HEAVEN BOUND

MY SHEEP KNOW MY VOICE (PSALM 23)

2011-04-24T04:35:00.007-05:00

DAVID SHARING WHAT HE LEARNED AS A SHEPHERD ABOUT GOD'S WATCH CARE OVER EACH PERSON IN HIS FLOCK.

You are my caretaker. I do not have to worry about my physical needs (Matthew 6:25-34).

You place me in environments where I can grow better (Philippians 4:19/Acts 17:26)

You show me how to obtain peace of mind (Philippians 4;6,7/Mark 6:31)

You revive my spirit (Psalm 51:12)

You show me how to live right in this world (Proverbs 3:6); so that You get the glory (1 Peter 2:9-13)

If I end up in dangerous situations, I will not be be afraid, because I know that Your presence is there (Psalm 91:9-13/Deuteronomy 31:6,8)

You uplift me with your right hand and send the Holy Spirit to be my Comforter(John 14:16)

You cause me to be invited to events with those that hate me and there provide for the nourishment of my body (Psalm 103:5)

You Baptise me with Your Spirit (Matthew 3:11)

I have so many blessings, that I have to share with others (Malachi 3:10)

I am certain that joy and forgiveness You will give to me as long as I abide with You (Psalm 16:11/1 John 1:9)

And by your grace, I will work in Your vineyard (Psalm 84:10/ Philippians 2: 12,13) and my name will not be blotted out of the book of life (Revelation 3:5)

Amen

THE MORE EXCELLENT WAY

2011-04-22T05:45:00.007-05:00

Although I speak with foreign languages and the most angelic voice, but do not show love to my neighbors or strangers, I am like a noisy percussion instrument (1 Corinthians 12:10 and Romans 12:6). And although I have been given insight into the future and spiritual matters and exercise faith, so that nothing is impossible for me (Matthew 17:20), but do not love my friends, I am worthless. And although I give to the homeless and fast for just causes but do not love my family, I am wasting my time and my money.

Love takes lots of mistreatment and is selfless; love does not envy what others have or is competitive; love does not show off, is not focused on self, does not behave in an obnoxious manner, is not self-willed, does not get irritated easily, does not entertain wicked thoughts; does not find sin funny, but enjoys talking or listening to what is worthy of praise;

Love handles all situations, believes the best of all people, hopes for the best, perseveres in all circumstances.

Love always wins; but predictions of the future will stop; those with the gift of foreign languages shall one day forget them; mass religious awakenings and revivals will end.

For we only have partial knowledge and understanding of spiritual matters. But when Jesus Christ returns, every subject that now confuses the mind or causes debate will be fully understood (Is there a God?, How the world was formed?, Is the concept of sin real?, Is there life after death?, Is there life in other worlds?)

When I was a child, I spoke as a child should speak, I had the understanding of a child, I had no interest in adult matters: but when I became a [woman], I let go of childish ways.

For now the eyes of our understanding is dim (Ephesians 4:18); but at His appearing (2 Timothy 4:8), we shall see Jesus for who He really is (God, a Prophet or just a good man): now I only understand some of life; but then I shall understand matters completely just like God now knows everything about me (Psalm 139:1-3).

But as for now, faith, hope and love keeps us going, love being the more powerful virtue of the three.

THE GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE (Previously Published)

2011-04-18T05:08:00.001-05:00

"I LOVE YOU!" How many times in your life has someone said these words to you? How did these words make you feel? Did you believe the person who said them? Did you reject their words because you thought that you were not worthy of their love? Each and every one of us wants to be loved. If anyone says they don't care if they are loved, then you know immediately that they have been hurt so many times that they have put up a protective wall around their heart. God created us to love; to love Him, to love others and to love ourselves.

Along the way, we receive messages that damage our ability to give and receive love. This month's blog looks at these three avenues of love and comes in two parts.

LOVE FOR GOD

THE 10 COMMANDMENTS OF LOVE

“…which is the great commandment in the law?: Thou shall love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind…Thou shall love thy neighbor as thyself" Matthew 22:36-39.

How do you love God? You don’t have to look far for the answer, because He’s already told us in John 14:15, “If you love me, keep my commandments”

Commandments 1 through 4 show us how to love God.

#1 – Do not put anything or anyone else above Him
#2 – Do not worship idols (inanimate objects)
#3 – Do not use the Lord’s name in an inappropriate or disrespectful way
#4 – Remember the Sabbath day and do not work or transact business on that day

Commandments 5 through 10 show us how to love others.

#5 – Treat your parents with respect and those whom God has placed in authority
#6 – Do not do anything that kills life
#7 – Do not engage in an extra-marital affair, either physical or emotional
#8 – Do not take what does not belong to you
#9 – Do not be deceptive with what you say or what you withhold
#10 – Do not desire other people’s possessions

LOVE FOR OTHERS

A CHRISTIAN'S CONFESSION AND PRAYER

“He that says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness even
until now. He that loves his brother abides in the light, and there is none
occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hates his brother is in
darkness, and walks in darkness, and knows not whither he goes, because that
darkness hath blinded his eyes.” 1 John 2:9-11

Before coming to my new church (a multi-cultural congregation), I didn’t realize that I was walking in darkness. The darkness had blinded my eyes and I didn’t know where I was going. Being in a predominantly one-race church, I didn’t have to deal with or worship with the people against whom I was prejudiced. Snap judgments were made about everything from their style of worship to the way they raised their children. I made disparaging remarks about them--God’s children—without realizing the shroud of darkness that surrounded me.

Lord, today I confess that I have hated my brother. That’s probably why it’s been difficult to receive his love toward me. Free me from the bondage of hate and prejudice. Open my eyes to the love that unites us. Open my heart to the love he has to give. Open my heart to your love that binds us (2 Corinthians 5:14).

A PSALM OF PRAISE

2011-04-08T20:12:00.002-05:00

O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.

Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.

For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods

(Psalm 95:1-3)

TRUE EDUCATION

2011-04-07T19:43:00.001-05:00

"True education does not ignore the value of scientific knowledge or literary acquirements; but above information it values power; above power, goodness; above intellectual acquirements, character. The world does not so much need men of great intellect as of noble character. It needs men in whom ability is controlled by steadfast principle." From a book called, Education pg. 225 by Ellen G. White

MONEY MANAGEMENT AND AMUSEMENTS

2011-04-05T12:01:00.001-05:00

Now the case where a man owns his place clear is a happy exception to the rule.

Merchants are failing, families are suffering for food and clothing. No work presents itself. But the holidays are just as numerous.

Their amusements are entered into as eagerly. All who can do so will spend their hard-earned pence and shillings and pounds for a taste of pleasure, for strong drink, or some other indulgence.

The papers that report the poverty of the people, have regular standing notices of the horse-races, and of the prizes presented for different kinds of exciting sports. The shows, the theaters, and all such demoralizing amusements, are taking the money from the country, and poverty is continually increasing.

Poor men will invest their last shilling in a lottery, hoping to secure a prize, and then they have to beg for food to sustain life, or go hungry. Many die of hunger, and many put an end to their existence. The end is not yet.

Men take you to their orchards of oranges and lemons, and other fruits, and tell you that the produce does not pay for the work done in them. It is next to impossible to make ends meet, and parents decide that the children shall not be farmers; they have not the courage and hope to educate them to till the soil. (Testimonies on Education, 94, Ellen G. White)

7 GIFTS OF GOD ON MY BIRTHDAY

2011-03-04T17:06:00.002-05:00

Thanks be to God for another day of life. By the Grace of God, today is my 35th year on the earth. I am learning that every day with Jesus is truly sweeter than the day before. The trials still come like a flood because we are born in sin and shaped in iniquity, and we have to live with, work with, shop with and commute next to people in the same human condition.

What do I want for my birthday today? I am thankful that I have all that I need.

Below are 7 gifts God has given to me and how they have sustained me thus far in my life.

His grace is sufficient in times of weakness. Jesus the living water quenches my thirst for righteousness when I go to Him and He fills me. I see the good or fruit of my labor each day in my family, my friends and those I know casually. The Holy Spirit has kept me from much trouble and danger (when I let Him). The cross of Calvary stands as a reminder of the eternal life Jesus Christ purchased to redeem me from sin. By faith, each day I believe and claim the promises of God’s word on my behalf (Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28, Psalms 138:8, Isaiah 49:25, Isaiah 59:19, Philippians 1:6, Hebrews 12:2 and many more). He keeps me pure in body when time, fasting, distance or circumstances prevent me from rendering due benevolence to my husband.

Wherefore he saith, when He ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men [and women]” (Ephesians 4:8).

7 Gifts of God:

Grace (Ephesians 4:7)

Living Water (John 4:10)

To Enjoy the Good of our Labor (Ecclesiastes 3:13)

The Holy Spirit (Acts 8:20)

Eternal Life (Romans 6:23)

Faith (Roman 12: 3-8)

Celibacy (1 Corinthians 7:7)

I love you all with the love that I've received from the Father. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all. Amen.

LOVE LETTER FROM GOD

2011-02-02T19:37:00.002-05:00

Love Letter From GOD
My Child,

You may not know me,
but I know everything about you.
Psalm 139:1

I know when you sit down and when you rise up.
Psalm 139:2

I am familiar with all your ways.
Psalm 139:3

Even the very hairs on your head are numbered.
Matthew 10:29-31

For you were made in my image.
Genesis 1:27

In me you live and move and have your being.
Acts 17:28

For you are my offspring.
Acts 17:28

I knew you even before you were conceived.
Jeremiah 1:4-5

I chose you when I planned creation.
Ephesians 1:11-12

You were not a mistake,
for all your days are written in my book.
Psalm 139:15-16

I determined the exact time of your birth
and where you would live.
Acts 17:26

You are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Psalm 139:14

I knit you together in your mother's womb.
Psalm 139:13

And brought you forth on the day you were born.
Psalm 71:6

I have been misrepresented
by those who don't know me.
John 8:41-44

I am not distant and angry,
but am the complete expression of love.
1 John 4:16

And it is my desire to lavish my love on you.
1 John 3:1

Simply because you are my child
and I am your Father.
1 John 3:1

I offer you more than your earthly father ever could.
Matthew 7:11

For I am the perfect father.
Matthew 5:48

Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand.
James 1:17

For I am your provider and I meet all your needs.
Matthew 6:31-33

My plan for your future has always been filled with hope.
Jeremiah 29:11

Because I love you with an everlasting love.
Jeremiah 31:3

My thoughts toward you are countless
as the sand on the seashore.
Psalms 139:17-18

And I rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17

I will never stop doing good to you.
Jeremiah 32:40

For you are my treasured possession.
Exodus 19:5

I desire to establish you
with all my heart and all my soul.
Jeremiah 32:41

And I want to show you great and marvelous things.
Jeremiah 33:3

If you seek me with all your heart,
you will find me.
Deuteronomy 4:29

Delight in me and I will give you
the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4

