Early Morning Inspiration

The new Year !

2011-01-10T00:25:00.003-05:00

My cousin sent a forward saying, ' O My God 2011 is a Special Year'
It said about it's speciality too:

' It will start on /1/11
After 10 days 11/1/11
After ten months
1/11/11
Then it will be 11/11/11
Isn't it fantastic!'

Unique indeed!

The year is special in other ways too: So many predictions: One is , a christian group saying that the tribulation is begining in a particlar month of this year.

Of course almost all the signs said in the bible for the return of Christt and the end of the world are being fulfilled now. Who knows whether all these events will culminate in what the bible says[Mat.24; mark13]in this year?

For me it is a special year in the sense I'll be 78 years in March, so much nearer to the grave. I am on a lease of life now. The bible age is three score and ten. All my lady relatives died in their eighties. So our family's life span for the ladies seems to be in eighties..So my time to quit the earth, breathe my last breath, is very near.

Does it scare me? Grieve me? No, is the asnwer. The reason is , I am sort of prepared: I am washed in the blood of Jesus and my sins, so many of them, are forgiven. Every day I am asking God to search me and know my heart, my thoughts, [ my attiudes, desires and goals too] and to see if there be some wicked way in me and to Cleanse me from every sin and set me free. The prayer answering God does answer my prayer by making me see my short comings. Things that I did not realise that I had in my nature which displeass the Lord, I am able to identify. I know it is the HolySpirit working in me and doing a process of sanification. I saw how selfish and self centered I have been. I saw the stinking pride and jealousy in me. I have been having a fault finding and criticising nature. Negative in my thoughts and talks..I was surprised that i did not see these earlier.I have offened others by these and thought others hurt me! So now I am thankful to God that He is preparing me.

When I am fully ready to meet Him, He will call me over there.

What will i take for Him. I cannot go empty handed, is an anxious thought. This year I have asked the Lord to give me more opportunities to do something, anything, that the Lord desires from me. I cannot make my own choices. I cannot afford to make a mistake. there is no time to correct it. So i have left it to Him to show me the way ,open doors of opportunities to let people know of the love and sacrifice of my Lord Jesus. The saved Souls and what ever I did to bring people to Him, is the only thing I could take with me. So this year I am looking forward to do that, God helping me.

I am retired from active work in this world No wordly responsibilities. I have enough time to pray, praise and intercede. I know I am not doing it as i ought to . So I am deciding to pay attention to it. Less of the laptop and more time in God's word and prayer at his feet.

I am aware that our enemy, the Devil is not pleased now. He will try his level best to put blocks on my path this year. i got to be alert,knowing his devices.
Every day, every minute , every second of this year,2011, is important to me. How about you?
.

God Be In My day Today

2010-10-17T21:16:00.003-04:00

It is 18th October over here in Srilanka. I was up guite early as usual.But Rani was alreaady in the kitchen making breakfast and lunchen. It was for Thaya.Thaya leaves the house at 5 45 am to go to Wattala to teach. She takes her luch with her.I thought God will bless Rani for looking after her niece so well1 She had been doing that for her and for her sister Nila. No wonder she and her children are blessed!

I read the word.' My boast is in the lord.' Yes I have nothing to boast of. If others could see any good in me it is of the Lord or the lord made them see that for their benefit.RI looked up all the verses.[Ps 34:2; 44:8; Isa45:25;Jeri9;24; rom 2:17;1cor1;31;2nd cor10;17] Isn't the Lord wonderful to show me these verses.

I liked the verse, " my soul will boast in the Lord Let the afflicted hear and rejoice" I thought of what happened in the church yesterday.After I said my healing testimony and the word two new people with problems came and spoke to me . They were afflicted. May be I should have prayed with them then and there but as usual i was not bold. [A wrong attitude] I said I'll pray for them and i did at home.

My God is a good friend He shows me where I go wrong. It may be He tells me before hand and don't hear Him.

I got panicky about going to Singapore by ourselves,Rani and I. All of a sudden and decided to extend my visa over here and go late to Singapore By that time I may have some contacts. i wised Thamby may have believers whom he can introduce. So immediately I wrote to the travel agent not to book but to give me the quotation.She may consider me a ficckle minded person.Well I am and i should not be.

Talking to jogi was good It was so refreshing to look at her fresh youthful face She is cleaning up the house! How nice.But good if she does not throw all the things.

I was a bit sad that Roshan and Hesh did not talk but they must have been busy. Today is Diya's party.I prayed and hope that the Lord will do some work in H's family through the witness of Indren and Roshan.

Abraham is taking Yoga to Kilinochy.I prayed that everything will work out for the good.'The righteous cry and the Lord ears themHe delivers them from all their troubles'Ps34:17.
Thank God for His timely word!

Lord Bless this day Make me a blessing in some way to some body I pray

Who Is Worthy?

2010-10-12T21:28:00.004-04:00

In apostle John's vision , he heard a voice calling out who is worthy? No answer. There was no one worthy enough to break the seals and open the scroll that was in the hands of the Lord.There was sorrow in heaven. Dismay! John began to weep as there was no one in heaven or on earth to open it. Yes not even in heaven!
Then came the lamb of God.Jesus Christ! Only He was worthy!It was no one else but our Jesus Christ!
A shout of joy. There was some one![ Rev 5:i-14]
How did He become worthy? by His obediece. His sufferings and how He went through it . He suffered not because any of his fault. He went through patienly, Quietly,,willingly, without complaining, for the redemption of you and me.His blood was drained from his body, so that my sins could be washed away and I'll be set free from the cluches of the enemy

As I read this I was full of awe . My heart was filled with greatfullness for what Jesus has done for me.'To save a wretch like me!' Not only we are called to be His bride and coheirs with Him but also to reign with Him! What a high and majestic calling!

I am I worthy? Are we worthy?

We shoud be like Him to become worthy. I read the scriptures that said of His suffering. ,He endured humiliation In His humiliation He was deprived of justice[acts8:33] He made himself nothing. taking the form of a servant. [[Ph2:7,8].He was mocked, revlled and crucified. He obeyed , suffered and died patiently, humbly and lovinly. He rose again and is alive today to help us.

I thought of What the psalmist said in the 15th chapter:
"Lord who may live in your Holy hill?" The answere was:
He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous,Who speaks the truth from his heart and has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbourno wrong, and cast no slur on his fellowmen, who dispises a vile man but honours those who fear the Lord,who keeps his oath even when it hurts,who lends his money withoutusury,and doesnot accept a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things will never be shaken."

Who can reach such a standard? is another question that rises in our minds. We fail so many times but thanks to Jesus, we could ask forgiveness.He won the victory for us on Calvary, just to make us like Him. His pure charecter to be formed in us.
When we go to Him just as we are He will clean us and make us worthy. He will help us to grow to His character, by His grace.
We need not be dismayed .He is able to do it if we trust and have faith in Him
This is His calling for each one of us : To reign with Him.The one who was found worthy to break open the scroll If we suffer with Him we shall be made worthy to reign with Him.
I praise God for this great high calling!

Somehow God turns me to Him

2010-09-17T04:09:00.003-04:00

It is the10th October 2010.
I was preparing to go to Srilanka. So many things to do and things to buy to take occupied my mind.The time I spent with my Lord was less. I was stealing God's time. The result was my carnal nature began to show : I became touchy, things people said and did made me sad. I lost my joy and peace in the Lord.
Ian brought his girl to show his grand father We gave them dinner. Sice i slept in the aftoon,I was ablr to keep up till late. I could have prayed read the word ,spent some time with the Lord. No. I was not inclined that way. Then I knew I have neglected the holy Spirit.
I took one of my old note books and opened a page. What I had written there made me realise that disppointments and pain causes lonely feeling which in turn draw us near to God. God wants to draw us closer to him and be our friend .Without him we will drown into depression.
I opened a page I had written in Scotland in October2009 from Hesh's place. What i had written brought my mind back to my saviour who loves and cares for me so much. Lest I forget, when this book this thrown away, I thought I'll write it down. Here is what I had written and what i read last night.
it is:
BEAUTIFUL NEW EXPERIENCE.
I awoke at 2 30 am.I didn't want to get up and come to the kitchen[where i read and pray] i wanted to sleep a little more but i was wide awake.So many thoughts.I tried to recall what I read.I thought that only worship brings back the joy.
I tried to praise the lord but only different kinds of worship and prayers I had Participated came to my mind [prevousely gone to]I couldn't focus on Jesus. I was not happy about this wondering mindI CALLED ON THE HOLYSPIRIT TO HELP ME.
SuddenlyA song came to my mind.
' Lean on his arms, trusting in his love,
Lean on hia arm all his mercies flow,
Lean on his arms looking home above ,
just lean on the saviou's arm '
It came to my mind.It was so clear.
I paused on each line As i meditated, I literaly leaned on his arms.--Resting my mind and body. What a great relaxation came to me.I felt so relaxed after so many years may be!There is no one or nothing else to put our trust on except the promise of his everlasting love.
I recalled baby Diya looking at the face of her mom, just trusting her and sleeping with out any fearor worry.I was like that now.His love will never fail It is in abundance!As I lean on him all his mercies will flow to me as a mother's love oozes and flows to her baby.He will have pity on me. his mercy will never let me go stray away from him. His love is everlasting.He is merciful to the righteous and unrighteous.
LOOKING HOME ABOVE! What a beautiful hope!I HAVE a HOME!I can look forward to go there.It is being prepared for me. My Lord will lead me toward that home .A permanant place for me.
These days I have been visiting some homes over here. The ladieshave kept them so clean and posh.They looked so cosy,I have no place to call my own home here. .
The lord on whose arm i could just relax , while His love and mercy flow to me, is preparing me for that home! There is rest from my toil[I have not much bodily toil over here but but plenty in the mind] and life with out care, I want to be there sweet home.
Until then I'll be looking home above!
My! what a lovely thought the HolySpirit filled me with! I went to sleep with a smile on my face and woke up at 5am Now I can say 'I am walking with Jesus, there is nothing now to fear,
I am walking with Jesus there is none to me so dear,
I am walking with Jesus He wipeth every tear
I am walking alone with Jesus!.

This mornig As I copied what I wrote some years ago the holy Spirit ministered to me. Praise the lord! holy Spirit you are real .thank you.

What I thought on the 24th Dec 2009

2009-12-23T22:41:00.003-05:00

An unusually cold morning in Edinburgh.I was up at 3 AM. Preparations were going on for Christmas lunch. Parties every where.!

I wanted to meet the master of Christmas. He is reason for all these, which most people do not give thought to. With out Him life is empty. May be there is so much in the world to enjoy when one is young but when old age creeps in the desire for these slowly dims. Loneliness some times takes root, even in the midst of relatives and friens.Some do not have real friends even!.

My heart was sort of empty. Little nagging anxieties, insecurities, disappointments and wishes seem to rush into me and fill my mind. These are not of God. Quickly I went to God's word.

As I opened the bible John15th chapter came. I have read it many times but God's word becomes fresh and new each time I read it. That is the power of God! Cosolation and counsel comes from the word. It corrects me and builds me up. Where will I be if not for His word I thought. I can be in a small corner in the world , the word makes the place heaven when God speaks!

I read about abiding in the vine inorder to give much fruit.[15:8] That is what I want to do these days. On my own I am barren and fruitless. Not of any use. I am trying my best to abide in Him by meditating on his word praying, checking and correcting my words thoughts and behaviour according to His word. Lord helps me . I need more of you is my hearts cry. Another benifit is 'What ever you wish ,ask and it will be done'

I raised my heart in prayer to the Lord and said' Lord, I prayed for peace in the family.You did it for me [ A thing that appeared almost impossible] in an amazing manner.Today I ask you to perfect it.Let there be perfect peace among the rest of the family members. You said'It shall be done'[v7] and I believe it.' I sincerely trust and believe that my Lord is able and He will defeat the enemy that is causing division.

Another verse that touched me is [v9] 'As the father has loved me so have I loved you. Continue in my love'I asked help to continue in His love and went on to meditate on Christ's love.
[15:13]'Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends'
Christ's love for men is unchanging '--- having loved his own which were in the world,He loved them unto the end.'[Jn13:1]; His love is divine[Jn15:9]
Self sacrificing [15:13]
It is inseparable[Rom8:35] 'Who shall separate us from the love of Christ-----'
It is a constraining love. [2nd cor 5:4]
Sacrificial [Gsl2:20][---The life which I live in the fkesh, I live by the faith of the son of god who love me and gave himself for me.'
It was manifested by His death[! Jn 3:16]Here by perseive we the love of God, because He laid down his life for his brerthen'
No one need to feel unloved or lonely when we have so many words of our Lord encouraging us, I thought.

I went on to consider the blessings that I/ we receive by our love to Christ:
john14:15-16] If you love me keep my commandments and Iwill pray to the father and He shall give you another comforter, that he may abide with you for ever.' That is the HolySpirit! We have experienced Him.
If a man love me he will keep my words and my father will love him and we will come unto him and make our abode with him'. Isn't it a wonderful experience. Imagine the Triune God reciding in me/ you? [Jn 14:23]Jn 166:27 says'For my father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came out from God'
How many do not believe this today,I thought. It is my duty to pray for God's mercy on them.
Finally Eph6:24 says [Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jeus Christ in sincerity'

How many promise filled verses to encouage me and you, whenI/we feel lonely or desperate!. Lord teach me, help me to love you more to get closer to you,to hear your heart beat. Help me/ us to bring others to you, who gave your life to save us. Use me today in some way to make you rejoice in me. I pray this for all my loved ones and God's children. Iam sure the Lord heard all my prayers!

2009-05-17T06:23:00.002-04:00

It was a gloomy day for most of the SriLankan Tamils all over the world. I also felt the impact of what happened in my country. It is amazing how for us Christians' the Lord speaks through His word to strengthen our emotions in Him.

There is so much of struggle for power and control. to possess this, people resort to even violence and bloodshed.The innocent civilians get slaughtered in the middle. The on lookers sympathize and take sides too. I asked myself where to i stand in this.The answer was: 'Be on God's side'.

Those who belong to Jesus Christ, we have everything. Power, peace and wisdom come from Him. We belong to the kingdom, where Christ the king reigns. He rules with righteousness and an fairness.

I corithians1:18 to31 gave me much encouragement and strength: 'The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to those who are saved it is the power of God.---.Christ is our righteousness,holiness and redemption.Therefore as it is written, let him that boasts, boast in the Lord. 'We can boast and rejoice in our Lord who has redeemed us!

God gives his power to accomplish His purposes through his people. He does mot give power to be all we want to be but all He wants us to be.

Our union and identification with Christ results in our having God's wisdom and knowledge; [Col.2:3]His righteousness, that is, right standing with God;[2nd corinthians5:21]; holiness ie, being holy,[1thes.4:3-7]and redemption, that is having the punishment of or the penalty of sin being paid by the death of Jesus.[Mk. 10:45]

If we have Jesus we have it all. So I rejoice. How about you?Let us pray for the suffering and prise god for who He is, what He has done and what He is going to do.

Closed Eyes, Ears And Hearts

2009-03-27T09:25:00.006-04:00

When Paul was in Rome, he explained and declared the kingdom of God to the people who came to see him.
From morning till evening he talked to them. Some were convinced of what he said but the others would not believe.They disagreed among themselves. Finally Paul had a statement:
He said the Holy spirit spoke the truth to your fore fathers, through Isaiah the Prophet," Go to this people and say, You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing and never perceiving. For the people's heart has become calloused.They hardly hear with their ears and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes and hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn and I would heal them." [Acts28:24 to 27; Isaiah 6:9&10]

As I read this I realized that the same thing is happening today too. People listen and nothing happens to them. Their hearts are hardened.

The lord is waiting anxiously to heal them spiritually, emotionally and physically, but the enemy has blinded their eyes and dulled their ears and hardened their hearts.

It is time for us to storm the gates of heaven to destroy the enemy's power so that the people will turn to God and be healed.It is sad to see many of our loved ones also in this state.

May the Lord help us to intercede for them. May the Lord hear us from heaven and touch these trapped ones and deliver them.

Awake To Righteousness

2009-03-27T08:18:00.003-04:00

The news that we hear these days. some times spell a dismal gloom over us.
Even in the church, among God's people, not so encouraging things seem to happen. Amid all this, today's reading from the word of God, showed God's heart and great hope came to me.

Isiah52:1to3 says:
"Awake, awake O Zion. Clothe yourself with strength, put on your garments of splendor, O Jerusalem, the Holy city.
The uncircumcised and the defiled will not enter you again.
Shake off your dust,rise up. Sit enthroned O Jerusalem.
Free yourself from the chains on your neck,O captive Daughter of Zion.
For this is what the Lord says,'You were sold for nothing and without money you will be redeemed'."

