Life Is Good by Leona I. Miller

Oh, life is good and it's so grand,

Since I walked away from sin;

The devil is troubled and trembles,

I'll never turn to his way again.



I'm having the time of my life,

Each day I walk with the King;

I've turned my back on the devil,

It's Jesus now...His praises to sing.



The Bible says Jesus loves me,

I believe and know it is true;

He is Alive and is coming soon,

Friend...I hope you know Him too.



There's no other way to Heaven,

Unless we walk with Jesus our King;

Let's walk together and be blessed,

Praise Him while the Angels sing.



Oh, I'm having such a great time,

God cares about me in many ways;

He guards every step I will take,

I love Him and give Him all my praise.



Yes, I'm having the time of my life,

Some friends cannot yet understand;

God's Plan is for me to always obey,

It's a Joy to walk and hold His hand.

O Lord Remember Me. by Leona I. Miller

The day was darkened with clouds,

A time to remember the Cross at Calvary;

It was a dark day there when Jesus died,

I come now to ask, O Lord remember me.



The morning hours pass swiftly by,

Lord, remember the lonely and the weary;

Remember those burdened and in sorrow,

Then I pray, O Lord remember me.



The shadows of evening cover the earth,

Again I think of Jesus there at Calvary;

Remember each pain and dying groan,

And then I ask, O Lord remember me.



Remember those who are so lost, Lord,

They are bound in sin and must be free;

They can never find their way alone,

Help them and then, O Lord remember me.



I am thankful for Your Mercy and Grace,

Then as I pause to bend my knees;

While You are there on Your Throne,

O Lord, please do remember me.

Do We Pray? by Leona I. Miller

Someone we love is sinking deep in sin,

This dear one, from God, has turned away;

When we learn someone has chosen to reject Him,

It must not be because we did not pray.



We must reach out to that someone in love,

With a need to bring them back today;

If they fail and miss Heaven above,

It must not be because we did not pray.



There may be sin in fun and pleasures we seek,

Many temptations will lure the soul away;

Sin leaves the soul, mind and body weak,

It must not be because we did not pray.



Time is passing from us each day and hour,

Sin has a very high cost to someday pay;

Satan will devour the soul with his power,

It must not be because we did not pray.



We must pray and leave the outcome to God,

Be loving and forgiving as we go our way;

If one life returns to God on this journey we trod,

We can Rejoice because we "did" pray.

Jesus of Galilee by Leona I. Miller

Jesus was hanging on the Cross in agony,

Oh! The shame of it all that day;

He suffered, Bled and Died for you and me,

Never forget Calvary and don't forget to pray.

Remember Jesus of Galilee.



Women followed Jesus of Galilee,

Standing to "watch"...a long way off;

Then went to prepare spices for His body,

Love of a great degree, while others

walked away to scoff,

At Jesus of Galilee.



The women returned the first day of the week,

It was very early in the morning;

The body of Jesus they came to seek,

They loved Him, still, in this new day's dawning,

This Man of Galilee.



The stone was found to be rolled away,

The body of Jesus was no longer there;

Two men stood in shining garments that day,

The women were afraid and filled with care,

For Jesus of Galilee.



The men asked, "Why seek the living among the dead?"

The Son of Man was delivered to the hands

of sinful men;

The women remembered, then, the words

Jesus had said,

He would be Crucified, but the third day

He would rise again,

He is Risen! This Jesus of Galilee.



Jesus said He would go but again return,

The time of His coming now draws near;

To see Him "descend" from Heaven; do we yearn?

Or will our hearts be filled with fear,

For this same Jesus of Galilee?

(St. Luke 24)

Jesus Is My Everything. by Leona I. Miller

Jesus is my Helper, my Hope, Lord and King,

He is Joy, Provider, and every day the same;

To Him I lift up my voice and sing,

While every foe trembles at His name.



There is Power in the name of Jesus,

I am so thankful He is mine;

There is none else, but only Jesus,

His name is precious, Blessed, Pure, Divine.



He is Alpha and Omega, Beginning and End,

The Son of God, the Vine, Holy, Saviour, Love;

Prince of Peace, Physician, High Priest, Friend,

Lamb of God, the Light, our Messiah above.



He is the Cornerstone, Master, Bread of Life,

My Guide, Healer, Shepherd, Strong Tower;

He is the Way, the Truth and the Life,

In Him is Victory, Salvation and Power.



He loves me; I Worship and Adore Him,

He suffered, gave His Blood, died and Arose for us;

I Praise Him, Glorify Him...He is the Great I Am,

I Believe His Word, His Blood, His Name...Jesus!

He is all of these and more.

Candle In The Night. by Leona I. Miller

The deeds we do for God are clearly seen,

We stand alone to do what is right;

Shadows are cast as a silver beam,

We must not be as a candle with flickering light.



God loves and cares for all mankind,

His love...our hearts should excite;

We will brightly shine for Jesus ~ or ~ faintly shine,

As one lone candle in the night.



We must never let our faith grow weak for Jesus,

But always keep His Armor shining bright;

The time will come for each of us,

Some day...we will take our Heavenly flight.



It should be a pleasure and our mission,

To do only what is pleasing in His sight;

Even when trials come ~ we'll reach completion,

If we're faithful as we climb the mountain's height.



Each day is ours to make a choice,

Let's seek God's will with all our might;

With faith bright and strong...we can rejoice,

If we're not as a flickering candle in the night.

Leave Regrets Behind. by Leona I. Miller

While we travel this journey of life,

Things may not always go as we planned;

Problems arise and tend to stir up strife,

We must pray and hold to God's hand.



Trials and sufferings come and then go,

Sometimes things said are not always kind;

Sadness may come and cause tears to flow,

We must leave all sad regrets behind.



Our loved ones may try to help us,

Our friends may not always understand;

The Best Friend we'll ever have is Jesus,

He is always with us to hold our hand.



Our journey in life may become dim,

Problems so often arise to torment the mind;

The Blood of Jesus covers all our sin,

Leaving all our sad regrets behind.



