself to start that type of business for yourself. You need to think about the type of business that is right for you, even perhaps especially, if you are the only person who is going to be involved in it on a daily basis. ............................... We have a desire, we set the goal, and then we put steps in place in order to help us meet that goal. ............................... What is your personal desired outcome over the next year or few years? ............. We've read stories of people who made it rich and it ruined their lives, because a singular focus on wealth sometimes bring unintended consequences. ............... You have to think what you want your life to look like once you have made your shift and achieved the goals you are striving toward. .......................... Instead of "start your own business," you might have revised your goal to something like: "Find something you enjoy doing that you can make a business out of where you work from home three home three days a week have more time to spend with your family." .............................. What are you good at? What do you love to do and why do you love it? ....................... If we value something enough, we'll find a way to walk around the obstacle. ....... Take the time now to brainstorm and identify obstacles that have held you back, or that you fear may hold you back on the way to reaching your desired outcome. ........ Internal factors are anything you have accumulated throughout your life that either get in your way or help you to succeed. ....................................... External factors are all of the people in our lives who may affect our decision to shift in one way or another. ........................................... Our change sometimes threatens others, while some people can be great advocates and give us real help. We need to know who might be involved, for better or worse, to understand how to consider them as we create our plan for shifting. ............... Think about all of the people who may have some sort of stake in the people who may have some sort of stake in the process, if not now, then at some future point. ...... It is honestly better to consider everyone, even if you end up leaving him or her out of your change process, than to miss someone or some group that holds an important stake. It is not wise to assume you have support, or assume you can ignore someone because he doesn't seem to care or have power. ................... As you put a plan in place you may have to choose something that meets only some of your criteria, so you'll want to be aware of the most critical criteria for you. .... Now that you have created a list of what matters, you can begin the brainstorming process. The important thing is to have your desired outcome written down and documented, and then find ways to keep it in front of you, literally, so you can focus on it with clarity. ............................................. When Mrs. Flaxington decided to write her book, she had to sit down and list all the components in the process, it entailed everything from obtaining an ISBN, to getting a cover design, to finding a qualified editor, to every step in the marketing process and beyond. .................................... Life definitely intervenes and sometimes we have to make a mid-course correction or go down another road to get to our desired outcome. ......................... Each of our styles is different; our values are different, so we can't assume that because one person knows what to do in in detail at a given step, everyone else does. ............................... Having a "buddy" works well for some people. Your buddy a roommate, spouse, or friend, or it could be someone online you keep in contact with through social media sites. ............................................... Mrs. Flaxington husband is a big fan of the "Getting Things Done" (GTD) approach by David Allen, and everything he commits to goes into his GTD system. He uses that software and his outlook calendar to remind him of dates and commitments. ............ Mrs. Flaxington have color-coded folders for different projects (clients, books, marketing, financial information), and she can create a separate folder for each specific project. ................... Becoming very good at time management can be useful, and in her experience those who are good at managing their time always have some sort of system they use to keep them on track. .......................... The law of attraction is a theory that suggest we draw things in to our lives according to what we focus our energies on. Our thoughts are the most powerful tools we have. ................................. To achieve goals that are meaningful to you, however, it is important to understand and appreciate your talents and strengths, because this will let you become more confident and centered in your life and thus better able to see what will be, for you, a beneficial and valuable change. ............................. Stress comes in many forms. There is so-called "good stress" that motivates us and drives us to reach new heights, and then there is "bad stress" that consumes us and makes us less effective in our day-to-day activities. .................... Do not ignore the warning signs of stress until you find yourself sick or unable to cope because you didn't act on the warning signs. ..................... Another important way to alleviate stress is to take breaks throughout the day. ..... When Mrs. Flaxington was 19 years old she read a story, by Zig Ziglar, the late famous motivational speaker. He quoted the writer David Mamet who said, "Worry is interest paid in advance on a debt that never comes due." ........................ Another important skill is effective goal setting and creating an effective shift is to break through any destructive patterns that emerge in life. ..................... You can't fix the past, so it is most useful to just forgive yourself and focus on achieving a more positive, confident future. ................................ Remember that even Albert Einstein said, "It is not that I'm so smart, it is just that I stay with problems longer." ........................................... Research shows that people learn, change, and improve the most in those areas of the brain that already have the strongest synaptic connections. You learn new things and achieve more by working from your strengths. .................................. As a certified behavioral analyst, Mrs. Flaxington uses the DISC tool in her work. DISC identifies four facets to communication: how we deal with problems and challenges, how we interact with people, how we handle steady pace and work environment, and how we deal with rules and procedures specifically set by others. ... The DISC (D for Dominance, the Problems scale; I for Influencing the People scale; S for Steadiness, the Pace scale; C for Compliance, The Procedures and Rule scale) formula has been around for well over 30 years. DISC allows us to categorize types of behavioral styles. ............................. The sometimes uncomfortable truth is that we tend to like people who are like us, it is much easier for us to communicate with someone, for example, if we share similarities "click" easily because they "get" me. .................. Mrs. Beverly D. Flaxington is an accomplished business consultant, corporate coach, trainer, facilitator, behavioral expert, hypnotherapist, college professor, and business development expert. ..................... She is a Certified Professional Behavioral Analyst (CPBA) and Certified Professional Values Analyst (CPVA). ......................................... Articles about her and her views have appeared in: The Boston Globe, Reader's Digest, Selling Power Magazine, Opposing Views with Mike McNulty, Fox News, and ABC News to name a few places. ......................... She is a frequent contributor in the media and has been featured on: Lifetime Television Balancing Act, with Jordan Rich on WBZ Radio; WVOL 1470 AM, Nashville, Tennessee: "Differences" with Denice Barnes; "Morning News Weekend": CVBT (Central Valley Business Times): with Doug Caldwell to name a few places.

The Art of Living Joyfully - Book Review

A guide to joy while you're going through life's trials. (This book has 190 pages). ...................... Words of wisdom from practical visionaries.... The Psalmist shares in Psalm 1:1-3 "The happiness of the godly, and Psalm 1:3 "wait on your season." .................................. Words of wisdom from practical visionaries: .......................... Faith is not knowledge of what the mystery of the universe is, but the conviction that there is a mystery, and that it is greater than us... Rabbi David Wolpe ....... God can dream a bigger dream for you than you than you can dream for yourself, and your role on Earth is to attach yourself to that divine force and let your self be released to it....... Oprah Winfrey .................................... There is as much dignity in tilling a field as in writing a poem... Booker T. Washington ..................................... I love the challenge of starting at zero everyday and seeing how much I can accomplish..... Martha Stewart ....................................... It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness... Charles Spurgeon ..................................... Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do.... Benjamin Spock ............. The poets are only the intrepreters of God... Socrates .......................... Everyone has got it in him, if he will only make up his mind and stick at it. None of us is born with a stop valve on his powers or with a set limit to his capacities. There is no limit possible to the expansion of each one of us... Charles Schwab ..... If you can walk, you can dance.... Zimbabwean Saying .............................. God gave burdens, also shoulders.... Jewish Saying ....................... Get down on your knees and thank God you are on your feet... Irish Saying ............ The family with an old person in it possess a jewel.... Chinese Saying ............. Peace, like charity, begins at home... Franklin D. Roosevelt ................... The only question with wealth is what we do with it... John D. Rockfeller, Jr. ...... Every new day begins with possibilties. It's up to us to fill it with the things that move us toward progress and peace... Ronald Reagan .............................. This is the day the Lord had made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.... Psalm 118:24 ......................... When a man is gloomy, everything seems to go wrong, when he is cheerful, everything seems right! .............. Proverbs 15:15 ................. He who smiles rather than rages s always stronger... Japanese Proverbs .......... May you have warmth in your igloo, oil in your lamp, and peace in your heart... Eskimo Proverb ..................................... Musicial training is a more potent instrument than any other, because rhythm and harmony find their way into the inward places of the soul... Plato ............ Sometimes when you have everything you can't really tell what matters... Christian Onassis ............................ It is not what we do, it is how much love we put in the doing... Mother Teressa ..... Ask, and it shall be given you, seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opend unto you. For everyone that asketh, receiveth; and he that seeketh, findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.... Matthew 7:7-8 ...................... We worn born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us, it's in every one.... Nelson Mandela ........................... Music is the universal language of mankind... Henry Wadsworth Longfellow ......... I have found that most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be... Abraham Lincoln ........................ Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself... Leviticus 19:18 ............... When we can laugh through our tears, we are being given a powerful message. Things may be bad, but they cannot be all that bad.... Allen Klein ................ You're happiest while you're making the greatest contribution... Robert F. Kennedy ............... Here on earth, God's work must surely be our own... John F. Kennedy ............ The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.... Helen Keller ....................................... The whole world is my family... Pope John XXIII .............................. Prosperity is just around the corner... Herbert Hoover ..................... Love is he master key which opens the gates of happiness... Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. ............................. Find the good - and praise it... Alex Haley ................................... Millions of angels are at God's command... Billy Graham .......................... Who is rich? He that rejoices in his portion... Benjamin Franklin ............... I believe that God is managing affairs and tat He doesn't need any advice from me. With God in charge, I believe everything will work out for the best in the end... Henry Ford ............................. Most people like praise ... When it is really deserved, most people expand under it into richer and better selves... Joseph Farrell ...................... The only way to have a friend is to be a one... Ralph Waldo Emerson ....... I merely took the energy it takes to pout and wrote some blues.... Duke Ellington ... Every baby born in to the world is a finer one than the last... Charles Dickens ..... Love... binds everything together in perfect harmony... Colossians 3:14 .......... There is literally nothing that I ever asked to do, that I asked the blessed Creator to help me to do, that I have not been able to accomplish.. George Washington Carver ............................. God answers all our prayers. .............. Sometimes the answer is yes. ............................ Sometimes the answer is no.... Jimmy Carter ......................... Let us not get so busy or live so fast that we can't listen to the music of the meadow or the symphony that glorifies the forest. Some things in the world are far more important than wealth; one of them is the ability to enjoy simple things.... Dale Carnegie ............................... Believe in something larger than yourself... Barbara Bush .................... May the blessing of light be on you, light without and light within. May the blessed sunshine shine on you and warm your heart till it glows like a great peat fire, so that the stranger may come and warm himself at it, and also a friend... Irish Blessing ................... God does not ask your ability, or your inability. He asks only your availability... Mary Kay Ash .................................. In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous... Aristotle .......... God is love... I John 4:8 ......................... Faith is the evidence of things not seen... Hebrews 11:1 ........................... Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's spirit dwells within you? .... I Corinthians 3:16 ................................... God dwells wherever man lets Him in... Jewish Saying ......................... Allen Klein is an award-winning professional speaker and bestselling author. He is a recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for Applied & Therapeutic Humor, a Certified Speaking Professional designation from the National Speakers Association, a Communication & Leadership Award from Toastmasters International, & an inductee into the Hunter College, New York City, Hall of Fame. He is the world's only Certified Jollytologist@ earning a Master's Degree from St. Mary's College in humor. He has worked in television production, designing children's television shows at CBS, including Captain Kangaroo. He lives and writes in San Francisco.

