God has given us His word to encourage and help us.

Scripture also enables us to encourage and be a blessing to others.

 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV

I have listed a few of the many verses of encouragement in the Bible. Copy or print the verses and use them to fill your mind with God honoring thoughts. These verses can be used to make an encouragement vessel for daily inspiration and family togetherness.

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Matthew 28:20 KJV

Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; you will cry for help, and He will say: Here am I. “If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk, and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.
Isaiah 58:9-10 NIV

Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.
Psalm 31:24 KJV

Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth
Colossians 3:2 KJV

Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.
Proverbs 16:24 ESV

“The LORD will fight for you while you keep silent.”
Exodus 14:14 NASB

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.
John 14:26 KJV

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV

Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”
Nehemiah 8:10 NIV

The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love, He will joy over thee with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17 KJV

Seek God with all your heart. Let His words fill your heart and mind. As you are filled with Christ, you can in return minister and bless others.

Do you ever skip over information or not finish reading instructions because you think you know what you’re doing?

Skipping or missing important information can cause us problems and frustration.

Do you automatically think when someone says “I’m expecting” they are expecting a child? That may not necessarily be the truth.

Read what I posted on my personal Facebook page:

We are EXPECTING! !!!! I know, I know pretty crazy isn’t it?? I really don’t want to believe it myself. I wasn’t going to put it on here, because it will be obvious soon enough, but thought I needed to make it official. So now you know, its official. We are EXPECTING another hot day tomorrow!! Wait! What did you think I meant?? LOL! ** Re-post if you have a sense of humor-like me!! **

I received comments telling me they had believed I was expecting a child. If they had not finished reading, they would not have known I was expecting another hot day.

Expect means something is likely to happen.

Do you believe in God’s plan for your life and expect Him to take care of you?

Expect God to meet ALL your needs and bless you.

We say “I believe in God”, but do we truly give Him our all and trust His plan for our life? When things aren’t going like we think they should or our prayers are not being answered fast enough, we get impatient and try to do things our way.

Expecting God to work in your life needs to go from a head knowledge to a heart knowledge.

God knows everything. His plan is perfect. Trust fully in Him, follow His commands, and expect Him to provide for you.

My Facebook post continued talking about how I was expecting. It was not until near the end you found out what I was expecting.

It’s important to expect God to work in your life, but you must continue reading. God cannot fully use you, if you have sin contaminating your life or are not following His commands. Ask forgiveness for sin and get your life right with God. Read His instruction book, The Bible and talk to Him in prayer.

“Do what is right and good in the Lord’s sight, so that it may go well with you.”
Deuteronomy 6:18 (NIV)

Continually spending time with God in prayer and reading His Word enables you to see God’s plan and know what to expect from Him. Daily meditate on His Word and do actions to make God real in your life.

When your life is right with God, you can expect God to do great things!

What can you expect from God?

Expect God to come again, encourage, be in control, guide your life, heal, bring hope, love, show mercy, keep His promises, be powerful, protect, provide, be with you always and more.

God is…

• A Defender

“The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.”
Exodus 14:14 (KJV)

• A Listener

“O Lord, You have heard the desire and the longing of the humble and oppressed; You will prepare and strengthen and direct their hearts, You will cause Your ear to hear.”
Psalm 10:17 (AMP)

• Faithful

“Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commandments.”
Deuteronomy 7:9 (NIV)

Expect God to do great things in your life by having a heart for God!

I want to help you! Sign up below for my encouragement newsletter and I will send you my “Have A Heart For God” Ebook and Audio for free. It is a 30 day guide that enables you to grow in the Lord by giving you a daily verse to meditate on and a simple action for making God real in your life. Get your ebook and audio now!

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Here are three recipes you can make for your father and each has a twist to honor your Heavenly Father.

Double Chocolate Peanutty Shake

“Shake” off worldly influences that try to discourage you and draw you away from God. Stay focused on God and His blessings.

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Hebrews 12:2 NIV

Yogurt Pudding Freeze

“Pudding” God’s Word in your heart is honoring. Put scripture around you so you will see it frequently and it will make an impression on your heart. Memorize the Bible. It is an honor to our Heavenly Father, when we choose to fill our minds with His words.

“How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”

Psalm 119:9-11 NIV

Strawberry Banana Sipper

By bearing spiritual “fruit”, we are honoring our Heavenly Father. He is pleased when your example is a testimony of His love and sacrifice.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance.”

Galatians 5:22-23 KJV

Honor your earthly father with your love, respect, and a special treat.

Use one of these recipes to make him a treat and include a list of the top 10 things you love about your father.

Double Chocolate Peanutty Shake

Yeild: 2 1/4 cups

1 cup chocolate ice cream, softened

1 cup cold chocolate milk

1/3 cup creamy peanut butter

Place all ingredients in a blender container; cover. Blend on medium speed until smooth and frothy. Serve immediately over ice cubes in tall glasses.

Yogurt Pudding Freeze

Yield: 2 Cups

1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding and pie filling

1 cup cold milk

1 container (8 ounces) lowfat vanilla flavor yogurt

Ice cream cones

Colored sprinkles

Make pudding according to package directions using milk and yogurt. Freeze in bowl several hours or overnight. To serve, remove bowl from freezer and let stand at room temperature about 15 minutes. Scoop into ice cream cones using a small ice cream scoop or teaspoon. Decorate with colored sprinkles, etc. Serve immediately.

Strawberry Banana Sipper

Yield: 2 1/4 cups

2 cups cold milk

1 cup fresh strawberries

1/3 cup sliced banana

3 tablespoons honey

3 teaspoons vanilla extract

Place all ingredients in a blender container; cover. Blend on medium speed until smooth and frothy. Serve immediately over ice cubes in tall glasses.