For it is I who gave you those desires.
Philippians 2:13

I am able to do more for you
than you could possibly imagine.
Ephesians 3:20

For I am your greatest encourager.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

I am also the Father who comforts you
in all your troubles.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4

When you are brokenhearted,
I am close to you.
Psalm 34:18

As a shepherd carries a lamb,
I have carried you close to my heart.
Isaiah 40:11

One day I will wipe away
every tear from your eyes.
Revelation 21:3-4

And I'll take away all the pain
you have suffered on this earth.
Revelation 21:3-4

I am your Father, and I love you
even as I love my son, Jesus.
John 17:23

For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed.
John 17:26

He is the exact representation of my being.
Hebrews 1:3

He came to demonstrate that I am for you,
not against you.
Romans 8:31

And to tell you that I am not counting your sins.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19

His death was the ultimate expression
of my love for you.
1 John 4:10

I gave up everything I loved
that I might gain your love.
Romans 8:31-32

If you receive the gift of my son Jesus,
you receive me.
1 John 2:23

And nothing will ever separate you
from my love again.
Romans 8:38-39

Come home and I'll throw the biggest party
heaven has ever seen.
Luke 15:7

I have always been Father,
and will always be Father.
Ephesians 3:14-15

My question is…
Will you be my child?
John 1:12-13

I am waiting for you.
Luke 15:11-32

Love, Your Dad
Almighty GOD

Compiler Unknown

IN THE FACE OF SEVERE ILLNESS

2011-01-12T05:55:00.004-05:00

How can we remain hopeful in light of no known cure?

We know without a shadow of a doubt that God could heal Coby instantly if He chose to do so. We do not doubt God's ability to cure her nor will we question His choice should He choose not to.

We have come to learn that in this school of hard knocks called life that we will not always understand why certain things happen to us. If we have not brought the calamity upon ourselves by our disregard of moral or natural laws, then we must conclude that God has the big picture in mind and is using the trial for the good of it's recipient and/or for the onlooking world.

While we have this perspective and trust God implicitly, it does not take away the heart ache and pain.--Christian Berdahl, The Shepherd's Call News, Vol. 9, Issue 1. (2010).

HE/SHE IS A GOOD PERSON

2011-01-11T06:44:00.004-05:00

We are not good people. The bible makes it clear that we are sinners and that there is none good, no not one (Romans 3:10 and Psalm 14:3). All have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23 and 5:12). We are sinners in need of a Savior, a Redeemer. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father (God) but by Him (His Son Jesus Christ) (John 3:16 and 14:6).

Beloved, surrender your sinful self to the Lord today and accept the gift of salvation. Repent and be baptised and begin a new life with the Master today (Matthew 3:2 and Acts 2:38).
Today is the day of salvation.

God loves you with an everlasting love.

RANDOM QUOTES

2011-01-09T04:03:00.000-05:00

“We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history” Ellen G. White, Life Sketches, p. 196

MY PREVIOUS FACEBOOK POSTS

2011-01-09T03:47:00.003-05:00

Reminded of the sins from your past? Here is a promise to each living soul, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9)

"Practice makes Better" - "Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth (practices) righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous" (1 John 3:7).

Of all the people whose lives have intersected with mine, I pray that the effect was uplifting to us both..., if not, thank God for "do overs."

"And this is the promise that He hath promised us, even eternal life... and this is life eternal, that they may know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou has sent" (1 John 2:25 and John 17:3).

Where are you getting your information about yourself? God says, "I have called you by name" (See Isiah 45:3).

"Progress is only worth talking about if it is put into practice daily"

Personal Computer; $500
DSL Service: $60
Email Account: $0
Connecting and reconnecting with friends on Facebook: Priceless

"If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small" (Proverbs 24:10)

IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

2010-12-21T05:29:00.002-05:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

It’s the most wonderful time of year for many. From gifts, to feasting, to carols and hymns, to decorations, there is something for everyone to enjoy this time of year. People are a little nicer, the air is a little crisper, and an overall exciting buzz is in the air.

This time of year is also a perfect opportunity to share with those who have never been told that each of us, as wonderfully made as we are, were sinners, but that God sent His Son, Immanuel (God with Us) to redeem us from the penalty of sin (death). We can choose to have a new life in Jesus Christ. Old things can pass away and all things can become new in our lives. Many have not heard these truths and search in vain for the peace that only God can give.

Christians, Jews and African Americans have this time of year carved out for different celebrations.

If you are into history, the following site has the History of Christmas covering time periods before (B.C.) and after (A.D.) Christ, Christmas Traditions by Country, Santa Claus History, Christmas Origins and Trivia and lastly, Christmas Books.

http://www.thehistoryofchristmas.com/

The History of Chanukah
http://www.beingjewish.com/yomtov/chanukah/history.html

The History of Kwanzaa
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kwanzaa

In the midst of traditions and tall tales, there is a Truth that will set men and women, boys and girls free. Today is the day of salvation.

RANDOM QUOTES

2010-12-16T04:53:00.003-05:00

"The great test of every Christian is not preaching what he's [or she's] learned, but living what he [or she] preaches" - Dave Meyer

PROVERBS 5 FOR DECEMBER 5, 2010

2010-12-05T06:04:00.002-05:00

Solomon encourages his son, “My son, attend unto [pay attention to] my wisdom, and bow [incline] thine ear to my understanding; that thou may regard discretion.”

Then he tells him where this wisdom is most useful, “For the lips of a strange [immoral] woman drop as a honeycomb [drip honey], and her mouth is smoother than oil: But her end is bitter as wormwood [in the end she is bitter], sharp as a two-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell.

He continues, “Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth. Remove thy way far from her, and come not near the door of her house: Lest…

(a) …thou give thine honor unto others, and thy years unto the cruel: (you lose your usefulness and lifework)

(b) …strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labors be in the house of a stranger (financial loss and possible ruin)

(c) …And thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed (physical weakness from a possible venereal disease)

(d) And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof; and have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me! (regret and mental anguish for not having listened to wise counsel)

(e) I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assemble (almost losing social standing)

Then Solomon tells his son where to get his needs met—-with his wife. “Let thy fountain be blessed; and rejoice with the wife of thy youth. Let her be as the loving hind [deer] and pleasant [graceful] roe; let her breast satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished [intoxicated] with her love.”

He ends by questioning the rationale of sexual immorality, “for the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord, and he ponders all his goings.”

PROVERBS 2 FOR DECEMBER 2, 2010

2010-12-05T05:58:00.002-05:00

Solomon gives instruction for the woman and for the man, “When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:”

(1) To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh forward [perverse] things; Who leave the paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness; Who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the forwardness of the wicked; Whose ways are crooked, and they forward in their paths:

(2) To deliver thee from the strange [immoral] woman, even from the stranger [seductress] which flattereth with her words; Who forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forgeteth the covenant of her God. For her house inclineth unto death, and her paths unto the dead. None that go unto her return again, neither take they hold of the paths of life.

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR COLD AND FLU

2010-12-02T11:47:00.000-05:00

Nature's Penicillin

1 grapefruit
1 orange
2 lemons
3 cloves of garlic
1/2 large onion
3 drops peppermint oil

Peal fruit onion and garlic. Blend. Add peppermint oil. Take one cup a day, 1 spoonful every 1-2 hours at a time. For child, ½ cup per day is sufficient.

Flu Fighter

Juice of 6 fresh lemons (not concentrate)
1 bulb of garlic (not a clove)
1 Tbsp. of honey
1/2 tsp. ground ginger. (or freshly grated)
And Pineapple Juice
>
> Place all ingredients in blender until smooth. Add enough pineapple
> juice to make 1 quart of liquid. Take at first sign of cold, sinus or
> flu. Take 1 cup of nature's flu shot every 3-4 hours until symptoms
> are gone.

To fight against AIDS and cancer>

> 1 large aloe vera leaf
> 3 garlic cloves
> 2 peeled oranges (including seeds)
> 2 cups pineapple juice
> 1 tsp. turmeric
>
>
> Blend all and drink one time daily.
>
> Note: This is the recipe as it is written on the handout. When Dr.
> Jackson made this at the seminar he actually combined the 2 recipes
> and gave it to us for the flu so you can combine the ingredients in
> both recipes. If you give this to a child under the age of 12, you can
> give them 1/2 cup instead of a cup and the cayenne pepper is optional.
> The only thing the cayenne pepper does is get it to your bloodstream
> faster.

GOD'S WOUNDS CURE, SINS KISSES KILL

2010-11-30T03:53:00.003-05:00

“God’s wounds cure, sin’s kisses kill” - William Gurnall

God is a wise disciplinarian. Concerning the difference in Adam and Eve’s consequences for sin, it is significant to consider what are generally topics of interest and value in each sex. Men usually find their greatest sense of significance in their work while women find it in their relationships. Adam’s discipline was associated with his work, increasing its challenge and difficulty. He had taken (with practically no effort) what did not belong to him to eat. His punishment was related to his sin in that now he must work very hard for what it was his right to eat.

Eve’s sin involved a breakdown in relationships—first with God then with her husband. Her discipline involved experiencing pain in the closest relationship—mother with child. The pain of childbearing is the pain of separation. This is symbolic of the pain Eve caused when she separated from God. (Patriarchs and Prophets, Ellen G. White, pgs. 58-60)

THANK YOU, LORD

2010-11-28T06:42:00.001-05:00

THANK YOU, LORD

Thank you, Lord, for simple things
That brighten every day
Like sunshine in the morning
And daffodils in May.

Thank you, too, for friends who care
When tears begin to fall
And thank you too for answered prayer
The greatest gift of all!

Thank you for each spring bouquet
And for the summer rose,
For rainbows in the meadow
And every stream that flows.

Thank you, Lord, for simple things
Which really are quite grand
For each is a miracle
Wrought by the Master’s hand!
Clay Harrison

A PAIN-FREE CYCLE

2010-11-18T06:08:00.003-05:00

FOLLOWING IS MY PERSONAL TESTIMONY OF HOW I SURVIVED MY TIME OF THE MONTH THIS TIME AROUND

Heavy bleeding; ripping pain; prolonged cycle; crying and inability to function. These all described my "time of the month" symptoms. This started happening within the past few years. Years is long time to live with pain. I dreaded my "time of the month" more than ever. I suffered from anxiety when I know the time was near. Thank the Lord, the cycle became regular after my fourth child, so I could mentally prepare myself for the onslaught that was to come upon me.