Forgive to be Forgiven...be humble and pray,

Don't dwell on sad things that are past;

This life is quite brief and then some day,

Only things done for Jesus will forever last.



Things will not always be as they are now,

The time will come when we will find;

At the pierced feet of Jesus we shall bow,

Then gladly...we'll leave all sad regrets behind.

A Light In The Window. by Leona I. Miller

The road is never weary nor long,

When going to the home of a friend;

Whispering a prayer and in my heart a song,

I'll soon be there ~ it's just around the bend.



When with a friend, time swiftly passes away,

It's soon time for the return to home;

I'm blessed as I take a moment to pray,

Thankful for memories as friendship has grown.



With a light in the window just ahead,

I walk slowly and continue on;

The sunsets glow of yellow, gray and red,

Keeps me watching 'til the colors are gone.



Slowly ~ the shadows of evening have grown,

Still, I keep watch on the glow ahead;

The light in the window leads me home,

I am blessed and my soul is fed.



There's a need for moments as this,

Moments to meditate and pray;

Earths beauty ~ I don't want to miss,

I'm preparing now, for Eternal Day.



There's never a lonely moment in life,

With a light in the window just ahead;

God will free us from all strife,

He is with us, just as He has said.



Leave the light on ~ in a window,

For someone who may be passing-by;

They'll not be alone and love will kindle,

Remembering a loving God is always nigh.



There's a mansion prepared in the sky,

A beautiful place in Heaven of our own;

I trust to be a light for others, in God's Eye,

As a light in the window that leads to Home.

Lights Along The Shore. by Leona I. Miller

My life is like a ship out at sea,

Burdens toss me about as ocean waves;

I am Thankful God watches over me,

My compass is set ~ I know Jesus Saves.



Trials come and press down on me,

It's then I trust Jesus ~ He is my Anchor;

Waves of trouble allow me to see,

Jesus has Control so I can conquer.



I keep my eyes on the distant shore,

My ship is tossed as if to sink;

I bow to pray as the ocean waves roar,

My faith must be firm and not shrink.



Jesus in my Captain 'til life is through,

With Him ~ I will not lose my way;

The Lighthouse Beam is within my view,

He leads and guides me to Eternal Day.



The lights are bright along the shore,

They glisten as diamonds in the night;

The Beacon guides while breakers roar,

He has kept me safe and in His sight.



Some day, my Vessel will safely land,

I'll meet loved ones who passed on before;

God will smile and tenderly take my hand,

Then I'll be at Home on Heaven's Shore.

A Praying Mother . by Leona I. Miller

Somewhere, a tearful Mother prays,

She loves her wayward child;

Still caring for her child's lost Soul,

Once so innocent, tender and mild.



While she rocked and sang a lull-a-by,

Her precious child drifted into sleep;

There in the warmth of her loving arms,

Only if the child was ill...she'd weep.



Those tender years are now gone,

Her love is still strong as back then;

She's had years to watch her child grow,

With God's Love to love again and again.



This dear Mother now has a heart to ache,

She waits patiently as her tears flow;

Kneeling to pray, she talks with God,

Her Saviour, she wants this child to know.



God bless every precious Mother who prays,

He knows her dear child will never forget;

Those times of knowing when Mother prayed,

There's peace...God is not finished yet.



There's pleasure in every temptation of sin,

Though it only lasts for a brief season;

When a loving Mother weeps and prays,

Her love for the wayward child, is the reason.

The Prodigal Son by Leona I. Miller

St. Luke 15: 11-32



The Prodigal Son was not content,

He made a choice to not live at home;

Did he fully know what this meant...

When he chose to leave and be alone?



He gathered what he had for his journey,

From his loving father, he wanted his share;

Then he went into a far away Country,

Where he wasted it all with sinful fare.



Then a famine came in that land,

This son became in a very great need;

A farmer sent him into his fields as a hired man,

The farmers pigs there, he was to feed.



He was hungry but no-one gave to him,

It was then, he thought of his father at home;

He knew he had chosen a life of sin,

He now felt so very much alone.



He arose and returned to his father,

His father saw him coming ~

while yet a long way off;

He ran to his son ~ embraced him

with loving pity,

He kissed him...a feast and a party began.



His brother was angry and would not go in,

He had been faithful and worked hard at home;

His father went out to plead with him,

Begged him to come in...why be our there alone?

The father gave a message clear and plain,

The older son never refused to work the ground;

He explained his brother was dead ~ is alive again,

He was lost ~ and now is found.

Calvary. by Leona I. Miller

What must it have been like,

When Jesus was on trial?

Then to hear the cock crow,

How He must have felt with denial.



To have those He loved,

Turn away and forsake Him;

Surely He grieved to see,

Such wickedness and sin.



What must it have been like,

To watch His suffering?

Those cruel men with hatred,

Then to hear the murmuring.



What must it have been like,

To watch Jesus carry His Cross?

Bleeding and still walking on,

Surely, it appeared as a loss.



What must it have been like,

To see nails pierce His hands?

Then His feet ~ and those thorns,

Could only God understand?



What must it have been like,

To see Jesus hanging on the Cross?

I am thankful He did this for me,

To save my soul from Eternal loss.



What must it have been like,

To hear Jesus cry, "It is Finished"

His Love ~ Wondrous Love,

Had hope and trust been diminished?



What must it have been like,

To see Jesus bow His head?

Surely there were tears to flow,

Everyone knew He was dead.



He was tenderly laid to rest,

A borrowed Tomb was given;

He would not need it long ~ we're blest!

He Arose and is now in Heaven.



He said He would go, but will return,

"Occupy until I come" ~ He said;

I'm waiting for Him ~ He is coming soon,

Awake! He Arose! He is Not dead!

Hold Fast To The Rock. by Leona I. Miller

Troubles sometimes overwhelm me,

I could so easily fall into despair;

Then I think of Jesus and Calvary,

Through it all, I am able to bear.



I must always hold fast to the Rock,

The Rock that is Higher than I;

Jesus stands at my heart to knock,

If I let Him in ~ all tears He will dry.