Enjoy, as you honor your father and Heavenly Father!

Recipes are from the American Dairy Association and Dairy Council.

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Does God really expect me to be joyful, prayerful, and thankful in everything?

• What about when my head is pounding and feels like it will explode at any moment, do I need to be joyful?

• I just lost all my files or an important document I was working on. Do I need to be thankful?

• My family is going through a major crisis. How can I be joyful?

There will be trials and problems in life. Since Adam and Eve’s sin, we face circumstances we don’t like. God does not say we must like everything coming our way. He does want us to learn, grow, be a testimony through each and every thing we do.

Don’t go around downcast and grumpy about what is happening to you. It does not help you and it brings others down. Look and be thankful for the good points in life.

When your head is pounding, about ready to explode, and you have a mile long to do list, start thanking God for the blessings you have enjoyed throughout your life. There are many people facing the same problem or worse. Don’t be pulled down. Be joyful for what you have.

Pray continually. God does not expect you to sit and pray all day, everyday. He does want you to have a prayer on your heart and mind. As things come to your mind, pray for them with thanksgiving. Praise God as you give Him your request. Make praying as natural as breathing. Work at making prayer a regular part of your day.

How can I be thankful for losing my files or important document?

Think of it this way. How can I not be thankful, when I have blessed abundantly. Earthly things are important, but do not compare with spiritual blessings. Use your problems as opportunities to be a testimony. Don’t waste time being upset and aggravated over things you can’t change. Put your time and energy into what will matter for eternity.

My family is in crisis. How can I be joyful, when life feels like it is falling apart?

“God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV

God will not allow more on you than you can handle. He is there to give you help and strength. You can be joyful by going to God for your joy. The joy of the Lord is my strength.

“Nehemiah said,… Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Nehemiah 8:10 NIV

Look for the positive things in life.

Be thankful and praise God continually.

Share the joy of the Lord through your positive response to life’s problems.

You are blessed!

God has blessed you abundantly in many ways.

Are you breathing? Did you have food to eat today? Are you reading or listening to someone read this? If you can answer yes to any of these questions, then you are blessed.

Life can be hard. You may be facing a trial, short on money, disappointed in others, or going through another hardship. There are difficulties because we live in a sinful world. Even during hard times, you receive blessings from God.

Blessings come in many forms. Sometimes blessings are so small they can easily be missed, but bring life altering help. Other blessings may be dropped in your lap and leave you in awe of how God works.

Blessings are all around you! God wants you to praise and thank Him for the blessings He has given. Start praising God by recognizing the blessings in your life.

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.

Psalm 150:6 (NIV)

Here are 3 fun ways to count your blessings.

1. Start a Blessings Journal: Record the ways you are blessed.

Each evening, individually or as a family, write the blessings you received during the day in a journal. Younger children can draw pictures of how they were blessed. Have a time of thanksgiving and praise to God for these blessings. Occasionally go back and look through your journal. You will see the many ways God has blessed your life.

Praise Him for his acts of power; praise Him for His surpassing greatness.

Psalm 150:2 (NIV)

2. Make a blessings jar: Count your blessings and bring inspiration to your day.

Get your blessings jar prepared by finding or decorating a special jar. Cut slips of paper and keep them near the jar with a pen or pencil. Hold the jar and thank God for the blessings He will bring your way. Put the jar in an accessible location.

Throughout the day, write down blessings and put them in the jar when you pass by. Thank God for each blessings as you put it into the jar. When you feel down or discouraged by life, take out the blessings and read them.

As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise You more and more.

Psalm 71:14 (NIV)

3. Take a walk: Look around and count your blessings.

Go for a walk. As you walk, look around. Praise God for His nature. Look at the leaves on the trees. Thank God for how He made the trees not only beautiful, but useful for life. Give Him praise for what He has made and how it is a blessing to you.

All the earth bows down to you; they sing praise to You, they sing the praises of Your name.”

Psalm 66:4 (NIV)

Count your blessings, each and every day and praise God for them!

I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.

Psalm 146:2 (NIV)

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”

1 Peter 5:8 (KJV)

Satan wants to stop us from having a close relationship with the Lord. Obstacles and problems will be thrown in our way by Satan to hurt and hinder us from serving the Lord.

Don’t be tricked by Satan!

Have you ever bit into something that looked delicious like candy corn or a cookie only to discover it was stale or made with the wrong ingredients? You were tricked and deceived by something that appeared good. Satan trys to trick us into believing lies. He is a deceiver. He makes things appear good to hurt us and get us away from God.

In Revelation 12:9 KJV it tells us “Satan, which deceiveth the whole world.”

What lies is Satan tricking you with?

Disappointment?
People pleasing?
You’re not good enough?
No one cares?
Addictions?

These are all tricks from Satan. You are not the only person to face them. Satan tries to deceive the world. You can have victory over his lies.

Find strength in the Lord and His power. Satan tried to trick Jesus, but it didn’t work. The tricks of Satan do not have to work on us either.

Read about how Jesus was tempted in Luke 4:1-13 “Being forty days tempted of the devil.” and in Matthew 4:1-13 “Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.”

Jesus used scripture to squash Satan’s lies. Memorizing scripture, placing scripture around your home and listening to scripture will help you defeat Satan’s lies. When he tries to trick you, repeat scripture or look up scripture. Feed your mind with positive verses and uplifting thoughts.

Write these verses or others down and carry them with so you can quickly turn your thoughts toward Jesus and find help from Him.

“But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.” 2 Thessalonians 3:3 KJV

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:26 KJV

“And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.” Mark 10:27 KJV

“Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” 2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV

Pray and ask God for help. Use verses as a prayer to God. Let God have control of your thoughts and actions.