After years of this, each time getting a little worse, I begun paying attention to my body. I first noticed my mood changes, then the bodily changes and then the physical manifestations of what is a normal body function. I also started talking to other women to find out what they do to ease their symptoms. One women shared with me something that helped. She said to eat fruits for 1 day once a week. I didn't do it totally, but increased my fruit intake when the time was nearing. My pain was less for the first time. My curiosity was sparked and hope sprung up with me.

Then I realized that the month that I consumed an excess of processed food (corn chips, crackers or anything else in a box or crinkly bag), my pain was horrendous and my cycle dragged on for a few extra days. One day, in desperation, I was quietly going through the pews before church looking for someone to give me pain-killers, something I never like taking.

Here is the conclusion of my own personal research for how to have a normal menstrual cycle with out the extra drama: I as the test patient.

(1) I Included lots of fruits and vegetables in my diet (fresh and uncooked as much as possible)
(2) Drank water throughout the day (Alternated with pure water and distilled; I added fresh lemon juice* for flavor)
(3) Refrained from eating processed foods, milk, eggs and cheese a few days before the onset
(4) One day 1, I made an Anti-inflammatory Smoothie:

1 quarter fresh pineapple
1 handful walnuts
1 tbsp. whole flaxseed
1 tsp. ground ginger

Blend. Halved the mixture and eat with a spoon** twice a day the first day

*Minute Made has a squeezable lemon juice that is excellent since I rarely find fresh juicy lemons in my area
**You may add some pineapple juice to the smoothie(if you don't like it too thick) and drink it.

(5) For any possible infections that may be causing my pain, I made Nature's Penicillin for the second and third day:

1 grapefruit
1 orange
2 lemons
3 cloves of garlic
½ large onion
3 drops of peppermint oil (Use a capful if using peppermint extract)

Directions:
Peel fruit, onion and garlic. Blend. Add peppermint oil. Take one cup a day for an adult and half a cup for a child. Spread dosage out over course of the day, taking a spoonful every 1-2 hours.

This is the first time I was not tossing in bed and moaning all day because of menstrual cramps. Praise the Lord!!! My family had come to expect that this was normal. Thank God, it does not have to be.

THE GARDEN IN EDEN: EARTH'S FIRST FAMILY

2010-11-14T04:16:00.001-05:00

During the week of creation, God planted a garden and put the man Adam whom he had made.

A river that had four openings, flowed out of Eden to water the garden.

In addition to the trees that God made to provide food, two special trees were put in the garden.

One was the Tree of Life and the other was the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.

God gave man another job, to take care of the garden.

God told Adam that he may eat from any of the trees that were for food, but not to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.

God warned him that in the day he ate from that special tree, he would surely die.

Remember what Adam’s other job was, to name the animals, fish and birds?

Well, while he was naming them, he realized that they all had a partner, but he didn’t have one.

God already knew that it was not good for man to be alone, but now Adam knew it too.

God put Adam to sleep and performed the first surgery by taking a rib from Adam’s side and using it to make a partner for him.

Adam called her woman and she became known as Eve, the mother of all living.

During that time, the man and his wife didn’t wear any clothes, but they were not embarrassed and did not seem to notice.

Since there was no sin on the earth, this family could have lived happily every after.

(C) Leuanna N. Matheson 2007

CREATION: THE FIRST WEEK OF EARTH

2010-11-10T06:42:00.002-05:00

L.A.N.D. Children Living Bible Series

Once upon a time, when nothing was in the world, God made Heaven and Earth.

The Earth was dark and empty, except for the Holy Spirit who was hovering over the Earth.

So on day 1, God made light and separated it from the darkness and called them day and night.

On day 2, God made the atmosphere, separated it with space and called the top part heaven.

On day 3, God made land on the bottom part and called it Earth and made seas, then added herb plants, grass and fruit trees.

One day 4, God made the sun for daytime and the moon for nighttime, so that we could keep track of time.

On day 5, God made fish and other sea creatures and birds and they had babies and multiplied.

On day 6, God made land animals and two people, a man named Adam and after that, a woman named Eve, his wife.

God put the man and woman in charge of the animals, fish and birds and even let the man name them.

God told Adam and Eve to have lots of children so that the Earth will be filled with people.

God also told them that they could eat the fruits and that both they and the animals could eat the herbs.

Everything God made was good.

On day 7, God was finished creating the Earth so he ended his work and rested.

God blessed the 7th day and made it special and told Adam and Eve to enjoy that special time with him and rest also.

(C) Leuanna Matheson 2007

"PRACTICE MAKES BETTER"

2010-08-18T05:50:00.004-05:00

"And now, little children, abide in Him; that, when He shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before Him at his coming. If ye know that He is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth (practices) righteousness is born of Him...he that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk even as he walked...Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth (practices) righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous."

References:
1 John 2:28,29
1 John 2:6
1 John 3:7

FINDING THE PERFECT MAN (IN GOD'S SIGHT)

2010-08-14T07:18:00.004-05:00

Looking for love? Here are 7 things to look for in the perfect man:

One who is at peace with God (1 Kings 8:61; 11:4; 15:3)

One whose works completes his faith (James 2:22)

One who does not offend [stumble] in his words (James 3:2)

One who is mature (1 Corinthians 2:6; Ephesians 4:13)

One who is equipped unto all good works through the study of the scriptures (2 Timothy 3:14:17; Ephesians 4:12)

One who is blameless – “Mark the perfect man, and the upright: for the end of that man is peace” (Psalm 37:37) -- More references found in Genesis 6:9; Deuteronomy 18:13; Psalm 101:2, 6 and Proverbs 2:21.

One who is fearless in his love (1 John 4:18)

“Be thou therefore perfect, even as your Father which is heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). This section of the Sermon on the Mount is summarized with the statement, Be ye therefore perfect. Since the New Testament is clear that even the believer is capable of sin, the term perfect (Greek teleios) is not to be taken as sinless perfection. Perfect here means “complete,” that is, possessing a complete love that, like God’s (v. 45), embraces those who love you as well as those who do not. (From the King James Study Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1988, pg. 1421)

In lieu of and in place of the perfect earthly man, God is more than enough --“He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4)

IN TIMES OF GRIEF OR LOSS

2010-08-14T06:51:00.003-05:00

"Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you" (2 Corinthians 13:11).

WISDOM IN 9-11

2010-08-09T05:09:00.004-05:00

I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favor to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all (Ecclesiastes 9:11).

Words of King Solomon, the Preacher

EXAMINE YOURSELVES

2010-08-06T04:40:00.006-05:00

Paul asks us to examine our selves (2 Corinthians 13:5). We must work out your own salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12).

Here are 7 questions* that will help with that personal assessment:

(1) Am I a Christian?

(2) Is the Word of God my study?

(3) Is Christ dwelling in my heart by faith?

(4) Is the law of God the rule of my life?

(5) Do the searching truths I profess to believe, penetrate into the secret places of my life?

(6) Do I carry out its principles in my business or home life?

(7) Is the influence I exert, having a saving power on those with whom I associate?

*I don't recall where these were obtained from

THE WILL OF GOD

2010-07-15T04:10:00.005-05:00

"...if any man be a worshiper of God, and doeth His will, him He heareth." (John 9:31)

Romans 8:27 - That He (Jesus) that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit (Holy Ghost), because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

1 Corinthians 12:11 (see v. 7-10*) - That all these (the 9 spiritual gifts described*) worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing (distributing) to every man severally (individually) as He will.

Galatians 1:3-5 - That Jesus Christ game himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world according to the will of God and our father: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Ephesians 5:17:21 - That wherefore ye be not unwise, but understanding what the will of the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; submitting yourselves on to another in the fear of God.

1 Thessalonians 4:3-6 - For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: that every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honor; not in lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: that no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any thing: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 - In every thing give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

1 Peter 2:13-16 - That ye submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as servants of God.

1 Peter 3:17 - For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.

1 Peter 4:2,19 - That ye no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God...Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing , as unto a faithful Creator.

SEARCHING FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS

2010-07-01T05:20:00.003-05:00

After talking about what we should not worry about, Jesus in Matthew 6:33, says "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you."

This portion of the Sermon on the Mount is summarized by the statement seek ye first the kingdom of God. The disciples who have pledged their allegiance to the King must continue seeking the kingdom and its righteousness. The present imperative form of the Greek verb indicates a continual or constant seeking.

The contrast between the spiritual and the material is emphasized. The believer is to seek first the righteousness that is characteristic of God's kingdom and then all these things (material things) shall be added unto him. When our priority is spiritual, God will take care of the material, for where God guides, He provides.

We need not even worry about tomorrow, for sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof (v. 34). This meas that each day has its own troubles and challenges to be responsibly handled, without worrying about the hypothetical problems that could arise tomorrow.

Edited commentary from the King James Study Bible, pg. 1424, 1988, Nelson Publishing.

JESUS LOVES ME THIS I KNOW

2010-06-30T18:59:00.002-05:00

Jesus loves me this I know, for the bible tells me so;
Little ones to Him belong, they are weak, but He is strong.

Jesus loves me, He who died, Heaven's gate to open wide;
He will wash away my sin, let His little child come in.

Jesus takes this heart of mine, make it pure and holy thine;
On the cross you died for me, I will love and live for thee.

Jesus loves me when I'm good, when I do the things I should;
Jesus loves me when I'm bad, even though it makes Him sad.

COUNTRY LIVING (Part 2)

2010-06-19T00:05:00.001-05:00

Country Living continues...

Good things about being in the country

Tasting treasures out of your own garden that you planted and that the earth yielded
Seeing deer for the “umpteenth” time and still being excited
Feeling the cool morning air while the dew is still on the ground
Smelling fresh cut grass (one of my favorite smells)
Hearing the happy laughter of our children playing with the garden hose

Bad things about being in the country

Tasting a recipe experiment that did not quite come out like the cookbook
Seeing the evidence that something’s eating your collards
Feeling the loving, sincere hugs from your family
Smelling banana skins left out to be put in the compost bin
Hearing muffled rifle shots in the far distance as another deer loses its life

PERFECTION OF CHARACTER

2010-05-18T05:52:00.002-05:00

Perfection of Character

One of the current errors in Christianity is that there is justification (Romans 4:24, 25), i.e. saved by grace (Ephesians 2:5, 8) without sanctification, i.e. change of character and habits through obedience to the truth (Acts 16:26, 1 Peter 1:2). Study these precepts in the following lines, Romans 8:1 and 2 Corinthians 5:7 and Acts 26:18. The two work together.

Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently (1 Peter 1:22)

Jesus said to the demoniac and to the woman caught in adultery, “go and sin no more”. Sin is transgression of the law (1 John 3:4). The law of God is spelled out for us in the 10 Commandments (Found in the Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, all the way to the Gospels, Paul’s letters and finally in Revelation).