In holding on to the Solid Rock,

Man cannot dis-lodge me ~

nor ocean's high tide;

As a shell grips the wet,

moss-covered rock,

I'll live close to God ~

in Him to abide.



Then ~ when troubles in life arise,

I may be tempted to give-in and let-go;

But that would not be at all wise,

I can overcome, holding fast to the Rock.



That Rock ~ the Solid Rock ~ is Jesus,

His Perfect Love casts out all fear;

There is none other ~ there's only Jesus,

I am thankful He is always near.

Prayer For Today...by Leona I. Miller

I come into Your presence, Lord,

Guide me to follow You and obey;

Help me to better understand Your Word,

I thank You for this beautiful day.



Those who grieve ~ comfort them, Lord,

Lift up those who are discouraged today;

Bring back those straying from Your Word,

Give cheer to our Troops in harms way.



Bless the families left behind, Lord,

Give them strength and courage to go on;

Guide them as they daily read Your Word,

Let every thought of fear be gone.



Keep us all from temptations of sin,

Direct all the evil darts to be turned away;

Lead us to overcome ~ for Victory to win,

It is in the Name of Jesus ~ I pray.

~ Amen ~

Traveling On...by Leona I. Miller

Each of us are on a Journey,

We must keep traveling on;

A choice must be made who we'll serve,

Every day with the morning's dawn.



The trials and burdens may be many,

The baggage we carry is so heavy;

Even though we become weary of traveling,

Jesus helps us to keep our feet steady.



We need have no fear in our heart,

In Heaven our Victory will be won;

God sends Angels to protect us,

So let's keep traveling on.



Someday, God will call our name,

It may be sooner than we think;

With Hope, we must prepare our life,

We must never allow our faith to shrink.



Keep traveling on...we'll meet Jesus,

Someday we will reach our goal;

The books will be opened and we'll know then,

How every sin un-forgiven will take its toll.



If we walk with God...He will walk with us,

He will lead, guide and direct us from wrong;

Until He calls us from this earth,

Be patient and just keep traveling on.

Tears... by Leona I. Miller

Tears of affliction may dim the eyes,

While the winds of temptations blow;

Seas of discouragement send sorrows,

Be patient and wait for blessings to flow.



Each new day gives a new beginning,

Tears may flow, but God understands;

Speak with Him in humble prayer,

He will help you...trust His Plan.



Tears are seen and heard by our God,

Jesus wept too, when Lazarus had died;

He knows our thoughts before we think them,

He knows each sorrow when we have cried.



The heart may feel as if to be breaking,

There's tenderness, weakness and pain;

In times like these we must remember,

God did not promise every day without rain.



There are clouds in life that will come,

God has faithfully promised to be with us;

We must trust Him, always, for all things,

It's too easy to complain, fret and fuss.



Turn everything over to our Heavenly Father,

Watch as He turns the problems around;

This world is not a permanet dwelling place,

He lifts the troubled soul to Higher ground.



Pray and trust Him today, dear friend,

You will be so thankful you did;

Things will not always be as now,

Let burdens and tears with Him be hid.

Thank You Father. by Leona I. Miller

Father, I come in humble prayer,

Asking for Your Wisdom again today;

Thank You for always watching over me,

There are so many obstacles in my way.



Please, Father, give peace to the weary,

Give strength to those who lost their way;

Watch over the lonely and those in sin,

Comfort those who grieve a loss today.



There's a great need for Your love each day,

It is not possible to make it on my own;

I know nothing is impossible for You,

You hear each prayer, tear, sigh and groan.



Father, please don't let me go astray,

Every moment, I need Your tender care;

So un-worthy still, but I give You praise,

Thank You for hearing each humble prayer.



Thank You, again, for Your protection,

Thank You for Your tender, loving embrace;

Thank You for being with me when I'm weak,

Thank You for Saving me by Your Grace.

In the precious Name of Jesus,

~ Amen ~

Jesus Cares..by Leona I. Miller

Does Jesus care when you are sad?

Oh yes, He cares for you, dear friend;

Keep your eyes focused on Him, always,

There's Joy and on Him you can depend.



Jesus cares when things go wrong,

He watches over you, day and night;

He walked the roads of sorrows too,

Rejoice and keep your vision bright.



Walk by faith and not by sight,

Trust in Him so you don't go astray;

Lean on Him ~ He will guide you,

Just remember...don't forget to pray.



Call on Him in times of trouble,

He knows everything that you need;

He waits patiently for you to come,

It matters not of race, color or creed.



There is a harvest time ahead,

First though, we must plant the seed;

Seeds of Joy, happiness, love and peace,

Forgive others and pull up angers weed.



God is Love, so walk daily with Him,

He will forgive every sin you regret;

He cares about you and each problem too,

Remember friend, God is not finished yet.

The Way Of Life. by Leona I. Miller

When life's storms rage around us,

Call to Jesus and kneel to pray;

He gives shelter in His loving arms,

Guiding and giving protection each day.



The ways of life are not always easy,

Often, there is trouble in the way;

We may stumble, but Jesus cares,

He gently keeps us from going astray.



The enemy prowls and seeks to devour,

That's when we must call on Jesus;

Prayers are the answer for our happiness,

Jesus is the One whom we must trust.



Some day the raging storms will cease,

Our soul will be at peace on Heaven's shore;

There, no heartaches will ever be known,

Trials can never again, against us roar.



Heaven awaits the Saints who love Jesus,

A place of rest, love, joy and peace;

There will be a reunion with loved ones,

Praising Jesus with Angels to never cease.



Let's put aside all our differences and get

ready to meet Him...He is coming soon.

Who Is Your First Love?

It’s a wonderful day to be a child of God. Have you ever found yourself so overtaken by someone’s love that you stop thinking correctly? All day, every day you sit thinking about this particular person. You wonder what they are doing. What they are wearing. When you will see them again. When the phone rings, your heart begins to race in great anticipation. Have you ever found yourself devoting all of your time and energy to one person until everything else in life becomes secondary? In your eyes, the sun rises and sets with this person. Even God has become a second thought in your life. You once knocked the church doors down to get in, but now you miss more Sundays than ever. Your prayer life has diminished. Your fasting has severely decreased. Your worship and praise for God has been substituted for compliments and sweet words for/from this person. Have you been there? Are you there now?