Understanding Theology in 15 Minutes a Day - Book Review

This book is a great book for a person and sunday school teachers to have in their personal library, for quiet time devotions, personal Bible Study, and as reference tool for the serious bible student. ............................. This book has 211 pages and has Bible Scriptures as references. ................. Theology is the study of God himself - who he is and what he has done and will do. ... The Bible is the very Word of God, without error, completely true and trustworthy; Jesus Christ is who he claimed to be, fully and eternally God as well as fully human. .......................... The word itself comes from the Greek terms for "God" (theos) and "word," "thought," or "reason" (logos). ........................... Theology can be thought of as the study of the Bible. ............................. Only a person of faith, one who understands trusts in God and trust in his Word, can truly understand his Word as he intends. ................................ God will never ask us to trust in something for which there is no insufficient basis for belief. Through his Spirit, he will guide us into all truth (John 16:13). ................ Too often theology has been motivated by pride that seeks to show the superiority of one's intellect and knowledge. God-pleasing motives "Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God" (I Corinthians 10:31) and to help the church may be built up (I Corinthians 14:26; Ephesians 4:15-16; Colossians 1:28). ..................... God desires to use theology (biblical truth) to transform us into godly people. .... Interesting Fact: Up until the last couple of centuries, theology was known as the "queen of the sciences." You were not considered to be educated in any field of study unless you had also studied theology. ........................... Our knowledge of God is absolutely dependent upon divine revelation; and not only is he willing to be known, he desires to be known. ............................... History is the working out of God's plans and purposes, and whether we know it or not, we experience and observe his work in all current events. ................... God's ultimate revelation of himself was through his Son, Jesus Christ. The Old Testament often references the "angel of the Lord (Yahweh),: as in Judges 6:11, when this specific "angel" came to Gideon while he was threshing wheat. In the same passage, this individual is referred to only as "the Lord" (verse 14), so clearly this is not just any angel of God but God himself. The term applied is theophany, an appearance or visible "manifestation" of "God." ..................... This ultimate revelation became permanent when Jesus was born. The apostle John show the significance by referring to him as the "Word" (logos), "The Word was God" (John 1:1), and "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (verse 14). As a result, "he has made God know" (verse 18). Jesus Christ is the supreme communication from God and of God. We can know God because he became one of us in the person of Jesus Christ. ................................... Because God is always truthful and correct in whatever he says (II Samuel 7:28; Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18), his Word also is truthful and correct in whatever it says (Psalm 12:6; Proverbs 30:5). Theologically, the Bible is inerrant, that is, without error. .................. God is faithful and always can be trusted to do what he says (Numbers 23:19, I Corinthians 1:9, I Thessalonians 5:24), the Bible, as the Word of God, also can be trusted (II Samuel 7:28). .................. The Bible is inerrant and infallible. God does not make mistakes, and his Word does not include mistakes. ........................... Not only is the Bible sufficient for what we are to know and do, but it is also understandable to the average reader. It's encouraging that graduate training in Hebrew, Greek, and theology are not necessary to comprehend the Bible. ............ This does not mean everything in the Bible is easy to understand. The things of God are deep and ultimately incomprehensible. Neither does Scripture's clarity nullify the need for pastors and Bible professors. ................................... "There is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus" (I Timothy 2:5; I Corinthians 8:4-6; Ephesians 4:6; James 2:19). ........................ God demonstrated his mind-boggling power to speak everything into being: "God said, 'Let there be ... (Genesis 1:3, 6, 9, 11, 14, 20, 24, 26; Psalm 33:6; Hebrews 11:3)............................ Only God is eternal; everything else came through his will (Isaiah 44:24; John 1:3). This includes both the material and scripture realms (Colossians 1:16). The theological term (from Latin) for such creation is ex nihilo, meaning "out of nothing." .......................... Evil did invade God's perfect creation, and early on, but it is not eternal. ...... His handiwork will be perfected through his redemptive or re-creative work, by which he will reverse and remove the effects of evil and sin and restore creation to what he originally intended. ............................... Even sin cannot keep God from fulfilling his purposes, in the world as a whole or through humanity in particular. .............................. God sovereignly rules and controls his creation (Psalm 47; Daniel 4:17) : the doctrine of divine governance or guidance. God had a plan for his creation even before he had created anything, and everything h does is for the purpose of working out that plan (Acts 2:23; 4:28; Ephesians 1:4, 11). His highest purpose in every act is to glorify himself (Isaiah 48:11; Ephesians 1:6, 12, 14). ..................... Not only did God create everything through his unequalled power, he also sustains everything through that same power. ................................ God works through his creation in order to carry out his plans: the doctrine of concurrence (meaning that God works in harmony, cooperation, or agreement with creation). God controls the weather, and through it, he provides rain that nourishes vegetation, animals, and people (Psalm 135:7; 104:14:147:8-18; Matthew 5:45). He also works through people and events in history (Daniel 2:21; Jonah 1:15; 2:3; Acts 4:27-28; 17:26). ....................................... There are many angels. The apostle John had a glimpse into heaven and recorded, "I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, ten thousands times ten thousand" (Revelation 5:11). They are powerful but not all-powerful. They are intelligent but not omniscient. ............................... God created them for delivering his message (Daniel 10). Other primary activities include worshiping God (Revelation 5:8-14), carrying out his judgments (Revelation 8-11), and protecting his people (Acts 5:19; 12:7-11). ........................... It seems that all angels were created good and holy, they are referred to as "holy ones" in Psalm 89:5-7 but at some point, many rebelled against God. These are referred to as "evil spirits" (Luke 7:21) and often as "demons" (Romans 8:38: James 2:19), especially in the Gospels (Matthew 8:28-33: Luke 4:33-36). Paul calls them "spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 6:12). ............. Christians should be encouraged be the work of good angels on their behalf, whether or not it can be perceived. (II Kings 6:8-23, especially verse 17). With regard to Satan and demons, we should take their threat seriously, they are still dangerous. We should remember that through his death, and resurrection, Jesus Christ has ultimately broken their power and sealed their eventual doom (Colossians 2:13-15; Hebrews 2:14). They will be eventually judged and thrown into the lake of fire forever (Revelation 20:9-10). .......................... Our true confidence is that God is greater than Satan and demons, and he is on our side (I John 4:4). ............................... Christ's resurrection is absolutely vital to Christianity and our salvation, and as such, the fact appears in the earliest creeds of the faith, two of them being the Apostles' Creed and the Nicene Creed. Paul wrote of it in I Corinthians 15, his great chapter on resurrection. ..................................... His resurrection was essentially the Father's "stamp on approval" on Jesus' substitutionary sacrifice. The Father accepted his work, and the basis for the plan of salvation was successfully laid. ............................... His resurrection demonstrates that Christ's death defeated death (I Corinthians 15:54-57). ........................................ His resurrection is evidence of the great victory (II Timothy 1:10; Hebrews 2:14-15). .................................... His resurrection provides spiritual life for believers in him, it results in their regeneration, being born again. ....................... Jesus' resurrection guarantees the resurrection of believers in him. ..................................... Jesus' resurrection should encourage Christians to be faithful in obeying and working for the Lord (I Corinthians 15:58). ........................... The solid evidence for it includes the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus to many people, including the women at the tomb (Matthew 28:1-10), the apostles (Luke 24:36-49), and hundreds of others (I Corinthians 15:6). ............................ "God has appointed in the church, first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administration, various kinds of tongues" (I Corinthians 12:28). ..................................... God sovereignly distributes them according to his will (I Corinthians 12:11, 18), God has given each and every Christian a role and responsibility in the body of Christ and the supernatural ability, in the form of a spiritual gift or gifts, to fulfill it. He knows best how to orchestrate this, and we should be content with the gift he chooses for us. ...................................... Spiritual gifts can be abused; they can be used or exercised out of pride or for one's own glory (Romans 12:3). We are to exercise spiritual gifts to build up the church as a whole, not our own reputation or ego. ...................... If any spiritual gifts are motivated by anything other than love, they amount to nothing (I Corinthians 13:2,3). ....................................... Interesting Fact: There is no command to know one's spiritual gift(S). God will certainly direct us to a venue of service than coincides with the spiritual gift(S) he, through his Spirit, has given us. ......................... Bethany House provided me with this review copy. ............................ Daryl Aaron earned his ThM at Dallas Theological Seminary and his PhD at Graduate Theological Foundation. He spent fourteen years in pastoral ministry before coming to Northwestern College where he is Professor of Theology and Bible. Dr. Aaron lives in Mounds View, Minnesota, with his wife Marilyn. They have one daughter, Kimberly, who recently completed her master's program and will join her father on the faculty of Northwestern College teaching Spanish.