I wondered, Am I in a state of slumber? Is my church in such a state? Have we made ourselves captives to things that our Lord hates. As we examine the Holy Spirit will show and convict us. I was encouraged by the promise of our loving Lord to redeem us. We are called to rule and reign.

Our Lord gave us the robe of righteousness which we did not deserve, when we first accepted him. It is His righteousness that gives us strength to live for Him , holy and separated unto Him. That is called the adorning of the saints. When we drift into things of the world that are not pleasing to God, we soil the pure garment and become unclean in God's eyes. How the loving Lord calls us to be set free once again, to be able to boldly proclaim His redemption, salvation and peace to the lost![Isa.52:7]

Then, [when we come back] the watchmen of our souls will rejoice, because we are back with the Lord in Zion.[v.8]

It is good to consider where we are now: Am I in Zion with the robe of righteousness clean and pure and with the strength of the Lord? Or in Zion sleeping? Or defiled weeping? Or one of the watchmen praying?
The Lord reminded me that it takes courage to be on God's side.
It is the place of victory.

Interesting Information

2009-03-20T12:54:00.002-04:00

The secrets of the bible.
I read this from a note sent to me from Rod and Janice Hembree and i thought it is worth while sharing and preserving:
'Speaking of paying attention to the Bible I want to show you something hidden in plain sight. Something that Chuck Missler brought to my attention and it is amazing.

Every name has a meaning in the Bible.Did you know that 10 generations of names in the bible have meaning in their individual names?Let us have a look at the first 10 names.
Name Meaning
1 Adam Man
2 Seth Appointed
3Enosh Mortal
4Kanan Sorrow
5 Mahalalel The Bledded Lord
6Jared shall come down
7 Ench Teaching
8 Methuselah His death shall bring
9 Lamech the dipairing
10 Noah comfort
If you put the names of the ten men together, the names say the following
Man appointed mortal sorrow. The blessed God shall come down teaching. His death shall bring the dispairing comfort.
The gospel message of Jesus Christ is buried in the meaning of the first 10 names of the first 10 generations in the Bible.

Be Strong And Do The Work

2009-03-17T14:01:00.005-04:00

I was up quite early. Almost 4.30 A M As I read the scriptures, I lifted my heart in prayer:I read Haggai 2:4 "Be strong all you people of the land" declares the Lord,' and work. For I am with you."
This is exactly what I needed to hear from the Lord.' I am with you says the Lord almighty.' Then there is nothing to fear or doubt.

I stared writing from my heart to the Lord:

' Lord, you have a blue print for me
A plan, a purpose, a path specially for me.
Help me run on the track you have set for me.
Not looking back or on to the sides,
Not to watch others- to compare or criticize, Not even to applaud.
I have to run. The time is up.

Help me do the work you want me to do,
Have the attitude you require from me.
The joy and peace that is necessary Lord only you can supply these.
These are the STRENGTHS I need
Specially Your joy is my strength.
Today is the day to begin Lord.

Burn up the thorns that beset,
Let me be the vine that give the fruit you look for
Work on my discouragements and failures. Oh holy Spirit help me!
There is no time to waste
Lord start instantly.Renew.
Let my roots touch your spring of water and be refreshed.
Thank you Lord.'

How wonderful the Lord is! His word revived me.It put a new hope and joy into me.Truly His word is like the rain that refreshes the soul!
Needless to say the day was blessed. I was happy and had opportunities to help some one else.Praise the Lord

God smiled on us

2009-01-29T09:46:00.001-05:00

It was an anxious day. Though I prayed and gave me and my family in God's hands, Things have to be attended by us too. We cannot just fold our hands and sit after prayer.

My grand son was returning from Nepal. While attending a camp fire at a beach in an island near Bangkok while on his travel, he got pushed into the fire by accident and his arms and part of the ear got burned. He got treatment over there and was returning home.

It was a two and a half days flight. He informed us that his dressing has to be changed as soon as he arrives lest infection sets in. The flight will arrive at an hour when all clinics will be close or even open no doctors will be there..
We had a friend who was a retired senior nurse and her daughter too was in the same field . We had lost touch with them for a few years. But at our request they offered to do the needful to my grand son . This set the whole family at peace till the news of the flight being late came.Prayer helped us again:

These two ladies proved to be real followers of Jesus. At that late hour, almost mid night, they were up waiting for us. Smiling with pleasure they attended on my grand son. It appeared as if it gave them so much pleasure to be of help to some one. It made me so happy to see that there are such true followers of Christ. Of such only the bible says, 'Jesus will say on that day , 'I was sick you visited me. Then they whey will ask Him, when did we do that. He will reply what ever you did to the least of these, you did unto me.'

We were happy about what the daughter said: Some years ago her mom was seriously ill in the hospital, she was alone with her mother and panicked that she may die. As soon as we heard it in that hour of the night we went and waited with her. We had forgotten it. But she reminded us. If every one of us could remember and be grateful for the help others do, what a beautiful world it will be.

With joy we came home. Though late, like midnight feast we were had dinner. Thanked God for all the miracles he did for us that day and for keeping us in peace and making us so happy. We even had a cake with the lettering, 'God be praised For your safe arrival.'
My youngest grand daughter had something to share, which was like the the lovely topping on a cake: She said when she was rushing to the metro station that morning she saw and old man struggling with some bags trying to cross over. She went up to him, helped him to carry the bags, took him to a sheltered place and asked him where he was going etc. He told his destination. He was very old and panting. She was late for her appointment yet asked him if he liked to go by taxi to his place. The man asked her, 'do you have money to pay for the taxi'. She said, 'I'll give what ever I have in my wallet, there may be about five Dollars'. The man said, 'no I am ok to go by metro. It is only a short walk after that. I was struggling for breath in the cold. I just needed to rest a bit on a side. So many passed by but no one stopped to help me out. Thank you so much' and he opened his wallet took 20 Dollars. and gave her saying, 'this is for you'. She thanked him and refused to take it saying 'I did not do it for money', Then he told her, 'I am old but I have money. I am rich. I want to give this to you' and gave her 40 Dollars. She refused that too. saying that it is not because it was little she didn't take it, she did not help him for any kind of payment. Yet he insisted and she took it.It was fifty dollars!
She was happy she got the money. though she really helped him because he was struggling and helpless and she was blessed.

One good turn with out expecting any return as unto God does bring it's reward.

What a happy world it will be if every day every one behaves like this I thought Recalling these incidents this morning brought such sweet refreshing thoughts to my mind.When Jesus reigns on this earth the people will be loving like this, I thought.
God has His ways of speaking to us and letting things happen to put a smile on our face and cheer in our heart. What great friend he is!

I was reminded of two bible verses: 'Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" [Gal. 6:9]
'Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels with out knowing" [Heb. 13:2]

Encouragement To The seekers of Righteousness

2009-01-23T05:16:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I took a step in bridging a long standing gap,to do what is right before God.It is amazing how the Lord assists even in minute details: I was planning this in my mind. Weighing the pros and cons.I told the Lord if the weather is good and the path is not slippery I'll walk to this place. The Lord who controls the nature, made a change in it. [I think just for my sake]I was able to walk to the place. He was with me all though the happenings. I trust God to work out the rest according to His will and plan. One day at a time, one step at a time, is His leading. Even blind folded we could trust Him and walk in safety, when our motive and desire is to be right, in His sight.

This morning He encouraged me by giving me Isiah 51 verses 1-6. " Listen to me you who o gave you birth. When I called him he was but one and I blessed him and made him many The Lord will surely comfort Zion and will look with compassion on all her ruins.He will make her desert like Eden and her waste land like the garden of the Lord. Joy and gladness will be found in her. Thanks giving and sound of singing.--- The law will go from me, my justice will become a light to the nations My righteousness draws near speedily. My salvation is on the way and my arm will pursue righteousness and who seek the Lord: Look at Abraham your father and to Sarah whbring justice to the nations."

Abraham was only one person but much came from his faithfulness. He was righteous. He was not perfect but he sought to obey and please God above everything else.

If the faithful few would remain faithful more could come through them. Even we a faithful few remain faithful,imagine what god can do through us!
" Heaven will vanish like smoke. The earth will wear out like a garment and it's inhabitants die like flies. But my salvation will last for ever. My righteousness will never fail." [Isiah 51:6]

What a great blessing!

It s needless to say that while praising God I decided to follow Him all the way and to pray for others to do the same.

Bring Life To Dry Bones

2009-01-22T06:40:00.006-05:00

This morning the Lord encouraged me by a chapter from the old testament.
Ezekiel 37 speaks of how a valley full of dry bone came to life and became a huge army.It happened when the prophet at the command of the Lord, prophesied to the dry bones to come to life. His words had power because it was backed by God. Our words too will have power if we are led of the Holy Spirit and obey His commands,believing.

Dry bone are dead.They have no life in them.There is no hope of any life coming into them.

Spiritually we come to that state at times. I was burdened about the spiritual state of some of my dear ones and some churches. I was happy the Lord gave me the assurance that there is hope .
Who are the dead according to God's word?, I pondered. The man that walks out of the way of understanding, shall remain in the congregation of the dead. [Pro 21:16]
What a terrible state to be in!
In the parable of the prodigal son, the father told the elder brother who was displeased at the father for celebrating when the prodigal returned:
'It was meet that we should make merry and be glad for your brother was dead and is alive again'.
Jesus referred to the prodigal who returned to the father, as one dead and come back.
Ephesians 5:14 talks of the unsaved as dead in trespasses and sin. We were like that at one time.The Lord quickened us when we came to Him for salvation.

We could go back to the dead state if we are careless.The bible says,' she that lives in pleasure is dead while she live'[1Tim5:6
In the book of Revelation He says to the church in Sardis.'I know your works that you have a name that you live but you are dead,[Rev.3:1]
Whichever way we may be dead and be like dry bones with out hope, the Lord is able to give life and breath. He is able to make us soldiers for him!

May we in faith speak to whatever area we or our loved ones are dead. The Lord is able to do the impossible.

Saved To Serve And Have A Safe Arrival

2009-01-16T04:04:00.006-05:00

Rejoice in that day and leap for joy! For indeed your reward is great in heaven. Luke6:23

Do I shun from hardships, suffering and persecutions,
That come from enemies, dear and near ones alike,
Daily in some form or other, not because I did wrong?
[ though some times it is]
I know now, it is part of the the path~
The narrow way to Glory.

There was joy in heaven,
When Christ finished the work of salvation.
There was rejoicing in heaven,
When I came to Christ and accepted Him.

Now I run the race to get my prize,
I work for him to bring others to Christ.
I live for Him to show His love and light,
To the world in darkness lies.
I keep myself under, to become like Christ
The Holy,just and righteous one in all His ways.

True, at times the path seems hard,
This I consider: how great the suffering Christ went through,
To bring me to Him , when I strayed away!
Mine is light, for a short time, soon it will be over!

I know there was joy in heaven at my salvation.
There will be greater joy at my glorification,
When I reach that blissful land~
Angels will welcome me, on arrival
To congratulate me with loved ones around ,
It's Grace and Grace alone I'll shout with joy.

My savior's love filled face I long to see.
with his smile so sweet to greet me,
His arms wide to embrace me,
I'll rush to meet Him in humble adoration.

Oh I realize! Heaven's atmosphere is He.
He is there all the time, hovering, embracing every one.
His glorious presence fills all heaven!
Comparable to none.
A novel experience indeed for me,
What an ecstasy it'll be!

These thoughts of comfort,I share with you:
O drooping, humble suffering saint~
Heaven assures a safe journey for you
And a rich reward on arrival.
Be strong, short is the night and travail
Fight the good fight

Ample is the strength, power and love
[Christ gives to enhance your might]
which make afflictions light.
Take courage, You are not alone.
Millions trod this path a fore,
Await to greet you at the dawn!

Here is a verse that gives me strength,
Trust it to enhance your strength:
"Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us,
An eternal glory that far out weighs them all.[2nd Cor. 4:17]

My Walk today

2009-01-15T08:01:00.000-05:00

"Enoch walked with God and he was not.[Genesis6:24] Daily Enoch walked and by his side was the holy, almighty Lord directing his path. He would have consulted God about every little thing and obeyed Him. Thus he walked and he walked and walked and one day he was not to be found on earth. He walked with God into eternity! He went to be with the Lord for ever. No more trials , sorrow, pain or parting in that blissful eternity.

Enoch was not a single man. He had a wife and many children. He worked to provide for his family. He had a life like you and me. But he was doing everything to please his Lord God. His walk was with God.

He lived for three hundred and sixty five years!It is amazing that he was able to please God in such a way that God just took him to be with Him. He did not die like all humans.

This is what I desire. I want to walk with the Lord today, every day and when my walk in this world ends, I will be with the Lord for ever.

The end may be at the rapture, when Jesus comes to take away those who are waiting for His appearing or it may be my death. What ever it may be, my walk with the Lord is all I need.

That walk is a walk in the light and in truth. A walk of faith trusting in God for every thing. It is a Holy Spirit guided life filled with the fruit of the spirit.It is a walk in love. It looks as if I am aspiring very high. True. But with God all things are possible.

You and I are called for such a life, to be imitators of Christ.[Ep.5:1&2] He who has called us is faithful. He will help us to walk with Him as Enoch did and we will go with him when the trumpet sounds.

My prayer is, ' Lord, let me walk with you today. Let your presence be with me all the time.

We need Danial's steadfastness

2009-01-10T07:24:00.005-05:00

Daniel 6th chapter tells the story of how he was thrown into a den of lions because he refused to bow down to the statue of the king of Babylon. It was a plot by those who were envious of the favor Danial received from the king. The plot did not not work the way they planned: The lions just waited as though Danial too was one of them! Or one stronger than them that, they dare not touch him! It was the Lord's work. He miraculously shut the mouth of the lions!

Danial was eighty years old when he dared to defy the command of the king even at the risk of his life. What a great faithfulness toward the Lord God of his fathers and his childhood.

Danial was just a teenager, may be thirteen or fourteen when he was taken a captive from Israel to Babylon. None of the elders were with him. He did not go to that new civilized country to study like some youth of today. He was not a refugee or an immigrant seeking better life. He was forcibly taken by an enemy country. He had no say in it.

Danial was taught by his parents to fear God and worship Him alone. He could have become bitter and angry with the God whom he worshiped for letting this happen to him. Or he could have doubted that God and his existence when he saw the glamor and prosperity of the Babylonians who were idol worshipers.
Danial was strong in the Lord . His faith in God was firmly grounded.even as a child, so that left alone in a hostile land, he did not want to compromise!

I became anxious about our younger generation. My children and grand children facing the world of today with so many new philosophies find it not easy to not to be shaken in their faith. It's like the storm raging against the house as in the parable Jesus said in Mathew. Only the house built on the rock was able to stand. The rock is Christ and his teachings. Only those who have an intimate relationship with God and a personal revelation of who Christ is will make them with stand the onslaught of the enemy.
'Lord, make them strong in faith like Danial', I prayed.

The Lord gave me an assurance from Isaiah 49:24-25. "Can plunder be taken from warriors or captives rescued from the fierce? But this is what the Lord says,'Yes the captives will be taken from the warriors and plunder retrieved from the fierce. I will contend with those who contend with you and your children I will save."

It is our responsibility to pray for our children. While keeping our foundation firm. let us fight for our children that they stay firm and not shake and stumble. Even if they have become a prey to the enemy,and back slid, the Lord is able to deliver them. Let us believe and pray

The Joy Of The Lord

2009-01-05T08:46:00.003-05:00

We sing ' When I am down He lifts me up.' This was my experience this morning.

Yesterday afternoon we visited some spiritual people. When I returned, some how the joy and gratefulness I had in the morning seemed to have ebbed away. A kind of void and anxiety about my stand with God clouded my mind. Instead of praising God , I earnestly prayed to show me what I should do.

My God is so good. He ministered the instruction I needed during my meditation this morning:
' That joy may remain in you that your joy might be full' [Jn.15:11] This was the Joy what I needed and this is what I am seeking after.

I read from' My Utmost for the highest,' the following: 'The full flood of my life is not in bodily health, not in external happenings, not in seeing God's work succeed.' [I remembered that I was praising God joyfully last morning exactly for these things but that did not last] 'But in the perfect understanding of God and in communion with Him that Jesus himself had.' This is what I really needed.

I also saw the things that hindered the continuity of this flow of joy: [1] The irritation of thinking of circumstances we face. [Jesus called it the cares of this world] Before we know we are caught up in the show of things.
How true what the book said: 'All that God has done for us is mere threshold. He wants to get us to the place, where we will be His witness and proclaim who Jesus is'

By being rightly related to Jesus we find our joy. It is in that place "out of you shall flow rivers of living water,' begins. We become a center for Jesus Christ to pour the living water through. My heart cried, 'I want to be there Lord.'

I was also taught how we should not hinder that kind of flow:
[1] Stop being self conscious.
[2] Stop being a sanctified prig.

