TFTW 2016

December 25, 2016

THERE ARE BLESSINGS THAT COME ONLY TO THOSE IN CHRIST.

Rev 2:10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

Rom 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. :2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. :3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: :4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Tit 1:1 Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; :2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began

Gal 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. :17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.;

MAY GOD BLESS                      JEFF & JOAN

12-18-2016

SEEKING A PERFECT LIFE.

2Pe 3:17 Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. :18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever.

Pe 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; :16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

Heb 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. :16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

1Jn 3:1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. :2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. :3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

MAY GOD BLESS                               JEFF & JOAN

12-11-2016

FAITH WILL NOT ALWAYS GET US WHAT WE WANT,

BUT IT WILL GET US WHAT GOD WANTS US TO HAVE.

Rom 1:5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:

Rom 1:6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:

Rom 1:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Gal 3:1 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?

Gal 3:2 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

Gal 3:3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?

Gal 3:4 Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain.

Gal 3:5 He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

MAY GOD BLESS                        JEFF & JOAN

12-4-2016
HAPPY IS THE MAN WHO WALKS SO CLOSE TO GOD

HE LEAVES NO ROOM FOR THE DEVIL TO COME IN BETWEEN.

Eph 6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

as 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

1Pe 5:8 ¶ Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

Re 2:10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

1Pe 3:8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: 9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

MAY GOD BLESS                     JEFF & JOAN

11-27-2016
GOD BLESS AMERICA

We had nothing to do with being born here in this great country but be thankful that we were. Grateful for the freedom we have to worship our God as the Bible directs, and the freedom to live anywhere we choose in this great country,
We are thankful for Jesus that in His redeeming us from our sins through his obedience to God’s Will we have much freedom from the consequences of those sins if we follow His example of obedience.
Ro 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
Rom 6:17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Rom 6:18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
1Co 9:19 ¶ For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.
Ga 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
MAYGOD BLESS                                 JEFF & JOAN

November 20, 2016

Ps 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

          The Psalmist David really loved God and His blessings. We all must be thankful for all the spiritual blessings as well as the physical blessings. Make it a daily occurrence in your prayers to thank God for your life and opportunities to serve Him and receive the wonderful gift of eternal life.

Ps 30:12 To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.

Ps 75:1 ¶ > Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks, unto thee do we give thanks: for that thy name is near thy wondrous works declare.

Ps 106:1 ¶ Praise ye the LORD. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

Ps 119:62 ¶ At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee because of thy righteous judgments.

Col 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

Re 11:17 Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.

MAY GOD BLESS                           JEFF & JOAN

November 13, 2016

BAD HABITS ARE LIKE A COMFORTABLE BED--

EASY TO GET INTO, BUT HARD TO GET OUT OF.

COMFORTABLE—Satisfied doing what I want to do, being worldly.

Jas 1:14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

Ps 22:26 The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the LORD that seek him: your heart shall live for ever.

GET OUT OF BED--WE FIND IT HARD TO REVERSE THE TENDENCY TO LIVE WORLDLY AND TO HAVE TO FACE THE CONSEQUENCES.

Psa 69:22 Let their table become a snare before them: and that which should have been for their welfare, let it become a trap.

Psa 69:23 Let their eyes be darkened, that they see not; and make their loins continually to shake.

Pr 18:7 A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.

MAY GOD BLESS                           JEFF & JOAN

November 06, 2016

“WE NEED EACH OTHER”

Heb 10:24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

          Any way you say it, it is a strong statement.

To provoke is to strongly agitate. To spur implies the giving of mild pain in order to produce an appropriate action. Most Americans do not like to be provoked, or spurred. We do not want others digging their heels into our ribs. The Hebrew writer is not concerned with what we want but with what we need.

          We ought to study and pray and love and serve without being driven to it. But being weak humans we often find it difficult to stay on track. Part of the reason for the existence of the Church is to keep us at our task. This is done gently, if possible---with spurs if necessary.

          How we react to the spurs of our brothers is up to us. Some take offense, some accept it, some appreciate it, some invite and encourage others to spur them on. If you want to grow in the Lord invite some one to help by being prayer partners, or study with each other.