You can have victory over Satan’s tricks!

You might enjoy “Jesus Gives The Best Treats” http://buildingblocks4life.com/jesus-gives-the-best-treats

Today, I’m sharing illustrations and God’s word to guide you though trails.

As I share with you let God speak to your heart and think of how you can minister to someone else.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

James 1:2-4 (NIV)

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

James 1:12 (NIV)

Who do you know who is going through a trail? Share with them how they can persevere and be all God made them to be.

Thank you for joining me for tea time! Are you looking for a way to make your own tea time special? We love our Floral Teapot with “Flowers appear on the earth, the season of singing has come. SONG OF SONGS 2:12 NIV” written on it. This teapot helps us to keep our thoughts centered on Christ.

There are big and small blessings. Needs and wants met, protection, and more are given freely by God. Yet how often do we forget to praise and thank Him for His blessings and answers to prayer?

In this tea time video I am sharing my thoughts from Psalm 107:28-32. Watch and let God speak to your heart. What does He want to hear you tell Him?

Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble,and he brought them out of their distress.

He stilled the storm to a whisper;the waves of the sea were hushed.

They were glad when it grew calm,and he guided them to their desired haven.

Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men.

Let them exalt him in the assembly of the people and praise him in the council of the elders.

Psalm 107:28-32 (NIV)

What do you need to thank God for today?

Thank you for joining me for tea time! Are you looking for a way to make your own tea time special? We love our Floral Teapot with “Flowers appear on the earth, the season of singing has come. SONG OF SONGS 2:12 NIV” written on it. This teapot helps us to keep our thoughts centered on Christ.

How has your week been? I was reminded this week that my plans can lead to disappointment, but God’s plans are perfect.

God works through disappointment. He has a much better plan than I could ever dream of or make happen. I’m thankful that God turned my disappointment into a blessing. I needed to adjust my plans to God’s plans and then I could see the amazing rainbow through the raindrops.

Do you ever feel like a leper? Have you ever had any of these feelings? Abandonment, not doing things right, thoughts that no one wants or sees things the way you do, or not being able to do things right or good enough. The list goes on and on.

In Bible times, lepers were separated from others. They would have to call out “unclean, unclean” when anyone came near.

We can get discouraged, feel alone in our struggles, not understand why people don’t care and feel like a leper. Satan sends these thoughts our way to tear us down. He wants us to have hurt feelings and be disappointed. God has given us hope. When we are weak, God is strong and helping us become stronger.

“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.Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (KJV)

In times when you feel like a leper, God is working. There is more going on then we can see. God’s angels are fighting unseen, spiritual battles for us.We cannot give up or give in! We need to stand strong!

God’s ways are not our ways. Your circumstances may looks hopeless like a lepers, but in God’s hands you have a hope filled future.

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD.” Isaiah 55:8 (NIV)

Do you feel like your prayers fall on deaf ears? God hears your prayers. His answers are perfect. God does not always answer our prayers the way we want them answered because He has a bigger and better plan for our life. We don’t always know why things happen the way they do and in some cases we will never know. You can rest assured that God has everything planned perfectly for your good and to benefit others.

When you feel like a leper, don’t sit down and call out unclean, unclean to yourself. Go to God! Let God cleanse and renew you. Change your thoughts.

?”It takes but one positive thought when given the chance to survive and thrive to overpower an entire army of negative thoughts.” – Robert Schuller

Be positive. Thank God for His perfect plan and trust in Him. Throw down the leper cloths and rejoice in the Lord!

Be renewed in the Lord today!

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Are you spiritually thirsty?

Do you need the Lord to refresh and strengthen you?

1. Pray

Tell God about your thirst.

“O God, thou [art] my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is” Psalm 63:1 (KJV)

Ask God to quench your thirst. Thank Him for providing living water.

2. Evaluate what caused your thirst.

Some common causes of spiritual thirst are lack of time in God’s word and prayer, over-scheduling your life, stress, and problems. What is making you thirsty?

3. Determine what God wants you to do.

Pray and seek God’s guidance. Do you need to cut out activities, relax more, start reading God’s word and praying regularly, or weed out something else that is causing the thirst?

“You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry.” Psalm 10:17 (NIV)

Water can be placed in front of you, but it is your choice if you choose to drink it and be refreshed or leave it to be wasted.

4. Drink from the source of the overflowing fountain of living water.

“Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again,but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” John 4:13-14 (NIV)

Prayer and Bible reading are not the only ways to be refreshed in the Lord. After you have made time for those, find refreshment in other ways.

Here are a few ways you can start quenching your thirst right away.

Fill your mind

Devotional and inspirational books fill your mind with good things and help push out the negative thirst suckers. If you are on the go, listen to an audio version.

Listen to praise music

Listening to uplifting praise music allows God to flow through you and help your cup overflow.

Help those in need and encourage others

By reaching out to others you can get your mind off from your problems and help someone else.

Rejoice in the Lord

Be thankful and praise God for what He has done for you.

“Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.” Psalm 63:7 (KJV)

Quench your thirst and be spiritually refreshed TODAY!

Find more help and encouragement for quenching your spiritual thirst here.

Don’t let life cause worry and stress you out.

Be still and seek God.

“Be still, and know that I am God.”

Psalm 46:10

God loves us so much, that even as sinful people, He died for us. We deserve God’s wrath and punishment for our sins. Instead, God loved us so much that He gave us His son.

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.” Romans 5:8-9 (KJV)

Think about what He did?

Would you be willing to give up your only son who you love with all your heart for someone who causes you grief and pain? That is what God did for us. There is no one else who has this kind of love.