I realized that I had both these failures: While at worship I become self conscious and that prevents the intimate connection with Jesus. Also a self righteous attitude comes up in me and and the enemy swells it up and prevents my corporate whole heared worship .I asked the Lord to help me out of it.

The positive thing to do is to Live a life hid in Christ.
The life that is rightly related to God is as natural as breathing where ever it goes! [ That is what I am after I cried] The lives that have been of most blessing to others are those who were unconscious of it.

I remembered how simple I was some time back, thinking of pleasing God alone. Then people have remarked, what I said or did unconsciously, blessed them. But after a certain incident in my life, self consciousness crept in. I became concerned about peoples' opinions. I told the Lord all these things.

What we used to sing as children' Just a little talk with Jesus makes it right,' is so true. As I prayed,' Lord help me to be rightly connected to you all the time. Let my cup run over and bless others with your ioy, ' God's peace and Joy filled me.
I wish and pray that all who read this will be blessed.

A Much Needed Prayer For Today

2009-01-03T04:25:00.004-05:00

I read Philippians I verses 9 to11 . It blessed me much.
" And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in judgment; that you may prove things that are excellent; that you may be sincere and with out offence, till the day of Christ ; Being filled with the fruit of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ unto the glory and praise of God".[kjv]

Isn't this what we need today ?

Paul's desire was that those believers be united in love. That love, he is referring to is not carnal love or lust. It is not based on feelings. It was to result in greater knowledge of Christ and discernment of what is right or wrong, good or bad, and vital or trival. It is based on what Christ has done for us. Christ is the Truth. What He taught is to be taken as our lifes' guide line.
As we grow in him, our hearts and minds gets renewed. Our knowledge and understanding affects our judgement and discernment. This in turn has an effect on our approval of the best for us or others. Unless we pray for these we cannot maintain our Christian morals or values.

I like to quote what Henry Drummond said about this love." He who loves will rejoice in the truth. He will rejoice not in what he has been taught to believe, not in this church doctrine or that, not in this ism or that ism, but in the truth. He will strive to get at facts. He will search for truth with a humble heart and unbiased mind and cherish whatever he finds.
Love for truth includes self restraint which refuses to take advantage of others' faults; the charity that delights not in exposing the weakness of others; the sincerity of purpose that endeavors to see things as thay are and rejices to find them better than suspicion feared."

I wished that all of us had this kind of love that sees the bright side .

I prayed the same prayer that Paul prayed for the Philippian believers, for all believers and me. I said,' Lord help us to grow in Christ, the truth, and in His love every day of our lives till Christ returns'.

The New Year

2009-01-01T06:27:00.003-05:00

We entered the year 2009, singing:
Lord the light of your love is shining, in the midst of the darkness shining,
Jesus Light of the World shine upon us,
Set us free by the truth you now bring us,
Shine on me.
Lord I come to your awesome presence, from the darkness into your radiance,
By the blood I may enter your brightness,
Search me, try me, consume all my darkness.
Shine on me.
As we gaze on your kingly likeness,
Ever changing from glory to glory,
Mirrored here, may our life tell the story,
Shine on me.
The chorus says:
Shine Jesus shine, fill the land with the father's glory, Spirit blaze, set our hearts on fire.
River flow, flood the nations with Grace and Mercy,
SEND FORTH YOUR WORD LORD AND LET THER BE LIGHT.

Such a wealth of, much needed, meaning in the song! God will surely answer every one who sang it sincerely.

This morning the Lord reminded me, what ever fears that lurk in our hearts about the future, we cannot see, are just like shadows. They appear scary but they have life to harm us. The loving God who created you and me is almighty. He has a plan and a future for you ans me. He says in Jeremiah 29: 11, 'I know the thoughts I think toward you, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you an expected end.' Imagine He thinks about you and me and has great plans for us!

I wish to share my conviction with you: God's word is the 'food' that gives us strength to go on and grow in Him. Feed on it daily. And remember the simple fact that, this great God who gave the promises and the word, is in us and with us.
If we build our life upon this truth, we will have no difficulty or fear in facing anything that comes our way in 2008!

Let anyone say anything to scare us, the Lord and His word has more power to see us through to victory.

May we be blessed with His peace mercy and grace May He make us a blessing to others through out this year!

God's Will Is Always The Best

2008-12-30T16:52:00.004-05:00

"If I will that he tarries till I come, what is that to you. You follow me." [John 21:22]When Jesus revealed about his end, Peter asked ' what about him' [referring to John] Jesus' answer was 'If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You follow me.' Peter was told not to be concerned about God's will for others.

Often we tend to compare ourselves with others,whether to rationalize our own level of devotion to Christ or to question God's justice. Jesus tells us also the same thing: 'You follow me'
My concern should be, am I doing God's will and am I following Jesus the way He wants me to follow Him.

God has a plan and purpose for each one of us Each one is different in nature. But all of us are expected to come to the knowledge of the love of Christ and reach out to conform to His character. Perfect in holiness.That is the expected standard.Perfection comes to each one at different levels in different areas. Like a building, we are all under construction. We ought to just follow His leading.That is God's will for you and me.

Prayer is essential to attain this.As We too should pray as David prayed: [Psalms.143:10] 'Teach me to do your will, for you are God. Your spirit is good. Lead me into the land of righteousness.'

Doing God's will or desiring and asking God to show His will, will establish a divine relationship.Jesus said' For whoever will do the will of my father which is in heaven, the same is my my brother, sister and mother'[Mt.12:50]
Christ is the perfect example of doing God's will: Just before the betrayal He prayed,'O my father if this cup may not pass away from me except I drink it, Thy will be done'.What a surrender of his own will to the will of his father's!

I prayed: Lord I pray like you. I do not know what the out come of all these things that are taking place. It is scary. I step out depending on you.I know acting according to your will , will bring peace and joy. Your wisdom is the best for me. There is no one else greater than you Lord. You are able to see me through in any situation.Your wisdom is the best for me.

I decided and wrote the letter as the Holy spirit prompted me to write and went on reading God's word.

Doing God's will tends to spiritual knowledge. " If any man will do his will he shall know the doctrine whether it be of God or whether I speak of myself' Jesus said
Doing God's will should not be with eye service as pleasing men. It should as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart.'[ Eph 6:6]
When we take one step to do His will, He works in us to make us the kind of people who will please Him. He equips us to do the kind of work that will please Him.
Doing God's will should be the rule of everyday life. James 4:15 says 'For that you ought to say If the Lord will , we shall live and do this or that.'

It gave me much hope and joy when I read 2nd John2:17' The world and it's desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives for ever.
A prayer rose from me: Lord help me to desire and always do what ever is your will for me.

The Lord gave me this on the 28th December 2008 at5AM. As I surrendered my will to the Lord and wrote the letter that the Lord prompted me to write, a joy that I am pleasing the Lord filled me. I praise God for it.

The Birhday Boy Is missing

2008-12-19T09:58:00.002-05:00

People are preparing for a grand Christmas celebration. Though buying of gifts, organizing parties and dinners, the time and energy spent, and the expense involved, wear them out, they some how look forward to the excitement that is awaiting them. The thought of feasting and dancing with friends spur them up despite the difficulties they face today.

I am reminded of a story I heard: It was a fabulous birthday party. It was well organized . Any one could see that much money and time had been devoted to make it so grand. The choice invitees were from the rich and famous class. Compliments were being given lavishly to the hostess. Greetings and laughter thrilled the every one.

Suddenly one of the guests asked, 'Where is the birthday boy? I saw him as a baby. I can't believe he is one year old today.'
'Oh we left him with the baby sitter. Can we have a good time if he is here?'
'Quite true.' Her friend agreed. " You did a wise thing." Both of them emptied their wine glasses and went to get a stronger drink, little realizing that the baby's birthday was the reason for that grand party!.

Our Christmas celebrations should not be like this party. Let us have Jesus in the midst of our celebrations. It will prevent us from including things that He does not approve of in our parties.

It is a good opportunity to introduce Jesus Christ to our friends.

Let us remember to include Jesus, who is the reason for the season in all that we do during these festive days this year.

Instruction For The Youth

2008-12-18T08:19:00.001-05:00

I read Proverbs 7th Chapter this morning. I thought of the Young men and women of today. Most of them go with the flow of the culture, where sexual sins are accepted. It says, there are no absolutes. Every one does whatever pleases oneself. It is sad that they fail to realize how they lose their purity of life and eternal life by following this kind of culture.

The word of God says, " Keep my words and store up my commands and you will live" [Pro.7:1]
Some of the verses reminded me of our youth: " I saw among the youth a young men who lacked wisdom.[Pro.7:7] Then the author talks of how a woman seduces this young man ." all at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer stepping into the noose till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare, little knowing it will cost his life."[Pro.7:22-23] How sad!

A person who has no purpose in life is simple minded like this young man. Easily swayed. An empty life with out God, is unstable and vulnerable to many temptations.

There are definite steps one can take to avoid sexual sins:
(1) Guard your mind. Don't read books, look at pictures or movies, or encourage fantasies that stimulate wrong desires.
(2) Keep away from settings and friends that tempt you to sin.
(3)Don't think only of the moment; focus on the future. Remember, today's thrill may lead to tomorrow's ruin.
Paul gave a sound advise to young Timothy." flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart."2nd Tim. 2:22] He clearly says, what to avoid and whom to associate with and what to seek after earnestly.

I was reminded how in my young days I tried to keep myself. 'These are not those days', is the argument of the youth of today. They forget, it is the same devil of those days that is lureing them and it is the same unchanging Holy God who is warning them, and it is He who is able to keep them. The eternity is the same for people of any age!

I was sad to think of the way the devil has blinded the eyes of our children. It is high time we pray for their eyes to be opened to reality and truth.

Celebration Is Good

2008-12-15T11:11:00.004-05:00

" Mordecai recorded these events and sent letters to all the Jews, -----near and far to have them celebrate the 14th and 15th days of the month of Adar, the time when the Jews got their relief from their enemies, when their sorrows were turned into joy and their moaning into a day of celebration. He wrote them to observe the days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor.' [Esther9:20-22]

Thus the celebration of Purim stared among the Jews. Any one who has read the book of Esther will know how Haman plotted to exterminate the Jews and how through the courageous intervention of Esther, they were saved and the enemy was destroyed. It is a fascinating story.

The deliverance was so wonderful that the Jews had a great celebration. Mordecai, [Esther's uncle who was encouraging Esther] wanted the people to celebrate this event annually. Even today it is being celebrated. Mordecai put down the reason for the celebration, so that the people will celebrate it meaningfully. He knew that people tend to have short memories when it comes to God's faithfulness! Then the celebrations become hollow and meaningless and the blessing is lost.

The Christmas celebration has so much in common to Purim . Today the whole world is celebrating Christmas, to remember the birth of our savior Jesus Christ.[ Although the date 25th of December is not exact, it is a historical fact the Jesus was born during that time] Some do not even know the reason for the celebrations. Christ is sometimes not even in the scene. The Santa, the rain deer, the Christmas tree, gifts, food, cakes, lights and decorations are given much prominence that the spiritual significance is completely lost.

Yet the fact remains that, it is the birth of Jesus Christ, who is able to set us free from sin and it's consequences, free us from all burdens and give us eternal life and joy.
The story is recorded in the gospels by Christ's disciples. It is good for us to read it to refresh our memories of this wonderful birth of our Lord and savior. If we celebrate this Christmas meaningfully, then Christ will be born in our hearts, so that the joy of Christmas will continue through out our life even to eternity.

Like Mordecai, let us remind every one the reason for our celebration!

Grace, The Source Of power

2008-12-11T05:37:00.003-05:00

"Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus"[2nd Timothy2:1]

It is sad that there are so many weak Christians in the body of Christ today . They are offended over something or other and hurt. what we need is the grace of Jesus Christ.

Grace is such a beautiful word. It means unmerited favor. It also means being able to bear up or go through situations which are normally unbearable and difficult. Grace comes only from God.

What is the grace that is in Jesus Christ? God's love towards humanity made Christ Jesus, give up Heaven, come down to Earth as a man, take all the punishment of the sinful humans upon Himself and die the cruel death on the cross, just to bring salvation to us. By this He reconciled the sinful humanity to the Holy God. All this He did for us, not because we deserved it. We were yet sinners, unwilling to to live the way the holy God's laws said. He need not have done that. That love and willingness to suffer for no wrong of His, just to set us free from the clutches of the enemy, who made us sin against God and others , is Christ's grace toward us.
He had to humble Himself. He was selfless.

It is because of the grace that He showed to you and me, today we are saved . We have the assurance that we will spend eternity with this savior in heaven. It is freely granted to any and every one who comes to Him believing in his sacrifice of grace. God tells us, 'I will remember your sins no more,' when we repent and ask forgiveness. It is because of what Christ Jesus did to reconcile us to the holy God!

To be strong in the grace of Christ Jesus, we should be able to show the same grace to those who wrong us, offend or hurt us. Forgive them unconditionally just as Christ forgave. It calls for humility and unselfishness. Forgiveness and grace say to the offender,' I forgive you with out demanding back anything.' Hurt says, 'you hurt me I am going to somehow punish you for it.'
Being unable to bear up or forgive the wrongs of others makes us weak. It gives the enemy a chance to enter into our lives.[2nd Cor.2:10-11] The result will be hardheartedness leading to sin and deception.

Showing the same grace that Christ Jesus showed us will make us soft righteous and pleasing to God which will destroy the power of the enemy over us.
There is strength in Forgiveness and grace.
Hate, unforgiveness and revenge are the enemy's strongholds. Kindness, love and forgiveness will bring them down. God reconciled us to him through Jesus Christ and has given us the ministry of reconciliation. [2nd Cor.5:18] It is essential to have the grace of Jesus Christ to do this ministry.
It is not easy to develop this nature by ourselves. God has given us the holy Spirit to help us out. By the Holy spirit God's love is shed into our hearts. When we are filled with God's love we can love and show mecy and grace even to our enemies.

' Lord help us to be like Jesus, full of grace to forgive, to set others free and for us to be free.' I pray.

Are You Strong In The Lord?

2008-12-11T03:46:00.006-05:00

" Finally, be Strong in the Lord and in His mighty power" [ Ephesians.6:10 NkJ] This is a sound advise to us, the Christians, to keep the enemy, the devil, away from us.

Paul begins the verse with the word, ' finally' after teaching about how the children, the parents , the employers and the employees should behave to be pleasing to the Lord by obeying God's commands to them. [Eph.6:1-9] Being diligent to obey what ever the Lord says, is an essential requirement to have victory over the enemy.

There are times we feel distort and weak spiritually, mentally, emotionally and physically. It is just the right time for the enemy to attack and defeat us. I had such a moment yesterday. I went to the Lord and He strengthened me with His word.

He said,' Be strong in the lord and in the power of His might' I searched the scriptures for more 'food' to strengthen me. The following scriptures helped me much:
'Be strong therefore and let not your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.' [11chron.15:1] There are so many scriptures like this to strengthen us.

I meditated on our God's power and strength too. Psalms 62:11 says, ' God has spoken and twice have I heard that power belongs unto the Lord.'

I came to the conclusion, when I have such an a mighty God as my friend and savior, I can face anything with boldness. I was happy to read what Paul wrote to the Ephesians, 'I pray, that out of His glorious riches, He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being. What a prayer! I said, ' Amen!', to it.

I wonder if you know this God who strengthens us when we are weak? Have you experienced the Holy Spirit who revives and refreshes us when we feel dry. If you have that experience, I praise God with you.
If not , I wish to tell you that, you can have it just by asking God sincerely for it, in the name of Jesus. He will gladly lead you into it.

Who Is Your Friend?

2008-12-04T09:45:00.006-05:00

Despite the many avenues to keep oneself occupied and not feel lonely, the humans crave for companionship and friendship.We were not created to be loners. The internet, the television and the movies cannot supply the affection, compassion, or the human touch that people naturally long for. We need friends. The word of God gives us guide lines as to with whom to associate.

King David, whom many would have befriended said, 'I am a friend to all who fear you and all who follow your precepts.'[Psalms.119:63] This gives us a sound guide as to the choice of friends.

A friend is some one to whom you run for counsel or comfort. In times of adversity or prosperity a true friend is with you. Hours of leisure and entertainment become enjoyable when shared with friends. No wonder David desired to have some one who honored God, His words and laws as his friends. He did not want his friends to be of the world . Such friends would lead him away from God. He cherished his relationship with God.

Paul writing to the Corinthians said, 'I have written in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people.'He did not mean the people of this world, who are immoral or greedy, and swindlers or idolaters. In that case you will have to leave the world. He adds,' But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with any one who calls himself a BROTHER but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler, with such a man do not even eat.'[1stCor.5:9-11] What strong words of advice!