Israelites Tabernacle - 10/15/2007

In 2003 my former pastor when I was at my home church had a study on "The Tabernacle." We ordered work books and studied from them....... The below is from my Family Bible. ..................................... Who am I sharing this? The word "Judah" is in my sunday school lesson for 10-21-07. I do not know how at this time my sunday school lesson and this go together at this time. .................... A Short Summary from "A Comprehensive & Critical Description of the Israelitish Tabernacle & Its Sacred Furniture. Together With An Account of The Priesthood & The Worship & Sacrifices of The Israelites." ............. The Tabernacle was a symbol of the visible church of God on earth. David in the Book of Psalms refers to the Tabernacle & its worship. ........................ The First Tabernacle -- was doubtless the dwelling, or headquarters of Moses, & the place where the public business of the nation was transacted. And it came to pass, when Moses went out unto the Tabernacle, that all the people rose up, & stood every man at his tent door, & looked after Moses until he was gone into the Tabernacle. ...................... An exact pattern of the whole structure of the Tabernacle & all its appointments was shown to Moses by God in Mount Sinai, & he was commanded to entrust, the executing the mechanical part of the work to Bezaleel, of the tribe of Judah, & Aholiab, of the tribe of Dan, who were the most skillful workmen in the nation. .............. The Court -- The appearance of the Court, the arrangement of the posts & walls, the open entrance with its curtains of blue, purple, & scarlet. .................... The Tabernacle -- When the nation was on a march, it moved in advance of the host, pointing the way; but when a halt was made, it settled down over the Tabernacle, resting, as it believed, over the Ark. ............................ The Altar of Burnt Offering -- was the instrument used for the purpose of reconciling man with his Maker. Christ was made sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in HIM. ................. Reference taken from -- KJV, The New Devotional & Pratical Pictorial Family Bible, "A Comprehensive & Critical Description of the Israelitish Tabernacle & Its Sacred Furniture. Together With An Account of The Priesthood & The Worship & Sacrifices of The Israelites." Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1879, by J.R.Jones in the office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington. ................ Amazon.com sells a workbook titled -- "Life Principles For Worship From the Tabernacle by Wayne Barber, Eddie Rasnake, Richard Shepherd" for those that might be interested. I also have the workbook for in 2003 my home church did a study.

2 of 2 .. Unity, Not Conformity .. 12/9/2012

Sunday School Lesson for 12/9/2012. Unit I. Victory in Jesus. Ephesians 2:11-22. .... In my Teacher's Guide Sunday School Book there is a section for "Adult" and "Youth" concerning "Your Life" & "Your World." ..................... Adult: ...................... "Your Life" - Think about your gift or gifts that the Lord has given you and use them to build the body of Christ. ...................... Ask yourself weekly: Am I building the body of Christ or tearing down the body of Christ. ........................... "Your World" - Pray for better race relations among all people of the world. ............ Youth: "Your Life - Pray and ask God to help you if you have built up a wall of hostility in any of your relationships to forgive the person for the matter that caused the hostility .... Then ask God to forgive you if you had any part in the disruption of the relationship. ................................... "Your World" - As Christians believers we forgive others because Christ forgave us ..................... You just might be able to help your unbelieving friends by showing them how to forgive others when they have been done wrong by others.

1 of 2 .. Unity, Not Conformity . 12/9/2012

Sunday School Lesson for 12/9/2012. Unit I. Victory in Jesus. Ephesians 2:11-22..... Uniformity - Sameness, absence of variation. (variation - something which is difference)............................ When sharing/teaching we need to be sensitive to those who may have been harmed by others in the church. ............................... Jesus presence helps to break down walls of division and equips to be agents of reconciliation. ................................ They are members of God's heavenly and earthly communities. .................. Ephesians 2:11-22 ....................... Jew and Gentile United in the Church - Ephesians 2:11-22 ............... The alienated Jew and Gentile are now reconciled in Christ and formed into a home for God. ............................... God is accessible to the Gentile as to the Jew. ................................ Ephesians 2:11-22 ............................................... Verses 11, 12 - Sacred Rites & Forms; Sacraments, Worship, & Church Fellowship, The Significance of the Rite .................................. Verse 13 - Promise ...... Pardon for Sins and Inquities Promised ............... Verse 13 - Jesus Christ, Offices of Christ, Our Propitiation. (Propitiation - an atoning sacrifice) .......................................... Verses 14, 15, 16 - Jesus Christ, Offices of Christ, Our Propitiation .............. Verses 17, 18 - Promise ... Whosoever Will May Be Saved .......................... Verse 17 - Other Nations, The Conversation of The Gentiles, Jews and Gentiles Made One in Christ .................................. Verse 18 - God, The Trinity .................................. Verse 19 - Man Redeemed, Adoption, Believers His Children ......................... Verses 20, 21 - Jesus Christ, Figurative Characters of Christ, The Corner Stone & Foundation .......................................... Verse 2 - God, The Trinity. Jesus Christ, Figurative Characters of Christ, The Corner Stone & Foundation ................................ For a more detailed study of Ephesians 2:19-22 & Ephesians 2:11-18 you may search/study/research the following Scriptures: ............................. Acts 21:28 - Gentiles forbidden to enter "notices were in Greek and Latin." ....... Herod"s Temple - There was a forbidden entry to non-Jews/Gentiles by the 'Wall of Partition.' ............................................ The Temples - I Kings 6-7, II Chronicles 3-4, Ezekiel 40-43, Nehemiah 13:4-9, Acts 21:17, John 10:23, Luke 19:47, John 2:14-16, Mark 12:41-44 ................... The Tabernacle - Exodus 19:16 -20, Exodus 40:34, Exodus 24, Exodus 6:7, Exodus 29:43-46, Exodus 32-34, Exodus 25-31, Exodus 35-40, Isaiah 29:13, Leviticus 16:14, I Corinthians 3:16, Ephesians 2:19-22, Mark 7:6-13, Ephesians 2:11-18, Hebrews 10:19-25 ..................................................... Scripture reference used/taken from: KJV Precious Promise Bible, KJV Topical Reference Bible, Zondervan Bible Commentary

Her Corner Office .. 2005

“I was either contacted by Trudy Bourgeois or her Public Relations person to review her book in 2005 while being the Business Coach Host/Editor for another site. ..... Marketing Yourself: ................................... Be ready .. You Will Be Tested! ................................. Make friends at every level of the organization. Treat everyone the same. ........... You are the product. There are many ways to go about marketing yourself. ............ Marketing yourself is not about stepping on others. ........................... Building your career requires that you establish the brand called you – “YOU, Inc.” Your brand is based on your strengths, talents, beliefs, values, and vision. ...... You must be willing to find a way to use your talents to serve other people. ...... Create opportunities to market yourself: ................................... Request special assignments. .......................................... Network at every level. ..................................................... Develop good listening skills. .......................................... Often you’ll discover opportunities that have yet to make it onto the grapevine. .... Building relationships: ................................................... Connect with people who have common values and principles. ....................... Quickly get away from people who suck your energy. .......................... Three Critical Components of Building A Relationship. Trust +Authenticity+Open Communication = Real and Lasting Relationships. ................................ African-Americans, Asians and Hispanics were estimated to be 25% of the U.S. consumer base at the end of 2000. The combined spending power of Hispanics and African Americans is nearing $650 million. ........................................... There is a growing and disturbing trend of women leaving big corporations to be more intimately involved in smaller companies. ..................................... Information in and of itself is not powerful. It becomes powerful when you make a choice to act on it.

God Knows About National Affairs... 2007

The Angels of The Lord Are Guardians of Cities and Nations ............... Thursday, July 12, 2007 ... the date I shared this online. ....................... God Knows About National Affairs. ...................................... Amos had to deal with the social evils of his day. Amos was pious and devoted prophet who studied to know the mind of God. ............................... God Knows About National Affairs Universal, World Events and Tension Outcomes are on The Prince of Peace Timetable. ............................ Isaiah 26:3 has wonderful words "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee..." ................................ Ezekiel 9:1 reads " He cried also in mine ears with a loud voice, saying, Cause them that have charge over the city to draw near, even every man with his destroying weapon in his hand. ............................................ Daniel 10:21 reads "But I will shew thee that which is noted in the Scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Micheal your prince. ......................................................... Daniel 12:1 reads "And at that time shall Micheal stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people. ...................................... God does know about National Affairs and let's journey back in time to Amos chapter 5 - 8 . The time frame that I am looking at is around B.C. 760 and our destination will be to Bethel. Amos was a peculiar and unique person. He was a native of Tekoa in Judah. God called Amos to be a prophet. ............................... Amos had to deal with the social evils of his day. Amos was pious and devoted prophet who studied to know the mind of God. Amos believed in justice, and he believed in righteousness. He believed that God was just and fair in his dealings. The wise shall see, hear, but say nothing for the time shall warrant God's infliction; his divine tolerance shall no longer endure the sins of the wicked. ........................... The wise people did continue to pray. Amos may have been presented as a good hard working man. Amos was a national leader; he prayed and cried out for the preservation of the nations as a father would pray and cry for the sake and preservation of his children. ........................................... Psalm 91:4 ""HE will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge." God's desire is to care for us and protect us. This psalm's promise of safety must not be taken as an insurance policy against trouble. .................. But God does promise, "I will be with (you) in trouble." It is not necessary for one to be a genius nor a pessimist to recognize a problem and the progressive educators have not solved the problems. ................................... Biblical Facts: Revelation 7:1-2 Acts 12:7 Psalm 147:4 Exodus 3:7 Acts 15:18 Matthew 11:23 .............................................. The Angels hold back the 4 winds of heaven ............................... The Angels deliver God knows every area of the universe .................... God knows our sorrows God knows the past, present and the future ............. God knows what might or could have been ................................. If we have studied history enough to be able to look back over the centuries, we can see that there have been great and critical problems in the past. ............ I have faith that God is on the throne and that HE will rule in the affairs.