          The concept is: “WE NEED EACH OTHER”

MAY GOD BLESS                       JEFF & JOAN

October 30, 2016

LET ALL YOUR WORDS BE KIND, AND YOU WILL HEAR KIND ECHOES.

Joshua sent out spies, Rahab, with kindness, hid them, asking for kindness in return. And she was protected when the walls fell.

Jos 2:11 And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath. 12 Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the LORD, since I have shewed you kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto my father's house, and give me a true token: 13 And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death.

Es 2:9 And the maiden (Esther) pleased him (the King), and she obtained kindness of him; and he speedily gave her her things for purification, with such things as belonged to her, and seven maidens, which were meet to be given her, out of the king's house: and he preferred her and her maids unto the best place of the house of the women.

The kindness to others most often brings kindness back from them.

MAY GOD BLESS                       JEFF & JOAN

October 23, 2016

THE SELF-SUFFICIENT DO NOT PRAY; THE SELF-SATISFIED WILL NOT PRAY; THE SELF-RIGHTEOUS CANNOT PRAY. NO MAN IS GREATER THAN HIS PRAYER LIFE.

2Co 3:5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;

Mic 6:8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?

Pr 15:29 ¶ The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

Mt 21:22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

1Th 5:17 Pray without ceasing.

Ac 6:4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

Ro 12:12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

Col 4:2 ¶ Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;

MAY GOD BLESS                      JEFF & JOAN

September 25, 2016

ARE YOU READY FOR THE BIBLE TO TELL YOU WHAT IS RIGHT?

We understand that the Bible is the standard for what is right. It is imperative that we turn to Holy Scripture for the proper instuctions. Our behavior in every part of our lives must be based upon biblical guidance. One is reminded of David’s attitude and Paul’s attitude.

Psa 119:128 Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way. :

Rom 7:24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? 25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

Tit 3:14 And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.

Rom 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:

MAY GOD BLESS                                       JEFF & JOAN

September 17, 2016

DO YOU REALLY WANT TO DO RIGHT?

In every aspect of your life, do you really want to do what is right? What is your standard and goal as a spouse? As a parent? As a child? As a boss? As an employee? As a neighbor? As a citizen?

Boss/Employee
Eph 6:5 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ: 6 Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart 7 With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men:
Child/Parents
*Pr 22:6 ¶ Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
*Col 3:20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.
Spouse
*1Co 7:3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. 4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body but the wife.
Citizen
*1Ti 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
*1Ti 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
1Ti 2:2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
Heb 12:1 ¶ Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,      (By doing what is right)

MAY GOD BLESS,                         JEFF & JOAN

September 11, 2016

IF ANY LACK WISDOM, LET HIM ASK OF GOD. . .

Jas 1:4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

Jas 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

          Many suggest that this promise relates to understanding only, but it appears to be more general than that. This is a wonderful promise, that God is willing to give us wisdom to evaluate information and to discern His will and direction, if we but ask for it in faith, nothing wavering.

          It would appear that the Lord would grant us wisdom in any situation.

1Jn 5:14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:

1Jn 5:15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

          When we consider our wisdom as compared with the Lord’s, there is really no situation in which we do not lack wisdom. Therefore in every situation, w need to ask for it “in faith, nothing wavering”.

MAY GOD BLESS                       JEFF & JOAN

September 04, 2016

THERE IS ONE RELATIONSHIP THAT IS INSEPARABLE.

            Far too many relationships in today’s world are uncertain. Disunity is found in marriages, churches and international alliances. Yet there’s one relationship that is sure and permanent.
      The Lord designed people for intimate fellowship with Him. His love toward each of us is evident throughout the Bible. In fact, there is nothing tangible, intangible, past present, or future that can separate believers from the Father’s love.
John 10:14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
Here we find a comparison between Jesus and a good shepherd—a man whose ultimate task is providing for and protecting the flock. Christ’s character is one of passionate care for His people.
John 4;16 clearly states,”God is Love”. If we believe the Bible, then we cannot deny this fact about His nature.
      We also see evidence of divine love through the Lord’s gifts and actions. For example, He created us in His image (Gen 1:26) He sent His only Son to die in our place, and He forgives us of our sin debt.
1Co 15:3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
Joh 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Pr 14:26 ¶ In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.
      In these verses Christ calls us His friends—and what’s more, when we trust in Jesus, God adopts us and considers us His children.
Rom 8:15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
      He even blesses us with an Intercessor and Helper—the Holy Spirit.
Ro 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
Joh 14:26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
            The Word is clear; God loves us passionately, we indeed need to believe Him, Love Him and obey His Will to receive His gifts.
MAY GOD BLESS                             JEFF & JOAN

  August 28, 2016

ARE YOU READY FOR THE BIBLE TO TELL YOU WHAT IS RIGHT.