Today, I have been commissioned to come and minister to you. My friend, please never forget where love starts. The Bible declares in 1 John 4:8 - He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. The love we have for others, derives out of our love for the Master. Allow me to ask you an important question: Who Is Your First Love? Who keeps the smile on your face each day? Who do you think about all the time? Who do you aim to please and satisfy? While God blesses us to enjoy (godly) relationships, he does not bless our relationships so that they can become our top priorities. He must always remain first. Just as the Lord spoke to the church at Ephesus, is He talking to you today? The Bible declares in Revelation 2:4 - Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Have you left your first love? Not that person you dated years ago. Not that person who circled yes on the note you sent in the middle of class. Not that person who wrote you a short poem or gave you one red rose.



My brother, my sister, Who Is Your First Love? Who keeps you believing things will get better? Who enables you to see beyond the current problems in your life? Who comforts you when everything in life appears impossible? Beloved, to be in love with Jesus is the best thing that could ever happen to you. This is a love that accepts us as we are. This is a love that does not see where you are, but where you are going. This is a love that receives the faults and failures that accompany you. This is a love that enables you to get back up again. The Bible declares in Romans 5:8 - But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. What kind of love is this? Who do you know that can love you like this? JESUS CAN! When everything seems chaotic and out of control, reassess your life. Make sure you have not lost sight of your first love. Prayer for Today: Father, You are the first love of my life. No one can ever replace You. You are the first, the last, my every thing. In Jesus’ name … Amen!

RULES FROM GOD FOR NEXT YEARS ( 2010) HAPPY NEWS YEARS EVEYONE!

1. Wake Up !!

Decide to have a good day. "Today is the day the Lord hath made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."

Psalms 118:24



2. Dress Up !!

The best way to dress up is to put on a smile. A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

"The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward appearance; but the Lord looks at the heart."

I Samuel 16:7



3. Shut Up!!

Say nice things and learn to listen.

God gave us two ears and one mouth, so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking. "He who guards his lips guards his soul."

Proverbs 13:3



4. Stand Up!!...

For what you believe in. Stand for something or you will fall for anything.. "Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good..."

Galatians 6:9-10



5. Look Up !!...

To the Lord.

"I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me."

Philippians 4:13



6. Reach Up !!...

For something higher. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path."

Proverbs 3:5-6



7. Lift Up !!...

Your Prayers.

"Do not worry about anything; instead PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING."

Philippians 4:6

CHRISTIAN BEAUTY..

What makes a Christian Woman Beautiful is not her outer garment, garb, or make up that she wears. What makes a Christian Woman Beautiful are the following characteristics: First of all, it’s the Christ that lives within them. Second, it’s the Joy, Peace, and Laughter that dwells within them. Third, it’s their Passion and Zeal to serve the Lord with all their heart. It’s their courage and strength of conviction to take on and conqueror any task that has been set before them.



Mainly what makes a Christian Woman Beautiful is her ability to remain Humble, Prayerful, and Powerful. It’s the Christ inside of her that breaks through, like a Beacon of Light, and Hope. To all the people we come into contact with. Its having a word for hurting people in need; both in and out of Season; Christian Woman carry themselves with elegance and grace., Always making sure things are done both decent and in order.



Where people can look at us and not only see and feel the love we carry inside of us; but also feel our Savior’s love and to taste of his Grace. We are Living, Breathing examples of Christ, whom we say we Represent: its in how we walk, talk, treat others, and carry ourselves. Both in public and in private, each day. We must be careful while running this Christian Race for there are people in this World wanting us to fail and fall on our face. I am glad that the Beauty God has given to his people is not temporal, so it will not fade away. Neither will the word of God and his people who are coming up and out are here to stay.



Sis. Monique McNeil-Holloway

Seeing grace of God!

"Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord." Acts 11:23





Grace is like the wind, you can't see it but you can feel its effects. Or perhaps you can "see" it. Personally, when I look in the mirror each morning, I "see" God's grace. I can see the grace of God in my life from the beginning of the day until the end. I see His unmerited favor on my life. I can see that He has given me something, and so much, that I don't deserve.



It was God's grace that woke me up this morning. It was His grace that gave me life and breath again today. His grace puts health in my body. It was His grace that protected and kept me safe through the night. God's grace put a roof over my head, clothes on my back, shoes on my feet, food on my table. It's God's grace that allows me to sit here and share these devotionals with you.



God's grace gives me strength in weakness, comfort in sorrow, peace during times of confusion, wisdom to make the right decisions, help in time of trouble. His grace gives me joy and gladness. The Apostle Paul put it this way, "I am what I am but by the grace of God"... and may I add, "I have what I have but by the grace of God".



The greatest gift of grace that I see upon my life was given to me when Jesus went to Calvary. He provided salvation for me because I could have never obtained it any other way. I couldn't earn it, I couldn't work hard enough to receive it, I could never be good enough. Salvation came to me through His grace and when I received what He did as the payment for my sins grace was imparted to my life.



I rejoice this morning because I can see God's grace upon my life each and everyday and I know that when I stand before Him one day as the Judge of the universe, grace will still be standing with me and I will hear those words- "enter thou into the joy of thy lord".



Have a great day. Take time today to see and acknowledge the grace of God that has been bestowed upon your life.

Friendship Advice!

Friendship is something special,

it can not be bought or sold

Its value is far greater

than any silver or even gold



When times get rough,

they always seem to understand

Without being asked,

they comfort and lend a helping hand



Holding you up

when they think you will fall

No matter what,

they help you through it all



Friends lift you up,

when you are feeling low

They take you in

when you have no place to go



Never ever forget

or take such things for granted

For you can never re-sow

the seed that's already been planted



Take this to heart,

let it never be undone

In order to keep a friend

you must first be one



Honesty is something

that should always be your aim

With lies, their wounds may heal,

but nothing's ever the same



So cherish your friendship,

always be sincere

Open up your heart,

and it will never disappear

Is it what I say? I am a Christian.