Chosen & Claimed - 12/2/2012

Sunday School Lesson for 12/2/2012. Unit I. Victory in Jesus. Ephesians 1:3-14. ..... We are Free Moral Agents - God allows us to make our choices, He does not force Himself on us. ..................................... Thanksgiving & Prayer: Ephesians 1:3-19 ............................. The blessings bestowed in Christ: Verses 3-10 ................................... Shared by Jew & Gentile: Verses 11-14 ...................... Ephesians 1:3-14 ....................................... Verse 3 - Duties To God, Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving for Christ & His Salvation ..... Verse 4 - Works of God, The Purposes of God, Elected to Holiness ............... Note: Human Adoption/Foster Care - When sharing and or teaching this be careful, for some might have negative or positive experiences when they were adopted or in foster care. ........................................ Verse 5 - Works of God, The Purposes of God, Human Merit Excluded. The Family, Parents & Children, Adoption. Man Redeemed, The New Covenant, Salvation Is by Grace. ..................... "predestinated" - to forordain to an earthly or eternal lot or destiny by divine decree. ................................ "adoption" - to take voluntarily ( a child of other parents) as one own child. to take by choice into a relationship. ...................................... Verse 6 - Works of God, The Purposes of God, Human Merit Excluded. Man Redeemed, The New Covenant, Salvation Is by Grace. ............................... Verse 7 - Promise (Pardon for Sins & Iniquity Promised) ........................ Verses 7, 8 - Jesus Christ, Offices of Christ, Our Propitiation. (Propitiation - an atoning sacrifice) ................................... Verse 9 - Jesus Christ, Offices of Christ, Our Life ........................... Verse 10 - Jesus Christ, Offices of Christ, Our Life. Man Redeemed, The New Covenant, All May Be Saved .................................. Verses 11, 12 - Works of God, The Purposes of God, Human Merit Excluded ........... Verses 13, 14 - God, Holy Spirit, Offices ................................. Scripture reference used/taken from: KJV Precious Promise Bible, KJV Topical Reference Bible & Zondervan Bible Commentary

Black Man In The CIA - Book Review

The material contained in this book has been reviewed by the CIA to prevent the disclosure of classified information. All statements of fact, opinion or analysis expressed are those of the author and do not reflect the official positions or views of the CIA or any other U.S. Government agency.

It has been said many times, behind a successful man is a woman. Mr. Osborne had two women in his life: Mrs. Rose Osborne his wife and Mrs. Ella Grisby Motley his mother.

The best thing that a mother can give to a child is love, encouragement, time and moral values. This is exactly what Ms. Ella did for her son and children.

Sometimes we think that people with wealth or numerous amount of funds are the ones that escalate in achievements but this is not the case with Mr. Osborne.

Now what is so amazing to me is that he went to work for the CIA one month before I was born. So I feel like I have part of history with me.

I thanked him for sending me his book.

Mr. Lutrell M. Osborne and Mrs. Ella Grisby were the first Black mother and son duo to work for the CIA.

Mr. Osborne became one of the Who’s Who in Black procurement minority business.

Mr. Osborne loves his country, the United States of America, and would do anything within his power to protect its interest. .........................

His work has covered five continents: Europe, South America, North America, Asia and Africa.

In 1984, Mr. Osborne quit the CIA after 26 years to become an entrepreneur working as an international food broker.

Mr. Osborne is an advocate for justice, righteousness and peace.

During these last 25 years, he has increased his core competency talents, knowing that he can lead both the Central Intelligence and the National Security Agencies (CIA & NSA). toward better solutions. He has developed a third core compentency leading the Small Business Administration (SBA). It is most exciting to Mr. Osborne when he shares his qualifications and watch people react when he asks them what part of his service or services they would like to hire or challenge.

His wife joined his venture, helping him make his life a success as a man, husband, father, productive citizen and spiritual being.

On September 12, 2001, just one day after the 9/11 Attack on the United States of America, Black Entertainment Television (BET) scheduled Mr. Osborne to appear on national television to discuss “The Attack on America.” He appeared with California’s Democrat Congresswoman, Maxine Waters, who is one of his favorite members of the House of Representatives.

While awaiting the twenty minute limousine ride to B.E.T. headquarters from his daughter’s Washington, D.C. home he considered his unique position. His childhood dreams came flowing back as if a curtain was going up on precious memories.

Mr. Osborne had wanted to become a “spy manager” since he was twelve years old. At the age of twelve he never imagined what his future would hold; he would become a pioneering CIA African-American spy manager, rising within the ranks from CIA clerical employee to Case Manager and mentoring others through the system.

Now, he was going to appear on national television, as an authority, to analyze the possible causes and aftermath of the nation’s most devasting national security breaches. The impact on the World Trade Center and Pentagon became metaphors for the deeper impact on society.

His mother enabled him to be born as Leutrell Michael Carlton Osborne, Sr., also known as “Mike” Osborne, inside the CIA for over 26 years.

His mother, Mrs. Ella Grisby Motley and his biological father, Mr. William Mason Osborne provided him the DNA for the confidence, characteristics and skills he needed to grow up in Washington, D.C. as a light skinned Black man. He did not meet his father until 1960 at the age of twenty-one. Two months before Mr.i Osborne was born his father and step-mother had a baby, his half-brother, William Osborne, Jr.

When he was christened in the Roman Catholic Church, the church named him Michael. His mother, formerly was a Methodist, and later converted to Catholicism before he was seven years old.

His mother was what some of us would call a strong “sista” mother who was very independent and a very nurturing mother.

His father was a mulatto, a hybrid of European and African descendant.

In 1946 his mother married a trumpeter, Frank Motley from Cheraw, South Carolina.

His mother and step-father had four children, two boys and two girls: Frank III, Victoria Lillian, Francine Hadaway and Thomas John.

In 1952 his mother was working at the CIA as an overt employee, a clerk in the National Photographic Intelligence Center.

His mother’s nurturing and guidance through his early years contributed to his character, personality and tenacity, creating a desire to make something out of himself before she died.

Ms. Grisby’s personality was shaped in such a way that she gave birth to children who helped changed the world’s perception of Black people, especially in the Intelligence Community.

In 1954 The Supreme Court decision impacted him directly by the opportunity to transfer from a Black High School, Dunbar, to a formerly all White D.C. High School, Roosevelt. Like many other blacks with high I.Q.’s he transferred to participate in D.C.’s grand experiment. To him that experiment never ended.

At Roosevelt High School he met his high school sweetheart. About eighteen months after they met, they were married; they eloped. They now have five children and eight grandchildren.

Mr. Osborne married his wife on September 9, 1957 and the CIA hired him on October 14, 1957. At the age of seventeen years of age he had two passions, Mrs. Rose and the CIA.

Later he discovered that two of his high school classmates were hired by the Agency. He was the only black. The others were a jewish male, Robert Anthony Kogok and a female, Helen Zirnite. Helen was helpful to him in securing an assignment in the Far Northern Country (FNC) in 1963.

They were some sort of Rainbow Coalition. Little did he know that the Civil Rights Movement was about to kick into high gear. Little did he know that he would, in his own way, overcome many of the disadvantages of cultural discrimination within the bowels of the government’s most enigmatic and culturally – biased institution. ..... The purpose of this book is to encourage others who are fearful to venture and seek employment in the Agency and other secret government organizations.

Blacks in the CIA were looked upon as “people at risk.” The CIA was no different than any other U.S. federal institution. He states when he arrived to the CIA in 1957 it was a “plantation.”

The top leadership in the Agency was non-Black, even though a few other Blacks like him was employed in the bowels of the Agency.

The Black CIA employees had much more freedom, independence and autonomy than most Black employed elsewhere in government. Now they did not make any decisions about anyone future.

When he would travel on public transportation to and from work, he would wait for the Agency shuttle bus at CIA headquarters on E. Street N.W. near the Department of State. They then rode the shuttle bus to the “temp” buildings.

CIA Director Allen Dulles’ chauffeured limousine would pass by him while he waited for the shuttle. He made it his business to look for his long black vehicle. As Dulles’ limousine passed CIA headquarters, he would often see him smoking his pipe and reading the morning newspaper.

His wife focused on being a wife and mother while he focused on executing steps in the CIA that would help him achieve his objective to become a spy manager.

He used his crypto capability to seek a position in the Office of Communications (OC). Knowing that one of the supervisors who was assigned in the DCANG had gained legitimate employment in the OC had inspired him.

So he went and asked for the assignment. To his surprise and dismay he was rejected. It had nothing to do with his qualifications. In 1960 the Office of Communications had a policy of not accepting “Negroes.” This action took him back to his high school days at Roosevelt High School with the run in he had with his biology teacher.

By 1959, he had acquired military and Agency security training. During this time the intelligence terms he had learned began changing.

In October 1963, he was assigned abroad to work as a CIA mail clerk in the FNC (Far Northern European Country).

All was well, except that when they arrived in their new home, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated and they didn’t know anything about it for the entire weekend. They were stunned like the rest of the world.

They were not watching television because it had not been converted to European standards. They did not have a radio for they did not have their household goods. .... He was able to continue his college education at the local university and was also deeply involved with social activities of the university’s Foreign Students Club.

Horacio Jones, another black from his high school in Washington, D.C., had secured an assignment to the U.S. Embassy in Oslo, Norway.

Mr. Osborne and his wife were excited when they had the opportunity to attend the Nobel Peace Prize honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in Oslo, Norway on Friday, December 10, 1964. Horacio got the word early and engineered their attendance at both the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony and the official invitation-only reception given by Ambassador Madame Joy Tibbits in honor of Dr. King.

Being overseas meant he could not join in and experience first hand some of the major achievements of the Civil Rights Movement.

Mr. Osborne and his wife were able to talk personally with Dr. King and his wife since most of the diplomats and their spouses left early. In his opinion this ruined the reception and also denied Dr. King precious moments to bask in the social spotlight.

Dr. King was calm, cool and collected.

His conversation with Dr. King focused on the Civil Rights Movement, which was progressing back home in the USA.

Dr. King told him about his belief in “non-violence direct action,” a freedom fighting strategy initiated in the early 1900′s during the Indian Struggle for equality in Apartheid South Africa by Mahatma Gandhi, the humble, yet powerful leader.

Dr. King told him, he was disappointed with the white moderates because they talked a good game, but they attempted only weakly to be catalysts for change.

Dr. King told him that the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). He explained there were battles among the leaders of the two Civil Rights groups. They fought for turf and were sometimes both bitter and friendly. Much of their activities focused on fund raising, for money is power.

In 1965 Mr. Osborne and his wife had a daughter born in the FNC in May 1965. Her name was Rose Anastasia and one day she was found dead in her crib at the age of eleven months.

Since I have never lost a child I honestly do not know how him and his wife felt. He has stated and my bigmother said when we lost my mother that it was nothing like losing a child.

They received sympathy and condolences from people near and far. U. S. Embassy personnel, U.S. and foreign diplomats and non-diplomats alike showered them with sympathy and condolences. The local Catholic parish was filled to the capacity for the funeral.Their baby brought them much warmth and happiness.

The autopsy revealed Rose Anastasia had an inoperable heart condition and a malformed artery. They shipped her home to Washington, D.C. for burial.