Here Paul makes it clear that we should not disassociate with unbelievers. How are we to show Christ and His light to them and bring them to Christ if we keep away from them? We are to distance our selves from those who claim to be Christians yet indulge in sins which are clearly forbidden in the scripture and rationalize their actions. Such are deceived. By rationalizing they not only harm others for whom Christ died but also dim the image of God in themselves.

Associating with such is forbidden because it defiles us and may reduce the desire we have for holiness. Even the church where they are is in peril: Their conduct will distort the picture of Christ that the Church is expected to present to the world. It the duty of the Church leaders to correct or deal with them in love Our duty is not to have friendly fellowship with them but to pray for them in love.

May the Lord help us to be prudent in the choice of our associates and friends.

The Rescue Of The Godly

2008-12-04T08:42:00.002-05:00

" The Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment." [2nd Peter2:9 NKV]

Many do not want to talk of judgment or punishment. How can a loving God punish, they say.

Others who try to lead a life pleasing to God, believe that there is chastisement and later a day of judgment, fear how they will fare on that day.

When the word of God says something, it is always absolutely true.

Apostle Peter quotes some instances from the past to prove this.: " If God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment;
If He did not spare the ancient world, when He brought the floods on the ungodly people, but protected Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven others;
If He condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah by burning them to ashes, and made them an example to what is going to happen to the ungodly; and if He rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men- [for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard]

- If this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment. This is specially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the sinful nature and despise authority." [2nd Peter2;10
NKV]

It is good for us to live in such a way to escape the judgment of God and to trust God to make a way of escape from all that comes upon the unrighteous ones.

Our God is holy, good and righteous. He is merciful and just. So Let us trust Him and run the race with his guidance.

Hearing Ears

2008-11-27T12:39:00.002-05:00

What do you hear? What do you want to hear? How do you hear? What do you do with what you hear. These were some of the questions that came to my mind this morning.

One could want to hear only positive things. Others some gossip. No one wants to hear anything bad or negative.
There are anxious and eager hearers and uninterested careless hearers. Some want to hear the opinion of people, others love to hear from God. What we hear could do us good if it transforms us and makes us happy or it could ruin us, if it creates hatred or panic.

God wants us to have hearing ears to hear from Him. I meditated on some of the bible verses on the spiritual hearing of the believers.

'Blessed is the man that hears me and watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors'{ Pro.8:34] It is a daily duty of a believer to listen eagerly to what the Lord is saying. If I do it I will be blessed.

The Lord may want to say things to correct me some times. 'The ear that hears the reproof of life abides among the wise.' [Pro.15:31] Only an unwise person will shun the disapproval and the reprove of the all wise loving God our father. He wishes you and me to be holy and true like Him . so in his love He shows our faults. I lke to say, he who listens to a life giving rebuke will be at home with the wise.

We hear God's voice when we go to church. 'Keep your foot when you go to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil'
[Ecc.5:1]

The best attitude is, to be able to say, 'Lord I have heard thy speech and was afraid: O Lord revive thy work in the midst of the years. In the midst of the years make known; In wrath remember mercy. [Hab.3:2] This will be our cry if we have true hearing ears.

The right kind of hearing will bring a godly fear, a spiritual quickening, a revival, a revelation and a longing to seek God's mercy.

James says, 'Wherefore, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak slow to wrath.' [James 1:9] It is sad but true some prefer to hear things that pleases them. They gather around teachers, what their etching ears want to hear, not sound doctrine. Thus they turn away from the truth and turn aside to myths.{2nd. Tim.4:3&4] No wonder there there is so much of falling away from the true churches and so much of diluted doctrines that there is no distinction between the people of God and the pagans in their behavior.

What the believers are expected to do is, '---having heard the word, keep it and bring forth fruit with patience.' ]Luke8:15] 'These are they which are sown on the good ground; such as hear the word and receive it and bring forth fruit, some thirty fold, some sixty, some hundred.'[Mark4:20]

Lord help us be not only hears but doers of your word. Help us hear the right way and benefit by it, is my prayer for you, me and all other God's children

God of Peace and the Peace of God

2008-11-16T03:59:00.005-05:00

The situations we face in today's world, brings disquiet, fear and turmoil within us. It is nothing but natural if the God of peace is not in us.

I wondered how to keep the peace within us . The Lord reminded me of a verse from the Bible.

" Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God, and the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."[Ph.4:6]

If we just give the matter that worried us to God in prayer and in faith thank Him for what He is going to do about it, He will take the responsibility of guarding our hearts and minds. Then we will be free from panic or worry even in very bad circumstances. We ourselves will wonder at the God given peace. It is a peace that passes all understanding and all misunderstandings. It comes by handing the matter into God's hand , leaving it with Him and praising Him in faith that He knows to handle it .

It is the God of peace or His presence with us that gives us this kind of peace.

The bible also tells us how to keep the God of peace with us: " Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."[Ph.4:8]
If the God of peace is with us, we will be in peace with God and others, have peace in every situation at all times and promote and spread peace.

God of peace help us to have you always with us, is my prayer.

The Blessed Seniors!

2008-11-11T10:20:00.003-05:00

The other day we visited a seniors' home. We 'entertained ' them by singing. We prayed that the gospel songs would touch their hearts, as they were nearer to the grave than us, because of age, [though death could come to anyone at any time] and they should be ready to meet the Lord.

All of them were in their wheel chairs. Some enjoyed the singing, some joined in, some were absorbed in their own thoughts and others were indifferent. My thought was: What a blessed thing to know the Lord before we become incapable of thinking properly! Yet it is never too late for the mercy of God to meet anyone and bring them to salvation. The Holy spirit will do the work if we pray for them.

The very next day I read of two great seniors, who were part of Jesus' infancy. Luke 2:25-27 tells of the righteous and devout seniors, Simeon and Anna. Simeon was waiting for the consolation of Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ.' He must have spent time in the scriptures and in prayer, to get such a revelation!

Moved by the Holy Spirit he went into the temple courts and waited for Mary , Joseph and the baby to arrive. I am amazed at the way the Holy Spirit led him! When they came to dedicate the baby, Simon took baby Jesus in his arms and and praised God and said, 'Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, now dismiss your servant in peace, for my eyes have seen the salvation which you have prepared in the sight of all people. A light, for revelation to the gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. Then he prophesied and said to Mary, 'This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel and a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed and a sword will pierce your own soul too'. [Luke2:33-35] What an amazing accurate prophesy!

Simeon died , the way he desired and prayed, but we have seen his prophesy being fulfilled!

The other Senior was Anna, a widow of 84 years. She had lived with her husband for only 7 years! but served the Lord for 77 years! She was called a prophetess as she was close to God: With fasting and prayers she attended upon the sanctuary. She also spoke of the baby to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. Unlike now, they respected these elders and their words. Their words were recorded for us to read even today.

Surely God would have accepted their sincere prayers. As they blessed the baby with their whole heart, they would have been blessed by God.

What a contrast to some of the seniors of today!

I would like to be a contented praying , useful and blessed senior.

What about you, when you become old.? Prepare yourself now by getting close to God now, then your old age will be a blessing to others.

Life Purpose -Donation

2008-11-04T12:36:00.002-05:00

Donation is the third duty and purpose of our life. Donation does not only mean giving out money or stuff to the needy with out expecting any return .

It has a deeper spiritual meaning: God has given us so many things. It is He who has given us this very life. Bible says, ' either you give or you lose your life.' " who ever wants to save his life shall lose it but whoever loses his life for me, shall find it". [Mat.16:25] We have a natural tendency for self preservation and feel reluctant to go all out serving the Lord. But if we really love God we will not hesitate to even to lay down our lives for the sake of the Gospel.'It is more blessed to give than to receive" are words of our Lord Jesus himself. IPeter4:10]

God has promised His power and authority to us [ Luke10:19] and has also given us a commission." Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead and cast out devils. Freely you have received, freely give"[Mat10:8] This is a donation.

The talents and gifts we have are from God. We are expected to Donate them to him. We received them to serve God and others with it.

When I meditated on the above, my heart raised a payer to the Lord, who loved us so much: Lord, everything we have are given by you freely. Help us to donate them to you, to serve others in your name without grudging.

I also sang the little chorus. I meant what I sang:
All that I have,
All that I am
All I shall ever be,
Cannot repay the love that I owe,
I surrender to Thee.

I wish you too will sing it along with me!

Life's Purpose--2

2008-10-28T12:58:00.008-04:00

" Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is- His good, pleasing and perfect will."[Romans 12:2]

Knowing that we have to aspire, is not enough for a Christian. A formation has to take place. Formation denotes, a process of being made.

As we grow in our life in Christ, a transformation has to happen . We are to be formed according to the divine plan, to be like Jesus . This plan that God has for each of us is nothing but the best. To follow the example of Jesus, is the best way to conform to God's plan for us, as He was the only perfect one led by the Holy spirit.

" I have given you an example and you should do as I have done to you" [John13:5] said Jesus to his disciples after He washed their feet. It is an example of humility and servant hood. Such a character should be formed in us.

No doubt it is easily said than done. It is not easy to be holy in every thing we do in this present society we live in. We will be ridiculed and avoided as unsociable prigs. Fearing this sometimes makes us compromise with the world. This hinders our being like Jesus.

When Jesus asks us to do something, He enables us and supplies His grace in abundance. It is the holy Spirit that helps us in this process. " We all with an open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the spirit of the Lord."[2nd Cor.3:18]

Apostle Peter says the same thing in the following manner. "As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance, but as He who has called is holy, you be holy in all manner of conversation" [1stPeter1:14,15] [Conversation means our daily dealings.]

This is the transformation that has to take place in each one of us. How ever ugly our nature may be, God is able to make it holy and beautiful like His if we submit to Him. He will renew our minds and make us know His perfect will.

May the holy Spirit transform us to be like Jesus.

Life's Purpose-1

2008-10-24T09:39:00.008-04:00

Life is meaningless without a purpose. For some the sole purpose in life is to make money. Some are duty bound. There are others for whom seeking pleasure wherever and whenever possible is all that they look for in life.

It was refreshing for me to learn this morning that for a christian there are three purposes for their life, based on the word of God: Appropriation, formation and donation. All these three have to take place in a Christian's life. It may take place at the same time in different areas of one's life or at different times.

Aspiration is a time of taking in. We should aspire to receive salvation." I will take the cup of salvation and call upon the name of the lord." says the psalmist . [Ps. 116:13]

Instruction is another thing one has to aspire for. " Take hold of instruction; Let her not go; Keep her, for she is your life."[Pr.4:13]

We ought to aspire for divine strength too. With out God's strength we just cannot go on in this life is an experiential truth. Our Lord offers it to us freely:
" Let him take hold of my strength that he may make peace with me and he shall make peace with me."[Is.27:5]

We have to be aware of the opportunities God gives us to be useful in His kingdom. The parable Jesus said about stewardship in Luke 19 tells of the Lord who gave his servants money and told them " Occupy till I come." He is telling the same thing to us, as He bestows gifts to us. We ought to seize that opportunity and gain the resulting blessing for now and eternity.

The greatest of all aspiration is for the water of life ." The Spirit and the bride say come and let him that hear say come and whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely." [Rev.22:17]

When we have such Godly aspirations, I am sure Our Lord will help us to fulfill this part of our purpose in our spiritual growth.

I hope you are blessed by this as I am. May th Lord help us to have the right kind of purpose for our life.

Family Gettogether Is Essential

2008-10-22T12:01:00.005-04:00

"For this reason, I kneel before the Father from whom His whole family in heaven and earth derives it's name, that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power, through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.

And I pray that you being rooted and established in love, may have power together with all saints to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ and to know that this love surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. [Ep.3:14-19]

The above is, St. Paul's much needed prayer for the church family.

Much attention is given to the family these days: Having a family name is considered important. Family roots are being searched. Family time and values are emphasized. Family reunions are celebrated.
With out being a member of a family a family, one will be a loner. It is considered a tragedy if some one is disowned by the family or gets away from his family

As Christians we belong to the family of God. It is such a huge and great family where God is our loving heavenly father! We have the same family name. Our father in heaven promises His love and power to each and every member of this great family.

We know that it is the' word' of our father that created the heaven and the earth. His love made provision for our sins to be pardoned. His everlasting love wants to us to be saved and have eternal security. Such a great father desires to impart his love and power to us His children. That could be attained only by coming together in unity to worship, comprehend his love and grow in it. All who wish to receive this blessing should remain in the family.

It is sad to note that many Christians wish to be loners for various reasons. Those who isolate themselves from the family become losers, devoid of God's love and power.

It is not easy to get along with every one in the church family. It is good to remember that all are in the process of growing up and are liable to falter or hurt. That is why Paul says "God is able to do more than what we ask or think according to His power working in us." [Eph3: 20] He is able to accomplish anything. We should desire to be in His family at any cost so that God's power could work in and through us. His power gives us the ability to be together.

Many members of our great family of God need our prayers and encouragement. Many are going through persecutions for following Christ. We should be in a position to pray for the power of the enemy to be paralysed and deliverance come to our brothers and sisters.

It is time for us to meet with our family to grow in the love of our father and to use His power to bring answers to the seeking , suffering world.

Whom are we serving?

2008-10-20T07:43:00.001-04:00

I was taken aback at the remark of a sweet, successful, young lady, after the service one Sunday. 'Do we have to leave our jobs, homes and be in the church all the time? She suddenly asked. This is a girl who always says positive encouraging things! I was troubled why she said so.

The sermon was on serving the Lord. It was evident that she did not understand what is expected of her. So many like her are disillusioned about serving God.

All are expected to serve God. Some are called like the apostles to forsake all and follow Christ. "If any man serve me let him follow me and where I am there shall also my servant be: If any man serve me him will my father honor" [John12:26] What a great reward is promised to the one who serves Christ by following Him! He will be with Christ in eternity and the father will honor him!

How do we serve Christ? We do have our jobs studies and daily tasks to attend to. We are entitled to rest and recreation as well, one may say.

As we go through the day, how, where and with what attitude we engage in our daily activities, show whom we serve. Are we serving ourselves, the devil or Christ? It is a good habit to take a stock of our day, at the end of each day.

Serving self, is being selfish and self centered in our motives, in the things that we do. Engaging ourselves in talking and planning things that are not pleasing to God, is serving the devil. No one can please two masters, is a well known saying.

We may be doing a secular job. If we do it well, as doing a service" unto the Lord and not unto men", [Eph, 6:7] it become a service to God. It will bring glory to God.

Bearing other peoples' burdens, [Galationns6:2] helping them and praying for them are counted as service to God. "As we have therefore opportunities, let us do good unto all men"[Gal.6:10]
It is not the lack of time, but the lack of willingness that prevents people from serving the right master.

When we start doing every thing as though we are doing it to the Lord, He will bring in more opportunities to be a blessing, giving joy to others. There by we will introduce Jesus to them.
Serving the Lord becomes easy and joyful, if 'Self' goes out of us.

May God help us to serve our master the right way, selflessly through out the day.

Thanks Giving.

2008-10-14T12:48:00.004-04:00

Most of you would have noticed that I had not posted anything for a few months. The reason is not that there was no inspiration. The Lord never stops talking to any one who seek Him diligently! It was the lack of facility that hindered my writing.

I was away in Sri lanka. It is an island, torn by civil war for many years. Yet there is no peace over there. People are living in uncertainty, fear and danger. Those who trust in the Lord are being over shadowed under His wings. I thank you for praying for me. The Lord was good to me. his protection and provision was with me. He blessed me and made me a blessing to others as well.

Yesterday was Thanks giving day in Canada. It is a good practice to be thankful to parents , friends and all who are good to us, not only on a particular day, but every day!

The word of God says , " Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." [1 Th.5:18]. We ought to give thanks to God at all times, in every thing. It is not easy to do. A contented heart will be able to praise God even when things are bad. There will be no room for complaining, murmuring or fault finding in a heart that is contented .

May God give all of us such a heart, I pray.

The LORD Is My Shepherd

2008-09-22T11:23:00.002-04:00

Everyone knows the 23rd Psalm. When some thing that we know becomes a revelation, then we profit from it.

Today the Lord reminded me that He is my shepherd and He is leading me in such away that I lack nothing, spiritually, materially, physically and emotionally. He knows what is best for me to nourish me. So He leads me to that kind of green pastures and still waters that are good for me. I know for sure that He will guide me till the end of my journey.

I understood that the Lord being my shepherd, engineers the circumstances in my life. The people who are around me are placed by the Lord. They are just instruments used by the shepherd to strengthen, to correct and build my character. If I don't feel comfortable with any these, there is no point in complaining or grumbling or questioning about them.

It is true , some times we become dissatisfied with our circumstances or the around us who seem to annoy or hurt us. Then we tend to blame others or ourselves or question God

Jesus is the good shepherd[John10:11]; He is the great shepherd.[Heb.13:20]; He is the chief shepherd.[IstPeter5:4]

For Him to be MY shepherd, I should humble myself to be like a sheep to follow Him where ever He leads me. I can trust Him to lead me in the paths of righteousness alone.