Is it something I say, or is it who I am? This is a question every Christian needs to ask himself. It is easy to say "I am a Christian" but how often is it said without really thinking about what it means?



Being a Christian is not something that can be turned on and off. The most important task set before us to be witnesses of the Lord by living our lives as a good example to others. This cannot be done with words alone. It means letting every facet of our living, every action, every deed, reflect the attitude of a person in whom the Spirit lives.I am a Christian



I know that it is not always easy. Too often this life becomes so frustrating when we can watch the world around us degenerate into decadence and immorality. We get angry, we get sad, and we get numbed to our real purpose in life. We need to step back at these times and ask ourselves "What would Jesus do?"



Jesus, too, felt the emotions that this world imposes on us. If we are to follow Him, we are to do our best to react to the frustrations felt daily in the same ways He would have reacted. The old trick of counting to ten before reacting can work for us here, but instead of counting, why not use those ten seconds to ask ourselves "how would Jesus react?"



We can say "I am a Christian" but we will not really mean it until we train ourselves to be true followers of Jesus. Ones that emulate Him and try as hard as a human being can try to not only be Christians in the easy situations, but to be Christians in all situatuations.



Pray for the strength to hold back your reactions long enough to truly know Jesus, to know in your heart how He would react, and to show in your actions that you are, indeed, a Christian.

The Twenty Commandments!

1. If you feel far away from God, guess who moved?



2. Fear knocked. Faith answered. No one was there.



3. What you are is God's Gift to you. What you become is your gift to God.



4. I am God's Melody of Life and He Sings His Song through me.



5. We can never really go where God is not, and where He is, all is well.



6. No matter what is happening in your life, know that God is Waiting for you with open Arms.



7. God Promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.



8. Do your best and then sleep in peace. God is Awake.



9. God has a Purpose and Plan for me that no one else can fulfill.



10. The Will of God will never take you to where the Grace of God will not protect you.



11. We are responsible for the effort, not the outcome.



12. We set the sail; God makes the wind.



13. Begin to weave and God will Give you the thread.



14. When God says "no", it's because He has something better in store for you.



15. The task ahead of us is never as great as the Power behind us.



16. Prayer: don't bother to give God instructions, just report for duty.



17. It's my business to do God's Business, and it's His Business to take care of my business.



18. Serenity is not freedom from the storm, but peace amid the storm.



19. How come we're always running around looking for God? He's not lost.



20. God put me on earth to accomplish a number of things; right now, I'm so far behind I will live forever.

Jesus is!

Jesus is Lord Almighty, Omnipotent King, Lion of Judah, Rock of Ages, Prince of Peace, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Provider, Protector, Paternal Leader, Ruling Lord and Reigning King of all the universe.

He is Father, He is Helper, He is Guardian and He is God. He is the First and Last, the Beginning and the End. He is the keeper of Creation and the Creator of all He keeps.

The Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times. He always was, He always is and He always will be. Unmoved. Unchanged. Undefeated and never Undone.

He was bruised and brought healing. He was pierced and eased pain. He was persecuted and bought freedom. He was dead and brought life. He is risen and brings power. He lives and brings hope and peace.

The world can't understand Him, the armies can't defeat Him, the schools can't explain Him and the leaders can't ignore Him. Herod couldn't kill Him the Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, the people couldn't hold Him. Nero couldn't crush Him, Hitler couldn't silence Him, the New Age can't replace Him and Donahue can't explain Him away.

He is Light, Love, Longevity and Lord. He is Goodness, Kindness, Gentleness and God. He is Holy, Righteous, Mighty, Powerful and Pure.

His ways are right. His word is eternal. His will is unchanging and His mind is perfect.

He is my Savior, He is my Guide, He is my Peace. He is my Joy, He is my comfort. He is my Lord and He rules my life.

I serve Him because His bond is love, His burden is light and His goal for me is abundant life.

I follow Him because He is the Wisdom of the wise, the Power of the powerful, the Ancient of Days, the Ruler of rulers, the Leader of leaders, the Overseer of the over-comers and the Sovereign Lord of all that was and is and is to come.

And if that seems impressive to you, try this on for size. His goal is a personal relationship with ME! He will never leave me, never mislead me, never forget me, never overlook me and never cancel my appointment in His appointment book.

When I fall, He lifts me up. When I fail, He forgives me. When I am weak, He is strong. When I am lost, He is the way. When I'm afraid, He is my courage. When I stumble, He steadies me. When I am hurt, He heals me. When I am broken, He mends me. When I am blind, He leads me. When I am hungry, He feeds me. When I face trails, He is with me. When I face problems, He comforts me. When I face loss, He provides for me.

He is everything for everybody, everywhere, every time and every way. He is God. He is faithful, I am His and He is mine.

My Father in Heaven can whip the father of this world, and so, if you're wondering why I am so secure, understand this: He said it.

I believe it and that settles it! God is in control. I am His and that means all is well with my soul. Everyday is a blessing for God is!

I don't know who wrote this, but I thought it was so awesome I just wanted to share it. God's blessings to you all.

Do you have the time?

I knelt to pray but not for long,

I had too much to do.

I had to hurry and get to work

For bills would soon be due.



So I knelt and said a hurried prayer,

and jumped up off my knees.

My Christian duty was now done,

my soul could rest at ease.



All day long I had no time

To spread a word of cheer.

No time to speak of Christ to friends,

they'd laugh at me I'd fear.



No time, no time, too much to do,

That was my constant cry,

No time to give to souls in need

But at last the time, the time to die.



I went before the Lord,

I came, I stood with downcast eyes.

For in His hands God held a book;

It was the Book of Life.



God looked into His book and said

"Your name I cannot find.

I once was going to write it down,

But never found the time."

Refections of a Parent!

I gave you life, but I cannot live it for you.

I can teach you things, but I cannot make you learn.