They were returning to Washington in 1966 from the Far Northern European Country. Mr. Osborne completed the CIA Career Training Program (CTP) in 1969 before he obtained his undergraduate degree from The American University, Washington, D.C. in 1971, his Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science.

Mr. Osborne avoided confrontation of CA intelligence operations during his service, he did re-examine them from the side lines because deep down he knew how Covert Action was being used and still is used, adversely affecting people of color. ...... Blacks at American University in 1970 were few in number but no outward signs of discrimination existed. The University would not allow him to register as a student in the Foreign Affairs Institute. He had to take courses in the Institute and earn his degree from the School of Political Science, with nine of his eleven courses in Latin American affairs.

Some years later, two of their daughters, De Lavay Cabrina Osborne and Monique Therese Osborne attended The American University. De Lavay, registered and received her degree from the same Institute that rejected her dad.

The CIA gave him and his family official orders and assigned them to the Latin American Country (LAC) from 1972 through 1974, after his supervisors received the word from Shackley.

The Latin American County (LAC) where Mr. Osborne went was considered by many to be a “safe” place to send black case officers.

During the first year, Mr. Osborne accomplished a very significant task in that he recruited an intelligence officer of a third world country to work for the CIA.

Mr. Osborne was the first Black Case Officer to prepare and have the Agency disseminate a finished intelligence report derived from a technical source rather than a human source.

The CIA changed from a segregated government organization to one that overcame traditional cultural and ethnic biases.

Mr. Osborne was named to the EEO (Equal Employment Opportunity) Advisory Panel and quickly determined that Colby was in this for real.

Mr. Osborne was an advisor to former President Bush’s father at the CIA, and he thanked him for his “great support of him” and his predecessor, William Colby.

Many of the personnel in the CIA are not undercover so their names can safely appear in public documents identifying them as CIA employees without causing any difficulty; Ms. Sharon Parish is one such individual.

Mr. Osborne reconnected with the Directorate of Operations and desegregrated the management in the Near East and Asia (NEA) Division which for the first time enabled him to work Arab countries and adversaries within a few short weeks after Professor Clemon and he had talked.

The CIA assigned Mr. Osborne to the Libyan Branch as Chief Counter Intelligence for Libya. He had to collect information and develop a secret report on Gaddifi at the request of the White House. There were some serious mistakes made by the division. It seemed clear that he was being set up to take “the fall.”

His goals were shifting and he wanted to try his hand at doing business and becoming an international entrepreneur.

It turned out that Mr. Osborne was the first black professional to be assigned to Libya and no one ever with his skills had been assigned in the Libya Station where the show was Covert Action versus Counter Intelligence. He muscled his way into the assignment Libya.

He has good news for everyone when we claim the Spirit of God, we do not lack anything.

He often talks with their five adult children and eight grandchildren about relationships, given his belief we are embodied as a human.

He shares it is up to us to achieve our genuine Spiritual Gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality and Experiences (SHAPE) given us before we were born. Rick Warren’s writings have significantly influenced him and he accepts that before he was born that his Higher Power and his SHAPE were predetermined.

Spread The News .. 11/25/2012

Sunday School Lesson for 11/25/2012. Unit III. Where Does Faith Take Us? Acts 28:23-31 ............................ First let's go back to October 28, 2012 Sunday School Lesson. Acts 8:26,29 where Philip (deacon/evangelist) was guided by the Holy Spirit to share the good news with a total stranger. I would strongly recommend allowing the Holy Spirit to guide you when going places and approaching strangers. .............. Spread the News Correctly - Acts 28:23-24 ....................... Verse 23 - Scripture, Promulgation of Scripture, Instruction in Scripture (Promulgation - to make known, proclaim, to make clear)................ Verse 24 - The Hebrews, Labors Among the Jews in Other Places, Rome ........ Paul's method of teaching was via of explanation. As with Paul "some believed and some believed not the teaching/message that he shared." ............... Spread the News Purposefully - Acts 28:25-27 ....................... Verses 25, 26, 27 - The Hebrews, The Jews Given Up, By The Apostles .......... There were some Jews who did believe the Gospel, but there were more that rejected the Gospel based on Isaiah's prophecy. ...................... Spread the News Faithfully - Acts 28:28-31 ....................... Verses 28, 29 - The Hebrews, The Jews Given Up, By The Apostles ........... Verses 30, 31 - Sacred Persons and Offices, Of General Ministry In General, Self-Support ....................... Paul shared with the Jews "the salvation of God" included a ministry to the "Gentiles, and that they would listen" to the Gospel. ..................... Paul was in Rome for two (2) whole years. ....................... Christians should use Scripture when sharing with others about the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Some will not be saved no matter what we do to share/explain the Gospel.

Helping One Another .. 11/18/2012

Sunday School Lesson for 11/18/2012. Unit III. Where Does Faith Take Us? Acts 28:1-10. .............. Paul was on his mission taking the Gospel where it had never been............. Helping Survivors After the Storm - Acts 28:1-2 .............. Melita - an island, now called Malta, 60 miles south of Sicily........... barbarous - foreign speaking people..................... The people of Malta weren't originally Christians. They did show hospitality to Paul and others............. You never know where help will come from..................... Helping Others in Spite of Superstition - Acts 28:3-6 ................ viper - poisonous serpents ... (Do not play/pick up snakes)............ Luke 10:19 - Sacred Person & Offices, Apostles, The Twelve, Prerogatives, To Work Miracles ............... Helping Others in Sickness - Acts 28:7-10 ................. Publius - leading citizen/most prominent on the island of Malta in the Mediterranean. He provided lodging to Paul and his companions after they had been shipwrecked. .... Some people of faith, question their faith when they are not healed, when others are............................... James 5:14,15 - Sacred Persons and Offices, Presbyter - Bishop (Elders), Ministering to the Sick. Duties to God, Prayer, Conditions of Acceptable Prayer, In Faith ....... Acts 28:1-10 ............................ Verses 1, 2 - Other Nations, The Conversion of The Gentiles, Shipwreck of Malta .... Verses 3, 4, 5, 6 - Miracles, Miraculous Cures, Cures of Poison from Serpents ...... Verses 7, 10 - Civil & Social Life, Manners & Customs, Visiting & Returning Home, Hospitality, Instances .............................. Verse 8 - Miracles, Miraculous Cure, Cure of Fever

Financial Planning - Income Opps - Biz - Wealth

I am not a financial planner nor am I certified in any certain areas. .......... When I wrote this article in Feb/March 2004 the title was "Let's Talk Money." LET'S TALK MONEY ................... Having Trouble Saving Money? Want to Start Your Own Business? Here Are a Few Tips to Get You Started. .................... In the past, I've wasted a lot of money. I wasted money that could have been used for serious Financial Planning/Recreation. So let's look at a few tips on saving money. Use the list below: .................... * Allocate time/money in ways that will build wealth. * Target market opportunities ..... * Become thrifty. Save on anything, whenever you can. ............ At times, you may have to raise money to get started. Why not create and publish a book on your Family Heritage, a promotional book for your church, or a cook book? Promote these books locally to raise money for yourself or an organization. Many local clubs and churches have used this method successfully over the years. ......... And what will you do with that money? Invest. Do you have an idea? We need to learn to control and develop ideas into successful businesses. It's ideas that make dollars. Learn to profit from your sense of style or other strong points. Realize the power of your ideas and believe in your ability. Freshen up your ideas with the help of a college art student or Art Studio. ......................... I was raised to be an independent thinker and not allow others to determine my destiny. Decide to go into business for yourself. One look at job downsizing, industry plant closings, and temporary job placements (without benefits) might just kick start you toward more opportunity and freedom. .................... I am not endorsing any service or product. ...................... Watch how you spend your hard earned money. ..................... When a farmer plants a crop in the field he is looking forward to his crop coming up so he can cultivate it -- reap the rewards. .............................. I am not a financial planner nor am I certified in any certain areas. ............ Do not quit your job if you do have a job. Keep your job, benefits, etc. Never stop learning. It would be a good idea I think to learn of ways to diversify your income -- maybe you could start after work hours learning more about legitimate income opportunities. ...................................

2 of 2 .. Weathering The Storm

11/9/2012 Sunday School Lesson “Weathering The Storm.” Acts 27:1-2, 33-44. ...... Devotional Reading from my sunday school book – “A Fierce Storm Dashes Hope.” Acts 27:13-20. .................... Acts 27:1-2 .. “The Preparation before the Storm” .................... Julius – centurion was in charge of the prisoners. ..................... Aristarchus – probably a business man and along with Luke, paid his own fare/fee. ..................... Paul was a prisoner but didn’t travel alone. ............... Acts 27:33-38 .. “The Promise in the Storm” ..................... 275 men were fearful, and it took one man of faith to turn them around. Question: How realistic is it for a few Christians to calm a large number of non-Christians in a time of crisis? ...................... Acts 27:39-44 “The Preservation in the Storm” ................ Everyone reached land safe. ..................... When we are faithful to God and His Word, miraculous things happen. .............. Acts 27:1-2 “The Preparation before the Storm” ................... Julius – centurion was in charge of the prisoners ................ Aristarchus – probably a business man along with Luke, paid his fare .......... Paul was a prisoner but didn’t travel alone ........................ Acts 27:33-38 “The Promise in the Storm” ......................... 275 men were fearful, and it took one man of faith to turn them around. Question: How realistic is it for a few Christians to calm a large number of non-Christians in a time of crisis? ..................................... Acts 27:39-44 “The Preservation in the Storm” ..................... Everyone reached land safe. ..................... When we are faithful to God and His Word, miraculous things happen

Paul's Testimony Before Roman Authorities .. 11/4/2012

11-4-12 Sunday School Lesson. Taking a Stand. Where Does Faith Take Us? Acts 26:19-32.................... Paul came from a respected family in Asia Minor (known as Turkey today) where his father was an official........................ A Roman citizen was assumed innocent until he was tried and proven guilty. Paul was knowledgeable of his legal rights as Roman citizen.............. Taking a Stand for the Ministry – Acts 26:19-21 ................. Taking a Stand for the Message – Acts 26:22-28 ................... Taking a Stand for the Master – Acts 26:29-32 ....................... verses 19, 20 – The Hebrews, Labors Among the Jews in Other Places, St. Paul’s Testimony in the Summer of 60 A.D................ verse 21 – Trials and Persecutions, Kinds and Methods of Persecution, Conspiracy, The Conspiracy To Murder Paul in Jerusalem ........................ verse 22 – Jesus Christ, Prophecies Concerning Christ, Birth .............. verses 24, 25, 26,28,29 – Other Nations, The Conversion of The Gentiles, St. Paul in Cesarea 59-61A.D., Impressions Made by Paul’s Speech ................ verse 27 – Mediums and Methods of Revelation, The Prophet’s Reception By The People ..................... verses 30,31,32 – Other Nations, The Conversion of The Gentiles, St. Paul in Cesarea 59-61 A.D., He is Pronounced Innocent But Must Go To Rome .................. Scripture reference used/taken from: Holy Bible Topical Reference Edition KJV, Crusade Bible Publishers, Inc., 1970. Mt. Juliet, TN; USA; 37122

Paul's Encounter With Christ .. 11/3/2012

11-3-12 Devotional reading from my sunday school book for saturday, November 3, 2012: Paul’s Encounter with Christ. Acts 26:9-18 ............ Saul was known as the greatest persecutor of the Christian Church. Saul was the apostle Paul before his conversion to Christianity.............. Acts 26:9-11 .. Saul the Persecutor ............ Acts 26:12-15 .. Saul’s Conversion ................... Acts 26:16-18 .. Paul’s Commission ..................