No one is excluded from God’s love.

All we must do is admit that we are a sinner, believe that Jesus never sinned, died and rose again to take away our sin, and ask Him to save us.There are no test we must pass or hoops to jump through.

We are justified and made free from the penalty of death by Jesus’ blood.

The penalty for being a sinner is death and eternal/never-ending life in hell. God has paid our penalty in full and freed us to have eternal/never-ending life with Him in Heaven.

If you have received God’s gift of salvation, you have no reason to keep it quiet. You must share it with the world. Your family, friends, coworkers, and those you come in contact with each day need you to share with them about Jesus.

God’s gift is the best gift we will ever receive. Don’t let fear of rejection or embarrassment hold you back from sharing this amazing gift.

Teach children about God’s love and salvation with this FREE Bible lesson: http://buildingblocks4life.com/god-is-always-with-you-lesson

]]> http://lois-graham.com/there-is-no-love-like-gods-love/feed/ 0 http://lois-graham.com/make-today-a-good-day/ http://lois-graham.com/make-today-a-good-day/#comments Mon, 09 Aug 2010 18:53:10 +0000 Lois Graham http://lois-graham.com/?p=966 Make everyday a good day!

Rejoice in the Lord, all day long.

“Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord. They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness. For you are their glory and strength.”

Psalm 89:15-17 (NIV)

Some days we may not feel like rejoicing, but we have so much to rejoice about.

When we are complaining or grouchy it is like saying “God didn’t give me anything to rejoice about.” Our lives are filled with blessings and miracles. When you need to chase the grouchies away, start praying. Thank God for specific things He has done for you. Look around you. Blessings come in many shapes and sizes.

Put on a smile and do something for others. It could be you have had a long day and your children are fighting. Instead of getting angry thank God for your children and the do something fun with them. Tell your children you love them and rejoice that God made them.

Walk in God’s presence by having a godly attitude. Rejoice in each circumstance God allows in your life.We do not know the reasons why things happen, but God knows everything. He wants to bring us good.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Make today a GOOD day!

Where do you turn when you need direction and help?

When we need direction and help, we should turn to God first. He has all the answers to any problem there is. His guidance is the best.

“Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.”

Psalm 73:24 (KJV)

We have God’s word to guide us, but sometimes we like to have a person on earth to talk to, get advice from, and receive encouragement to help us face our problems.

Jesus used stories to show His point. I have a true story to demonstrate my point to you.

My website is hosted by Mom Webs. I love their service. Many times I can solve problems on my own, but there are times I’m stumped. I know I can turn to Mom Webs (owned by Kelly McCausey, a Christian) and get a quick response, answer, and help to my problem. They go above and beyond to give me the best service and answer my questions. I am not a celebrity and the cost is very reasonable (as low as $5 a month) for this great service, yet they help me.

It’s nice to have someone who can help you. A person you can count on and know they want to help and encourage you is priceless.

When you need direction and help, seek out someone to talk to that is growing in the Lord and can give you guidance from God’s word. If I turned to my dog or a non-techie person about my web problem instead of Mom Webs for guidance, I would not get the sound and helpful answers I need. We need to choose who we talk to about our problems carefully so we will get good advice. Find a Christian friend, family member, or pastor to talk to about your needs.

Just as Mom Webs is reliable and I can turn to them for an answer, we should be available for others who need us.We may not always have an answer, but we can pray with others and give them scripture to encourage and guide them.

Mom Webs is friendly and I can trust them. They never make me feel bad for asking silly questions and they don’t sneak in any hidden fees. Encourage others who come to you. Don’t “charge” or humiliate them by breaking their confidence or blabbing to others about them. They should feel confident talking to you and know that you will give them advice based on God’s word and not just your opinion. If there is a problem they need more help with or if it is out of your control, help them find good Christian help and offer to go with them if necessary.

“Serve one another in love.”

Galatians 5:13 (NIV)

God is our ultimate guide and help. He gives us the Bible and others who can encourage, direct, and help us. I hope this true story about Mom Webs being a super host with great service has inspired you to reach out and help guide others in the direction God has for them.

Psalm 23:1 (KJV)

The Lord is my shepherd. What is a shepherd? A shepherd leads a flock of sheep to pasture, tends to them, and watches over them at night. Being a shepherd is dangerous and holds great responsibility.

The Lord God is our shepherd. He leads us in the path of life by giving us His word we can read and through prayer. We cannot always see how God is with us, but we are always in His sight. All of our needs are tended to by God. During the day, at night, and in the hard times, God never leaves us.

We are the Lord God’s lambs. As lambs we are vulnerable and susceptible to danger. I was listening to the story “A Peep Behind The Scenes” by Lamplighter Theater. In the story the girl is given a picture of the Lord as a shepherd. He has bruises and blood on Him from rescuing the hurt sheep He is holding in His arms. This picture illustrates the Lord’s love for us.

He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.

Isaiah 40:11 (KJV)

The Lord suffered and died for us. He gave His blood to rescue us. There are times we need God to rescue us and care for us because we live in a sinful world. Dangers and injuries come from our own doings and from Satan. God is there to pick us up and hold us gently in His loving arms. We can find forgiveness and help through our loving shepherd, the Lord.

Do you feel like you caught in the briers and prickers sometimes? The Lord God, our shepherd knows what is best. He gives us plans in His word to help keep us from being caught. God will help us even if we have wandered away and put ourselves in the briers. He comes to us and softly and tenderly removes the briers that are entangling us.

I shall not want. The Lord God has everything we need. If there is something we need, God can provide it for us. This does not mean we will get everything we want. Our basics needs and sometimes our wants are taken care of when we are living for God. Our shepherd gives to us bountifully. We can take our needs and wants to the Lord in prayer and as the good shepherd He will care for us.