I can give you directions, but I cannot be there to lead you.

I can take you to church, but I cannot make you believe.



I can teach you right from wrong, but I cannot decide for you.

I can offer you advice, but I cannot accept it for you.

I can give you love, by I cannot force it upon you.

I can teach you to share, but I cannot make you unselfish.



I can teach you to respect, but I cannot force you to show honor.

I can advise you about friends, but I cannot choose them for you.

I can tell you the facts of life, but I can't build your reputation.

I can warn you about drugs, but I can't prevent you from using them.



I can tell you about lofty goals, but I can't achieve them for you.

I can teach you about kindness, but I can't force you to be gracious.

I can warn you about your sins, but I cannot make you moral.

I can pray for you, but I cannot make you walk with God.



I can teach you about Jesus, but I cannot make Jesus your Lord.

I can tell you how to live, but I cannot give you eternal life

others may, you cannot.

If God has called you to be really like Jesus He will draw you into a life of crucifixion and humility. God’s call will put such demands of obedience on you that you will not be able to follow other people, or measure yourself by other Christians. At times, He will let other

people do things which He will not let you do.



Other Christians who seem very religious will push themselves, pull wires, and work schemes to carry out their plans. You cannot, and if you attempt it, you will meet with failure and rebuke from the Lord.



Others may boast of themselves, of their work, of their successes, but the Holy Spirit will not allow you to do any such thing, and if you begin it, He will lead you to despise yourself and all your good works.



Others may be allowed to succeed in making money, or may have a legacy left to them, but it is likely God will keep you poor. God wants you to have something far better than gold, namely, a helpless dependence upon Him, that He may demonstrate His faithful love for you in supplying your needs day by day.



God may let others be honored and put forward, and keep you hidden in obscurity in order to produce some fragrant fruit for His coming glory which can only be produced in the shade. He may let others be great, but keep you small. He may let others do a work for Him and get the credit for it now. The reward for your work is held in the hands of Jesus and you will not see it until He comes.



The Holy Spirit will put a strict watch over you with a jealous love. He will rebuke you for the little words and feelings or for wasting your time. So make up your mind that God is an infinite Sovereign, and has a right to do as He pleases with His own. He does not owe you an explanation of these mysteries. But if you give yourself to be His child, He will wrap you up in a jealous love, and give you the precious blessings for those who belong, heart and soul, to Him.



Settle it forever, then, that you are to deal directly with the Holy Spirit. It is His option to tie your tongue, or chain your hand, or close your eyes in ways that He does not seem to use with others. And when you are so possessed by the living God that your heart delights over this peculiar, personal, private, jealous guardianship and management of the Holy Spirit over your life, you will have found the vestibule of Heaven.



What is your only comfort in life and death?

That I am not my own, but belong, body and soul, in life and in death, to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ.

He has fully paid for all my sins with His precious blood, and He has set me free from the tyranny of the devil.

He also watches over me in such a way that not a hair can fall from my head without the will of my Father in heaven. In fact, all things must work together for my salvation.

Because I belong to Him, Christ, by His Holy Spirit, assures me of eternal life and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready from now on to live for Him.

Have a seat . . . Relax . . . And read this slowly...

I Believe....

That just because two people argue, that

doesn't mean they don't love each other.

And just because they don't argue, that

doesn't mean they do love each other.





I Believe...

That sometimes when I'm angry I have the right to be angry,

but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel.



I Believe...

That we don't have to change friends if

we understand that friends change.



I Believe...

That no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.



I Believe...

That true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance.

Same goes for true love.



I Believe......

That you can do something in an instant

that will give you heartache for life.



I Believe...

That it's taking me a long time

to become the person I want to be.



I Believe...

That you should always leave loved ones with

loving words. It may be the last time you see them.



I Believe......

That you can keep going long after you think you can't.



I Believe...

That we are responsible for what

we do, no matter how we feel.



I Believe...

That either you control your attitude or it controls you.



I Believe...

That heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences...



I Believe...

That money is a lousy way of keeping score.



I Believe....

That my best friend and I can do anything, or nothing, and have the best time.



I Believe...

That sometimes the people you expect to kick you

When you're down will be the ones to help you get back up..



I Believe...

That maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had,

and what you've learned from them...and less to do with how many

birthdays you've celebrated.



I Believe.....

That it isn't always enough to be forgiven by others.

Sometimes, you have to learn to forgive yourself.



I Believe...

That no matter how bad your heart is broken the world doesn't stop for your grief.



I Believe...

That our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are,

but we are responsible for who we become.



I Believe...

That you shouldn't be so eager to find

out a secret. It could change your life forever.



I Believe....

Two people can look at the exact same

thing and see something totally different.



I Believe...

That your life can be changed in a matter of

hours by people who don't even know you.



I Believe...

That even when you think you have no more to give, if

a friend cries out to you...you will find the strength to help.



I Believe...

That credentials on the wall do not make you a decent human being.



I Believe...

That the people you care about most in life are taken from you too soon..



The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything;

They just make the most of everything.



Thank you God for all the wonderful people who help us throughout the journey of life...

A Marriage Prayer!

Lord, be in this marriage

In a special way,

May we feel Your presence

Each and every day.



Grant us both good humor

To surpass our coming years;

May there always be much laughter,

May there always be less tears.



Give us strength and courage

To follow in Your will,

To trust You in the valley

As we do upon the hill.



Give us both the eyes of love

So we'll always see

The goodness in each other,

Secure us, Lord, in Thee.



Give us words of kindness, Lord,

Help us both to live

So our lips are ever quick

In saying, "I forgive."



Give us hearts that beat as one,

Bind us ever near;

May our love grow deeper, Lord,

With each passing year.



Lord, be in this marriage,

Keep our love brand new;

May we love each other, Lord,

The same way that *You* do.



"What therefore God hath joined together,

let not man put asunder."

(Matthew 19:6b, KJV)

WHY DID MOTHER PRAY AND CRY? by ( Dallas Renicker )

When I was young and in my prime

For Jesus, I had no time.