We recognize that the Bible is the standard for what is right. It is imperative that we turn to the Holy scripture for the proper instructions. Our behavior in every part of our lives must be based upon biblical guidance. One is reminded of David’s attitude reflected in Psalms.
Psa 119:128 Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.
Psa 119:11 ¶ Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
Psa 119:16 I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.
Psa 119:17 ¶ GIMEL. Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word.
            Good counsel does no good if it is not heeded. Procrastination will damage any worthwhile endeavor. For example, marriages grow weaker by the minute if good principles of strength are ignored or delayed. The Bible plainly states that it is a sin to know to do good and not do it.
Jas 4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
Procrastination is especially deadly when it comes to spiritual matters
2Co 6:1 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.
2Co 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
MAY GOD BLESS                                     JEFF & JOAN

August 21, 2016

DOES JESUS LIVE AT YOUR HOUSE?

Listen to this story and think about it—what would your answer be.
The continued knock brought the mother to the door. A child stood there with a Bible in his hand. Without a word of introduction he asked, “Does Jesus live here?”
The woman, although a member of the church, was so taken aback by the unexpected question that she did not answer. She didn’t even remember what he said next, but watched him slowly walk away. All day the question kept going through her mind.
That evening when her husband came home she told him about it
He laughed and said, “Why didn’t you show him the church directory with our name in it.
You could have told him that we nearly always send our children to Bible class and go sometimes ourselves. Why didn’t you remind him we give occasionally to the church, and look upon ourselves as a respected Christian family.”
“Yes” he said, “that is all true, and I could have told him all that. But he didn’t ask me the things you mentioned. He asked me if Jesus lives here and I have been wondering all day if He does?”

We see this family is lacking the knowledge of truly worshiping Christ, all these physical things done whenever we want to appears only to be for show and not a true intent to put Christ first in their lives. God is a jealous God who created us and demands that we worship him.
Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
Jos 24:15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.
MAY GOD BLESS                           JEFF & JOAN

August 14, 2016

“GOD IS SO GOOD”

Act 14:17 Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.

Mat 5:45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

1Jn 5:10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. 11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.

John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

Rom 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

Act 17:25 Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;

1Timothy 4:10 For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.

2Co 5:14 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:
2Co 5:15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

Rev 2:10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.
MAY GOD BLESS                                           JEFF & JOAN

August 07, 2016

Prov 3:1

MY SON FORGET NOT MY LAW; BUT LET THINE HEART KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS

Listen to the lord’s instructions to Solomon, who became the wisest man the earth has ever known, gain knowledge on how to direct your own life to be fruitful and abundant.

Pro 3:2 For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. 3 Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: 4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. 5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.

Pro 3:11 My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: 12 For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. 13 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.

Joh 10:9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.

Jesus words bring further understanding:

Joh 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

MAY GOD BLESS                        JEFF & JOAN

JULY 31, 2016
THINGS TO BRING TO A WORSHIP SERVICE.

CLEAN HANDS AND PURE HEARTS.
      Is there guilt on your hands and in your heart? Is there some unresolved, unsettled difference with someone? Have you gone to that person to try to bring about a resolution? How could you think your worship is acceptable if you don’t bring “clean hands and pure heart?
Psa 24:3 Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place?
Psa 24:4  He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.
Psa 24:5 He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
A HEART FULL OF JOY.
      Paul said, “Rejoice, and aging I say rejoice.” It is one thing to Parrot something but another thing to put that truth into action—that is why Paul sang songs in the night even while in prison. He knew hs was right with God in spite of all the hurt he had caused. He was saved by the blood of the lamb.
Ps 32:11 Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.
LIPS THAT SPEAK HIS WONDERFUL WORKS.
      There is enough criticism, cynicism, and hypocrisy in this world without hope? You were lost, now you are saved, you were blind, but now you see! The old message has not changed in spite of a changing world.
Psa 51:12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.
Psa 51:13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
Psa 51:14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.
Psa 51:15  O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
      When you come to worship be sure to bring clean hands, a pure heart full of joy and lips that speak of His wonderful deeds! Only than will you truly enjoy the blessings of worship!
MAY GOD BLESS                              JEFF & JOAN

JULY 24, 2016

DON’T LET THE WORLD CHANGE YOUR SMILE;
LET YOUR SMILE CHANGE THE WORLD.