Recurring themes: victory over sin; overcoming; being perfect; purifying our souls; and many more

Living a sinless life through the merits of Christ is possible!

Since you’re interested in understanding more of God’s word, here are some texts for further study (this is by no means and exhaustive list of bible texts):

Zephaniah 3:13 [no guile in our mouths]; Revelation 14:1, 5 [the 144,000]; Revelation 7:1-8 [144,000 receive the seal of God]; 1 Peter 1:16 [be ye perfect]; 1 Peter 2:21 [Christ our example]; Hebrews 8:8-10 [the sealing of God’s law in our hearts is the new covenant] and many more

THE REFINED GOSPEL - PROCESSED RELIGION

2010-05-17T05:48:00.004-05:00

The Refined Gospel – Processed Religion

“And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man saying, we will eat our own bread and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name to take away our reproach” (Isaiah 4:1)*

There is a plethora of religious options to choose from, all claiming to be true. The patient seeker of truth has the guarantee that they will find it (Jeremiah 29:13). In the hodgepodge of religious teachings there is a pure and undefiled religion (James 1:27) and there is a processed religion.

In the processed religion the people say, “prophecy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophecy deceits” (see Isaiah 30:10). The leaders of the people cause them to err (see Isaiah 9:16) and the idolatrous priests…that burned incense unto Baal, to the sun, and to the moon, and to the planets, and to all the host of heaven (2 Kings 23:5) are misleading the flock.

When we begin to feed upon the pure, unrefined word of God it will have a powerful effect on our lives. We will preach with power (Revelation 18:1) and there will be no spiritual constipation or a form of godliness (2 Timothy 3:5). Just like food with its full fiber moves the waste and impurities from our bodies, so the pure word of the Lord purges the mind of impure thoughts and false teachings to the perfection of our character (Ephesians 5:26).

The word, however, must be chewed (studied) thoroughly (2 Timothy 2:15). If you’re not used to such full truth, it may be difficult at first, but as you become accustomed to the word of God, it will become easier to understand. Isaiah encourages us to study the word line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little (Isaiah 28:10). By a casual perusal or by trying to take in too much at one time, we will not be edified and confusion and frustration will be the sure result.

Let us choose our spiritual food carefully.

*symbolic language: woman – church (Jeremiah 6:2; Revelation 12:17); bread - word of God (2 Peter 1:20; Matthew 16:12); apparel – character (Revelation 19:8; Isaiah 61:10); man/name – Christ (2 Chronicles 7:14)

UNLEARN

2010-05-14T02:55:00.004-05:00

"Seeing is believing."

This is an unbiblical teaching. It's the theme of songs, books, movies, and many other forms of instruction.

The unfallible Word of God states, "Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen"(Hebrews 11:1).

From birth, we have been in the school of the enemy of our souls. It's time to unlearn his unbiblical teachings and learn what "Thus saith the Lord!"

RANDOM QUOTE

2010-05-10T00:27:00.002-05:00

"There is more peace when a relationship is severed with a full disclosure of information than one that ends because of inadequate disclosure"

Still wondering why a friendship I had years ago ended suddenly

WHAT IS DEATH?

2010-05-10T00:14:00.004-05:00

When we die, we become:

- useless

- unfruitful

- stagnant

- unedifying

"For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not anything, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten. Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished; neither have they any more a portion for ever in any thing that is done under the sun."

"Whatsoever they hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, wither thou goest." (Ecclesiastes 9:5,6 & 10)

"Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man (a human being), in whom there is no help. His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish." (Psalm 146:3,4)

RANDOM QUOTE

2010-05-09T05:58:00.006-05:00

"If you don't know who you are, then anyone can name you, and you are then theirs by right of possession" - partial quote on the *Metro New York Men's Prayer Ministry conference call, with my addition

Romans 6:16 says, "Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?"

Praise the Lord for the encouragement that follows in verse 17,18 of the same chapter, "But God be thanked, that ye were servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being made free from sin ye became servants of righteousness."

*Metro New York Men's Prayer Ministry
Daily 5:30am (EST)
218-486-1622
Pin: 13514#

N.B. Women are invited and welcome to participate as silent listeners and prayer partners

SEVEN (7) THINGS THE LORD HATES...

2010-05-09T05:31:00.004-05:00

BUT WE THINK THEY ARE NO BIG DEAL

Six Things the Lord Hates; The Seventh is an *Abomination (Proverbs 6:12-19)

Proverbs 6:12-15 and Proverbs 6:16-19:

He that winketh with his eyes - A proud look (haughty eyes)

A naughty person, a wicked man,[who] walketh with a froward mouth - A lying tongue

He that teacheth (points)[accuses] with his fingers - Hands that shed innocent blood

He deviseth mischief (evil) continually - A false witness that speaketh lies

He speaketh with his feet (shuffles)[slothful] - Feet that be swift in running to mischief

Frowardness (perversity) is in his heart - A heart that deviseth wicked imaginations

He soweth discord - He that soweth discord among brethren

*Abomination
loathsome (Genesis 46:39)
defiles (Leviticus 18:30)
cursed (Deuteronomy (7:26)
detestable (Deuteronomy 18:9; 25;16)
odious (1 Samuel 13:4)

[brackets] are my addition

SMALL CHANGES THAT YIELD A LOT

2010-04-27T14:15:00.005-05:00

SUNLIGHT

As one of the N.E.W.S.T.A.R.T. Principles, exposure to Sunlight is very beneficial for many things:

(1) It provides Vitamin D which helps naturally with Calcium absorption

(2) It serves as a anti-depressant

(3) It cleanses the skin

The best time to be outside is between 10:00am and 4:00pm to minimize exposure to UVA and UVB rays. At least half an hour will do wonders. A little truly goes a long way.

THE COMING CHRIST OR THE COMING CRISIS

2010-04-22T05:35:00.006-05:00

As we see the signs of the return of our Savior, what is the condition of your spiritual life and mine?

"For the great day of His wrath is come and who shall be able to stand?" (Revelation 6:17).

Between the close of probation >(Revelation 22:11) and Jesus second coming (Isaiah 25:9), the angels of the Lord will pour out the seven vials with the seven last plagues upon the earth (Revelation 16).

At that time there will be two groups of people upon the earth, those who have purified their hearts in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren (1 Peter 1:22) and those which had the mark of the beast and upon them which worshiped his image (Revelation 16:2).

With which group will we be numbered?

HOW'S YOUR HEARING?

2010-04-21T05:09:00.009-05:00

If any man have an ear, let him hear. (Revelation 13:9)

If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your savior, you work is not done. Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). Each day, we are to live lives of obedience to our Savior. The lives we lived while in sin, the things that held us captive, must be done away with. We are to become new creatures (see 2 Corinthians 5:17).

Keep His Commandments and live (Proverbs 4:4 and 7:2). It may cost you your job, your friends, your family, or even your life, but great is your reward in heaven (Matthew 5:11,12).

Daniel, Esther and her people and the three Hebrew boys all faced death decree's because of their devotion to God, but yet they did not waiver in keeping God's commandments. They did not follow the customs or traditions of their time or obey the laws of the land (if those laws caused them to disobey God's commandments).

As we strive to be obedient to our Lord, fear not, for "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7).

Luke encourages us in Acts 5:29, "We ought to obey God rather than man."

IT'S THE LITTLE THINGS

2010-04-20T08:28:00.006-05:00

When moving, it's the little things that take up most of our time and make packing and moving a lenghty chore

In a conflict, it's the little words we say that turns simple disagreements into a full blown war

In our character, it's the little things that keep us from a total surrender to our Redeemer

ONE IMPORTANT QUESTION FOR TODAY

2010-04-20T05:20:00.010-05:00

WERE THEY TELLING THE TRUTH?

Throughout your life (at home, at work, at school or in the street), you've met people who shared or tried to share some aspect of the gospel* with you. The question is, "were they telling the truth?"

In the myriad of information, you won't know what truth is unless you compare what they said with Truth. Truth is the Word of God found in the Bible** (The Old and New Testament).

I implore you to study*** your Bibles today and find out for yourself what your strength and foundation is build upon.

*the gospel is the good news of Salvation by Faith in Jesus Christ

**the King James Bible is the preferred for its accurate translation into English. Most of the newer versions and paraphrases are based on polluted manuscripts and false doctrines. Some are acceptable for a first time bible reader, but study the matter out thoroughly as you progress

***always pray for the Lord to give you understanding before attempting to study His word, otherwise confusion will be the sure result

THREE (3) IMPORTANT TRUTHS FOR THE END TIME

2010-04-18T05:10:00.003-05:00

(1) God, the creator, who is Love, seeks each day to demonstrate His great love toward us.

(2) Jesus, our Advocate and intercessor is coming soon to redeem those who reflect His character in thoughts, words and actions.

(3) Morning by morning, by the choices we make, we are being transformed into Christ's image or not.

SELF IN ACTION

2010-04-09T05:49:00.006-05:00

SELF (That selfish spirit that threatens to take over in any situation or conflict)

When SELF shows up, you have...

-Problems in the workplace - bosses and employees are only concerned with their individual responsibilities and fail to see their job as part of the larger organization

-Problems in parenting - one parent says x, while the other parent says y, and the children are left confused as to which parent to obey

-Problems in marriage - each spouse feels strongly about his/her position and is relentless in proving that they are right

-Problems in ministry - each saint has a different method of evangelizing and they don't let the Holy Spirit lead

-Problems with neighbors - each neighbor fails to have concern for each other and only look out for their family or property

-Problems in relationship with God - God has a way He knows is right, but you have a way you think is better

TO BE OR MAYBE NOT

2010-04-01T19:48:00.004-05:00

The Double-Minded Man

Lord I want To Be a Christian, but Maybe Not right now;
I’ll wait until I’m older, oh this I humbly vow!

Lord I want To Be self-relying but Maybe Not in self-control;
enjoying earthly pleasures while you chisel, shape and mold.

No man can serve two masters but how can this be true?
Can’t I break your Holy Sabbath while my mind may drift on you?
Or can’t I murder with my tongue while my lips may sing your praise?
To Be a Christian once a week but Maybe Not the other days?

I can have my slice of cake and I can eat it too!
I can be as bad as I want and end up just like you,
so I’ll wait until tomorrow and my life I’ll carefully plot
then I’ll choose To Be a Christian but then again, just Maybe Not!

A double–minded man is unstable in all his ways (James 1:8)

(c) Dale A. Matheson

THE CONDITIONS OF UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

2010-04-01T19:14:00.000-05:00

God's love is unconditional. He loves us with an everlasting love and everything He does is with the express purpose of showing us His love.

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten love, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and [then] all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33).

Ye shall search for me and find me when ye seek me with all your heart (Jeremiah 33:13).

If my people that are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray and seek my face, then will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14).