A Guide To Finding Your Boaz - Book Review

On October 23, 2011 our Sunday School Lesson was titled "A Kiss Is Still A Kiss." The focus of the lesson was on marriage. In the Sunday School Teacher's Guide it stated to plan a movie night with some friends and watc "Why Did I Get Married?" or "Why Did I Get Married Too?" by Tyler Perry. And then have a discussion. There are Scriptures in the Adult Sunday School Book on Biblical Guidelines for: Courtship, Wedding & Marriage. I plan to write more on this matter in 2013. Divorce is running rampant in society today and the rate of divorce is increasing in the Christian community. Antastasia E. Means shares that her painful divorce and numerous failed relationships prompted her to write this book. Divorce is painful even when both parties are amicable in the situation. She ended up in a verbally abusive marriage that left her emotionally damaged, broke, and a single mother of three children struggling just to make ends meet. She thought she would never recover from this ordeal because when she left her husband, she walked away with her children, the clothes on her back, a couple of things, and her faith in God. This book is geared toward helping singles; but the married person may find some nuggets as well. The Story of Ruth: What made Ruth so special? The book of Ruth, is a powerful story of favor, redemption, and how she met "Boaz" the man of her dream. Although Ruth lost her husband, she didn't get desperate for a man. She positioned herself to receive another man. Ruth remains with her grieving mother-in-law because of the lost of her two sons: Mahloin and Kilion. Naomi admonishes her daughter-in-laws (Ruth and Orpah) to return to their mother's home. Orpah kisses her mother-in-law good-bye and leaves. Ruth decides to stay with her mother-in-law instead of going to her home land of Bethlehem. She also decides to serve the God that Naomi serves. If Ruth would have left, she never would have received her blessing, "Boaz." When Boaz discovered Ruth, she was gleaning in the field. She was gleaning in Boaz's field. Once Boaz notices Ruth in his field, he is impressed, and he gives her favor. Naomi encourages Ruth t take a bath, put on some sweet-smelling perfume, adorn herself in her best outfit, and go lay on the threshing floor at Boaz's feet. As a godly woman, it's the beauty within that will spill over into your outward beauty. Boaz will more than likely find you in the everyday trenches of life, not in the nightclub. The Proverbial Woman: Who can find a virtous woman? For her price is far above rubies (Proverbs 31:10). Ruth understood her purpose. If you know that your purpose is to be a motivational speaker and the mate you choose isn't willing to support your vision then division has set in. If God has placed you to complete a specific task or assignment, you must remain faithful where God has planted you. Hope's Story: Woman at the Well Syndrome. Hope struggled with anger and believed she lacked the ability to forgive. As a result, she hadn't been to church in a while. She was finding men, but they were never interested in a long-term relationship. She was feisty and demanding, and she had a wall up due to the sexual abuse she had experienced at the age of seven years old. She like the woman at the well, had a thirst that only God could fulfill. At the age of sixteen she found out she was pregnant. When she told her boyfriend, Xavier he wanted to know "how did she know it was his?" He begged her to have an abortion. He threatened to commit suicide, and she gave in. By the time she started her firs year in college, she was frustrated, so she decided to join the Air Force. Before leaving, she had a wonderful celebration hosted by her sister before being shipped overseas. Xavier showed up. When she arrived overseas she met Derrick on her new job assignment. One morning she woke up feeling horrible - she knew she was pregnant. She shared the news with Derrick, but told him that the baby was likely Xavier back home. She moved back home. She gave birth to a healthy baby boy that summer. The blood test came back confirming that Xavier was the father. Hope started attending church and establishing a relationship with God, and she explained to Xavier it was time to settle down and get married. A few months after Hope graduated from college, she found Xavier cheating on her. By this time, she had already made up her mind that she was out of there. Desires and Non-negotiables: Will God honor my requests? Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God (Philippians 4:6) How are you going to recognize what you want, if you haven't written down your vision? Habakkuk 2:2 states, "And the Lord answered me, and said, "Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it." Habakkuk was making a complaint regarding injustice. We are dealing with imperfect people because we are flawed, but it's important to know what you want, what you don't want, write it down, and pray over it. If you are married, you may want to complete the activity and pray for your current spouse, and turn yours into a prayer journal. How to Attract Boaz. We must be born again. You can't bypass God and His institution and expect success. God is love. Romans 10:9 says "that if you confess with your mouth and believe in your heart, that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." Through reading the Scriptures continually and praying for understanding you will be able to allow the Word of God to become real in your life. The godly man is attracted to a woman who has power. Please forgive all those men from your past who have hurt you. You must forget those things that are behind you and press toward the mark of a higher calling in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:13). How can God truly forgive you and wipe your slate clean with un-forgiveness in your heart? Submit to God. Submitting to God requires that you seek what God requires of you, and then you obey. If you're having trouble submitting to God while you're single, it will be impossible to submit to your husband. The husband is the head over the wife, he gets his orders from God and conveys the message to his wife. Submitting to God includes: spending time in His Word, developing a relationship, and obeying God's Word. Pray for yourself and declare Scriptures over your husband. Develop a quiet time/devotional time when it's just you and God. Talk shows are great; but they don't provide enough sustenance to maintain your marriage. Do not cohabit with your mate before marriage. Once you start having sex, it becomes difficult to stop. You must understand agape love, the God kind of love. Marriage 101: Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the Lord (Proverbws 18:22). Some of the benefits included in being married: working together to fight the enemy, teaming up to fulfill the call of God in your lives, having a sexually fulfilling relationship that's not based on selfishness, raising children in a two-parent home, and growing old with someone with whom you're able to make wonderful memories. Women must honor their Boaz as priest in the home and not dis-respect them. He should feel like the king of the castle when he arrives home. Keep what goes on in your household, in your household. After Salvation, marriage is one of the biggest decisions that we will make in life. Anastasia E. Means is a resident of Atlanta, Georgia. She has been an educator for over thirteen years, and she is currently and educator in the Dekalb County School System. Her goal is to finish her doctorate degree, write books and songs, and spread God's love around the world. She is currently working on her first CD, titled, Master Plan. She has three wonderful boys. She's a member of World Changers Church International, College Park, Georgia. Her life is based on Matthew 6:33.

Erasing the Boundary Lines .. 10/28/2012 Sunday School Lesson

Sunday School Lesson for 10/28/2012. Acts 8:26-39. Who Understands Faith? Erasing the Boundary Lines.... Erasing the Boundary of Race and Religion – Acts 8:26-29... Erasing the Boundary of Rejection – Acts 8:30-35... Erasing the Boundary of Relationship – Acts 8:36-39.... Ethiopia – country South of Egypt of the Nile.... Ethiopia Eunuch – treasurer of Candance. He had financial and political standing but had a spiritual void in his life. He was reading the book of Isaiah out loud when Philip the Evangelist/Deacon, was sent by the Holy Spirit from Samaria to help him. Philip led the African to faith in Christ from Isaiah 53..... Candance – Queen of Ethiopia.... Ethiopia – In the New Testament of the Bible, it was ruled by a queen with the title or name Candance ..... Gaza - One of the 5 influential Philistine cities, and southwest toward Egypt..... Acts 8:26-39.... Verse 26 – Angels, Offices of Good Angels, Ministering Spirits.... Verse 27 – Civil & Social Life, The Court, Overseers – of Candance. The Outward Man, The Afflictions of The Body, Mutilation (to cut off or permanently destroy).... Verse 28 – Scripture, Promulgation of Scripture, Scripture Studied. (Promulgation – to make known, public).... Verses 29, 36, 37 – Other Nations, The Conversion of the Gentiles, The Ethiopian Eunuch Baptized.... Verse 30 – Scripture, Promulgation of Scripture, Instruction in Scripture.... Verses 32, 33, 34, 35 – Jesus Christ, Prophecies Concerning Christ, Silence at the Trial.... Verse 38 – Sacred Rites & Forms; Sacraments, Worship, & Church-Fellowship; Instances of Baptism.... Verse 39 – Miracles, Miraculous Translation, Between Earthly Places.... Scripture Reference used/taken from: Holy Bible Topical Reference Edition KJV. Crusade Bible Publishers, Inc., 1970. Mt. Juliet, Tennessee; 37122