My Mother would pray and cry;

I would only wonder why.



Always seeking pleasures in sin,

Caring nothing for my life within,

My Mother would pray and cry

And I would wonder why.



I would go out at night;

Coming home, there'd always be a light.

My Mother would pray and cry

And I would wonder why.



Now that I am grown

Have a family of my own

So it is that I know why

Mother would pray and cry.



Thank you, Mother, for your prayer,

And all the love you share.

Now it is I that pray and cry

No longer do I wonder why.



Now Mother that you are gone

All the battles fought and won

You no longer need to pray and cry

For I will see you there by and by.



Jesus, new life to me He gives,

For in my heart I know He lives.

That is why you would pray and cry

And I no longer wonder why.

Good old thoughts ( part 1)

Dreaming about a thing in order to do it properly is right;

Dreaming about a thing when you should be doing it is wrong!



What you live with, you learn;

What you learn, you practice;

What you practice, you become;

What you become, has consequences!



Yard by yard, it's always hard,

but, inch by inch, it's a cinch!



Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you help them become what they are capable of being. - Johann Wolfing von Goethe



The deepest job of belonging comes as one learns to cooperate, contribute, and help!



We work together to bring out the best in each of us and then we apply our skills to help others!



Let us never forget that we learn in moments of enjoyment!



Real communication is impossible without listening!



Good thoughts not shared are worth squat!



People will do more of what they are praised for!



What's important is not what happens when you're there, it's what happens when you are NOT there!



If you can't measure, you can't manage!



Attainable goals are those you can reach but that make you stretch!



Whenever you are angry, be assured that it not only is a present evil, but that you have increased a habit!



There is so much good in the worst of us, and so much bad in the best of us, that it behooves all of us not to talk about the rest of us!



It is a fine thing to have ability, but the ability to discover ability in others is the true test!



Facts not frankly faced have a habit of stabbing us in the back!



It is a good rule to face difficulties at the time they arise and not allow them to increase unacknowledged!



The best part of knowledge is that which teaches us where knowledge leaves off and ignorance begins!



It's amazing what ordinary people can do if they set out without preconceived notions!



It is well for people who think to change their minds occasionally in order to keep them clean. For those who do not think, it is best to rearrange their prejudices once in a while!



A great many people think they are thinking when they are really rearranging their prejudices!



Nothing is a waste of time if you use the experience wisely!



Aim at perfection in everything, though in most things, it is unattainable. However, they who aim at it, and persevere, will come much nearer to it than those whose laziness and despondency make them give it up as unattainable!



What you have outside you counts less than what you have inside you!



A good name, like good will, is gotten by many actions and lost by one!



Have confidence that if you have done a little thing well, you can do a bigger thing well, too!



Any fool can criticize, condemn, and complain - and most fools do!



Big shots are only little shots who keep shooting!



The first great gift we can bestow on others is a good example!



The man who follows the crowd will never be followed by a crowd!



An acre of performance is worth a whole world of promise!



If you wish your merit to be known, acknowledge that of other people!



He who considers too much will perform little!



Tact is the unsaid part of what you think; its opposite, the unthought part of what you say!



You will never stub you toe standing still. The faster you go, the more chance there is of stubbing your toe, but the more chance you have of getting somewhere!



A man who is contented with what he has done will never become famous for what he will do!



What we see depends mainly on what we look for!



The dead are all living all around us, watching with eager anticipation how we will handle the opportunities they left in our hands when they died!



Call on a business man only at business times, and on business; transact your business, and go about your business, in order to give him time to finish his business!



Unless the job means more than the pay, it will never pay more!



Save time thinking you can do the other fellow's job better than he can...

put it into doing your job better!



We gain nothing by being with such as ourselves; we encourage each other in mediocrity, I am always longing to be with men more excellent than myself!



Nothing worthwhile comes easily. Half effort does not produce half results. It produces no results. Work, continuous work and hard work, is the only way to accomplish results that last.



There is no readier way for a man to bring his own worth into question than by endeavoring to detract from the worth of other men!



It's easy to dodge our responsibilities, but we cannot dodge the consequences of dodging our responsibilities!



Do not waste a minute - not a second - in trying to demonstrate to others the merits of your performance. If your work does not vindicate itself, you cannot vindicate it.



The people to fear are not those who disagree with you, but those who disagree with you are too cowardly to let you know.



Undertake something that is difficult; it will do you good. Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow.



Unless each man produces more than he receives, increases his output, there will be less for him and all the others.



Failures are divided into two classes - those who thought and never did, and those who did and never thought.



Better keep yourself clean and bright; you are the window through which you must see the world.



Our destiny changes with our thought; we shall become what we wish to become, do what we wish to do, when our habitual thought corresponds with our destiny.



Restlessness and discontent are the first necessities of progress.



Good management consists of showing average people how to do the work of superior people



There are few, if any, jobs in which ability alone is sufficient. Needed, also, are loyalty, sincerity, enthusiasm, and team play.



Think wrongly, if you please; but in all cases think for yourself.



Credit to the fullest the good qualities to be found in others, ever thought they may far outshine your own.



The sum of behavior is to retain a man's own dignity, without intruding upon the liberty of others.



Half of the harm that is done in this work is due to people who want to feel important...they do not mean to do harm...they are absorbed in the endless struggle to think well of themselves.



Sometimes when I consider what tremendous consequence come from little things, a chance word, a tap on the shoulder, or a penny dropped on a newsstand, I am tempted to think...there are no little things.



Everybody ought to do at least two things each day that he hates to do, just for practice.



People seldom improve when they have no other model but themselves to copy after.

It is not only what we do, but also what we do not do, for which we are accountable.



It is not enough to be busy; so are the ants. The question is what are you busy about.



Pressure is on us by the nature of the job. Performance releases pressure.



Nothing is really work unless you would rather be doing something else.



Don't judge a man by his opinion of himself.



You will never "find" time for anything. If you want time, you must make it.



All things come to him who waits - provided he knows what he is waiting for.



There are two ways of meeting difficulties: you alter the difficulties, or you alter yourself to meet them.