We need to be an example of happiness gained in doing God’s Will in living a Christian life.
JOHN 13:17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them
PSALM 32:11 Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.
PSALM 144:15 Happy is that people, that is in such a case: yea, happy is that people, whose God is the LORD.
PROVERBS 12:20 ¶ Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.
JOHN 17:13 And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.
ACTS 2:28 Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
GALATIONS 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
PROVERBS 15:23 ¶ A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!
1Pe 4:14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
MAY GOD BLESS                                 JEFF & JOAN

July 17, 2016

IF YOU WANT TO SUCCEED, MAKE YOURSELF USEFUL.

On any job or in any circumstance we must make ourself aware of the goals and needs to make a success of the project and do all in our power to do useful things and make ourselves indispensable to our boss or those in charge. Especially doing our best in things God’ word advises us to do, then with his help we will succeed. See how God advised David.
*Proverbs 3:1 My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:
Pro 3:2 For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.
Pro 3:3 Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart:
Pro 3:4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.
Pro 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Pro 3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Consider Joseph of the Old Testament how he understood that to do his best in working for God when he worked for others, put God on his side and gave success in all he was directed to do.
*Heb 13:20 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
Heb 13:21 Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
MAY GOD BLESS                                JEFF & JOAN

July 10, 2016

A CONSCIENCE IS A SAFE GUIDE ONLY WHEN GOD IS THE GUIDE OF YOUR CONSCIENCE.

*2Co 1:12 ¶ For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.
*2Co 4:2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
*Heb 13:18 ¶ Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.
*1Pe 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
1Pe 3:16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.
1Pe 3:17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
1Pe 3:18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:
1Pe 3:19 By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;
1Pe 3:20 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.
1Pe 3:21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
1Pe 3:22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.
MAY GOD BLESS                                            JEFF & JOAN

July 03, 2016

But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.
Romans 6:33

With great thanksgiving we appreciate the freedom we receive from the burden of sin when we learn and believe in God and His son Jesus Christ and obey his instructions in how to live our lives.
*Ro 6:18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
Ro 6:20 For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.
Ro 6:22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.
*Ro 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
*1Co 9:19 ¶ For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.

Consider the birds in captivity that long to be free being released into the freedom to live as they are programed to do. God has plans for our lives so we must clear our lives of sin and be free to learn His will for our lives as a Christian and do what we are programed to do.
MAY GOD BLESS                                                    JEFF & JOAN

June 26, 2016

IF YOU LIVE WRONG, YOU CAN’T DIE RIGHT.

      As Christians we must endeavor to live righteously, because living wrong brings sad consequences.
*Job 8:2 How long wilt thou speak these things? and how long shall the words of thy mouth be like a strong wind?
Job 8:3 Doth God pervert judgment? or doth the Almighty pervert justice?
Job 8:4 If thy children have sinned against him, and he have cast them away for their transgression;
Job 8:5 If thou wouldest seek unto God betimes, and make thy supplication to the Almighty;
Job 8:6 If thou wert pure and upright; surely now he would awake for thee, and make the habitation of thy righteousness prosperous..
*Eze 33:13 When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it.
Eze 33:14 Again, when I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; if he turn from his sin, and do that which is lawful and right;
*Luk 10:25 And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?
Luk 10:26 He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?
Luk 10:27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.
Luk 10:28 And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.
MAY GOD BLESS                                 JEFF & JOAN

June 18, 2016
WHO IS A PREACHER?