Are you rooted in God’s Word?

We need to be nourished and fed by God’s word so we can grow and flourish into all God made us to be. Being rooted in God’s word helps us to communicate our beliefs effectively and encourage others.

Why is God’s Word important?

How can we be rooted in God’s word?

These are important questions. Find the answers and learn more in this excellent article “Rooted In The Word” by my dear friend Beth Jones at http://www.bethjones.net.

]]> http://lois-graham.com/rooted-in-the-word/feed/ 2 http://lois-graham.com/are-you-wearing-gods-goggles/ http://lois-graham.com/are-you-wearing-gods-goggles/#comments Sat, 12 Jun 2010 04:44:51 +0000 Lois Graham http://lois-graham.com/?p=917 A simple pair of swim goggles can transform a child into a super hero, a spy, or an aviator pilot. The possibilities are endless.

As adults we complicate our lives with “what ifs”, “can’ts”, and “but whats”. We have opportunities to share the gospel with others, but we let the “ifs” and “buts” get in our way.

My daughter, who was about six year years old at the time, shared with her aunt that God loved her and gave her a small paper note to remind her. That small note made an impact. Later on, we were told those few words and note turned her aunt’s heart toward God. The aunt realized the younger was teaching the older and that she was older and should be an example to others. God loved her and would help her!

We need to put on the super goggles God has given us, follow His plan for our lives, and put the “ifs”, “can’ts”, and “buts” behind us.

Put on the goggles God has given you so when satan tries to poke you in the eye you will be protected and know the truth.

• Prayer goggles – Go to God in prayer seeking His counsel.

• God’s word goggles – Read and apply God’s word to your life. Don’t read it and go about what you want to do. Do what God wants you to do.

• The truth goggles – Don’t listen to satan’s lies. Satan is tricky. He will try to deceive and discourage you anyway He can. Satan delights in seeing you give up on what God wants you to do. His lies are cunning and may look appealing, but you must search for God’s truth.

• A willing life goggles – Allow God to use your life, talents, and abilities. God can use you! No matter what season of life you are in God can use you if you come to Him, are ready to be used, and have a willing and broken for Him heart.

Moses said “what if” and “I can’t”. God showed Moses he could. We are told in Mark 10:27 (KJV) “And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.” Look at the impossible through God’s goggles. Be transformed by God’s power.

The possibilities are endless of how God can use you! Put on God’s goggles right now!

Let God use you then come back and leave a comment and share how God is using you for His glory. Let’s put on God’s goggles and make an impact on others.

Wait, wait, wait! Waiting is part of life. It can be drudgery or we can make the best of it. Waiting has benefits. When we wait on the Lord, we can see His power. What does the Bible say about waiting? Watch this video to find out.

God waits on us. He is patient and loving. We can mess up, but He is there waiting for us to come and ask forgiveness. He will forgive and forget.

“To the Lord our God belong mercies and forgivenesses, though we have rebelled against him.”

Daniel 9:9 (KJV)

When we are in pain or are discouraged, God is waiting with arms open wide to hold and comfort us.

“Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.”

Psalm 37:7 (NIV)

Wait on the Lord and see His power!

“Prayer is not merely an occasional impulse to which we respond when we are in trouble:  prayer is a life attitude.”

Walter A. Mueller

Why do we pray?

• Prayer builds an intimate and personal relationship with our Lord God.

God wants to be our Father and friend. He will never leave us or forsake us. If the world turns against us, He is there.

“And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.”

Deuteronomy 31:8 (NKJV)

• Prayer brings us comfort, direction, encouragement, and strength.

People will hurt, betray, and let us down. God will not do those things. He suffered, died, and rose again for us. God is there to comfort, stand by, encourage, and help us. Jesus understands what we go through. He came to earth and had troubles, trials, and disappointments.

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin.”

Hebrews 4:15 (NIV)

How do we pray?

• Talk to God as you would a good friend.

“Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto Thee will I pray.”

Psalm 5:2 (KJV)

• Pour your heart out to God.

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.”

Romans 8:26 (NIV)

• Tell Him your request.

“Pray without ceasing.”

1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV)

• Ask Him for wisdom, guidance, and direction.

“Give me understanding, and I will keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight.”

Psalm 119:34-35 (NIV)

• Pray with faith.

“What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe.”

Mark 11:24 (KJV)

• Pray in forgiveness.

“When ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”

Mark 11:25 (KJV)

• Praise Him.

“My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord, And all flesh shall bless His holy name
Forever and ever.”

Psalm 145:21 (NKJV)

Make prayer a life attitude!

Build a intimate prayer relationship with God today! It will make a positive impact on you and others. Use a prayer journal to write down your request and answers to prayer. It will enable you to see how God is working and blessing. You can find “My Personal Prayer Journal” at http://www.lois-graham.com/prayerjournal.html.

God wants to hear your request and praises. Pray to Him today!

At the last supper Jesus washed His disciples feet. John 13:3-5 says, “Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God; He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded”. (KJV)

Jesus is a king who became a lowly servant. He showed His love by serving. We all have opportunities to serve in our mundane, dull, everyday chores. John 13:14-17 is an example for us “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them”. (NIV)

Each day we have things to do. It could be running errands, doing chores, changing diapers, washing dishes, folding laundry or a million other things.  These are opportunities to show our love for God and others. When we do our chores, jobs, and tasks with love for God and our families, we can grow sweeter not bitter with complaints.