If you confess your sins, He is faithful and just to forgive your sins and cleanse you from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

If thou seekest her [wisdom] as silver and searchest her [wisdom] as for hid treasures, then shall thou understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God (Proverbs 2:4,5).

MONEY DOES BUY HAPPINESS...

2010-03-18T17:10:00.005-05:00

...AT LEAST SOME KINDS

But for those like me who can't always afford the things that make me happy [a good meal, a vacation, a babysitter or getting my hair professionally done], there is hope.

Today I experienced some of God's blessings that money can't buy:

Over three hours of sunlight
Spending time outdoors with my family
Fresh Air
Birds Chirping
My husband working with the children to prepare meals so I can complete a 1-day fast (something I've attempted to do several times in the past six month, but failed)
A refreshing shower
Peace that passes all understanding

LIFE IS A BUFFET

2010-03-15T01:21:00.006-05:00

LIFE IS A BUFFET; CHOOSE WISELY

This thought came to mind this morning as I lay in bed, unable to go back to sleep. A situation occurred yesterday with the children when I was eating something and they asked for some. My intention was not to give them any (a parent must be able to enjoy some things by themselves). Their request pricked my conscience and I decided to "share." Then after giving them each a bite, I proceeded to finish it and they asked for some more. Of course I became irritated and regretted giving them any in the first place.

As I lay in bed this morning, the situation came back to my mind and the realization that my lack of self-denial has influenced the children. I feel that I must have everything my heart desires, regardless of whether it's beneficial or healthful or not.

We were at a church potluck and each side of the table had various visually appetizing selections of the same kinds of food (starch, vegetable, meat substitute and salad). My children wanted to try everything from both sides as we've grown accustomed to doing. I was impressed in that moment, that this was not a healthful practice, so I instructed them accordingly. Of course when they went back for seconds with my permission, they ended up at the other side of the table to "sample" the other foods before I realized what they were doing. My conscience was dull to what just happened--until now.

My epiphany: life is a buffet. It has many opportunities and offerings, some good and some evil or put like Paul, "not expedient"; some have immediate outcomes while others have eternal consequences. We shouldn't have it all. We should choose wisely. We should choose only those things that are beneficial and healthful for us as the Lord directs us. In so doing, we model and teach our children also, that they should not have everything that they want.

This lesson, if learned early, will save us, and them, from many hurtful situations and will secure us a place among the faithful, for self-denial is a key ingredient in the gospel of salvation.

Jesus said, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me." (Luke 9:23)

"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God [thought equality with God as something to be grasped]*: but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." (Philippians 2:5-8)

*emphasis added

COUNTRY LIVING

2010-03-11T12:59:00.004-05:00

Good Things about Being in the Country

Seeing purple mountains in their magestic glory
Hearing the snow falling on the ground
Smelling hickory wood burning
Tasting farm fresh produce
Feeling the sun on a cold winters' day

Bad Things about Being in the Country

Seeing a cigarette butt in the woods
Hearing the hurtful, angry words spoken between family members
Smelling kerosene which signalled that the unit was running dry
Tasting savory food which needed salt, and not having any
Feeling frozen toes indoors

THE END IS NOT YET

2010-02-17T06:06:00.004-05:00

See that ye be not troubled...the end is not yet (Matthew 24:6)

Last night, we were on our way to prayer meeting. We were on the road where we needed to make a right turn unto the street where the church was. From my vantage point, I could read the street signs (though I didn't know which street we were supposed to turn on by name).

As we made our way down, the children and I were looking for the red fire hydrant with the orange top (the town is full of two-colored hydrants, this one being the most unique).

After a while, my husband thought that we had passed the church. He asked if we had passed Beverly yet. I remembered seeing that street name and spoke up. He kept going. As we passed landmarks we remembered seeing three days ago, he kept verbalizing that he didn't remember it being this far down. I concurred. He kept driving. I was becoming anxious and eventually annoyed. He wondered aloud if we should turn around. I responded in irritation, "a long time ago." He kept driving. Silence in the car! The children were no longer looking for the orange-top fire hydrant, but were now helping us to find the church.

Then one of the children said, "there it is" and lo and behold, there it was, not on Beverly, but on Berkeley. Man was I embarrassed and humbled!

Spiritual lessons jumped out at me that I wanted to share. Solomon says, "a fool learns from his own mistakes, but a wise man learns from the mistakes of others." (my parents paraphrase). [Please share the text if you know which one I'm referencing]

1. Know where you're going before you try to get there -- it gives you a definite goal to try to attain and makes your journey less stressful; The journey is already laid out for us, we just need to re-familiarize ourselves with it (Genesis to Revelation)

2. Don't assume that the other person (man or woman) knows where they are going, regardless of their vantage point, position or confidence (Psalm 118:8)

3. Trust your instinct (the Holy Spirit) -- He'll never lead you astray (John 16:13; all of John Chapters 14-16)

4. With everyone working on one accord like the disciples, the work becomes more fruitful (Acts 2:1-11, 2:38-41, 2:44-47, 5:12-14 and many more)

5. A little child shall lead them (Isaiah 11:6)

6. Be humble enough to admit when you're wrong (Matthew 11:4)--BTW, I did do that

7. There are many distractions, false roads, and "bumps" along the way (2 Corinthians 11:26), but don't give up--the end is not yet (Matthew 10:22)

The end goal is Heaven, where eternal life is the reward. The journey is our daily lives and interactions with others. This journey is no joke. It is hard, especially without a reliable trusted guide. The character does not get transformed overnight.

"Sanctification is the work of a lifetime." [Please share the reference if you know it]

THE LOVE OF GOD

2010-02-05T07:00:00.002-05:00

Satan is determined that men shall not see the love of God, which led Him to give His only-begotten Son to save the lost race; for it is the goodness of God that leads men to repentance. Oh, how shall we succeed in setting forth before the world the deep, precious love of God?

In no other way can we compass it than by exclaiming, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God” (1 John 3:1)!

Let us say to sinners, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29)! By presenting Jesus as the representative of the Father, we shall be able to dispel the shadow that Satan has cast upon our pathway, in order that we shall not see the mercy and love of God’s inexpressible love as manifested in Jesus Christ. {1SM 384.2}

Emphasis mine

See the whole inspirational thought at www.growministries.net

BEYOND BLOGGING...

2010-01-30T04:24:00.008-05:00

As I lay in bed tonight, my thoughts went on facebook for some reason. Some time ago, I vowed that I would NEVER get a facebook page, because I wanted to be in close intimate relationship with my friends, either by face to face contact, telephoning or email (LOL). Then based on a chance request and morbid curiosity, I opened an account and subsequently, a can of worms (or snakes depending on one's perspective).

Hours were now spend in this new fascinating world. One day, my son, then 7 said to me, "mommy, you spend too much time on facebook." My heart pricked, as I knew this to be the case, but no one was holding me accountable for the use of my time, and besides, it helped me to get away from the demands of my day. With the strength of the Lord, I closed out the account that very day, less than three months into it.

While on Facebook, I reconnected briefly with friends from my schools in Guyana, Stella Maris Primary School and Bishops High School, and friends from my schools in Maryland, Montgomery Blair High School, Sherwood High School and the University of Maryland, College Park. Even one childhood playmate was on there. The introductions were brief, just enough to get caught up on our status in life [married or not, children or not, employed or not, etc.). There the connections stopped and communications waned.

I wanted to justify my "umpteen" hours on Facebook and wanted my time to be worth something, so my mission became to "evangelize" with links, quotes and access to this Heaven Bound Blog. After a while, it seemed like there was more juicy things going on to make my little tit-bits of any effect or interest. The request from my son made the decision so much easier to make, especially for my ego (self).

My prayer, however, is that at least 1 person was drawn closer to Jesus Christ as a result of something they read or saw; That at least 1 person began to prayerfully study the Bible more and at least 1 person made the decision to accept the salvation that comes through faith in Jesus Christ.

For there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over 1 sinner that repents. (see Luke 15:7,10)

WRAPPED UP: THE BOOK OF ENDINGS

2010-01-30T02:43:00.009-05:00

The last book of the Holy Bible begins, "The Revelation of Jesus Christ..." (Chapter 1: verse 1).

Eight key themes, which are woven into the whole bible (old testament and new testament Scriptures, are summarized in Revelation Chapter 1. Interestingly, they all begin with "S":

SCRIPTURE (see verses 1-3) - The Bible and the Bible only (Sola Scriptura); "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth" (John 17:17); "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15);>"...the truth of the Lord endureth forever..." (Psalm 117:2).

SALVATION (see verses 4-6) - "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16); "Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live..." (Ezekiel 33:11).

SECOND COMING (see verses 7-8) - "...I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again* and receive you unto myself: that where I am, there ye may be also" (John 14:2,3).

*He didn't say that we would go to meet Him before He returns (see 1 Thessalonians 4:16,17)

SABBATH (see verse 10) - "And on the seventh day God ended his work which He had made; and He rested on the seventh day from all his work which He had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it He had rested from all his work which God created and made" (Genesis 2:2,3); also see Exodus 20:8-11; Isaiah 58:13,14; Hebrews 11:1-4 & Revelation 14:7.

SANCTUARY (see verses 12-13) - "Thy way O Lord is in the Sanctuary, who is so great a God as our God" (Psalms 77:13); [Everything in the Jewish Sanctuary and its corresponding services pointed forward to Jesus Christ and the mystery of SALVATION]

STATE OF THE DEAD (verses 17,18) - "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23); Death is a sleep (see Job 7:9,10,21; The dead know not anything (see Ecclesiastes 9:5); The righteous dead will be raised at the SECOND COMING of Christ, before the 1000 years, to receive their reward [life without end], and the wicked dead will be raised after the 1000 year, to receive their reward [death with an end] (see Revelation 20:1-6,14,15).

SPIRIT OF PROPHECY (verse 9) - "The Lord will do nothing but He revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets" (Amos 3:7); "I have even sent unto you all my servants the prophets, daily raising and sending them..." (Jeremiah 7:25); also see Revelation 19:10 & 22:9,10.

SAINTS (see verse 20) - "Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as we see the day approaching" (Hebrews 10:24,25); "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love" (1 John 4:7,8); also see Luke 6:27,28 and ending at v. 36); "And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise" (Galations 3:29); "...that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through* Jesus Christ: that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith" (Galatians 3:14).

*And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: and I will bless them that bless thee, and curse them that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed" (Genesis 12:2,3).

Look up the fascination Geneologies of:

Judah (the son of Israel) to David, the King (Ruth 4:12-22)
Abraham to Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:1-17)
Jesus to Adam (the first man made in the image of God)(Luke 3:23-38)

WHOSE FAMILY TREE ARE WE A PART OF?