A SERVANT OF GOD:
      Ti 2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
2Ti 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
2Ti 2:26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will
Evangelist or Teacher:.
Eph 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
Eph 4:12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
EVANGELIST:
Act 21:8 And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.
MINISTER:
2Pe 4:11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
PREACHER:
Gal 4:12 Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all.
Gal 4:13 Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first
PREACHER:
      Rom 1:14 I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.
Rom 1:15 So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.
MAY GOD BLESS                                       JEFF & JOAN

June 12, 2016

BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO CAN GIVE WITHOUT REMEMBERING,
AND RECEIVE WITHOUT FORGETTING.

Co 9:6 But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.

2Co 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

2Co 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

2Co 9:9 (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.

2Co 9:10 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)

2Co 9:11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.

Col 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

MAY GOD BLESS                                   JEFF & JOAN

June 05- 2016

PREPARE AND PREVENT RATHER THAN REPAIR AND REPENT

Pray that God will hear your sincere cry for help and guidance in preparing your life for the hope of eternal life. David, in the book of Psalms, shows his humble pleading to God for help, and his continued trust in Him. Know that God loves you when you put Him first in your life.

Actions needed in our preparation to remain in a relationship with God.
Ps 69:13 ¶ But as for me, my prayer is unto thee, O LORD, in an acceptable time: O God, in the multitude of thy mercy hear me, in the truth of thy salvation.
1Th 4:11 And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;
2Ti 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Ro 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Ac 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus

      By sincerely seeking God’s help in your life, listening and hearing His word, gaining understanding. Living righteously and trusting in His response to your obedience. Know that He is there for you.
Ps 4:3 But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.
Pr 11:30 ¶ The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.
MAY GOD BLESS                                            JEFF & JOAN

May 29, 2016

LEAVE THE PAST TO THE MERCY OF GOD,
THE PRESENT TO THE LOVE OF GOD,
THE FUTURE TO THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD.

PAST
Ro 3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God
Ps 52:8 But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God: I trust in the mercy of God for ever and ever.
Ps 86:15 But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.
PRESENT
Luk 18:29 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake,
Luk 18:30 Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.
Rom 5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
Rom 5:6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
FUTURE
1Ti 6:19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
Heb 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
MAY GOD BLESS                                    JEFF & JOAN

May 22, 2016

HEREBY WE DO KNOW THAT WE KNOW HIM, IS WE KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS. (1 John 2:3)

It is vital for every true believer to know that he is saved and has eternal life.

1Jn 5:13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. 1Jn 5:14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: 1Jn 5:15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

Heb 10:26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, Heb 10:27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

It is deadly dangerous for a person merely to think he or she is saved when there is no evidence of a changed life. Such scriptures as our Hebrews verses give sober warning that professing Christians have no basis for any assurance of salvation if they do not obey his words.

1Jn 2:3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.

Co 13:5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?

MAY GOD BLESS                                    JEFF & JOAN

May 15, 2016

ARE YOU EXCITED ABOUT CHRISTIANITY? REMEMBER
YOU CAN’T GET EXCITED OVER SOMETHING YOU DON’T HAVE!

*In the book of Acts we have 8 examples of conversions to Christianity stressing the steps to salvation.
Heb 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Romans 10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
Ac 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
*We all have a purpose in this world, as Christians we have opportunities presented to us and it depends on our choices to serve God and others in obedience to His Will, that allows us the joy and peace that comes from being a true Christian.
*Jesus said:
John 12:26 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 honour.
*Take the opportunities to serve and pray for others.
Romans 1:9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;
Ga 5:13 ¶ For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

1Ti 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
MAY GOD BLESS                            JEFF & JOAN

May 08, 2016

AS SURE AS EVER GOD PUTS HIS CHILDREN IN THE FURNACE.
HE WILL BE THERE WITH THEM.

Isa 48:9 For my name's sake will I defer mine anger, and for my praise will I refrain for thee, that I cut thee not off.
Isa 48:10 Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.

Pro 17:3 The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts.

Remember the story of Daniel being thrown in the Lion’s den for disobeying a trick commandment signed by the King.
Dan 6:19 Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions.
Dan 6:20 And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?
Dan 6:21 Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever.
Dan 6:22 My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt.
Heb 8:8 For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah:
Heb 8:9 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.
Heb 8:10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people
MAY GOS BLESS                               JEFF & JOAN:

May 01, 2016

GOD’S GRACE BRINGS SALVATION

Grace is the unearned. Unmerited favor and good will of God. Extended to all who will accept the gift. Grace and Salvation are inseparable.