The Lord didn’t choose to wash specific disciples feet. He washed all of their feet. Jesus knew Judas would betray Him. Instead of washing Judas’s feet with a hard heart, He showed love to him. How would you or I respond? It is in our nature to get upset. We could easily choose to do something unkind. Scrubbing Judas’s feet with sandpaper would please our sin nature, but that would not show God’s love.

What are the Judases are in your life? It could be a person who hurts or offends you, plans that do not go your way, sickness, children who have not acted or lived wisely, or a disagreement. The list goes on and on. These can all be a Judas, but if we follow Jesus example and in prayer ask God for strength, we can face each situation with a right attitude. In Luke 6:27-28 we are told to love and do good. “But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you”. (NIV)

Instead of complaining about the problems in our lives, we should ask the Lord to change our hearts and help us to love the people or situations that are our Judases. God may not change the situation. We may have to continue washing feet. As we do, it should be our priority to have a right heart that God can use.

Think about this the next time someone or something is irritating you and you would like to scrub the toilet with them. Stop what you are doing, take your toilet brush, go scrub the toilet, and pray for a changed heart filled with love and joy instead of bitterness.

The Scriptures are an important tool in growing a relationship with God. We learn, gain endurance, get encouragement and hope from the Bible. A Bible sitting on a shelf cannot help us. We must dig in and study it.

I received a Busy Mom’s Bible published by Zondervan Bibles I really like and thought it would be helpful to someone else. It helps you to dig into God’s word.The devotions, study helps, and reflect and praysections that come with this Bible are useful for men, women, teenagers, and children. This Bible is good way to teach children how to study the Bible. It is also made perfectly to take on the go or carry in your purse. Watch this video I made to see the Bible for yourself.

Dig into your Bible, study the Scriptures, and grow in God today!

God uses word pictures to teach us important principles. This year we had more snow than usual. I began looking up verses in God’s word that talk about snow. In this video, I share with you what God shares with us about snow and our lives.

Isaiah 55:8-11 (NIV)

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways My ways,”
declares the LORD.

“As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are My ways higher than your ways
and My thoughts than your thoughts.

As the rain and the SNOW
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,

so is My word that goes out from My mouth:
It will not return to Me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

Find unique ways to encourage others in my book and audio set “Paper Towel Encouragements”. You can find it at http://www.lois-graham.com/PTencouraging.html. Get on a roll, encourage others, and help soak up hurts!

]]> http://lois-graham.com/godteachesuswithsnow/feed/ 2 http://lois-graham.com/get-out-of-your-circle/ http://lois-graham.com/get-out-of-your-circle/#comments Wed, 13 Jan 2010 20:26:36 +0000 Lois Graham http://lois-graham.com/?p=746

We live our lives in an imaginary circle.

Inside the circle is our comfort zone. It is a place of security and what we are familiar with. Outside the circle are new and unfamiliar experiences.

Why should we go outside our circle? Is it really necessary?

Yes! There are new things to learn and places to go. People that God wants you to meet and opportunities to share how God has helped you.

Inside of our circle there are many things that we can do for God. If we stay inside our circle, we get comfortable and complacent.  We need to continually be stretching and reaching out of our circle.

Jesus gave the disciples and us a great command in Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV).

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

God wants us to be an example with our life, share His Good news, and encourage others.

We must venture out of our circle and bless others. The disciples probably did many things that were not inside their circle. Think about the differences you would have going from being a fishermen to ministering to a crowd of thousands.

God has us leave our little circle in subtle ways and more dramatic ways. We are not alone.

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. – Matthew 28:20 (KJV)

God does not leave us alone. When we leave the comfort of our circle, God is there to comfort us. He will help us to do what is hard. We are not alone as we go through new learning experiences. God will help and bless us as we leave our circle to help and bless others.

Get Out Of Your Circle Today!

What is a friend?

The Bible says  “There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” in Proverbs 18:24 (KJV)

God is your friend. You can go to Him at anytime for anything. He will never leave or forsake you.

Earthly friends may get busy with what is going on in their lives or desert you. God will never do that. If you have accepted His free, no strings attached gift of salvation you are His child. You will be His child forever. There is not anything that can separate His love and care. God cares about YOU! He would have died for you, even if you were the only person to give salvation too. There is no better friend than God.

Are lonely or overwhelmed?

God is their to wrap you in His loving arms. He will listen as you pour your heart out to Him. His ears never grow weary. We have His utmost and undivided attention. It is hard for our humans minds to comprehend how He can be there for so many people and still be one on one with us. That is what makes God magnificent. He is above all our comprehension, yet He is able to minister directly to us. No strings attached. His friendship is not based on what He gets in return. Although, we should honor and serve Him out of a heart of love for our Him.

God’s love is without limits.

He did not send His son Jesus to minister to only to the important, rich, and those of high status. God sent His son to the lowly, weak, and sinful.

A five year old’s response to what a friend is that they play with you and are kind. An adults response is that they encourage and listen to you. All of these are attributes of a friend. The season of life may be different, but the common need for a friend is the same. No matter what season of life you are in, God is your friend.

]]> http://lois-graham.com/is-god-your-friend/feed/ 4 http://lois-graham.com/make-a-christmas-prayer-chain/ http://lois-graham.com/make-a-christmas-prayer-chain/#comments Mon, 21 Dec 2009 20:49:51 +0000 Lois Graham http://lois-graham.com/?p=721

Make Christmas meaningful!

Instead of making a paper chain to count down the days until Christmas, make your chain meaningful. Make a simple Christmas prayer chain craft. Christmas is about Christ.

Philippians 1:18-19 – Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. (NIV)

Supplies:

Strips of paper

Tape or glue

Directions:

Give each person a strip of paper. Have them write or draw something that they can pray about. Continue adding request to each strip of paper until they are all used. Then glue or tape the strips together.