2010-01-30T02:40:00.002-05:00

Since the creation, and subsequently sin, men (and women) and our descendants can be traced to one of two lines:

God's or Satan's

Seth's or Cain's

Abraham, the father of the faithful or not

Jacob's or Esau's

The righteous or the wicked

Him that serveth God or Him that serveth Him not (Malachi 4:13)

The children of God or the children of the Devil (1 John 3:10)

LIFE CHANGING QUOTES

2010-01-03T16:15:00.003-05:00

"The christian life is not an improvement or modification of the old, but a transformation of the character" by Ellen G. White.

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." Paul the Apostle,
2 Corinthians 5:7

RANDOM QUOTE

2010-01-03T13:38:00.000-05:00

When a man who is honestly mistaken hears the truth, he will either quit being mistaken or cease to be honest -- Unknown

Cuando un hombre esta honestamente equivocado y escucha la verdad, El o para de estar equivocado, O cese de ser honesto

A NEW CREATION

2010-01-03T10:32:00.010-05:00

SEVEN SMALL LIFESTYLE CHANGES THAT CHANGED MY LIFE

1. Live on a schedule (sleep times, eating times, work times, recreation times, etc.)

2. Increase your intake of plant based foods (grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, fresh herbs) and decrease your intake of animal products (meat, milk, eggs and cheese)

3. Eat a hearty breakfast and lunch, skip snacks between meals and eat a light supper at least 3 hours before retiring for bed

4. Spend time outdoors getting sunshine, fresh air and exercise

5. Boost your immune system by increasing your intake of pure water between meals (add fresh lemon juice for a great cleanser) and decreasing refined and artificial sugars and foods containing them

6. Get your rest by going to bed early, rising early in the morning and leaving the Sabbath for mental, physical and spiritual rejuvenation

7. The most important to complete the list--Gain strength by beginning your day with prayer to the Living God and personal study of His will through His Word

RANDOM QUOTE

2010-01-01T07:54:00.004-05:00

"You can't influence the world for Jesus Christ using the world's methods."

Pondering and reconsidering the "doom and gloom" approach I've been using to stir people to wake up and pay attention that Jesus is coming soon.

The world has been using fear and force to bring about change. Jesus Christ never used those methods. He used love and a general concern for people's welfare and gave them the straight truth, then left their decisions to them.

THE NIGHT IS FAR SPENT

2009-12-28T05:10:00.007-05:00

The hours of Earth' history are passing away. Everything we do now has to have an eternal purpose. It's too late to play around. "And that, knowing the time, that it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed*" (Romans 13:11).

"The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk honestly as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof" (Romans 13:12-14).

Based on the prophecies of Matthew Chapter 24, the enemy knows that his time is short. We see the signs. He is working ever so feverishly to seek, to kill and to destroy as many people as he can. Don't think that all the Devil wants to do is wreck your marriage, mess up your children, disrupt your finances or ruin your health. What he ultimately wants is to kill you in your sins or better yet, for you to kill yourself.

If you die in your sins, you are lost. If you confess your sins, the Lord is faithful and just to forgive your sins and cleanse you from all unrighteousness (see 1 John 1:9). Make confession and repentance a daily priority in your day. See King David's example of a prayer of repentance in Psalm 51.

*History tends to repeat itself. In 1844, Christians of varying denominations eagerly awaited Christ return. When He didn't come as expected, many abandoned their faith and mocked those who still held on to theirs. Let us take heed lest we fall into the same temptation. In the fall of 2008, many predicted a financial collapse and many were stirred to action. 2009 is about to end and we have fallen into a false sense of financial security.

Don't go to the analysts for confirmation of what will occur, go to God's Holy, infallible, never-changing, reliable Word--The Old and and New Testament Scriptures.

SIGNS OF THE TIMES

2009-12-27T15:20:00.009-05:00

On December 18, 2009, the European Union...the President signed the first part of... What this means for the Christian is that God's word is coming to pass when, "...the dragon was wroth [angry] with the woman and went to make war with the remnant of her [the church of Christ] seed which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ," (Revelation 12:19) is nearer now than when we first believed.

On December 1, 2009, Germany reaffirmed the sacredness of Sunday as a day of worship to be protected. What this means for the Chrisian is that the time when the second beast power, with the backing of the first beast power would, "...cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed...and that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the number of the beast, or the number of his name" is nearer now than when we first believed (Revelation 13:15-17).

On December ??, 2009, the District of Columbia sanctioned gay marriage. What this means to the Christian that, "...as in the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be" (Matthew 24:37-39).

There are two groups of people we can be in during these times. One group will be looking at the coming crisis and respond with anxiety, fear or worse yet, despair. The other group will be watching, praying and working, and as they see bible prophecy being fulfulled, their faith will be strengthened in the certainty of the coming Christ.

This past year has brought about more changes to our world and way of life then we could ever have imagined. Some have been stirred to action or even more effective, self-examination and prayer. Some have missed the signs, being cleverly distracted by well-timed expositions of Tiger Woods' sins, Michael Jackson's well-publicized death, Rihanna's personal problems and the unprecedented inaugration of the first dark-skinned man in America's Presidental history.

Friends, my appeal is simple, "Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh" (Matthew 24:44).

"WHEREFORE GOD ALSO HATH HIGHLY EXALTED HIM, AND GIVEN HIM A NAME WHICH IS ABOVE EVERY NAME: THAT AT THE NAME OF JESUS EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW,...AND THAT EVERY TONGUE SHOULD CONFESS THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, TO THE GLORY OF GOD THE FATHER" (Philippians 2:9-11).

JEREMIAH THE PROPHET, SON OF HILKIAH THE PRIEST (the conclusion)

2009-12-24T01:05:00.005-05:00

"...I spake unto you, rising up early and speaking, but ye heard not; and I called you, but ye answered not..." (Jeremiah 7:13).

"...But this thing commanded I them, saying, Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people: and walk ye in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you. But they hearkened not, nor inclined their ear, but walked in the counsels and in the imagination of their evil heart, and went backward, and not forward" (Jeremiah 7:23,24).

"...I have sent unto you all my servants the prophets, daily rising up early and sending them: yet they hearkened not unto me, nor inclined their ear, but hardened their neck: they did worse then their fathers" (Jeremiah 7:25,26).

"..This is a nation that obeyeth not the voice of the Lord their God, nor receiveth correction: truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth" (Jeremiah 7:28).

"Why then is this people of Jerusalem slidden back by a perpetual backsliding? they hold fast deceit, they refuse to return...no man repenteth him of his wickedness, saying, What have I done? Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the swallow observe the time of their coming; but my people know not the judgement of the Lord" (Jeremiah 8:5-8).

"...from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely. For they have healed the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace... We looked for peace, but no good came; and for a time of health and behold trouble!" (Jeremiah 8:10,11,15).

"Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?" (Jeremiah 8:22).

JEREMIAH THE PROPHET, SON OF HILKIAH THE PRIEST (the continuation)

2009-12-24T00:44:00.006-05:00

"...the Lord liveth, in truth, in judgement, and in righteousness; and the nations shall bless themselves in him, and in him shall they glory. For thus saith the Lord to the men of Judah and Jerusalem, Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among thorns. Circumcise yourselves to the Lord, and take away the foreskins of your heart..." (Jeremiah 4:2-4).

"The prophets prophecy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?" (Jeremiah 5:31)

"For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely...saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace. Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein. Hear, O earth; Behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it." (Jeremiah 6:13,14,16,19).

"Behold, ye trust in lying words, that cannot profit. Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not; and come and stand before me in this house, which is called by my name, and say, We are delivered to do all these abominations? Is this house, which is called by my name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, even I have seen it, saith the Lord" (Jeremiah 7:8-11).

to be continued...

JEREMIAH THE PROPHET, SON OF HILKIAH THE PRIEST

2009-12-24T00:16:00.005-05:00

"The words of Jeremiah the son of Hilkiah, of the priests...to whom the word of the Lord came in the days of Josiah..."(Jeremiah 1:1,2).

"Then the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

Then said I, Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I a child. But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord. Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth" (Jeremiah 1:4-9).

"And I will utter my judgements against them touching all their wickedness, who have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, and worshiped the works of their own hands...and they shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail against thee; for I am with thee, saith the Lord, to deliver thee" (Jeremiah 1:16,19).

"Israel was holiness unto the Lord, and the first fruits of his increase...and I brought you into a plentiful country, to eat the fruit thereof and the goodness thereof: but when ye entered, ye defiled my land, and made mine heritage an abomination. The priests said not, Where is the Lord? and they that handle the law knew me not: the pastors also transgressed against me and the prophets prophesied by Baal and walked after things that do not profit" (Jeremiah 2:3,7,8).

"For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water...yet I had planted thee a noble vine, wholly a right seed: how then art thou turned into a degenerate plant of a strange vine unto me?" (Jeremiah 2:13,21)

"...Yet return again to me, saith the Lord...A voice was heard upon the high places, weeping and supplications of the children of Israel: for they have perverted their way, and they have forgotten the Lord their God." (Jeremiah 3;1,21)

to be continued...

ONE THING REMAINS CONSTANT

2009-12-17T15:05:00.005-05:00

Through life's journey, God and His love remain constant.

He's promised never to leave us nor forsake us.

Through BIRTH or DEATH
Through MARRIAGE or DIVORCE
Through HEALTH or DISEASE
Through GROWTH or DOWNSIZE

Life is always changing, but Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today and forever.

UNLEARN WHAT YOU'VE BEEN TAUGHT

2009-12-13T00:42:00.009-05:00

No wonder Jesus is not a popular person with popular culture. His kingdom is based on teachings that rub against everything we've been taught from childhood.

For example, "look out for number one" v. humbling yourself

1. "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other[s] better than yourselves...Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross" (Philippians 2:3,5-8). [In laymen terms, He didn't think equality with God or His divinity, was something to be held on to]

2. John, the Baptist, testified of Jesus saying, "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30). [He knew when to take a step back and let others shine]

3. "At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, 'verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:1-4). [In a world where children and youth are minimized and often despised, this one was as hard to follow two thousand year ago as it is today]

5. "When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honorable man than thou be bidden him; ... but when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room that he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher; then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted" (Luke 14:10,11). [As special as we think we are, there is always someone more special or honored]

6. "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up" (James 4:10). [We can truly let the Lord fight our battles for us and trust that He will have our best interest at heart. Sometimes we'll be vindicated in this world and sometimes not, but we don't have to go out there swinging and trying to "get ours." Look around you, there is nothing in this sinful world to get but pain, misery and loss.

There is nothing sweeter than when the Lord lifts you up.

REFORMATION AND REVIVAL

2009-12-10T05:33:00.007-05:00

These are tough times! The world is changing every day, and not for the better. Earth is reeling with the enormous weight of sin. In mercy, the four angels are holding back the winds of strife.