Tit 2:11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,
GIVEN BY GOD
om 15:15 Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God,
THROUGH JESUS CHRIST
Eph 4:7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
CHRIST DIED TO SAVE US
Rom 5:18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.
2Co 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
AVAILABLE TO ALL
2Co 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:
IT’S POSSIBLE TO FALL FROM GRACE.
Gal 5:4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
MAY GOD BLESS                           JEFF & JOAN

April 24, 2016

IN PRAYER TO GOD AT THE BEGINNING OF THE DAY

TELL HIM YOUR PROBLEMS, HE WILL HELP TO EASE YOUR LOAD.

Mat 21:21 Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done.
Mat 21:22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.
Psa 4:1 A Psalm of David. Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer.
Psa 5:3 My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.
Ps 143:1 ¶ <<A Psalm of David.>> Hear my prayer, O LORD, give ear to my supplications: in thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness.
Php 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

    It is wise to plan a time of morning meditation and prayer, thanking God for his blessings and asking for His mercy and guidance.
MAY GOD BLESS                                       JEFF & JOAN

April 17, 2016

DON’T EVER FORGET TO BE THANFUL FOR EVERY BLESSING YOU FIND ON YOUR WAY.

Daniel gave thanks to God.

*Daniel 2:19 Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven.
Dan 2:20 Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his:
Dan 2:21 And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:
Dan 2:22 He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.
Dan 2:23 I thank thee, and praise thee, O thou God of my fathers, who hast given me wisdom and might, and hast made known unto me now what we desired of thee: for thou hast now made known unto us the king's matter.

*Col 1:9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
Col 1:10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
Col 1:11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
Col 1:12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:
Col 1:13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:

2Co 2:14 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.
MAY GOD BLESS                                       JEFF & JOAN

April 10, 2016

A FORGIVING SPIRIT OPENS THE WAY TO BETTER THINGS.

Paul advises the Corinthian brethren how to help and encourage others.

2Co 2:7 So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.   2Co 2:8 Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him. Co 2:9 For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.   2Co 2:10 To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ;

Jesus explains to those listening to Him, good attitudes.
Luk 6:35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.
Luk 6:36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
Luk 6:37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:

MAY GOD BLESS                           JEFF & JOAN

April 03, 2016

HUMILITY MUST REIGN IN OUR PRAYERS

Prayer to God is the backbone of our Christian lives with Jesus Christ our arbitrator presenting our case. Jesus tells us this in:

Matt 10: 32 "Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. 33 "But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.

Phil 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

James 5:15 And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. 16 Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

1 Peter 5: 5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for "God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble." 6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, 7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

MAY GOD BLESS                         JEFF & JOAN

March 27, 2016

WHEN A PERSONS TURNS LOOSE AND DRIFTS WITH THE CURRENT,

HE SOON GETS INTO DEEP WATER.

Jesus warns that we need to not sleep but to watch.

Mark 13: 33 Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is. 34 For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. 35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: 36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. 37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

Luke 21: 36 Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

1 Corinthians 16: 13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.

Gal 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. 2 Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. 3 For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. 4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. 5 For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.

MAY GOD BLESS                             JEFF & JOAN

March 20, 2016

REAL TRUST IN GOD WILL REVEAL ITSELF IN OUR LIVES IN A NUMBER OF WAYS.

·        IN GOD WE TRUST FOR THE NECESSITIES OF LIFE. God knows our needs and He will provide. We can rely on His providence. Real trust in God is the cure for anxiety.
Matt 6: 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

·        IN GOD WE TRUST FOR COMFORT IN TIME OF SORROW. Our God is the God of all comfort. He is with us in our grief and disappointments. He provides a a measure of comfort which is unavailable anywhere else.
1 Peter 5: 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
·        IN GOD WE TRUST FOR THE FUTURE. Whatever the future holds, God is there and we are in His Hand; He has promised glorious victory and eternal reward to those who are faithful to Him. Because we can trust His promises, we can face the future without fear
·        Hebrews 13: 5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
·        6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

GOD DOES NOT EXPECT US TO UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING HE DOES, BUT HE DOES EXPECT US TO TRUST HIM IN EVERYTHING THAT HE DOES.