He is the only one who will be with me in death, where no one else can come with me. Isn't it a wonderful thought of comfort and confidence?

Now my prayer is: Lord help me to follow you like a sheep that follows it's shepherd. I understand that to rebel against your leading by complaining, questioning or being hurt, is actually rebelling against my own interests. Help me remember it, when I tend to go my own way or find fault with others or get hurt with the people you have placed in my way.

There Is No Mission Impossible With God.

2008-07-07T08:51:00.007-04:00

The way the Holy Spirit speaks and encourages, when we are down, is amazing!

I was praying about a certain thing which seemed very difficult to happen, as it involved changing hearts of some people. Doubts about it come when we do not consider the great power of God. When our relationship with God becomes clouded with anxieties, we tend to forget that God is omnipotent.

This morning , after some anxious night hours and dreams, I said, ' Lord what do you say to me about this situation? ' and opened the bible. I just couldn't believe my eyes when the bible opened to Mark 10th chapter and my eyes fell on the27th verse. " Jesus looking upon them saith, with men it is impossible but not with God: for with God All things are possible".

I was touched by my Lord's loving care for me. I praised Him profusely. It raised my level of faith in Him. He is able to do anything and every thing. If He does not do it, it is for some greater good. We got to trust Him. He is faithful.

I spent some time in God's word. I was strengthened by the following verses: He is able to deliver [Daniel3:17] ; to fulfill all His promises. [Romans4: 21] to subdue all things[Phil.3:21] ; able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think [Ephesians 3:20.] ; able to make his grace abound [2nd Cor9:8] ; to save us to the uttermost[Heb7:25]; and to keep us from falling. [Jude24]

What a mighty God we serve!

The Graduation Day.

2008-06-23T08:48:00.002-04:00

My grand daughter's graduation was a great exciting day for me. The beautiful ceremony was very touching. Memories of her first day at school passed before my eyes. At last the day had come to finish her High school days!

I had a gift ready for her. She was very pleased with it. It was a cute standing snoopy dog with a graduation cap and a neat place to tuck in money or a gift card. It will sing to you when it's stomach is pressed. I bought it in states, when she had just started her 11th grade. I had it hidden for her so long . Then it looked as though Iwould have to hold on to it for a very long time. But the time seemed to fly and the day arrived for her to get the gift, I longed to give her. She deserved it too. I can not describe how thrilled she was to get it!

My thoughts went to the gift our lord has prepared for us to reward us on our graduation day. The Bible says,"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived, what God has prepared for those who love Him" [1Cor. 2:9]. He has decided the date, though we do not know it. It appears so far away, but soon we will be there.

I like the way T.L Moody described his departure from this world for his graduation. He said, "The earth recedes. Heaven opens before me. It is beautiful. It is like a trance. If this is death, it is sweet. God is calling me. I must go. Don't call me back."

At death, his work on earth came to an end. He would have had his graduation reward in heaven! True to his earlier preaching: 'I was born in flesh in 1837, born of the spirit in 1855. That which is born of the spirit shall live for ever', he he went to be with the Lord in 1899.

I wish I too could say like him when my graduation day arrives at last.

How about you?

God's Protection in the Midst of Danger

2008-06-16T07:35:00.001-04:00

There were two bomb blasts in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka in the month of May. The first was in a bus: My sister and my niece were at that bus stop. Since the bus was getting late and they did not want to be late for the prayer meeting they were going to, they took a taxi and left the place.

About five minutes later, the bomb blast took place. Many waiting for the bus got injured. It was God who preserved my family. The other one happened on the train: My nephew normally returns home on that train after work. That day, he decided to take the later train and he escaped the blast. These people, because of the uncertain, precarious situation in the country, always pray and give themselves to the protection of the almighty God.

I believe that it is God who is keeping them safe.

When I said this to someone, she said, "Oh, they were fortunate" and "It so happened that they decided to take the other course.". Another said "Your people always have such stories.". To them, these are not miracles of protection from God. Some call these coincidences. For God's children, nothing happens by chance or coincidence. When we trust God, Psalm 91 becomes a real daily experience.

"If you make the most high your dwelling, even the Lord, who is my refuge, then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent." [Psalms 91:9,10]

It is good to remember that God does not promise a world free from danger, but He does promise His help whenever we face danger. When we believe His promises, we will experience His miracles.

Love Knows When to Speak

2008-06-14T07:35:00.001-04:00

The trial scene of Jesus before the Sanhedrin, spoke to me of the love of Jesus for everyone. [Mark14:55-65]

There were many false witnesses against Him: The truth that He preached was misrepresented [v. 58], yet Jesus kept silent. Why didn't he speak out and explain what he meant or call one of those whom he healed or followed him, as witnesses? He could have explained that the temple he referred was not the building but his body [v. 58]. It was because his motive was to save all, even those who were against him and jealous of him.

Yet later He answered the high priest's question! I wondered why.

Not answering the fabricated accusations was wiser than trying to clarify them. But if Jesus had refrained from answering the question: "Are you the Christ the son of the blessed?" [v61], it would have been taken as denial of his mission. Jesus not only answered, "I am.", He also predicted a reversal of his role, that one day, He will be judging the world! Yes that day is fast approaching! All of us are waiting for that day... [Rev.20:11-13]

Jesus had the divine wisdom to know when to answer and when not to. His silence for the first time, not exposing the false witnesses who sinned, not knowing what they were doing, would have spoken to them and brought them to repentance later.

His answering the second time established the fact that He was Christ the son of God, the saviour of the world. The answer infuriated the pharisees to condemn him to death, which fulfilled the purpose for which he came to earth.

Our speech or silence should be motivated by love for God and others, regardless of the consequences we may have to face. When we are confronted or falsely accused, to think only of a of a way of escape will be selfish. We should decide whether we want to be popular with man or God.

Are Out Casts Accepted?

2008-06-12T14:31:00.009-04:00

I see many kinds of 'out casts' in the world today. People are ostracized, excommunicated, dissociated, or condemned for various reasons: Being born in a low cast family, a particular nationality or race, peculiar life styles, not conforming to the code of conduct or rules, are some of the reasons. Adultery, fornication or criminal activities are other genuine causes. These' cast aways, whether they deserve it or not, definitely feel despised, lonely, sad , bitter and angry. Those who did the casting away too feel hurt and angry.

How did Jesus view such a situation? This question probed my mind. The Bible says that Jesus associated with them. He received the despised sinners, publicans and harlots. He DID NOT approve of their actions but loved them as human beings. That kind of love changed them to be better persons. How do you know this, you may ask:

I saw the healed blind man being excommunicated by the religious leaders for believing in Jesus, who gave him sight. [John. 9;35] Jesus asked the man, 'Do you believe in the son of man?'. When the man knew that Jesus was the ' son of man, he said,' Lord I believe' and worshiped Him.

Then I saw an adulterous woman caught red handed, condemned and ready to be stoned to death according to the law, being brought to Jesus. She went away forgiven and accepted by Jesus. Jesus told her, ' neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.'[Luke 7:47]

The most amazing is the acceptance of the dying thief on the cross: Condemned by law, yet he accepted Jesus as the savior who was going to establish a kingdom for the forgiven righteous ones. Jesus did not shun or ignore him . He said " Today you will be in paradise with me.[Luke 23: 43

Jesus received despised sinners, publicans and harlots and loved them unconditionally. He advised them to believe on Jesus as the savior and give up their sinful ways, after being forgiven. The willingness to give up the old ways is very essential for the healing of rejection and hurt.

The condemned and those who cast them away, need Jesus because only he can heal them. He understands them and loves them. He is able to forgive and change them. Even the indifferent ones need Him.

I praised God for the grace He poured on me and accepting me as I was. And I prayed for those who need Him.

Love Your Enemies - Mathew 5:44

2008-06-12T07:30:00.000-04:00

One of the hardest teachings of Jesus is "Love your enemies." He set an example by laying down his life for us, who were His enemies.

Who are our enemies?

Our enemies are not some country or people who live far away from us. We find our enemies in our homes, work places and churches. People who hurt us most are those who live close to us. In this fallen world, people whom we thought we could trust most, sometimes let us down. Those we love, hurt us deeply and at that point, or at least for that moment, they have become our enemies. If we are honest enough to admit it, we have become their enemies as well. These people can be your spouse, children, brothers, sisters or the church family.

Christians often hurt each other deeply and repeatedly; then love is lost and they become enemies in their heart.

It is easy to ignore them and go on having the hurt within us. But that will go against Jesus' commission to love and bless them.

How do we love our enemies?

I want to pass on some good advice I heard on the Back to the Bible broadcast, which blessed me:
1. Greet them graciously without avoiding them.
2. Disarm them by doing good to them.
3. Refuse to speak evil of them, as words have power. [Prov.18:21]
4. Stop talking of what they have done and start forgiving them.
5. Thank God for them. Your enemy is sent to you by God's design and with his approval, to bring something good out of it.
6. Pray for them. They need your prayers more than anyone else. If you hate them tell that also to God.
7. Ask God to bless them: Whatever blessings you are asking for yourself, ask for your enemies too.

When we pray like that the pressure goes off. We have done exactly what Jesus has asked us to do. Thus, if we release our enemies, we will be set free from our anger and bitterness. We will be able to love our enemies.

Weighed And Found Wanting

2008-06-10T07:30:00.000-04:00

"Weighed and found wanting" is a sad and hopeless pronouncement to be heard from heaven.

Belshazzar, the king of Babylon lacked nothing. He had health, wealth and happiness. While having a great feast, he forgot the creator God and praised the gods of gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood and stone. Suddenly, he was terrified to see the fingers of a human hand appear and write something on a wall. None of the sooth sayers could explain it. Only Daniel, who served the living God, was able to read and give the meaning of the writing. [Daniel 5:1-10]

"Mene, mene, Tekel, Parsin.", were the words of the writing. Daniel read them and gave the meaning: He said, God has numbered the days of your reign and brought it to an end; you have been weighed on the scale and found wanting; Your kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians.

Those things did happen. It was because he forgot to humble himself and give glory to the living God, who had done a great miracle in his family. Knowing God's greatness, he did not honor Him.

I pondered over the words, "Weighed and found wanting". We are also weighed by the same God all the time. The standard weight on the scale is Jesus. Any other will be counted as false weight and will not be accepted.

We are called to reach the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. [Ephesians 4:13]

As the measuring is done some things have to be taken off and some must be added.

All the necessary instructions are given in God's word. If we take heed and observe them, we will hear the praise, "well done", instead of "found wanting".

I lifted a simple prayer: "Lord teach me your ways and help me obey."

Our God is Able to Change Anyone

2008-06-08T20:30:00.000-04:00

The other day, I thought of some of my past failures and those of my family. I know for sure the Lord has forgiven and forgotten them. It was the enemy's scheme to bring it up to torment my mind.

Just a look at the Lord, in my mind, was enough to get an answer from Him to calm my mind. I have learned by experience to "nip things in the bud". Give a little room to the enemy, he will take full charge of things and it becomes fatal to the spiritual life. So I told my concern to Jesus.

The Lord reminded me of His mercy and justice through the story of Manasseh, the most wicked of the kings of Judah. He not only did abominable things in the sight of God and went away from God, but he also led the whole nation of God astray. [2nd Chronicles 33]

God had to correct him. God's punishment was severe: It was defeat and exile in the hands of the Assyrians. It was really a hopeless situation.

God showed justice to to him in warning and punishing him. Yet, He showed mercy and changed him when he repented.

The Bible records: "The king in his distress sought the favor of the Lord: He humbled himself greatly before the Lord God of his fathers. When he prayed, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea. So He brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manassah knew that the Lord is God". [2nd Chronicles 33:12, 13.]

That is the mercy of God!

Until death, no one is beyond the reach of God's forgiveness. Our merciful God is able to change any one who comes to Him with repentance, through Jesus Christ.

I want to praise God for His mercy today. I pray with faith that He will change all those who need a change of heart and nature, in my family.

Be A Victor, Not A Victim

2008-05-30T20:55:00.000-04:00

"Be self controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers through out the world are undergoing the same kind of suffering.

And the God of Grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while will himself restore you and make you strong , firm and steadfast."
1st Peter5:8-10

This is great advice given by Peter, the apostle of Jesus Christ!

Peter knew what it was to be tempted by the enemy, to fail, to repent and to be restored by the Lord. We know how mightily he was used of God after that.

He compares the devil to a lion which roars to frighten his prey. The lions attack the sick, young or staggering animals. They choose their victims who are alone and not alert. Peter warns us not to be careless and focused on problems; that is when we become vulnerable. We need not be scared of the lions threats by roaring. We are to stand firm on the faith. During times of suffering, seek the the support of other Christians. Don't be alone or be self confident. Feeling alone, helpless and cut off from other believers, we may focus on the problem, give in to self pity and fall into the trap of the enemy.

We are to resist the devil, standing firm on the faith. Then, "he will flee", as James said [James 4:7]

The suffering is not going to last long. The Lord will soon restore and make us strong. The night will pass and the morning will come soon bringing joy and light. Remember: We have the victory through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Jesus Prayed for Peter!

2008-05-28T20:45:00.000-04:00

"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you Simon, that your Faith may not fail. and when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."
Luke 22:31-32.

It was encouraging and comforting to read the above verse this morning.

It is true that, as Jesus predicted, Peter failed and denied Jesus because he relied in his own strength to stand firm in the faith. When he repented, he was not only restored [Luke 22:54-62; John 21:15-19]; he became a great leader and an apostle. He became a bold and daring witness for Jesus. [ Acts Acts 2:41]

I thought that the Lord was reminding me, that the enemy is out to destroy our faith. The things that are happening around us today, are attacks of Satan; The new theories introduced in movies, media, books and talks are aimed to rob the faith that Christians have in Jesus as the Lord and Saviour of the world.

We are also being sifted like wheat. The chaff, which has no grain in it , will be blown away, when the sifting takes place. Jesus has already prayed for us too, that our faith should not fail. So we need not allow ourselves to be tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine or be blown away altogether. That confidence is enough to defeat the enemy.

I thought of the Christians who are going through religious persecutions in some parts of the world. Like Jesus, we are to pray for them to have strength. They are brothers and sisters.

Maybe some of us have failed. Be encouraged. Our loving God is waiting to restore anyone who repents. He will strengthen and enable us to strengthen others. What a great God we have!

I thanked God for the revelation, that Jesus prayed for us and is still interceding for each one of us.

The Salt of The Earth

2008-05-26T23:12:00.000-04:00

"Salt is good, but if it loses it's saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with each other."
Mark 5:50

These were the words of Jesus Christ, the prince of peace. He also said, "You are the salt of the earth." There seems to be a close connection between having peace and being salt.

Jesus paved the way for us to be reconciled with God, by helping us to remove the sin that separates us from the Holy God. When we repent for our sins and decide to live for Christ, we become born again. This act brings peace with God and peace within us. We begin to grow like Jesus. Then we are expected to be salt in society and be a positive influence.

Salt prevents decay, preserves, gives flavour and promotes life and growth. In order to be a good positive influence around us, peace with others is essential.

I like to quote what St. Paul wrote in Romans 12:16 to 18: "Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of every body. If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with every one."

I see that it is pride that prevents us to ask for forgiveness and to forgive? Having humility helps us to be at peace with everyone. We cannot be salt in our society, which the Lord expects from us, unless we desire to please God and not our 'Self.'

I realized that I have to work much in this area. I am sure that many others too need to change. I asked the Lord for strength and grace for all of us.

If each one of us take this to heart and act on it, this world will a better place to live and God's name will be glorified.

Danger! Run for Protection!

2008-05-13T21:53:00.000-04:00

"He shall cover you with His feathers, under His wings shall you trust. His truth shall be your shield and buckler"
Psalms 91:4

I remembered an interesting scene I witnessed, when I was a child in the countryside: A mother hen and her brood of about twenty or more chicken were having a cool time in the sun. The chicks were running all over the garden fearlessly, learning to get food and playing too. Suddenly, the mother hen made a noise. Immediately, all the chickens ran from wherever they were and hid under the hen's wings. Somehow the hen's two wings hid all the chickens and I could not spot a single one of them. The chicks were hidden under the wings till the danger passed. As a hawk flew away from the area, the mother hen let the chicks out of her wings into the open again. The little chicks hid themselves because of the warning signal the mother bird gave. The little ones understood it and knew what to do.

Above them, the hawk flew round and round, at times stooping down and then going up. It was aiming to get the chicks. The hen knew the danger and hid the chicks under her wings, where they rested safely and comfortably under the soft feathers! Had any one of the chicks turned a deaf ear to the mother's warning, that one would have been prey to the hawk that day!

The verse above compares the protection our Lord desires to give us, to that of the mother hen.