Many are without hope. To live in this earth without hope is a life-robbing experience. There needs to be a revival of hope in our lives. Some have grown up hearing the gospel message of Jesus birth, life, death, resurrection and soon return. For various reasons, some have lost sight of that blessed hope. Some still cling to the promises of God's word and are able to make it through each day.

IN TIMES LIKE THESE (Hymn 593)
by Ruth Caye Jones

In times like these you need a Savior, In times like these you need an anchor;
Be very sure, be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!

Refrain

This Rock is Jesus, yes, He's he one; This Rock is Jesus, the only One! Be very sure, be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!

In times like these you need the Bible, In times like these, O be not idle;
Be very sure, be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!

This Rock is Jesus, yes, He's he one; This Rock is Jesus, the only One! Be very sure, be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!

In times like these I have a Savior, In times like these I have an anchor;
I'm very sure, I'm very sure, my anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!

This Rock is Jesus, yes, He's the one; This Rock is Jesus, the only One! I'm very sure, I'm very sure, my anchor holds and grips the solid Rock!

Prayer inspired by Psalms 61

Hear my cry, O God; pay attention to my prayer
Wherever I am, I'll cry unto you (Psalm 139:7-10);
When the world overwhelms me,
lead me to the Rock Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 10:4)
who has overcome the world (John 16:33)

HOW I WAS DISOBEYING GOD'S COMMANDMENTS

2009-12-03T07:11:00.004-05:00

The following are some of the ways I was disobeying God's commandments, but didn't realize it.

1. My gods were the TV (Law and Order; Cold Case; The Practice; Seinfeld; Wheel of Fortune...

2. My house had the graven images (statues and works of art), that were worshipped (strategically placed for display and so they would not be meddled with or broken because they were so "precious".

3. Saying I'm a Christian, but in my private and public life, misbehaving and acting like Satan's servant.

4. Forgetting that the Sabbath was coming and failing to make necessary preparations (cleaning, cooking and planning so that our time would glorify God); Keeping my mind on, and initiating or entering into conversations that drew the focus from God, to self and worldly things

5. Not calling or visiting my parents as I should; treating them with indifference and/or disrespect; speaking ill of them and complaining about their parenting during my childhood

6. Speaking words to my husband, children or neighbors that kill

7. Defrauding my husband and finding fulfillment in other people; engaging in hobbies and selfish pursuits that draw my mind or time from my wifely duties

8. Taking office supplies without asking; not speaking up when I'd been undercharged; not alerting the cable company that we were getting more then we were paying for

9. Making up stories (filling in the blanks or guessing about something and making it a fact

10. Wishing that I had a marriage relationship, a home, vacations or talents like other people

REST A WHILE

2009-12-03T07:01:00.008-05:00

Come ye yourselves apart into a deserted place and rest a while (Mark 6:31).

Jesus recognized that even His disciples needed quiet time to themselves. Even He made it a regular habit to go to some mountainside or secluded place to commune with His Father.

A couple weeks ago, we went to the mountains and stayed with a wonderful family. The area was so quiet and peaceful that the Lord was able to share some wonderful truths with me. I sooo wanted to share them with you, but instead of asking permission to use their computer and working on the blog right then, I presumed to do it when I came back to the city.

Of course, all the precious truths have since left my mind and may possibly be lost forever. Sorry!! I now recognize what the Lord was saying to each of us when he said, "Come ye yourselves apart into a deserted place and rest a while" and why.

Our spiritual growth is severely hampered in a place where there is constant noise, distractions, sin and debauchery. The hustle, bustle, business, wasting of time and foolishness is so overwhelming, and oftentimes alluring, that there is no time or desire to study the word of God. We're always tired, stressed, pressured, pulled and beaten down, that the things of God hold no power or beauty in our lives.

Oh, brethren, let us go to those retired places so that we can know what God's will is for our lives. When we feel that things are going out of control, jump off the hamster wheel and let God catch you. It may mean major lifestyle changes, major opposition from the world, but God will be there to help you.

It's getting harder to hear the still small voice of God in all the construction noise, the car horns, the train rattlings, the public cell phone conversations, the news alarms and terror alerts.

If He's saying, "this is the way, walk ye in it" (Isaiah 30:21), how will we know where to go if we can't hear Him?

FACEBOOK REQUEST

2009-11-30T16:16:00.001-05:00

If you have a Facebook page, please add a link to my Heaven Bound Blog www.http://jarsofoil.blogspot.com/ or post it once on your wall.

I'd like the message to reach as many people as possible. There is something on there that may appeal to anyone, from bible scriptures, current events, recipes, family matters, parenting concerns, etc.

You may add a disclaimer since my views and writing style may not be your own or the method used to communicate the gospel or disseminate information may be different from yours.

Thank you very much.

MY T-SHIRTS

2009-11-27T13:37:00.002-05:00

Need Life Insurance?

Seek JESUS CHRIST

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)

DIARY OF A SKINNY FOOD ADDICT

2009-11-27T08:27:00.007-05:00

The weight loss was easy. Eating a diet that is 98% based on the diet before sin makes it happen naturally, without any effort. The victory over appetite is not so easy. That requires a constant, daily force of the will.

There are eight natural laws of health that God gave to us. They all work in harmony with each other to promote better health and make our lives a little more enriched. These laws are nutrition, exercise, water, sunlight, temperance, air, rest and trust in the only Living, only Wise, Immortal God.

These principles will be expounded upon later. Some people go cold-turkey with changes and others have to incorporate changes gradually. The good news is that everyone of us can make changes in our lives. We need not be stuck in one place and resign ourselves to defeat.

We can do all things through Christ who gives us strenth (Philipians 4:13).

THE CLASH OF WILLS

2009-11-25T05:41:00.004-05:00

First thing this morning, before the cock crew, I had a clash of wills with one of my children. It was a hard fought battle, but once entered in, it had to be won by me. The challenge was to guide the will of my child without loud-voiced commands, threatenings or force.

Immediately, Child Guidance, by Ellen G. White came to mind and I had to pick it up for encouragement. The chapter entitled, "The Will a Factor in Success" helped me greatly and pointed me to pray to the Lord for strength at that moment. Before that, in my carnal state, prayer had not even entered my mind. In humility, I bowed my head in prayer and asked the Lord's strength, to which He mercifully and lovingly supplied. Not only did He strengthen me, but as I felt my anger melt away, He also worked on my child to bring her into compliance.

So, with a more surrendered spirit, she went to perform the word that had gone out of my mouth. She even asked for my assistance, which I reluctantly gave. Here the Spirit was calling me to surrender to Him again.

"Thanks be to God who giveth us the victory through Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 15:57).

AGE OF ACCOUNTABILITY FOR YOUTH

2009-11-18T05:22:00.004-05:00

Why is the age of twenty a much more mature time for a young person to go to college or to do an apprenticeship program?

The following information is taken from an article from "Family Circle" entitled, "The Young and the Reckless." "Using MRI scans to track changes over 10 years, scientists at the National Institute of Mental Health announced in 2004 that the teen brain is actually going through an intense period of rewiring and isn't fully mature until about age 20. Even more startling, the last part of the brain to come completely online is the prefrontal cortex, the center of reasoning and judgement. 'If a teen were a car, it would be like flooring the accelerator while the brakes are under repair,' says Dr. Walsh. 'Teens can understand information but still tend to act impulsively out of emotion, without thinking ahead.' "

Parents should help their children and youth learn to make good choices of friends when they are still in the maturing stages (1-20 years of age).

OUR DO's and SHOULD NOT's for HEALTFUL LIVING

2009-11-16T15:16:00.003-05:00

Our Do’s and Should Not’s for Healthful Living

1. Should not make anything or anyone more important than God

2. Should not set up statues or relics and pray to them or make substitutions for God

3. Should not say that you are a Christian, but not act like Christ or speak God’s name flippantly and with disrespect

4. Do respect the seventh day Sabbath as a weekly memorial of God’s work at creation

5. Do treat your parents with respect; a long and emotionally healthy life will be the result

6. Should not willfully take a life or destroy someone with hurtful, angry or inconsiderate words

7. Should not engage in emotional or physical affairs

8. Should not cheat in business, take what is not yours; withhold tithe or skimp on offering; rob or burglarize others

9. Should not gossip (share others' personal information) or lie (even if it's a little white one)

10. Should not envy or harbor discontentment with what you have; be jealous of others

YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION (Hymn #498)

2009-11-11T15:31:00.008-05:00

If you confess your sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

When we confess our sins, we should be specific with the Lord. We can easily say, "Lord for give me of my sins", but not have real spirit of repentance for some specific sin. Or there may be a sin that we have let sit for so long that it is forgotten.

By being specific, we allow the Holy Spirit to jog our memory and to really make the confession meaningful. Believe me, the Holy Spirit will bring things back to your remembrance.

The likelihood of repeating a particular sin after we have been specific in confession, is slim. Gain the victory over each sin in particular. Each victory will give you confidence to approach the Lord with some other weakness that you need help overcoming.

As old sins come back to remembrance, take the time to confess and repent of it right away. Any sin unconfessed is a sin unforgiven.

God is willing to aid you.

YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION

Yield not to temptation, for yielding is sin,
Each victory will help you, some other to win.
Fight manfully onward, dark passions subdue,
Look ever to Jesus, He'll carry you through.

Refrain
Ask the Savior to help you, Comfort, strengthen, and keep you;
He is willing to aid you, He will carry you through

Shun evil companions, bad language disdain,
God's name hold in reverence, nor take it in vain;
Be thoughtful and earnest, kind-hearted and true,
Look ever to Jesus, He'll carry you through.

Refrain

To him that overcometh, God giveth a crown,
Through faith we shall conquer, though often cast down;
He who is our Savior, our strength will renew,
Look ever to Jesus, He'll carry you through.

Refrain

RANDOM QUOTES

2009-11-09T23:02:00.000-05:00

"In a time of universal deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act." George Orwell

HOW WE TRAINED OUR CHILDREN IN BAD BEHAVIOR

2009-11-08T05:04:00.011-05:00

BELOW ARE A LIST OF HABITS WE TRAINED OUR CHILDREN IN THAT ARE NOT CONDUCIVE TO A HAPPY HOME. LEARN FROM OUR MISTAKES AND MAKE YOUR HOME DIFFERENT. BY GOD'S GRACE, WE CAN STRIVE FOR HEAVEN'S ORDER IN OUR HOMES.

Stuffing their mouths when eating -- When they were now learning to eat solid food and we were feeding them, we'd full up the spoon, so that the process could go faster because we had other things to do. Sitting patiently and savoring time with our children was not a priority when there were dishes to wash, sports to watch, food to cook, floors to clean and other children to tend to.