            MAY GOD BLESS                          JEFF & JOAN

March 13, 2016

REAL TRUST IN GOD WILL REVEAL ITSELF IN OUR LIVES IN A NUMBER OF WAYS

*In God we trust for the “Necessities of Life”. Matt 6: 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. God knows our needs and He will provide. We can rely on His providence. Real Trust in God is the cure for anxiety.

*In God we trust for “comfort in time of sorrow” I Peter 5: 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.    Our God is the God of all comfort. He is with us in our grief and disappointments. He provides a measure of comfort which is unavailable anywhere else.

*In God we Trust for the Future. Hebrews 13: 5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.   Because we can trust His promises, we can face the future without fear.

God does not expect us to understand everything, He does, but He does expect us to trust Him in everything that He does.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;

In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil.

He will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones.

Proverbs 3:5-8

MAY GOD BLESS                                  JEFF & JOAN

March 06, 2016

THE HARDEST LESSONS YOU WILL EVER LEARN ARE THOSE YOU THINK YOU ALREADY KNOW.

Psalm 119: 70 Their heart is as fat as grease; but I (David) delight in thy law. 71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes. 72 The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver. 73 JOD. Thy hands have made me and fashioned me: give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments. 74 They that fear thee will be glad when they see me; because I have hoped in thy word. 75 I know, O LORD, that thy judgments are right, and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me. 76 Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to thy word unto thy servant. 77 Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live: for thy law is my delight.

Romans 12: 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. 3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

Jesus told His listeners how to learn: Luke 11: 9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

MAY GOD BLESS                    JEFF & JOAN

February 28, 2016

DOING THE WILL OF GOD LEAVES ME NO TIME FOR DISPUTING ABOUT HIS PLANS.

Eph 6:5 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; 6 Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; 7 With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men:

Mark 3:34 And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! 35 For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.

Rom 8: 25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. 26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

MAY GOD BLESS                                                    JEFF & JOAN

February 21, 2016

WHEN GOD PUTS A TEAR IN YOUR EYE IT'S BECAUSE HE WANTS TO PUT A RAINBOW IN YOUR HEART.

Genesis 9: 12 And God said, This is the token of the covenant which I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: 13 I do set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth. 14 And it shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shall be seen in the cloud: 15 And I will remember my covenant, which is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh. 16 And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth. 17 And God said unto Noah, This is the token of the covenant, which I have established between me and all flesh that is upon the earth.

Acts 2: 36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. 37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.

God keeps His promise not to destroy mankind because of disobedience but to send His Son, Jesus, with a plan for the saving of our souls.

MAY GOD BLESS                             JEFF & JOAN

February 14, 2016

Keep your ideals high enough to inspire you, and low enough to encourage you.

Paul wrote to the church in Rome as they inspired him and encouraged him. Rom 1: 7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. 8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. 9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;

Paul issued words to encourage the blessings of suffering for Christ. 2 Cor 7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. 8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.    2 Tim 2: 24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, 25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;        Let us all strive to become Christ-like in our thinking, desires and actions, putting Him first in our lives. Encouraging others and being encouraged.

MAY GOD BLESS                        JEFF & JOAN

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK—February 07, 2016

But exhort one another daily, while it is called today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. (Hebrews 3:13)

          What is that needed element which causes a person to put forth his very best effort? The thing needed is the ingredient every person must have to live a faithful Christian life and gain the great reward “ENCOURAGEMENT”.

          Through sincere concern we are to call to others, to admonish, exhort, to urge one to pursue some course of conduct as to look toward the future. The mission of the church is to save souls. Our obligation is to lost souls: that is, those who have never heard the soul saving message and to those who have heard, obeyed, but have wandered away. A third category which deserves our attention are those who are saved, “keeping the saved” is accomplished in part by encouragement. Seeking to keep every child from dangerously swerving from the path of righteousness.

Encouragement can be given by simply saying “Thanks for a job well done”, or “I think that what you are doing is wonderful”, or “You have been a great encouragement to me”. And best “I love you and appreciate so much all you are doing”. This means that we come together. Heb 10: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

          Stay the course and exhort or encourage others to stay the course. Let’s help to keep the saved, saved.