Power Brokers .. 10/21/2012 Sunday School Lesson

Power Brokers .. 10/21/2012 Sunday School Lesson. Acts 8:9-24. Who Understands Faith?...... Simon the Sorcerer – Acts 8:9-13.... Peter and John Go to Samaria – Acts 8:14-17.... I Would Like To Buy That – Acts 8:18-24..... Simon Magus, a sorcerer of Samaria, with great power & influence among the people. (Acts 8:9-13)..... Sorcery: (Occult, Demonic Forces – Witch Craft)..... Philip – Evangelist/Deacon (Acts 6:8) one of the 7 deacons (Acts 6:2) Perhaps he was instrumental in introducing Christianity into Africa..... Peter (rock) – His original was Simon (Symeon) Acts 15:14 .. a prominent apostle, outstanding leader in the early days of the Christian Church..... Some people believe that money can buy anything. The Holy Spirit can not be bought. Silver – Money can not buy Salvation..... Power – prestige, influence, advantage, greater power ..... Occult – belief/practice in areas/things forbidden by God..... Astrology/Horoscopes forbidden – Deuteronomy 18:10, Isaiah 47:12-13..... Fortune Telling forbidden – Deuteronomy 18:9-14; Isaiah 44:25; Jeremiah 27:9.... Ouija Boards/Contacting the Dead forbidden – Lev. 19:31; 2 Kings 21:6; Deut 18:10-12.... Acts 8:9-24.... Verses 9, 10, 11 – Idolatry & Superstition, Witch Craft, Magic & Sorcery.... Verses 12, 13, 14, 17 – Other Nations, The Conversion of The Gentiles, Gospel Carried to the Samaritans ..... Verses 15, 16 – God, Holy Spirit, Prayed For.... Verses 18, 19, 20 – God, Holy Spirit, Simony (Middle English Symonie, from Simon Magus, Samaritian sorcerer (Acts 8:9-24).... Verses 21, 22 – Man Redeemed, Repentance, Repentance A Duty.... Verse 23 – Fallen Man, Nature & Genesis of Sin, Sin Defined & Described.... Verse 24 – Duties to God, Intercession, Intercession Desired...... Scripture Reference used/taken from: Holy Bible Topical Reference Edition KJV. Crusade Bible Publishers, Inc., 1970. Mt. Juliet, Tennessee; 37122

Paying The Price ... 10/14/2012

10/14/2012 Sunday School Lesson. Acts 7:51-60; 8:1a. Calling Out His Accusers – Acts 7:51-53 Stephen’s Vision – Acts 7:54-56 They Stone Stephen – Acts 7:57-60; 8:1a Acts 7:51-60; 8:1a Verse 51- God, Holy Spirit, Resisted Verse 52 – Jesus Christ, Christ’s Crucifixion, Christ’s Death Verse 53 – Angels, Offices of Good Angels, Announces God’s Law Verse 54 – Trials and Persecution, Kinds and Methods of Persecution, Bitter Hate Verses 55,56 – Jesus Christ, Christ’s Ascension: Christ in Heaven Verse 57 – Trials and Persecutions, Kinds and Methods of Persecution, Stoning to Death. The Outward Man, The Nature of The Body, The Ears Verse 58 – Trials and Persecutions, Kinds and Methods of Persecution, Stoning to Death Verse 59 – Jesus Christ, Christ’s Divinity, Christ Possesses the Attributes of God, Is An Object of Worship. Eschatology/Last Things, The Intermediate State, Retribution Begins, For The Good Verse 60 – Jesus Christ, Christ’s Divinity, Christ Possesses the Attributes of God, Is An Object of Worship. Duties to God, Externals of Prayer, Kneeling. Duties to God, Intercession, Intercession for Individuals. Trials and Persecutions, Conduct Under Persecution, Prayer for Persecutors Acts 8:1a – Trials and Persecutions, Kinds and Methods of Persecutions, Banishment

Life is an Amazing Song - Book Review

“This book is about a finnish boy's life during the 1939-1945 war between Finland and Russia. ... I would recommend this book for women who are struggling with finances and raising their children. There is nothing like a mother's love. It is also a blessing to have loving grandparents who will help. John's mother did overcome her struggles, so mothers do not give up.... The way you face situations can make all the difference in the world.... Sometimes other people like your parents, teachers can see in you all that our Creator has made you to be. And these people can speak life and empower you to be all that you can be.... In 1942 John Raikkonen was in Oulu, Finland.... His family was jolted from sleep that morning around 3:00 a.m. to the shrillness of the horribly familiar air raids.... Even at the age of four, he remembered noticing everyone else was in their private world of fear.... There were plenty of hard times during the war. But there were good times as well. What John remembers most was a strong zest for life and an enthusiasm for the discovery of all things new.... The Finnish-Russian war (The Winter War) was fought between the years of 1939-1940. Their home was in the city of Hammeenlinna just north of Helsinki. His mom was home with his sister, Inga who was born one year after he was born. They lived in a small house next to the famous Hotel Aulanko with its national park and lookout tower. It was difficult for his mother to take care of her children with her busy schedule, so John was often with his grandparents.... The war had ravaged Finland and no one had the needed money or supplies to live because of the war. His father was stationed along the Karelian border where most of the heavy fighting took place. His mother was left alone with two small children and she had a difficult choice to make. His sister, Inga would stay with the mother in Hameenlinna and he would be sent to live with his grandparents on their farm north of Oulu.... It was later in life when he thought about growing up with his grandparents, that he came to the conclusion of having been born with the "golden spoon in his mouth." His grandparents, uncles and aunts were well off compared to his poor mother in Hameenlinna, who worked so hard to take care of his sister and Brother Kari, who was born in September. With his father being in the war and his mother working long hours, the money was tight. John worked at an early age during the summers.... Many things had been on his mind. The most disturbing was the possible separation of his Mother and Father once he would come from the service. The second unpleasant idea was going to a new school.... He would be in the third grade.... His class was studying the country of India, which he found very interesting. Geography was his favorite subject... It was the beginning of April. On the south side, where warm rays from the sun reached, the snow had began to melt. The ground was frozen solid... His mother had visited Helsinki twice meeting with his Father and lawyers. His Father insisted on divorce. His Mother didn't want the divorce, but gave in and the divorce was granted. His Father was suppose to send child support for the children, but he never did.... In 1952, Finland was ready for the Summer Olympics. Finland did receive a world-wide influx of athletes and visitors.... The world's first Miss Universe Pageant had been held in California and the first Miss Universe ever chosen, was from Finland. Her name was Miss Armi Kuusela..... In the summer of 1954, John had graduated from Lyseo, which was an advanced high school..... A hotel guest, a business man which was Mr. Schwab from Philadelphia, invited John at the age of seventeen to the United States. Mr. Schwab would arrange for his schooling and paying for his ticket to come to America..... It was a scary feeling for John to start a new school in a different country. It would be hard for him for his English was not very good... Life in America for John was wonderful and exciting. The people were friendly but it seemed as if everyone was in a rush somewhere.... Later the following summer, John returned back to Finland to fulfill his army duty in October.... It was in August when he journeyed to America aboard the SS US.... He attended Temple University, which was only three blocks away from the house, studying business and accounting. John enrolled in a class to learn how to fly airplanes. On his fifth lesson, Mr. Black the flight instructor asked him, "was he ready to fly?"... For one hour he flew around the airport and performed touch and go landings on the grass run way..... Late that summer John met his sweetheart. Paola Barboni who was born in Pescara, Italy. Paola and hiim hit it off immediately. It was like love at first sight. She was beautiful and he says she still is after fifty years of marriage. Six months later they were married. Now he ad to stop school and find work, and he was able to do so with some friends help. He became the Assistant Internal Auditor at The Benjamin Franklin Hotel in the inner city. They lived happily but very frugally... His son, John Claus was born nine months after his marriage. Two years later his daughter, Laila was born in Alexandria, Virginia where they lived at that time. Lewis Hotel School had brought him and his family to the Washington, D.C. area. He accepted a position at the famous Jockey Club. President Jack Kennedy was always escorted in through the back door. Everyone who was famous in D.C. to Hollywood considered Jockey Club as their club. After thre years with this famous restaurant, he began his Country Club Career... Over the years he became a Certified Country Club Manager, running some of the finest clubs in he United States... Him and his wife had another beautiful child, Claudia... At Rolling Green he met President Ford. He came to play golf in a large fund raising golf tournament. He shared his office with President Ford... In the fall of 1977 his Mother passed away. He was heartbroken... By 1980 John was burnt out from club management. Him and his wife purchased a closed up restaurant in Fairhaven, Massachusetts. They were featured in several newspaper articles, magazines, radio and TV interviews... While John was enjoying life, his sister Inga was diagnosed with incureable live cancer. Him and his wife visited her two weeks before her death in 1993... After twenty-three years they sold the Pasta House and moved to Charleston, South Carolina.... John says that he contributes everything in his life to a higher power, God. There were many people in their lives who helped them along to achieve what they did and what became of them, but he looks up to HIM as the giver/originator of it all.... As he learned in Finland, America is the land of opportunity... John (Juha) Raikkonen is the author of "Life is an Amazing Song."

Courage to Speak ... October 7, 2012

Our Sunday School Lesson is on Unit II. Who Understands Faith? Acts 6:8-15; 7:1-2a... Stephen was chosen to oversee food distribution to the widows of the community (Acts 6:1-6).... He was a Hellenists Jew - which means he made Greek his tongue, and adopted Greek ideas and practices (Acts 6:1; 9:29)..... Stephen was full of faith and of the Holy Spirit. He was spiritually gifted (I Corinthians 12:1-11). He was the first to do miracles who was not an apostle. He walked with God... Stephen was the first martyr and powerful evangelist/deacon.... Acts 6:8-15 ..... Verse 8 - Miracles, Miracles Considered, The Apostolic Miracles ..... Verses 9-13: Trials and Persecutions, Kinds and Methods of Persecution, False Accusations .... Verse 14 - The Hebrews, Jerusalem, Destruction by the Romans Foretold ..... Verse 15 - Angels, Good Angels, Men Compared With Angels .......................................................................................................... Acts 7:1-2a .............. Verse 1 - Trials and Persecutions, Kinds and Methods of Persecution, False Accusations .......... Verse 2a - The Hebrews, God's Chosen People ............... Scripture Reference used/taken from: Holy Bible Topical Reference Edition KJV. Crusade Bible Publishers, Inc., 1970. Mt. Juliet, Tennessee; USA; 37122

Having The Courage To Speak The Truth

Sandra Ford Walston is an Courage Expert, Speaker, Consultant, Corporate Trainer, Courage Coach and Author..... Her article link below is also featured in my Adult Sunday School Book in the Introduction..... http://ezinearticles.com/4289560 ....... Our Sunday School Lesson for October 7, 2012 is coming from Acts 6:8-15; 7:1-2a. The lesson titled is Courage to Speak.