If you want to make the prayer chain more thought provoking use each letter of Christmas. Example: C – Courage to stand and speak up for Jesus, H – Healing for those that have been abused, R – Rest in the Lord for those who are overwhelmed, I – Important decisions that need to be made, S – Salvation of others, T – Thank God for His Provisions, M- Missions, A – Any needs that your church has, S – Servant’s heart

To Use:

On Christmas or whenever you choose, use your prayer chain. Have each person take a link off and pray for that request.

Make prayer a part of your Christmas!

C – Christ Jesus

H – Heaven

R – Rejoice

I – Inn

S – Son of God

T – Tidings

M – Miracle

A – Angels

S- Salvation

What is Christmas?

C – Christ Jesus

Christ Jesus the son of God came from heaven to be born as a child.

Matthew 1:18 – This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. (NIV)

H – Heaven

Heaven is a beautiful, wonderful place. Jesus left the majesty of His heavenly home.

1 Chronicles 16:27 – Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy in his dwelling place. (NIV)

R -Rejoice

We can rejoice that Jesus was willing to come to this sinful earth, endure hardships, and face trails for us.

Phillippians 3:3 – Rejoice in Christ Jesus. (KJV)

I – Inn

It was in God’s plan that Mary and Joseph would find no room at the inn. They would have to stay with the animals.

Luke 2:7 – There was no room for them in the inn. (KJV)

S – Son of God

Jesus, the Son of God was made man. He humbled himself to be born and laid in a manger. Jesus, the King of Kings, was wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a feeding trough.

Luke 2:12 – And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. (KJV)

T – Tidings

The night that Jesus was born, was filled with good tidings of great joy. Can you imagine the excitement that Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds must have felt?

Luke 2:10 – And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings  of great joy, which shall be to all people. (KJV)

M – Miracle

A miracle happened that night. It is the reason that we celebrate Christmas. Baby Jesus was born!

Luke 2:11 – For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. (KJV)

A – Angels

The angels had an important job! Pretend that you are a shepherd. You are sitting in a field. The sheep are munching quietly on grass near you. Then suddenly the quiet of the night is broken. In the sky an angel appears proclaiming the birth of Jesus. How would you feel? Would you be in awe? This baby Jesus that was born is a special baby. He is the giver of salvation.

Luke 2:9,13 – And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God. (KJV)

S – Salvation

Salvation is free gift. Without Jesus salvation would not be possible. Jesus came to earth as a baby, lived a sinless life, died on the cross, and rose again!

Matthew 1:21 – And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. (KJV)

Acts 4:12 – Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (KJV)

Christmas is: Christ Jesus

]]> http://lois-graham.com/what-is-christmas/feed/ 0 http://lois-graham.com/learn-and-grow-through-circumstances/ http://lois-graham.com/learn-and-grow-through-circumstances/#comments Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:52:33 +0000 Lois Graham http://lois-graham.com/?p=686

Can you imagine being Mary the mother of Jesus? What an indescribable gift and responsibility she was given.

Imagine with me. Mary is going about her day when an angel appears. The angel Gabriel, said to Mary that she was highly favoured and blessed (Luke 1:30). This is an amazing and jaw dropping moment! What would you think or do? It’s not everyday that you receive a compliment from an angel. The angel calmed Mary’s fears. He said “fear not Mary” and repeated that she had found favour with God.

To be told that you are favoured by God would be exciting! What a privilege it would be to have God say he has found favour in you. We should strive to have an attitude and be a person that God can be proud of. We are to have a God pleasing attitude, even when your boss has unreasonable expectations, your children are making a mess, or you have a final/deadline that is stressing you out. We are to build God’s name up and not tear it down with our words and actions.

The angel, Gabriel, goes on to tell Mary an important message from God in Luke 1:3o. “And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.” Think about the questions that must have been going through Mary’s mind.

When circumstances come into our life that we don’t understand, it is easy to question God. We do not need to understand all of the “whys” in life. God has a purpose. The angel Gabriel told Mary in Luke 1:37 “For with God nothing is impossible”. God is in control and has a plan for our lives. Trust God! He knows and will do what is best for us.

Mary rejoiced! In Luke 1:46-47, Mary says ” My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.” Mary could have chose to see this news as a tragedy. She choose to trust trust in God to care for her. The hard times came for Mary, but she stayed strong.

Can you imagine being ready to deliver a baby and have to take the trip that Mary did? When Ceasar Augustus decreed that the world should be taxed, Mary went with Joseph to Bethlehem. The trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem was not as simple as it would be today. Imagine expecting a child and walking or riding an animal this great distance. It must have been uncomfortable and tiring.

Our lives have become accustomed to a life of ease. If we go on a trip, we have the pleasure of riding in a comfortable vehicle and stopping at a restaurant to eat. This was not an option for Mary. She endured and kept going. We can find many things to complain about. Is life really that bad? Who or what does our complaining benefit?  Remember Mary when you are standing in line or sitting in traffic and feel like complaining.

That is not the end of the story. Mary and Joseph arrive in Bethlehem. When they arrived the inn was full. How discouraging! They made the long trip and were probably weary and tired. The only place to stay was with the animals.

Where would you pick to sleep? A barn or an inn? The inn would be more comfortable and pleasant. Often, God takes us out of our comfort zone. God wants us to to grow and rely on him. Luke 2 :7 tells us that Mary “brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn”.

Mary could look back and see how God had used her. We read in Luke 2:19 “Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart”. Mary had special memories to look back at. Let what you do today be a good memory for tomorrow.