MAY GOD BLESS                         JEFF & JOAN

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK—January 31, 2016

WHEN A PERSONS TURNS LOOSE AND DRIFTS WITH THE CURRENT,

HE SOON GETS INTO DEEP WATER.

Jesus warns that we need to not sleep but to watch.

Mark 13: 33 Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is. 34 For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. 35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: 36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. 37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

Luke 21: 36 Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

1 Corinthians 16: 13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.

Gal 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. 2 Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. 3 For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. 4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. 5 For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.

MAY GOD BLESS                             JEFF & JOAN

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK—January 24, 2016

UNTO THEE OH GOD DO WE GIVE THANKS: FOR THAT THY NAME IS NEAR THY WONDROUS WORKS DECLARE. (Psalms 75:1)

The alarm rings—Thank you Lord I can hear--many are deaf.

The light shines in my eyes—Thank you Lord I can see—many are blind.

Got to get up—Thank you Lord I have strength to rise—many are bedridden.

Morning hours are hectic, getting all off to work and school—Thank you Lord for my family, there are many who are lonely.

Even though the routine of my job is monotonous—Thank you Lord many have no jobs.

The sink full of dirty dishes—Thank You Lord we have plenty to eat, there are those who are going hungry.

A pile of dirty laundry which means we have plenty of clothes to wear—Thank you Lord, many do not have enough clothing.

A dirty tub and lavatory, Thank you Lord for the convenience of a bathroom, some are homeless and only have the outdoors

The tall grass that needs mowing, Thank you Lord, we all enjoy the yard.

Screen door slamming, Thank you Lord, my children are healthy and can run and play.

Lord, the presence of all these chores says that you have blessed my family greatly and we will do them gratefully and cheerfully.

MAY GOD BLESS                             JEFF & JOAN

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK—January 17, 2016

A CONSCIENCE IS A SAFE GUIDE ONLY WHEN GOD IS THE GUIDE OF THE CONSCIENCE.

            Paul, being accused of being pestilent and a mover of sedition among the Jews. He spoke to the Judge and gives an example of his good conscience.

Acts 24: 14 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets: 15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust. 16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.

Romans 9:1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,

2 Corinthians 4; 4:1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; 2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.

1 Tim 1; 4 Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do. 5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:

2 Timothy 1: 2 To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 3 I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day;

MAY GOD BLESS                            JEFF & JOAN

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK—January 10, 2016

THE GOOD MAN, LIKE A BOUNCING BALL, SPRINGS EVER UPWARD FROM A FALL!

            Peter was a man who often spoke or acted before he thought, and would often get himself in trouble. When seeing Jesus walking on the water he wanted to try but when things got rough his faith failed him and he had to call for help. But he learned a good lesson about faith from Jesus. (Matt 14:28-31)

            Jesus disciples had difficulties understanding why Jesus must go, they still thought of Him becoming a physical ruler, When the soldiers came to arrest Jesus they tried to defend Him with a sword. Jesus had to explain to them of their error and they had to gain understanding and grow in strength and understanding of a Spiritual Kingdom vs a Physical Kingdom.

Matt 26: 50 And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him. 51 And, behold, one of them which were with Jesus stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and struck a servant of the high priest's, and smote off his ear. 52 Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. 53 Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? 54 But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?

Matt 26: 33 Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended. 34 Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.   When that very thing happened, vs75 And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly. He learned another lesson and with the understanding that occurred with each fall his courage and strength led him to become a very important Apostle in the New Testament Church. Try to understand the lesson to be learned each time you fall. His grace and forgiveness is always there to help you grow in the faith.

MAY GOD BLESS                            JEFF & JOAN

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK—January 03, 2016

LIFE NEED NOT BE EASY TO BE JOYFUL. JOY IS NOT THE ABSENCE OF TROUBLE BUT THE PRESENCE OF CHRIST

Luke 10:17 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. 18 And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. 19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. 20 Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.

JESUS ENLIGHTENED HIS DISCIPLES ABOUT THE UPCOMING SORROW AND JOY.

John 16: 19 Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and said unto them, Do ye inquire among yourselves of that I said, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me? 20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. 21 A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. 22 And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you. 23 And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you. 24 Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. 25 These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall show you plainly of the Father. 26 At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: 27 For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God. 28 I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.

MAY GOD BLESS                              JEFF & JOAN