52 Seconds - Words That Inspire: Book Review

Bernard's writing is very inspirational, positive and his book will make you thing on have a better attitude. Sharing some tips from his book: If you change the way you look at things, what you look at changes. A.I.M. Ambitious Inspired and Motivated Anyone with an aim; who is ready to go for his/her goals need be ambitious, inspired and motivated. What is your AIM? G.I.V.E. Generously Investing in Various Enterprise The act giving initiates the receiving process with the old adage, 'it's more blessed to give than receive.' Be a giver. M.U.M. Mothers: Unmatched Mentors Our first love, care, instructions and directions we receive comes from mothers and most often we learn and adapt to so many things from them unconsciously. God bless all mums. N.I.C.E. Neatly Install and Carefully Executed Isn't it lovely to have something nice, or to look nice? However let's not forget it may require some time and effort to neatly install and carefully executed it. Take time to be nice and look nice. A.R.T. Amazing Revealing Touch Everyone can be an artist, by simply adding a touch of beauty, excellence, care and love in every little thing we do - illuminating the life of others with our ART. L.O.L. Laugh Out Loud Learn to laugh out loud daily, let the kid in you enjoy life, for a "cheerful heart does good like a medicine" laugh at yourself - have some good laugh today. X. X. L. Xtra Xtra Length Many a time we do only what is required of us, not bothering to do anything extra, but it is the extra's that make the big difference, an extra hour. Those who achieve greatness in life, have gone beyond the limit, - go the extra mile. Bernard Kelvin Clive is the author of 52 Seconds "Simplified Motivation" WORDS TO INSPIRE.

5 Love Languages

Learn your love language and you might want to share with your spouse. 5 Love Languages: http://www.5lovelanguages.com/learn-the-languages/the-five-love-languages 5 Love Languages Blog: http://www.5lovelanguages.com/blog Assessments: Love Languages Personal Profiles For Wives, Husbands,Parents or teens, Singles, Children and Languages of Apology: http://www.5lovelanguages.com/assessments/love

Steadfast Love ... 9/30/12

9/30/12 Sunday School Lesson... Hebrews 13:1-3; I Corinthians 13:1-13... Family Love ...(Hebrews 13:1-3) Verse 1 - Man Redeemed, Duties and Graces of the New Life, Love to Christian Brethren Verse 2 - Civil and Social Life, Hospitality. Duties and Graces of The New Life, Christian Hospitality. Verse 3 - Man Redeemed, Duties and Graces of The New Life, Fellow-Feeling with Others Agape (I Corinthians 13:1-7) Verses 1-7: Man Redeemed, Duties and Graces of The New Life, Love to God and Man Agape Is All About God ( I Corinthians 13:8-13) Verses 8, 9, 10, 11, 13 - Man Redeemed, Duties and Graces of The New Life, Love To God and Man Verse 12 - Eschatology/Last Things, Heaven, The Blessedness of Heaven, Perfect Knowledge Scripture reference taken/used from: Holy Bible Topical Reference Edition KJV. Crusade Bible Publishers, Inc., 1970. Mt. Juliet, TN; USA; 37122

Steadfast Thanks 9/23/12

September 23, 2012 Sunday School Lesson. What is Faith? Hebrews 12:18-29. Verse 18 - Man Redeemed, The New Covenant, The Covenant. Verses 20, 21, 23 - Eschatology/Last Things, Heaven, The New Jerusalem. Verse 22 - Eschatology/Last Things, Heaven, The New Jerusalem. Angels, Good Angels, Numbers Of. Verse 24 - Jesus Christ, Offices of Christ, Our Mediator. Verse 25 - Man Redeemed, Faith, Unbelief, Punishment. Verse 27 - Eschatology/Last Things, The Last Judgment.

Love Your Enemies 9/29/12

This Bible Reading is coming from my Sunday School Book for September 29, 2012. Luke 6:27-36. How we must love our enemies. Verses 27-28 - Trials and Persecutions, Conduct under Persecution, Prayer for Persecutors. Verse 30 - Trials and Persecutions, Kinds and Methods of Persecution Verses 32-35: Man Redeemed, Duties and Graces for the New Life, Returning Good for Evil. Scripture reference taken/used from: Holy Bible Topical Reference Edition KJV. Crusade Bible Publishers, Inc., 1970. Mt. Juliet, TN 37122.

Listening to the Spirit 9/18/12

This is coming from my Bible Reading in my Sunday School Book for September 18, 2012. Revelation 3:1-13. In verse 2 the angel of the church of Sardis is reproved. In verse 3 exhorted to repent, and threatened if he do not repent. In verse 8 the angel of the church of Philadelphia. Verse 6 - Scripture, Duty to Know and Obey Scripture, All the World to Hear. Verses 11, 12 - Eschatology/Last Things, Heaven, The New Jerusalem Scripture reference taken/used from: Holy Bible Topical Reference Edition KJV. Crusade Bible Publishers, Inc., 1970. Mt. Juliet, TN, USA; 37122

Listening to the Voice of Warning 9/17/12

This is coming from my Home Daily Bible Reading from my Sunday School Book. Ezekiel 33:1-9. Verse 1 - According to the duty of a watchman, in warning the people. Verse 1 - Scripture, Books and Authors, Speakers and Hearers (Ezekiel). Verses 2 -9 Sacred Persons and Offices, The Prophets, Their Office, Whatever May Be The Issue. Verse 7 - Ezekiel is admonished of his duty. Scripture reference taken/used from: Holy Bible Topical Reference Edition KJV. Crusade Bible Publishers, Inc., 1970. Mt. Juliet, TN; USA, 37122.

Steadfast Fortitude

Sunday School Lesson for 9/16/12. What is Faith? Hebrews 12:1-11. Fortitude is Courage. Hebrews was written to people who were being persecuted. Verse 1 - Man Redeemed, Duties and Graces of the New Life, Steadfastness Verse 4 - Trials and Tribulations, Under the New Economy, Expected Verse 5 - Works of God, God's Providence in Moral Discipline, Patient Endurance in Affliction. Scripture reference taken/used from: Holy Bible Topical Reference Edition KJV. Crusade Bible Publishers, Inc., 1970. Mt. Juliet, TN 37122.

Weathering the Storm 1 of 2

Sunday School Lesson for November 11, 2012. Where Does Faith Take Us? Acts 27:1-2, 33-44 Verse 1, 2 - Other Nations, The Conversion of the Gentiles, The Voyage to Italy, From Ceasarea to Sidon Verse 35 - Duties to God, Prayer, Objects of Prayer, Blessing upon Food: Grace Before Meal Verses 39, 40, 41 - Industrial Employments & Products, Ships & Navigation, Maneuvres in a Storm, Beaching the Ship

Polish Yourself Shine Like a Diamond

Since the author began her research in 1989, she have seen trends come and go, the jobless rate rise and fall, and have spoken and worked with scores of business owners, company leaders, career counselors, teachers, professors and individuals. People like diamonds, have a basic market value, but it is only after they have been polished that the world will pay its real value. No matter what stage of your career you are in, you can improve. Like a brillant, sparkling diamond, you too can shine. Polish yourself and see the difference it can make in your relationships, your income, your potential, and the value you bring to everything you do. It is important to step back and evaluate yourself every now and then. Begin today! Susan Morem is the author of How to Gain the Professional Edge, 2nd Edition.

Finding and Following God's Will - Book Review

I read and reviewed this book in 2005. This book has twelve chapters, Bible Study and reflection questions for individual and group use. The author has an MBA in finance and a doctorate in educational leadership. The author teaches seminars on prayer, spirituality and finding meaning and purpose in life. Going Deeper Bible Study and Reflection Questions Chapter 3: What Can The Bible Tell Me Today? Key: The Bible is still our sovereign for discovering God's will. Learn to use tools for Bible Study such as Topical Bibles, Concordances, Chain References and Commentaries. Read the Bible in small pieces, giving yourself time to digest its messages. Chapter 5: Was That God or Just a Dream? Key: Test signs against Scripture and circumstances. Yet trust that God may be drawing you closer. Consider what the following verses tell us about being guided directly by God ... I Kings 19:11-13; John 16:13; John 14:16-17. Chapter 11: How Can I Plan If My Future is In God's Hands? Key: Living Within God's will means looking for God, listening for God, talking with God, all without ceasing. Consider memorizing Jeremiah 29:11 as a source of hope in uncertainty. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." http://www.findingandfollowing.org .... Jane A.G. Kise

Grace for Each Hour - Book Review

Six months of devotions designed to support, comfort, encourage, strength and reassure women when they need it. Comfort for Women Facing Breast Cancer. This book is not about breast cancer, nor how it is diagnosed or treatment options. You might want to read one devotion each day to comfort and sustain you throughout a typical six month breast cancer experience. The author is a five (5) year survival breast cancer survivor as of 2005. She leads a cancer cure ministry, serves as intercessor and mentor for women with breast cancer, consults and speaks. It wasn't until she was diagnosis with breast cancer in 1999 that the Lord won her heart. She received prayers in cards, letters, e-mails, and over the telephone. She's embarrassed to admit that her hair was the very first thought that came to mind when the possibility of cancer was discovered. Don't be discouraged and abandon your faith, no matter what happens or how long it takes. Ask God to put people you can trust to form such deep relationships in your path. They can help you become the warrior princess God planned all along. Be still, and know that I am God. The words scrolled slowly across her computer screen saver. Even before her relationship with the Lord became more intimate, she found comfort in those words.

What is Faith? Steadfast Confidence 9/9/12

9/9/12 Sunday School Lesson

Hebrews 11:1-3, 6; Psalm/Tehillim 46:1-3, 8-11 ..

Faith is believing.  Believing in God.  Believe in HIS Written Word.  Believe even if you do not see the way being made.

Psalm/Tehillim 46:1,2,3 there are promises there as well.  God Preserves and protects man as well.  In this scripture man means woman, girl and boy. 

Parrot Dial - Cheap International Calling

Parrot Dial is the Future of Communications, the latest revolution in communication technology, changing the way individuals and companies communicate and do business.

Contact my former Dr. for more information.  Dr. Obi, eiobic@ymail.com ...

Parrot Dial - Cheap International Calling