Have an attitude and be a person that God can look at with favour. Trust God and rejoice in all circumstances. Don’t complain or get discouraged. Go out of your comfort zone following God’s will. God has a plan for your life. Learn and grow through the circumstances that come your way!

You can defeat discouragement! Everyone faces discouragement at some point in their life. The Bible tells us Nehemiah faced opposition and could have easily become discouraged. Not doing anything or giving up was an option for Nehemiah. He choose to go to the Lord God for guidance as he faced opposition.

Are you discouraged?

Nehemiah 1:4 tells us that when Nehemiah heard the news that the wall of Jerusalem was broken and the gates burned, that he prayed. He was distraught. In sorrow he prayed to the Lord, asking him to be attentive to his prayer.

Nehemiah was the king’s cupbearer. The king could see that Nehemiah had a sorrowful heart, when he brought his drink. Our burdens and sorrows may not be visible to others, but they are real. The burden you carry is always visible to the Lord. The Lord knew the burden that Nehemiah carried was great. Nehemiah was not alone. The Lord had a plan and was using Nehemiah for a greater purpose. Often, we cannot see beyond the here and now. The future looks dreary. The Lord can see the whole picture, not the small piece that we are looking at. He has a plan and will help us carry our burden.

The king gave Nehemiah supplies and the okay to rebuild the city. Nehemiah went outside the city and viewed the broken down walls. At one place even the animal he rode on could not go through. He could have said “this is hopeless” and given in to discouragement. Instead, he gathered people together and encouraged them. As humans in times of sorrow we want to feel sorry for ourselves. We are not the only person who carries a burden. Gather together with others and encourage one another in the Lord.

Nehemiah continued to face opposition and ridicule. He did not give in to discouragement, but took the problems to the Lord in prayer. The Lord heard and helped Nehemiah. Jerusalem’s broken walls were repaired and the people strengthened and encouraged by trusting in the Lord.

When you are feeling discouraged:

• Go to the Lord in prayer and tell him what is in your heart.

• Strengthen yourself in the promises of the Lord.

• Gather together with others and encourage each other in the Lord.

Together with the Lord you can defeat discouragement !

Listen to:

Help For Discouragement

Are you taking the name of Jesus with you? The words from the Hymn “Take the Name of Jesus with You” are important for our lives.

Take the name of Jesus with you, Child of sorrow and of woe; It will joy and comfort give you- Take it, then, wher-e’er you go.

The first verse of this song makes you think. Do we truly take Jesus with us all the time? Often we try to solve problems on our own instead of going to Jesus to find strength. He will give us the joy and comfort we need. The writerof this song, Lydia Baxter, was an invalid much of her life. She loved the name of Jesus and studied the Bible. Being an invalid did not stop her. That should be a challenge to all those who can get around to always be sharing what Jesus means to us.

Verse 2: Take the name of Jesus ever, As a shield from ev-’ry snare; If temptations round you gath-er, Breathe that ho-ly name in prayer.

How sweet it is to have Jesus with us. When adversities and trials come into our life we can go to him in prayer. Jesus has the power to shield and protect us. What are you facing today? There is no problem too big or small that Jesus cannot control. Take it to him in prayer.

Verse 3: O the precious name of Je-sus! How it thrills our souls with joy, When his loving arms receive us and His songs our tongues employ!

Let the joy of knowing Jesus and the blessings he has given you overflow. Don’t let trials bring you down. Smile and share the love of Jesus with others. There are many who need the arms of Jesus to wrap around them. Reach out to them. We have been given tongues. Share and sing his praises!

Verse 4: At the Name of Je-sus bowing, Falling prostrate at His feet, King of kings in heav’n we’ll crown Him When our journey is complete.

How special it will be when we can leave this earth for our heavenly home. Acts 4:12 tells us “Neither is their salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved”. Those who have asked Jesus to be their Savior and King of kings will be able to see Jesus and bow at his feet. What a precious time this will be. It will be worth all of earth’s trails to see Jesus the name you have carried with you.

Precious name, O how sweet! Hope of earth and joy of heav’n; Precious name, O how sweet! Hope of earth and joy of heav’n.

The chorus of this hymn sums up the song and what we should have continually on our tongues. Jesus is our hope and joy! His name is precious and sweet! Take Jesus’ name with you. Share with others the hope and joy that Jesus can bring!

The lyrics were taken from the Hymnal “Great Hymns of Faith”. “Take the Name of Jesus with You” is  written by Lydia Baxter, 1809-1874 and William H. Doane, 1832-1915

Yes, It is possible to start your day without coffee. Use ALL these tips and see the difference it will make on your day. If you leave out a step you will lose out on the blessings that God has for you.

1. Pray!!!

Especially on busy mornings this is a crucial step.

“My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the
morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look
up.” Psalms 5:3 KJV

2.  Spend Time In God’s Word

Choose a passage from God’s Word or a devotional with scripture to read. Be open to what the Lord has to show you.

“And in the morning came the word of the Lord unto me,” Ezekiel 12:8 KJV

3. Smile

Yes, I said smile. Smiling will make a difference in your day! You may not feel like smiling but try it. It will not only improve your day but will brighten the day of those around you.

“This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice
and be glad in it.” Psalms 118:24 KJV

4. Plan

Plan out your day. Write your goals and the task that you want to accomplish down. It only takes a few minutes to plan and write out what needs to be done. By planning your mind is able to think more clearly. You will be able to focus on the day ahead.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

5. Listen To Inspiration

Listen to good gospel music or a christian pastor or speaker. You will find yourself motivated and uplifted in the Lord.

You can listen to sermons online at http://eastsidebaptistmooresville.com/

“But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding.” Job 32:8 KJV

Start using these five steps each morning and make an impact on your day!