There are so many dangers waiting to prey on us in this world. The danger alerts are in the word of God. The Holy spirit too, warns us. Only those who heed the warning and act on it, will be safe from danger. Some may think lightly of it and not listen. Others may not want to obey and run for protection. Others still, may seek protection in the wrong places. They will be the losers.

There is protection, safety, provision and security, along with tenderness in the Lord. It is a place we can run to, when we fear. We could rest there in perfect peace of mind and contentment in the midst of the wickedness of this sin cursed world.

Lord help us to discern your voice and obey. May your truth be our shield and buckler.

The Sun, Moon and Stars Reflect the Constancy of God

2008-05-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

Recently, my family gave me a surprise party for my 75th birthday. All the wishes and memories of incidents were collected from my loved ones and given to me as a token of love. A few sentences from one of my granddaughter's wishes caught my attention and made me glad.

She wrote: "...You are like a super hero. Your super power being... Constant? Constantly waking up grand daughters! Constantly making food, packing food, ... constantly praying, reading the bible, constantly being awesome! ..." It was a great tribute to me.

I thought of the divine constancy in the love God shows to us. Whatever we do to hurt Him, His love remains constant.

I always admired the constancy of the sun, moon and stars. From the day God created them, till today they continue to perform the delightful, beneficial duty they were made to do! [Gen1:14-18]

The Lord has something to tell us at every occasion: "You are called to be lights in the world", He reminded me. [Mt.5:14 ] Are you spreading the light God has given you through your words, deeds and right attitude in this world full of darkness? Are you being constant in that? I could only answer: "I am trying. Please help me."

The glamourous modern theory of only having faith in yourself and not having faith in God spreads the darkness of doubt and skepticism speedily in the present world. Will your light shine to show God's constant love during this period of grace? The Bible says that eventually, the door of grace will be shut, then it will be too late.

Having the right relationship with Jesus, who is the light will help us shine for Him. [John.1:4]

Lord help us to shine for you and be constant at all times, is my prayer for today.

The Negative Effects of Worrying

2008-05-07T10:04:00.000-04:00

Everyone knows the ill effects of worry. Here are some that I read recently:

Jesus tells us not to worry about the needs that God has promised to supply, because of the adverse effects of worrying. [Mat.6:31-34] Yet people worry!

Worry will damage both your physical and mental health.
It will cause the object of your worry to consume your thoughts.
It will disrupt your productivity.
It will negatively affect the way you treat others.
It will adversely affect your emotions.
Worry will reduce your ability to trust in God.

[Taken from the Life Application Study Bible]

How many ill effects of worry you are experiencing today? Isn't it better to banish worry altogether and trust God?

Some confuse worry and concern. Here is the difference between worry and genuine concern: Worry immobilizes, but concern moves you to action. We should be concerned and not neglect matters of importance. We shouldn't worry about them and do nothing about it.

In Mathew 6:25-34, seven reasons are given not to worry:
1. The same God who created life in you can be trusted with the details of your life. [v.25]
2. Worrying about the future hampers your efforts for today. [v.26]
3. Worrying is more harmful than helpful. [v27]
4. God does not ignore those who depend on him. [v28-30]
5. Worry shows a lack of faith and understanding of God. [v31-32]
6. There are real challenges God wants us to pursue and worrying keeps us from them. [v.33]
7. Living one day at a time keeps us from being consumed with worry. [v.34]
[Taken from the Life Application Study Bible]

Since God's word is true, we can never fail when we live by it.

The Carefree Life

2008-05-04T21:53:00.000-04:00

Early morning, my eyes caught a very beautiful sight: Two white pigeons, seated comfortably at the edge of the tallest building in our area, unconcerned about what was going on around them; the heavy traffic on the highway or people going in and out of the crematorium below, the morning news of global warming, war, famine or the rise in the oil price did not interfere with their serene enjoyment of peace.

I remembered a comic I read sometime back: One robin was asking the other: "Why do the humans rush around worried most of the time?" The second robin's answer was, "Perhaps they do not have a heavenly father who feeds and cares for them, like ours!". It is amusing, but we do worry like that! That seems to be the human tendency.

It's no wonder that Jesus, in Mathew 6:25-27, said: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life; what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; They do not sow or reap or store away in barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?". What a timely question for our present day!

According to Jesus, the ones who worry are the pagans, who do not know the true God or those who do not believe in the promise of the the omnipotent God. Jesus added that your heavenly father KNOWS that you have needs. But seek FIRST His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. [Mat.6:33] What a great promise!

Why don't we give it a try and benefit from it? Once we decide to give all our needs for today and the future into His hands, we will experience him as a promise keeping God.

Whose Side Are You On?

2008-05-01T21:30:00.000-04:00

Most of us try to have God on our side. We want to do things to please Him; go to church and do many Religious works, just to please God and to keep him on our side. We know, if God be for us no one or thing can be against us.

I heard someone asking: "Are you on God's side?". If I am on His side, then sure He will be on my side. What makes me or marks me as being on God's side?

Jesus said, 'Thine they were and thou gave them to me; and they have kept thy word" [John 17:6] Keeping God's word in truth is very essential.

Lord Jesus makes His disciples His own possession. He expects us to remain in that position. Then God's claim comes first: "He that loves his father or mother more than me; He that loves son or daughter more than me, is not worthy of me" [Mat.10:37]. Whatever we do will be to maintain a right relationship with love. Then we will be a perfect delight to Him. We will be entirely His. He is a loving God who delights to Bless those who are entirely His.

Lord, I desire to be a delight to you. Lead me and help me to become what you want me to be, is my prayer today.

Are We To Welcome Storms?

2008-04-26T11:37:00.000-04:00

"Awake , north wind, and come south wind! Blow on my garden, that it's fragrance may spread abroad. Let my lover come into His garden and taste it's choice fruits."
Song of Solomon 4:16

This is supposed to be what the bride is saying of her beloved. It is a comparison to us the bride [the church] and Jesus Christ.

The interesting thing is, the bride is calling the opposing North and the South wind to blow, so that the flowers and the fruits get crushed and the fragrance will come out to please her lover.

Clashing of winds is not a pleasant experience. Yet only those bring out the fruit and the sweetness of our nature which God expects to see in us.

I was wondering how many of us will welcome such crushing experiences? Whether we invite them or not, they do come. When we face them, do the fruit of the spirit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness and self control come out of us? [Gal. 5:22] Most of the time we wish that we escape misunderstandings, unkindness, abuse, expressions of anger, insults, etc. It is easy to exhibit self pity, hatred, bitterness, complaining and murmuring. Sometimes we even start doubting and questioning God.

God allows us to go through such breaking experiences to make us strong and to develop the natures [fruits], He desires us to possess.

Through these testing times, we learn more than we would in any other situation. These are growing times as we learn the extent of our own commitment, weakness and utter dependence on God.

It is comforting to know that during such times we can call on God for His strength to endure the trials and temptations that we face and ask for the wisdom to learn from it. God is faithful; He will strengthen us to posses all the qualities that are expected of His bride.

May God lead us according to His way and help us to learn from Him.

Looking to God is the Best Solution

2008-04-23T18:43:00.003-04:00

"Therefore I will look unto the Lord. I will wait for the Lord of my salvation. My Lord will hear me."
-Micah 7:7

The days that Micah lived in were very much like our days. He could not find an upright person anywhere in the land. [Mi.7:1-4] Even today, uprightness (honesty, integrity) is difficult to find. Society rationalizes sin and even Christians sometimes compromise Christian principles in order to do what they want. It is easy to convince ourselves that we deserve a few breaks, especially when everyone else is doing it. They fail to realize that the standard for honesty comes from God, not from society. We are to be honest because God is truth, and we are to be like Him.

Micah sets a good example for us. Instead of being depressed, argumentative or revolting, he showed great faith in God. He knew that God hears and saves when help is needed; God will bring his people through when times are tough. Israel [the people of his country] must be patient in punishment, because God would bring them out of darkness and their enemies would be punished.

Don't we see shocking things happening around us? What about the vandalism in the streets to celebrate a victory? There were some who thought it to be not too bad! The sense of right and wrong seems to be disappearing. Doesn't this make us fear for the future of our children? I think what Micah said is a timely example to follow.

We too can have confidence like Micah's. It does not take unusual talent. It simply takes faith in God and a willingness to act on that faith.

Dancing in True Worship

2008-04-21T21:38:00.000-04:00

We had a beautiful service on Sunday with songs, lifting up of hands, rejoicing and dancing, which was Biblical [Ps149:3; 150:4; Ex.15:20; 11Sam.6:14]. While most of the people were dancing, there were a few who were quietly praising and singing, even raising their hands but not dancing. I was one of them.

Why did the few not join in the dancing? Were they shy? Or think it was unholy? A cultural difference perhaps? As for me, I am not used to dancing. In my days and culture, dancing was not part of worship. I was also wondering if all those who danced so joyfully, were doing it in the spirit: In every party they dance. Dancing is part of the culture of Canada and the west. Was their worship genuine? In the presence of God, the attitude should be Holy. The critical thoughts of those who refrained from dancing may have polluted the Holy atmosphere and the presence of God would have been hindered! There would not have been perfect unity in the worship! Somehow the enemy wants to spoil the true worship of our great God!

The Lord led me to read Psalms 95 the next morning. It was a call to worship. The last verse speaks of hardening of the heart. A hardened heart will be a thankless, complaining heart. It will not be able to worship the Holy God. The Lord loves genuine, holy, joyful, worship from humble hearts.

Our heart could become hardened because of unanswered prayer, pride, criticism, stubbornness, ungratefulness and a lack of humility. Hardening the heart is dangerous. We will not be able to enter into the rest. [Heb.3:13] I recalled the warning given in Hebrews 4:4-11.

I prayed that whichever way we worship, help us to be genuine in seeking the presence of the Holy God in humility and be blessed by Him to be a blessing to others.

Buffet of Promises

2008-04-16T19:54:00.000-04:00

This morning, the Lord reminded me that there are so many promises we could hold on to in times of need. You too, may help yourself and be benefited by them. Here are some that encourage me:

"Listen to me ... you whom I have upheld since you were conceived and have carried since your birth. Even to your old age and gray hairs, I am He. I am He who will sustain you, I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you."
-Isaiah 46:3-4

Isn't His love so enduring and endearing that He gives me the assurance that He will care for me through out my lifetime and even through death?

It is amazing that the one who is giving this promise is the Lord God of the universe! "This is what the Lord says, Your redeemer who formed you in your womb, I am the Lord who who has made all things, who alone stretched out the heavens, who spread out the earth by myself" [Isa.44:24]

I was happy that I have accepted his Love for me. I believe His promise. It gives me comfort, confidence and security.

I prayed: "Do not cast me away when I am old. Do not forsake me when my strength is gone" [Ps.71:9]. Also, Lord may all those who have not intimately known you yet come to you before it is too late. May all your children learn to enjoy the variety of promises you have given us.

Recipe for Constant Joyfulness

2008-04-13T23:01:00.000-04:00

I heard a teaching from the book of Philippians today. St. Paul, who said: "Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice." [Phil.4:4], did not just say it. He really experienced that kind of joy in his life.
The unbecoming conduct of some Christians, some preaching the Gospel for selfish reasons and lack of unity among the Christians were troubling him. Besides all this, he was in prison. These factors could have killed anyone's joy, but not Paul's. Instead, he taught them that their life should be worthy of the gospel, they should realize that they are all working for the same cause, eliminate disunity and have clean hands and pure hearts.

To have that kind of joy all the time, we should learn to take the bad things in life and turn it for good. In the midst of a problem, don't focus on the problem, focus on the good thing that came out of it [Phil.1:15-19]. Look at the people who are praying for you. These things will give us joy, advised Paul.

I realized how true it is. There are times when we do not want to tell our problems because it may paint a bad picture about others who are involved in it. Or for fear of publicity we may not want to confide in someone and carry the burden all alone. such an incident took place a few weeks back and my heart was far from rejoicing.

Then, my sister from Sri Lanka,called and said that two people from a powerful prayer group inquired from her about me. They had said that they were urged to pray for me. My sister did not take it that seriously as she knew that I was in good health. When she told me about this, though the problem which weighed me down remained the same, an unspeakable joy came to me. The thought that the Lord raised up people who do not know anything about me, to pray for me, gave me a fresh love for the Lord.

The Lord understood what I was going through inside. The thought that He was working on the matter I was praying about and that He cares for me, revived me. An inexplicable kind of joy filled me. Without thinking, I began to sing a chorus I knew:
"All that I have is in Jesus, He satisfies, Joy He supplies, Life will be worthless without him. All things in Jesus I find."

Don't you think that we have a loving, understanding, wonderful, almighty God?

What's in a Day Date or Name?

2008-04-10T08:53:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago there was a lot of controversy going on about the correct date, day and the name Easter. No one can dispute the fact that Christ died, taking our punishment upon himself, on the cross and rose again on the third day. This is a historical fact. It remains true whether anyone believes it or not.

All that is expected of us is to believe it, call upon Him, avail ourselves of the forgiveness He offers, lead righteous lives in this world and be assured of eternity with Him.
All other things attached to Easter are accessories. The Easter eggs, the bunnies and lilies have only commercial value.

Church services help us to meditate worship and draw near to God. The bottom line is: Do I believe that Jesus died for me? Do I believe that Jesus rose from the dead? Do I believe that He is alive today? These are unique to Christianity alone.

Believing these will make a difference in our lives.The risen Jesus will love us, save us and bless us, if we worship him in spirit and in truth.

The resurrection of Jesus from the dead is a proven fact. If you are not sure of it, it is important that you make sure. There is a lot of evidence: Acts 10:40-41; Rom. 1:4 ; the Gospels. Just joining the crowd in discussion or being carried away by the commercialization, is a waste of time. We've got to benefit from the truth and and the Gospel of Christ.

Easter is over. It was just a day to remember Christ's victory over death. For a believer in Jesus Christ, everyday is a day of resurrection.

These thoughts bring me to pray that the risen Jesus will keep us pure, holy and open the eyes of those who are unable to accept the truth.

Charged for the Day with the Powerful Name

2008-04-09T14:55:00.000-04:00

"When nothing works, try the name of Jesus.", is a true saying. The name of Jesus is above every other name.

I studied why it is so:

His name shall be called Jesus. Luke 1:3
His name is power ... the mighty God. Isa. 9:6
His name is peace: The Prince of Peace. Isa.9:6
His name gives forgiveness. Luke 24:47
His name is above every other name. Phil.2:9
His name gives life. John 20:31
His name is healing. Acts 3:6, 16. [I recall my many personal healings I received]
His name is deliverance. Acts 16: 18

The name of Jesus is able to break every stronghold within us; It has power to set free every captive.

Today I hold on to the promise "What so ever you shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the father may be glorified in the son" [John14:13]

I know from experience it works. So, Jesus, I call on your holy name to answer my prayers today.

Praise Casts Out The Spirit of Heaviness

2008-04-05T21:22:00.004-04:00

Praise is the antidote for being depressed and heavy. How to praise and for what to praise, when you are sad, you may wonder. This morning, I was in very low spirits. People's actions, words, attitudes, disapproval, rejections and disappointments can easily be joy killers. I am glad our Lord does not want us to remain in that state. This is how I got over it:

First, I tried to read the Bible and pray but my mind revolved around things that happened and were going to happen. Remembering a Sunday school song, "Just a little talk with Jesus makes it right!", I told Jesus all that I felt. He reminded me of a verse from Isaiah 61:3. I read it a few times:

"To appoint unto those who mourn in Zion to give beauty for ashes, oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified."

God's word combined with prayer worked a miracle. The Lord, within minutes, took my heaviness completely from me. I was able to praise Jesus for what He did on the cross for me, to make me accepted by God. If the Almighty God loves and accepts me what does it matter if others consider me not worthy enough to be in their function? All the feeling of hurt left me. I sang I am free. Thank you Jesus you have done it all for me.

I was able to pray the following for the wedding party with sincere love:

Lord, bless the couple, embarking the new boat, in the sea of life today, starting a a new family, keep them under the shadow of your wings. Protect them from every storm and strife of tongues, as they busy them selves in your service. Help them discern what is right.

May love for You and for each other fill their hearts. May they understand others' views. Use them to bring healing to hurting hearts.

Bless the Pastor who is uniting them. May his heart be free from hurts and offenses, so that your blessings flow from his prayers to the trusting couple.

Bless the loving, trusting, followers as they sing your praises to bless the couple this morning.

Amen.

God has Set Eternity in the Hearts of Men

2008-04-03T07:22:00.000-04:00

"God has made every thing beautiful in it's time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; Yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to the end."
Ecclesiastes 3:11, said by King Solomon, who lacked nothing in this world.

This means we are never going to be satisfied with earthly pleasures and pursuits. Because we are created in God's image, we have a spiritual thirst. We have eternal value and nothing but the eternal God can satisfy us.