People will sit up and take notice of you if you will sit up and take notice of what makes them sit up and take notice.



Have patience, all things are difficult before they become easy.



It's the men behind who "make" the men ahead.



How little do they see what really is, who frame their hasty judgment upon that which seems.



We can believe almost anything if it be necessary to protect our pride.



No right way to do a wrong thing.



No pillow as soft as a clear conscience.



The only people with no problems are dead.



Try Not - do or do not, there is no try.



People with humility don't think less of themselves, they just think about themselves less.



Contented people are not the ones who create improvements.



People should regard every job they do as preparation for a bigger one.



Feelings are everywhere...be gentle.



We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.



A good example is a great gift to give others.



Don't find fault with what you don't understand.



The man who can anger you, conquers you.



No man has the right to do as he pleases, except when he pleases to do right.



The two things opened most by mistake are the pocketbook and the mouth.



If you don't enjoy what you have, how could you be happier with more?



Apology is often a good way to have the last work.



Not failure, but low aim, is a crime.



Suppress a moment's anger...prevent a day of sorrow.



A good example is the best sermon.

Good old thoughts ( part 2 )

The Family of Success:

The Father of Success is named Work. The Mother of Success is named Ambition. The oldest son is called Common Sense and some of the boys are called Stability, Perseverance, Honesty, Thoroughness, Foresight, Enthusiasm, and Cooperation. The oldest daughter is Character. Some of the sisters are Cheerfulness, Loyalty, Care, Courtesy, Economy, Sincerity, and Harmony. The baby is Opportunity. Get acquainted with the "old man" and you will be able to get along with the rest of the family.



Leave everything a little better than you found it.



Compliment three people every day.



Watch a sunrise at least once a year.



Remember other people's birthdays.



Have a firm handshake.



Look people in the eye.



Say "thank you" a lot.



Learn to play a musical instrument. Sing in the shower



Be the first to say "hello".



Plant a tree on your birthday.



Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.



Keep a tight rein on your temper.



Make the best of bad situations.



Always accept an outstretched hand.



Make it a habit to do nice things for people who'll never find out.



Teamwork

Coming together is a beginning;

Keeping together is progress;

Working together is success.

- Henry Ford



Rule No. 1

If we don't take care of our customers, somebody else will.



Team work is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishment toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.



Team - Together Everyone Achieves More.



Goals - No one can predict to what heights you can soar. Even you will not know until you spread your wings.



Learn to listen, opportunity sometimes knocks very softly.



Make new friends but cherish the old ones.



Avoid negative people.



Be kinder than necessary.



Never take action when you're angry.



Be modest. A lot was accomplished before you were born.



Don't carry a grudge.



Show respect for all living things.



Give your best to your employer.



In order to realize the worth of the anchor, we need to feel the stress of the storm.



Becoming number one is easier than remaining number one.



Ode to Liquidity

'Tis the day before payday and all through my jeans

I've hunted in vain for the ways and the means.

Not a quarter is stirring, not even a bit.

The greenbacks have left me. The pennies have quit.

Backward, rush backward, Oh, Time in thy flight,

And make it tomorrow just for tonight.

- Edward D. Fowler



It only takes one more minute to do something the right way.



Every job is a self portrait of the person who did it. Autograph your work with excellence.



Look for reasons why an idea will work, not why it won't.



Strive for excellence, not perfection.



Commit yourself to constant self-improvement.



Be a good loser.



Be a good winner.



Don't major in minor things.



Praise in public - Criticize in private.



Have impeccable manners.



Don't be called out on strikes, go down swinging.



Keep your promise.



Seek out the good in people.



Take good care of those you love.



Don't let the best you have done so far be the standard for the rest of your life.



Let integrity guide your step and wisdom your decisions, not trying to figure every angle for your own gain.



Be careful of the works you say and keep them soft and sweet; you never know from day to day which ones you'll have to eat.



It is not what you walk In with, but what you walk Out with that counts.



Talking is learning, listening is teaching.



Some people find it necessary to make others look bad in order to make them look good.



If it isn't broken - why isn't it - find out why.



Continual improvement is not enough.



Catch someone doing something right today.



One of the most important times to use positive reinforcement is in times of trouble.



The most negative person thinks he is positive.



The only thing a manager manages is behavior.



The winds are always on the side of an able navigator.



Many raindrops make an ocean.



Tangibles should not be value for value.



If you're confused, you're learning.



Interval people wait for something to happen, ratio people make it happen.



Common sense cuts off inquiry.



It is more blessed to give positive reinforcement than to receive.



All good comes to those who wait.



Competent people have the most leisure.



It is better to be a creator of success rather than a fixer.



The road to success is always under construction.



Managers consistently refuse to accept simple answers to complex questions.



So much of what we call management is making it difficult for people to work.



Teamwork is very important.



The expression of our face has a dramatic effect on our entire body and how we are perceived by others.



Immediate reinforcement is most effective when delivered during the performance or immediately thereafter.



Reinforcing only the smallest change in behavior can change performance.



Give feedback on things the group has control over.



Can't control anything without feedback.



When in doubt, stay out.



Responsibility - ability to make a response.



Supervisor's Mission is to create successful employees.



The only thing you manage is what somebody does (behavior).



Wander around with someone who knows what's happening.



Where the attention goers, the power flows.



Youth is wasted on the young.



It is important that others see you as a people person.



Now that I have given up hope, I feel better.



Fake it till you make it.



The difference between same and crazy behavior is frequency.



It's important your positive reinforcement is perceived as positive.



Consistency is the key to punishing.



B+ line supervisors create success of their employees.



Professionals can do the job by themselves.



Whenever you practice MBWA (Management By Walking Around) - wonder with permission.



High achievers set moderate goals.



Don't wait for perfect measures to start measuring.



Make time by pleasures in your life.



The only person you can't reinforce is the one trying for your defeat.



Always create high-minded images with employees.



Listening is a powerful skill.



No learning is possible without feedback.



Reinforcement is an inside job.



Always use high minded words.