"He has built in us a restless yearning for the kind of perfect world that can only be found in a perfect rule. He has given us a glimpse of of the perfection of his creation. But it is only a glimpse, we cannot see into the future or comprehend every thing. So we must trust Him now and do his work on earth." [From the Life application study bible]

I find this quite true. I don't think any one could deny or debate it. God has, in a simple way, stipulated how we ought to live; in His word and how his kingdom will be established in our hearts. As we implicitly obey whatever He says, things will become clear. Submission and obedience are essential for spiritual growth. Till we reach the character of God, which is His image, no one or nothing else can satisfy us.

Holy spirit, our helper, guide us till we reach that stage, is my prayer today.

Hope Deferred Makes the Heart Sick

2008-04-01T21:39:00.000-04:00

A few nights ago, after a prayer meeting, what one of the brothers said, set me thinking: He was going to bring a common friend, from the depressed peoples' home for a day, as he had no place to go to. "What a good Samaritan!", I thought.

This sick person, was a good Christian with a lovely family. What happened to him? His family said that he was violent, but this brother did not think so. Is it a case of Christians behaving differently at home from how they behave outside? Such double faced Christians bring shame to Christ and His cause. They are not Christians, though they call themselves so. What do I know. Who am I to judge?

There seems to be an increase in people becoming depressed or going insane suddenly. Daily, we hear of inexplicable crimes and shootings by the young and old. People getting depressed, harming others or committing suicide has become very common. "What is happening to mankind??", I wondered!

This morning I had a Bible verse: "Hope deferred makes the heart sick."[Pro13:12]. The hearts of people become sick, bringing mental and physical sicknesses upon them. How could this be prevented?

Hope is a good thing. Hope has no limits. Every imagination can become a hope, even if it a bad one. If what is hoped for is something good, which is God's will, it will materialize. If it doesn't, then a God fearing person will know, that "all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to his purpose." He will not become depressed about it, which may lead to detrimental consequences. When we have such faith, whether the thing we hope for happens or not, we will be able to go on in life, knowing that is not the end of the world.

Tomorrow is another day. I am God's. He is mine. He has reserved the best for me. May we all have such wisdom, is my prayer.

The Grearest Gain II - Who knows the Appointed Time?

2008-03-29T23:50:00.000-04:00

"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord"

Someone said: "even his stops". I like to add that even his end is ordered by the Lord. I realize the truth of it from my father's life.

No one knew that the 16th of March 1960 was the day appointed for my father's departure to the glory land. Not even he. Yet the Holy Spirit, Who guided him, helped prepare him during his devotion that morning! The Lord was at work elsewhere too.

Several miles away, lived a servant of God. He too was a Hindu convert. He gave up his lucrative post to serve the Lord full time, as an independent evangelist. In those days, such a thing was unheard of although now, it is common. He was called 'Sadu' by the people and the children thought he was Jesus Christ from his looks, dress and gentle ways. He used to visit my father, as my father believed in his ministry and supported him financially too.

This servant of God arrived just at the time my father felt uncomfortable. For him to arrive at that early hour, he would have had to leave his house at 6 AM or so. He was older than my father and he cycled all the way! It was a surprise to me to see Sadu coming at that time when we were in a hurry getting ready for school and work. Normally he comes on a Saturday and never on a weekday like this. Now I know that it was the Lord who sent him. How careful we should be to listen to God's promptings and obey His commands. Sadu, by his obedience, was able to help my father and be a comfort to us.

Just a few minutes before, my father who was resting, sat up and said "I think I am going to die. What are you all going to do?" His human love and concern said those words. Yet quickly he added "There is nothing to fear.". God gave him hope and confidence and it was a strength to us.
Then things started moving fast. Sadu came and without a word he went to my fathers bed, placed his head on his lap and started praying silently. By this time my father went unconscious. "There is nothing to fear", were his last words to us. Sadu told us to pray quietly. Thus my father's spirit left his body. Then the doctor arrived and pronounced him dead.

It is really a blessed thing to know the Lord and have fellowship with Him. It is a life of peace amid the storms. Our hope in the Lord becomes the anchor of our souls. We will arrive at our destination at the appointed time.

I am reminded of two verses: "It is appointed unto man once to die and there after the judgment" [Heb. 9:27] and "God has not appointed us, unto wrath but unto salvation" [1Thes. 1:7] In my fathers case, he availed himself of the salvation offered to him and on the judgment day, he will receive his reward. Judgment is for the ones whose sins are not forgiven.

What about you and me? Will that day be a day of reward?

The Greatest Gain

2008-03-24T20:56:00.003-04:00

"For me to live is Christ, to die is gain."
Philippians 1:21

My father's death anniversary was on the 16th of March. I thought of his life and how it helped me in my journey.

My father hailed from a small village. He belonged to a Hindu family and lived true to his convictions. His parents were not well off. My father was able to make his way to Singapore, educated himself and held a high position in the government.

Though he married my mother who was a Christian, he remained a Hindu, till one day in his distress [he lost his son suddenly and his wife was sick in the hospital] his eyes fell on my mom's Bible. As he opened it, the Lord spoke to his heart from Isaiah 1:3: "The ox knows his master, the donkey his owner's manger, my... people do not understand.". He went on to read and to search the scriptures and was convinced of the truth. By the time my mother came home from the hospital with the new baby, the Lord had worked in his heart and he was ready to accept the Lord and obey in the water baptism. The Lord always has His way and His time.

More than his conversion, the change in life, his upright living, his integrity and obedience to every truth from the Bible, set an example for my family and me. He retired early at 55 years to stay with his family in Sri Lanka. We were wealthy and lacked nothing. Yet, his lifestyle was that of a true Christian. He was up as early as 4am, sang praises to the Lord and read and meditated on the Bible before he started the day. His favorite verse was: "We live and move and have our being in the Lord ... We are His offspring."

He was a healthy person and was never sick. The day he died, as usual, I heard him having his daily devotions. In the hymn he sang the last stanza says: "Lord if your coming happens to be today, keep me prepared to meet you with delight.". He sang this more than three times and as usual went to do some work in the fields, which was how he exercised. At about 7 am he had a slight discomfort and with in 20 minutes he was gone even before the doctor came. He was gone to be with his father at the age of 57.

People thought it was not fair. Why did God take him away when the family needed him most? I didn't know why either. But I knew that God never makes a mistake. We were very sure that he had gone to be with the Lord and one day we will meet him. Though physically he was dead, as the righteous have hope in his death, so did he. His death was precious in God's sight [Pro. 14:32; Ps. 116:15] All these verses gave us comfort.

Ever since my father's death, the Lord took the place of my father and proved "... a father of the fatherless and a judge of the widows, is God in his heavenly place. [Ps. 68:5]" to be true.

It has been 47 years since my father died. All his five children are doing well, continuing in the faith and serving the Lord in some way. God is faithful. The children of the righteous are never forsaken. All praise to God for what He did in my fathers life and for us.

Visit the Most Important Place - Calvary

2008-03-21T13:09:00.000-04:00

The world knows that Jesus was crucified. It was at Calvary. Do we know the reasons for it? If we truly know the facts and the truth, there will be a change in our values, behavior and the whole outlook on our lives. The world will be a better place.

Believing in Jesus, not only saves us, but also gives us the power to lead a holy life of integrity and honesty. Most people know what is good and bad, but are powerless to live "good". Jesus died on the cross to crush the power of the enemy, the devil, who prompts us to be evil [Gen.3:15]. Jesus on the cross, fulfilled the Messianic prophesies, Satan was defeated, the way to obtain forgiveness of sins and the assurance of eternal life in heaven were promised. The Gospels gives us the true story.

Today when I think of the benefits of Calvary, I praise God for His mercy and grace in saving me. I pray that the Lord should open the eyes of those who do not know the truth and those who know it and reject it for various reasons. I also pray for strength, wisdom and grace for the evangelists who are working under difficult circumstances to publish the good news of forgiveness of sins and salvation.

When the Journey Becomes Difficult

2008-03-20T11:15:00.000-04:00

Life on this earth is a journey. I know my destination. It is to get back to the place I came from. I know I am provided with everything necessary for me to make it joyful, successful, profitable and useful. I do have examples in those who have gone before me, to follow. Yet my journey often becomes the opposite of what it is expected to be. Then I feel like a failure. I know it ought not be so . "Why is it so?", is my question.

As much as the Lord's eyes are upon me to guide me and meet my needs with love, the enemy's eyes are constantly on me to somehow trip me, pull me down, make me fall, deceive, distract and divert my path. The journey becomes combat. The path becomes so dark that only the word of God becomes the torch. Sometimes it becomes so narrow that I feel suffocated, as I squeeze through. No one else could come along with me to comfort or counsel. These are attacks of the enemy to spoil my attitude and later he brings condemnation in my heart to torment me.

Such an attack was on me this morning. Soon the word of God enlightened me and enabled me to defeat the enemy.

This is what I learned: I should know the devices of the enemy [2nd Chrn. 2:11] and be ready to forgive others; I should be confident who is in me and with me; I should have the sword of the spirit ready and know how to use it; [Eph6:12-18] I know God has provided the necessary armor and the weapons to fight the enemy, though shamelessly he comes to attack again and again. If he tried it with Jesus will he leave his followers alone? Jesus defeated him. "He [Jesus] himself suffered when He was tempted, hence He is able to help those who are tempted." [Heb.2:18]

Are there any others who find the journey tough at times? How do you get through?

Incredible, Yet True

2008-03-17T09:58:00.000-04:00

"In that day, the Egyptians and the Assyrians will worship together. In that day Israel will be the third, along with Egypt and Assyria, a blessing on Earth. The Lord almighty will bless them, saying, ' blessed be Egypt my people, Assyria my handy work and Israel my inheritance'"
Isaiah 19:23-25

As I read this, I just could not believe it. These are enemy nations! They did not believe in the God of Israel. Egypt was the nation that enslaved the Israelites for four hundred years! At one time God did not want them to make alliance with the powerful Egypt against Assyria. All three unfriendly nations, "in that day". will be at peace, worshiping the same God. "Every knee shall bow every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord", will come to pass!

The book of Isaiah is full of prophecies of the messiah and the nations. Almost all of them have been fulfilled. The above is a prophesy of the coming kingdom of God that will be established in the future. It is not utopia as some say. Isaiah accurately prophesied in detail about the birth and suffering of the messiah. Many other political prophecies too have come to pass in history. Hence, what he said about the future Kingdom of peace will take place.

God wants everyone to be in that kingdom. Arrogance, pride and an unyielding spirit of rebellion prevent people and nations to acknowledge the Lord of all creation. Whether they believe it or not, He is the loving creator God. So, they are made to humble, not as a punishment, but in love so that the lord could draw nearer to them.

In our own lives too this is true. God makes us fit for His kingdom by a process of breaking and humility.

A great kingdom of peace and prosperity will soon be established. There will be no enmity. Isn't it time for us to shed our differences and start obeying the Prince of peace? If we ask Him He will help us to humble ourselves and forgive others and be at peace among ourselves in our small "worlds".

I decided to pursue after peace with others at any cost!

A Day When Man Shall Look to His Maker With Respect

2008-03-13T16:32:00.000-04:00

My attention was drawn to a verse this morning, which gave me joy as well as pain: "At that day shall a man look to his maker, and his eye shall have respect to the holy one of Israel. They shall not look to the altars, the work of their hands..." [Isa.16:7,8]

Considering the things that are going around these days, without any respect to their creator, I was happy that such a day was coming. But another thought made me sad and anxious, for the rest of the chapter pronounced doom and gloom for those who reject Him. Though this was an oracle against Damascus, it applies to us too. All around me I see people pinning their faith and trust on temporal things only. The commentary said: "No matter how successful the people of Damascus were, God's judgment was sure. Often we depend on trappings of success like expensive cars, past times, clothes, beautiful houses, to give us fulfillment. But God says, we will reap grief and pain, if we have depended on temporal things to give us eternal security. If we don't want the same treatment that Damascus received , we must turn from these allurements and trust God."

I examined myself to see my position and I found things I should adjust in my life. I prayed for my loved ones that God should open their eyes before it is too late. I am fully assured that my God will answer my prayers.

I wondered about the great number, who are taking the "broad way". I came to the conclusion that our God does not try to attract the greatest number of people. Instead He seeks the greatest good of all people. He does not force any one. We who are following the Lord are to pray for them to take the right path.

Division and Subtration Increases the Amount?!

2008-03-12T14:21:00.000-04:00

"What an absurd statement!", I thought at first. It is completely against mathematical principles! I have learned now, that in God's realm, it is proved to be true. In God's economy, a little becomes much, when we give away or share. There are so many true stories to prove this from God's word and from my experience of and others'.

During the time of prophet Elijah, there was a severe famine in Israel [1 Kings 17:7-16]. A poor widow, with an only son, had only a little oil and flour left, which was just enough to make a meal for both of them. For her, it was going to be the last meal for them, before they died of starvation like the others in her village.

Then, the prophet Elijah came; sent by God. He asked her to make a meal for him first! He said "This is what the God of Israel says, 'the jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry, until the day the day the Lord give rain on the land.'" [1Kings17:14]. She, at his bidding, did so. Was she sure that the oil and flour would increase? I don't know. To be hospitable is beautiful, but to this extent is remarkable! The Lord spoke through the prophet, she believed, obeyed and it did happen. It was a miracle!

Faith is the first step between the promise and the assurance. Every miracle begins with an act of obedience.

God could have sent his servant to some wealthy person, who would have been able to feed Elijah comfortably. Or may be he would have thought it wise not to waste, but to preserve for the future, because of the state the country was in! God wanted to bless the widow, who had a heart to obey God till her life lasted, at whatever the cost. Hers was not an act of charity to gain fame.

What I learned is this: Do not be selfish. Seek God and his kingdom first [Mat.6:33]; Whatever you have, is given by God. Give to God His portion [tithe] first, then share with the less fortunate ones whatever you have. Then, the Lord will bless what remains, so that you lack nothing. This has worked well for me.

The Extraordinary is Preferable

2008-03-11T11:35:00.000-04:00

The space expeditions, the explorations to the Poles and so many new inventions, that are speeding daily, make my life [may be yours too] look very ordinary! We become just common place beings, watching in wonder exclaiming: "What an explosion of knowledge!"

A profound thought lifted my spirits: Can all these exploits compare to what God did in the past and is able to do in the present and future?

So many miracles are recorded in the Bible. All wisdom and knowledge comes from God. I recalled what happened when God called Moses to deliver his people from slavery in Egypt: Moses was reluctant. Then God asked him: "What do you have in your hand?" "A staff.", Moses replied. He was a shepherd at that time, though he grew up in the palace earlier. The Lord told him to throw the staff on the ground. When he did, it became a snake and Moses ran from it. Then the Lord told him to reach out and take the snake by the tail. When Moses did it, the snake turned back into a staff in his hand! That ordinary rod he had in his hand became a mighty instrument to to perform mighty miracles, not only to deliver God's people but also to provide for them and to teach and judge the offenders [Ex. 4:2-5].

What you and I have in our hands today, may be ordinary things like: a pen, a musical instrument, a broom, a hammer, a sweet voice or some other little talent. It may look like "nothing but a staff". God takes pleasure in using ordinary things for extraordinary purposes.The ordinary thing in my hand, given to God at his bidding, will perform extraordinary things to bring glory to God. Remember that we serve the same God that Moses served.

If we cooperate with Him by yielding, listening and obeying Him, He can make the ordinary become extraordinary.

God's Tool Box

2008-03-10T12:06:00.000-04:00

I saw people being used of God. People coming to the Lord. I wished to be like them, an instrument, in God's hand. But I didn't feel fit enough till I read 1st Corinthians 1:27-29 which gave me the needed answer.

"God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of the world, the despised things- and the things that are not, to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him."

I realized to my relief that no amount of human knowledge can replace the work on the cross. If Christ could be accessible only to the highly educated and intellectually gifted then the ordinary people like me will be left out. He wants every one to be saved and be used to promote his kingdom.

Humility and Faith are the most essential qualities needed to be used of God. Faith in the words and works of Jesus; Humility to accept Him and be submitted to Him. It calls for total surrender into the loving hands of the one who knows me and my weaknesses.

I remembered a proverb my mother used to say: "In the hands of the mighty, even a blade of grass would be a useful instrument"

I whispered a prayer: "I surrender myself to you Lord"

The Pebble on the Beach

2008-03-07T09:15:00.000-05:00

"David took his staff in his hand, chose five smooth stones from the stream, put them in the pouch of his shepherd's bag ... and approached the Philistine. ... The stone sank into his [Goliath's] forehead and he fell down on the ground."
1 Samuel 17:40-48

One day as I was feeling left out, I thought of the pebbles and wrote the following:

No one hates, no loves; some may see it; but seldom notice;
It is just there where it was placed? or dropped?
May be if someone tripped on it, they would become aware of it's presence!
A little girl may pick it up, say it's cute then drop back. Take it home? For what?
Maybe an ecologist may come by someday to take it to experiment on it?
Till then it will just be there, content, happy to be where it is!
Trapped, tossed around, hoping to be of use some day?
This is how my feeling goes today, just a pebble!

Feelings are transitory. The reading of today is so up lifting. God has His own way and time to cheer us up!

The giant Goliath was challenging and intimidating God's people. Even the king was trembling. David saw Goliath as an uncircumcised Philistine, one who did not honor or obey the one true living God. David, a young lad, had the confidence that God was on his side as he obeyed Him. 'If God be for you who can be against you? You are more than a conqueror', he said to himself and with the smooth stone he killed the defying giant.

It's true that the world is facing so many giants today. We must be ready and willing to be used to destroy them! One thing to remember: the stone became smooth and ready to be used by being tossed around in the raging sea!

Compromise as a Way of Escape?

2008-03-06T09:40:00.000-05:00

Daniel 3:16-18.

King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, conquered Judah and took the wisest men and the beautiful women as captives to his country. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were three young men among them. How ever much the king tried to introduce the religious culture of his land to these men, they stayed steadfast to their convictions.

They refused to bow down to the golden statue of the king. The king gave them one last chance: "If you do not worship the golden image you will be thrown into the blazing furnace, then what god is able to rescue you from my hand?" warned the king. [Dan.3:15]

The young men could have escaped the fire if only they had compromised! Many excuses could have been given: "We will worship now, but we will never become idol worshipers", "This is a foreign land, we should follow the rules of the country", "The king appointed us, we owe it to him", "Others are doing it, we are not hurting anyone" or even "God will forgive us since this is just once so we can escape!" No. They knew the truth. They were fully convinced that the God whom they serve is mighty to save. It is better to be on his side. He is able. Even if He does not save, they were not going to disobey His command and worship any idol. It was a strong determination not to waver from the truth. The answer they gave sets an example to us: "The God whom we serve is able to save us from it and He will rescue us from your hand. But even if does not, we want you to know that we will not serve your gods or bow down to the image of gold you have set up".

The furious king had them thrown into the fire. Amazingly not only were they not burnt, the king saw a fourth man walking in the furnace with these three men! The result: the king decreed that any one who spoke against the god of these young men would be put to death because no other god can save like this. They trusted in their god and defied the king's command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve other gods than Him and He rescued them! The king even promoted them! [Dan.3:28-30]

What a change in the king's attitude! All because the three young boys did not compromise their faith, stood firm trusting the one true God, despite the danger of death. How is our faith? Aren't we often faced with situations where it is easy to say "When in Rome do as the Romans do" and compromise? The steadfastness, fidelity and confidence in God's ability are qualities much needed today.

Make sure that you serve the true living almighty God. Then your furnace will become a miracle which will amaze the skeptics and bring promotions in your lives.

A "Mark" to be Spared!

2008-03-05T09:19:00.000-05:00

"Then the Lord called to the man clothed in linen who had a writing kit and said to him 'Go through out the city and put a mark on the foreheads of those who lament over all the detestable things that are done in it.' When the destruction came they were spared"
Ezekiel 9:4,5

We are familiar with many different marks of identifications these days, mainly to prevent cheating. Thousands of years ago God spoke of marks for a different reason.

What are we doing about the shocking things we see and hear today, in all walks of life, even in religious organizations? Disgraceful behavior in the name of freedom and new philosophies that shake the foundational truth and values which were held in high esteem, cause pain to many. We could ignore, criticize, condemn, talk about it or cry to God to have mercy on them, change them and save them from the consequences.

God is pleased with those who intercede. He will mark them and show His favor to them on the day of judgment. May you and I be marked as an "Interceder"!

The Long Walk to be Sacrificed

2008-03-04T09:35:00.000-05:00

"Carrying His own cross, He [Jesus] went out to the place of skull."
John 19:17

Many executions took place in this hill outside Jerusalem. The Romans used the criminals carrying the cross and walking to the place of execution, as an example to the people.

As Jesus walked along the road, crowds watched Him: The ones he healed, he delivered from the oppression of the devil, raised from the dead, those with whom he wept and comforted and those who shouted "Hosanna!" and welcomed him, would have been there. What would they have felt? What were the thoughts of those who were miraculously fed?

Did the religious leaders, who knew the scriptures well, ever think that the prophecy [Isa. 53:4] was being fulfilled? [Mt. 8:17] Could there have been someone who heard John the baptist saying "Look the lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" [Jn. 1:29]

As Jesus walked, you and I were in His mind. Every laborious step he took, he did with joy. He was bringing freedom to all who believed in His great sacrifice! I am glad we were in His mind!

When the Going Gets Tough

2008-03-03T12:29:00.000-05:00

"If you have raced with men on foot and the have worn you out, how can you compete with horses?"
Jeremiah 12:5

Jeremiah's life was extremely difficult despite his love and obedience to God. When he questioned God about it, the answer was basically: "if you think this is bad, how are you going to cope when it gets really tough?". Not all God's answers are nice and easy to handle! Yet, He is our loving father!

God is interested in forming our character. Hardships and difficulties train us to develop qualities like patience, endurance and faith. When the going gets tough and prayers don't get immediate results, know that God is at work. He stretches us to make us strong!

May we take this as a call to pray for those who are discouraged, failed or fallen. May He reveal himself to those who are far from Him. May his perfect will be done in us.

How does God See us Today?

2008-03-01T14:54:00.000-05:00

It is surprising that Satan went to God's presence [Job 1:6 ,8, 12]!

He did not go to worship God. He went to complain about Job's motives for being true to God! He does the same about you and me too. That is why he is called "the accuser".

God had a good testimony about Job. He said "There is no one on earth like him, he is blameless and upright; A man who fears God and shuns evil." [Job 1:6]. Yet God gave Satan permission to test his stand with God [Job 1:12]. Will God be able to give the same word of commendation about us? Sometimes He may permit Satan to test us too.

If our motives in seeking and worshiping God are pure, He will bring us out triumphantly, like Job. It is God who gives us the grace to be righteous and holy. He is able to keep us faithful till the end.

Many Waters Cannot Quench the Thirst

2008-02-28T09:43:00.000-05:00

"As the deer pants for the water so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with Him."
Psalms 42:1,2

This was king David's longing! Is yours and mine the same? Wealth, popularity, positions and fame are some common cravings of today. These insatiable thirsts drive some to do dishonorable things, resulting in distress and depression. Their actual thirst is for peace and joy. Only God can satisfy it, because He placed that desire.

David compares the desire for God to the thirst of a deer for the vital water in the dry desert. They run seeking for water, panting in the scorching sun. Mirages often deceive them. Yet they go on till they come to a real spring of water. This is how our soul should be seeking for God. He is our "spring of living water". Only He can give us the lasting peace and joy we are seeking in this world.

Have you met Him? "Seek and you shall find"...

When the Actors Leave the Stage...

2008-02-27T09:04:00.000-05:00

"Let me die the death of the righteous and the last end be like theirs."
Numbers 23:10 [ Balaam said referring to Israel]

How often do we give thought to the hour of death? It is the only sure experience that every one has, with out an exception. One day the drama of life will be over. I, one of the actors will have to exit the stage. How I do it and what happens after that, are vital questions to consider.

The death of the righteous will be fearless [Ps.23:4]; precious [Ps116:15]; hopeful [Pr.14:22] and triumphant [Lk.16:22]. If we are sure of our final destination, we will look forward to it! Whom we trust and how we live, decides where we go.

The biblical span of life is seventy or eighty years [Ps. 90:10]. Due to the advancement of medical science and nourishing food, people now live even up to hundred and twenty years! Yet death is sure. Death comes unannounced to the young and old. We've got to be prepared at all times.

The Bible gives a clear picture of life after death. It is called eternity. Two places to be in that eternity: heaven or hell. If our sins are forgiven, washed by the blood of Jesus Christ and we lead a clean and righteous life, we go to heaven, where the holy God is. If we surrender ourselves to Jesus, He will make us fit to live or die and to be with Him.

As we go though the day, let us give some thought to this inevitable event of our lives...

Time Management and Choices

2008-02-26T09:26:00.000-05:00

Jesus said: "I must be about my father's business" [Luke 2:49] "I must do the works of Him that sent me while it is day. The night is coming when no one can work" [John 9:4]

"No time. Busy", is something we often say and hear. "Busy doing what?", is a good question to ask.

Jesus' time on this earth was only thirty three years and we know how much He accomplished! The reason: From his childhood, he knew the purpose of his life. That became his passion. He geared his life towards that goal. He did not fail in his duties and responsibilities towards his earthly family; He had task of training his disciples; Crowds were thronging to him to be healed and hear his teachings. He found time to do all these things because he took time to equip himself with strength from heaven. He took time to fellowship with father God.

Needless to say, He would have set aside many worthless things. His call and purpose was to bring redemption to the lost mankind by his cruel death and glorious resurrection. He wanted to finish it perfectly with out any flaw. He succeeded because He managed His limited time by making the right choices.

We are called to follow Jesus. We are called to be Holy and to be saints. Sure there are other specific fields we are called to be employed in. If we do not forget our main call, it will be easy to avoid unwanted, worthless things that rob our time and purity. We could concentrate on things that will keep us holy, in order to enjoy eternity with Christ who paved the way to heaven.

What a Competition for our Time!

2008-02-25T09:01:00.002-05:00

"You are careful and worried about many things. But one thing is needful: Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her"
Luke 10:41-42

This is what Jesus said to Martha. Limited time and unlimited things to be done! So many things competing to to take our time! The solution? The right choice.

Mary and Martha were hosts of Jesus. Heaps of things to be done. Preparation to be the best host was competing with enjoying the company of Jesus, the guest of honor. Both were essential, profitable and enjoyable, but both could not be done at the same time. Mary made the wise choice to listen to the one who could give her eternal life. Martha, the perfect hostess murmured and complained. She was full of the cares of this passing world! Jesus commended Mary's choice.

We are crowded with several duties: social, cultural, physical, emotional and moral which have to be seen to within the 24 hours of the day and we need to rest too! "Seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness first and all these things shall be added to you" is a good verse to remember when making a choice among these. May God help us to get our priorities right.

A Call to Decide

2008-02-24T10:34:00.001-05:00

"Choose this day whom you will serve"
Joshua 24:15

The challenging words of Joshua compelled the Israelites to make up their minds to serve the Lord God who brought them out of slavery. They had experienced great miracles in the desert, yet they had grumbled and complained against God. They had mingled with other nations and followed their way of worship, yet the Lord brought them to the promised land.

In order to enjoy the full blessing of God they had to make a decision. God is not pleased with compromise. They had to decide whether they would obey the Lord who had proved his faithfulness or the local gods which were only man-made idols. They made the right choice. They decided to serve the holy God and obey him.

In our journey too, a time comes when we have to choose who or what will control us. The is for us to decide. Will it be the almighty faithful God or any other imperfect substitute? So many things want to control us. What we give into, maybe our own limited personality or stubborn self, will become our idol.

Once we make the right choice like the Israelites, we have to reaffirm it every day lest we go astray. May God strengthen us too, on our way!

No Guilt Found!

2008-02-23T10:38:00.000-05:00

"In those days, at that time declares the Lord, search will be made for Israel's guilt, but there will be none and for the sins of Judah but none will be found, for I will forgive the remnant I spare."
Jeremiah 50:20

How good if the Lord could say the above about you and me! It is not that Israel and Judah never sinned. All that they did is recorded in the Bible! However, they humbled themselves before God and they were pardoned. When God forgives, He does not remember any sins committed by anyone!

We, who live on this side of the cross, have the blood of Christ to cleanse us of our sins. How easy for us to get such a good testimony from the Holy God! Jesus said: "For this is My blood of the new testament which is shed for many for the remission of sins." [Mt. 26:28]. Again, there is a promise given: "If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" [1 Jn. 1:9]

Won't it be great to get that clearance certificate saying "No Guilt Found!" on the day when we stand before the King of Kings?

Answers to Prayer

2008-02-22T08:45:00.001-05:00

Jesus was encouraging his disciples to pray before He was crucified:

"And in that day you shall ask me nothing Verily verily I say unto you,what so ever you shall ask the father in my name, he shall give it to you. Hither to you asked nothing in my name: ask, and you shall receive, that your joy may be full."
John 16:23-24

When Jesus himself has given such a promise why should we not boldly come to His presence and pray? God is interested in making us happy. He has given us the authority to use his powerful name in prayer. His name has so much power.

We may wonder why sometimes we do not get an answer to our prayer. God does hear us. What we asked may not be good for us at that time. He always answers. It may be yes, no, or wait. Instead of looking for the answer, if we look to God when we pray,we will not be disappointed.

"Am I devoted to my desire or to God?", is a good question to consider. Your heavenly father knows what you are in need of even before you ask him. The purpose of asking is to know God better and to develop a relationship with him.

Jesus Warned Us!

2008-02-21T09:37:00.001-05:00

John 16 is an amazing chapter revealing God's divine care and concern for His followers. Like a loving responsible parent, Jesus warns his disciples of the things that would happen to them after he was gone.

He knew that there is an enemy waiting to foil every thing for them. [Jn. 16:5-12] He told them that though there would be suffering, the comforter, the holy ghost would be sent. He would guide them into all truth [Jn. 16:13-16]. He encouraged them by saying that the period of sorrow would be followed by joy [Jn. 16:20-22] and He advised them to pray.

Whatever Jesus predicted came to pass. Jesus died on the cross , rose again and is now seated in heaven at the right hand of the father. The Holy spirit was poured down on his followers and is still working with us and among us.

Christians are suffering in various ways since the world's values often oppose God's values. Christians are made to feel like misfits in this world. In some countries Christians are going through real persecution. This is a call for us to pray for one another. Lets pray for strength, courage and comfort.

Jesus said:
"I have told you these things so that you may have peace. In this world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."
John 16:33

A Secure Position

2008-02-20T09:32:00.000-05:00

"I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved [shaken]"
Psalm 16:8

What a strong, positive affirmation! Setting the Lord "before me" is focusing on Him or seeking His face or help, approval or affirmation in every situation.

It is human nature to focus on the problem, the person who caused it or to concentrate on the solution. Believers and unbelievers experience pain, trouble and failure. At times those who do not know God tend to have a sense of hopelessness about life and confusion about their purpose on earth. If God is put first in everything, we will be able to see the situation from His point of view. His values will prevail in our decisions. The conviction of the "holy, impartial, perfect God who always wants the best for me" will keep us from doubts.

We could move ahead confidently with what we know is right because we know that God will keep us from being moved off from His chosen plan or shaken. God's plan is always the best. So remember to set the Lord ALWAYS before you!

God's Divine Presence Brings Success

2008-02-19T10:21:00.001-05:00

"Solomon the son of David established himself firmly over his kingdom for the Lord God was with him."
2 Chronicles1:1

Solomon's kingdom was established despite the severe rivalry not because of his wisdom or might. His success was due to the presence of God in his life! This is true for us too.

In our daily journey we need the presence of God with us to succeed in this age where the Survival of the fittest seems to be the norm.

There are so many promises for us to hold on to to have the divine presence with us: "My presence shall go with you and I will give you rest"[Ex. 33:14] "When you go to battle be not afraid of them for your Lord God is with you which brought you out of Egypt" [De. 20:1] God's presence will give us rest and victory; He is a promise keeping God.

His presence is always there as He said "Lo I am with you even to the end of the world." We should enter into His presence and see that nothing blocks out his presence from us. "Seek and you shall find.", it is said. It is to our benefit to seek the Lord's divine presence by prayer and reading His word. We could block out His presence by, seeking things that displeases the Holy God and disobedience.

The later years of Solomon's reign show the decline of his kingdom and disillusionment in his mind. This shows how easy it is to lose God's blessings. To know what is right and yet, not do it will lead to the loss of the presence of God which will lead to defeat and downfall.

Thus, seek the Lord while He may be found. Call upon Him while He is near. Then, we are sure to succeed!

Hearing from God

2008-02-17T16:38:00.002-05:00

We sometimes wonder if God ever speaks to us! Yes, He does in various ways. The simplest and surest way is from the word of God. If we pray and go to the Bible we will find guidance, comfort, encouragement and strength according to our needs. That is why we should make it a habit to go to God's word daily.

Early in the morning, before our ears get filled with many other voices, if God's word gets into us, it will prevent fear and worries caused by alarming news or dissatisfaction created by various advertisements that come out every second on the news.

The word of God is an antidote to many emotional ailments.

What we hear in the morning could be shared with others so that they too benefit from it as well. Isn't it better than sharing gossip or spreading news that breeds insecurity and alarm?

May the Holy spirit help us in our endeavor to hear from God daily.