Swallowing their food and not chewing enough times -- When we were feeding them, we didn't wait for them to chew their food thoroughly before we had another heaped spoonful ready to put into their mouths. [Now that this is brought to my attention, I [Leuanna] realize that that is the way I eat and it takes effort on a daily basis to correct this wrong habit in myself while trying to re-train our children.

Not respecting when their father, my husband, speaks -- When my husband says something that I disagree with, I'm quick to correct it or voice a better suggestion in front of the children. Over time, they have learned not to take daddy's words seriously or to ask me for my input concerning what he says. I can't be upset with them, I trained them that way. This requires the constant prayer, "Set a watch, O Lord, over my mouth. Keep the door of my lips (Psalm 141:3).

Habits of irregularity -- When they were babies, we didn't have a regular schedule for sleep times, wake up times, family worship, mealtimes, recreation, work or anything else. Everything happened according to our moods, so they grew up with the habits of irregularity. Now that we're trying to maintain heaven's order, it's a struggle, not just for us, but for them, but thanks be to God who giveth us the victory through Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57).

Not following rules or obeying rules when it was convenient to "self" -- If I [Leuanna] didn't feel like walking the long way, I'd jaywalk; if I wasn't patient, I would not wait for the pedestrian walk signal; if I was late or in a hurry, I'd drive way over the speed limit and the list goes on...

Shouting at each other or conversing too loud -- Because we didn't enforce rules, weren't consistent or didn't make our word law, they grew trained in habits of disobedience or indifference, so that when we needed them to do something, we'd have to shout to be heard. Since there was no order in the home, chaos ensued and everyone naturally spoke in loud tones, not being aware of the volume of their voices, so that became the norm. I [Leuanna] also kept the radio up loud (that's the way I like my music), so we always had to speak loudly to be heard. Now that we want to maintain a peaceful atmosphere in the home, it's requires daily diligence to undo the bad habits.

Hitting when angry -- And of course, this one. When they did something that crossed "self", my first reaction was to lash out, so when they are upset, they lashed out. Sometimes at me (even my sweet, mild-mannered 2 year old had a bout of this disease) or they'd lash out at each other. That's what they say, so that's what they did.

Being restlesss or disruptive in the public places (doctor's office, church, concerts, seminars, etc.) -- We allowed the children from early childhood to do whatever they wanted during family worship, during reading time and during meals. We weren't consistent in encouraging them to sit still for short and eventually longer periods of time. When they ran off or interrupted us whenw we were speaking, we weren't consistent in correcting those habits. The obvious result is lack of self-control, the inability to sit still when necessary and the habit of being disruptive by talking when others are speaking.

I praise the Lord that He has been showing us the truth of our sinful "selves". He doesn't do it to bring us down, but to bring us up to His standard. As we humble ourselves before Him, He exalts us to a higher standard of living that we can be a blessing and a source of encouragement to others. We're encouraged to behold healthy families.

Too many families are dysfunctional and the human heart naturally becomes what it beholds [that sounds like a good topic for another blog about the TV shows we watch and how that changes our minds to accept adultery, fornication, wrath, lies, covetousness, foolish jesting and the like, as normal].

Let's find healthy families and healthy relationships to be our example and make the bad examples a source of fervent prayer.

May God bless your marriages, your children and may your homes (if one inhabitant or more), be a little taste of heaven.

REVELATION OF HOPE

2009-11-02T07:24:00.003-05:00

(1) Revelation's Predictions for the New Millenium

(2) Revelation's Biggest Surprise

(3) Revelation's Greatest End-Time Signs

(4) Revelation's Star Wars: Battle for the Throne

(5) Revelation's Peace Maker

(6) Revelation's Final Event

(7) Revelation's Most Amazing Prophecy

THE HOUR OF HIS JUDGEMENT HAS COME

2009-11-01T03:54:00.005-05:00

****ANNOUNCEMENT*****

You are personally invited to take time to attend an Evangelistic Series: REVELATION OF HOPE

Tonight at 7pm

Tonight's topic: What Happens when we die?

Hyattsville Seventh-day Adventist Church
4905 42nd Place
Hyattsville, MD 20871
301-318-0133 (Pastor)

301-927-2080 (for directions after 6pm)

Last few topics:

Yesterday morning we learned what is a cult. We also learned in the evening what the 2300 day prophecy in Daniel 8:14 means and it's link to the Jewish Sanctuary services. Tonight we will learn what happens after death. These lectures have been powerful and life-changing.

All the lectures are rooted in the book of Revelation. This book is no longer a mystery with mystic creatures or events. The fear and confusion is being taken away as truth is revealed and believed.

Forgive me, but I don't know the exact title of each lecture. Mario Torres just gives us what the subject matter will be.

Series continutes until November 14th at 7pm (Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays*

*there are two lectures on Saturdays, 11am and 7pm

IT PAYS TO SERVE JESUS

2009-10-30T05:08:00.002-05:00

“Your words have been stout [harsh] against me, saith the Lord.

Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee?

Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts?

And now we call the proud happy [blessed]; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.” (Mal 3:13-15)

Let us be careful lest we speak against the Lord in this way. It is not in vain that we the serve the Lord. The fact that God sent His only begotten son as a ransom for your and my sin is evidence that we do not serve Him in vain. Were it not for His grace, we would be without hope, and that is one thing that we need in this wicked world—-hope. Hope that, come what may, there is a better world promised to those who serve Him*. (see Mal. 3:18)

If you're on the brink of foreclosure, divorce, unemployment, a nervous breakdown, disenheritance, disfellowship or any such thing, see it a test. A test of your strength. "If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small." (Proverbs 24:10)

In all this, do not turn away from the Lord, trusting that "all things work together for good to them that love the Lord, who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28).

*In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began. (Titus 1:2)

BREAKFAST LIKE A KING

2009-10-29T08:52:00.004-05:00

Whole Grains – sweet or long grain brown rice, millet, pearled or unhulled barley, soft or hard wheat berries, quinoa, bulgur wheat or steel cut, rolled or oat groats (choose 3 or more)

Nuts – pine nuts, walnuts, pecans, peanuts, cashews, almonds or Brazil nuts (choose 1)

Sweetener or Flavoring – agave nectar, maple syrup, molasses, honey, almond or vanilla extract, fruit smoothie, apple juice or other juice concentrate (choose 1)

Spice – coriander, cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla bean, cloves, citrus zest or star anise (choose 1)

Fresh Fruits – blueberries, bananas, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, pears and sweet grapes (choose 2)

Dried Fruit – dates, raisins, cranberries, apricots, shredded coconut, prunes and currents (choose 1)

Milk – coconut milk, rice milk, almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, hemp milk, carob milk (choose 1 store bought or homemade variety)

L.A.N.D. Children's Living Bible Series

2009-10-27T14:20:00.007-05:00

FOUND RULES: THE FIRST STEPS TOWARD CHANGE

Josiah was eight years old when he became king of Judah

He reigned for 31 years and did what was right in the sight of the Lord

In his 18th year as king, Josiah sent Shaphan, the scribe, to the temple of the Lord

He told Shaphan to go to Hilkiah, the High Priest, and ask him to count the money that is collected by the door keepers

He was to deliver the money to the workers who were to repair the temple

While Hilkiah was in the temple, he found the Book of the Law and gave it to Shaphan to read

Shaphan went back and reported to Joshiah, now 26 years old, that the money was found in the temple and given to the workers

He also showed Joshiah the Book of the Law that Hilkiah, the High Priest, gave to him and read to the king

The king was distressed and humbled himself and gave orders to inquire of the Lord on behalf of the people

He realized that Lord was angry because the people had not been following the Book of the Law

So the High Priest, the Scribe and three others went to Huldah, the Prophetess, and asked her for a message from the Lord

Huldah told them to tell the king that the Lord was angry with the people because they were worshipping other gods

Since King Joshiah humbled himself before the Lord, the Lord heard him and would have mercy on him

The Lord told Huldah that King Joshiah would die in peace and not see the destruction that would come upon his people

excerpt from the L.A.N.D. Children's Living Bible Series
(c) Leuanna Matheson, 1997

TRUTHFULNESS

2009-10-26T07:20:00.005-05:00

Truthfulness - Conformity to fact or reality; exact accordance with that which is or has been or shall be; true state of facts for things; correct opinion. (Definition from SonLight Education Ministry Curriculum)

"Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another." Ephesians 4:25

"Everything that Christians do should be transparent as the sunlight. Truth is of God; deception, in every one of its myriad forms, is of Satan; and whoever in any way departs from the straight line of truth is betraying himself into the power of the wicked one. Yet it is not a light or easy thing to speak the exact truth.

We cannot speak the truth unless we know the truth; and how often preconceived opinions, mental bias, imperfect knowledge, error of judgement, prevent a right understanding of matters with which we have to do! We cannot speak the truth unless our minds are continually guided by Him who is truth."

Thoughts from the Mount of Blessings, Ellen G. White, 68

RANDOM QUOTES

2009-10-19T05:49:00.000-05:00

Acquaint now thyself with him [God], and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee. Job 22:21

THE YEAR 2012

2009-10-03T21:14:00.004-05:00

Everyone seems to have a fascination with the future, especially how the world is going to end.

This blog's a real simple appeal. Come to a prediction seminar (what the bible calls a Prophecy). God's predictions (prophecies) have ALWAYS come true. He's the only one who knows the end from the beginning. I can say that without hesitation or apology because it's true.

If you can't attend the one coming up at Hyattsville Seventh-day Adventist Church on October 16, 2009, at 7pm, then attend any prophecy seminar at a local Seventh-day Adventist Church near your part of the globe.

You may also find a bible-based study group and prayerfully attend (with bible, pen and highlighter in hand).

If push comes to shove, and you can't, or choose not to do any of the above, but still desire to know the truth, then open up the Word of God yourself, and as always, ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand what He's saying. That way, you know that you're getting truth straight from the source.

God's blessing be upon us all.

Leuanna
202-437-4867

P.S. COSMIC CONFLICT: Revelation of Hope
October 16-November 14, 2009
Friday's - Sundays and Wednesdays
7:00pm
4905 42nd Place
Hyattsville, MD 20782
301-318-0133 or 240-778-7261

FALL BACK, NOT FALL AWAY

2009-09-22T11:59:00.004-05:00

Who doesn't want high standards? Even in the seediest business, there is a level of standard that employees must uphold.

Sometimes I find myself wanting, in my personal and home life, to lower my standards because they seem too high to attain to. My standards are based on God's ideal for me. Even family and friends tell me that my standards are too high, "God will understand," they say. That tell me that I put too much pressure on myself. My carnal self is prone to mediocrity as it is, so it's not a bad thing for me to aspire to something more noble.

When I listen to the words of "friendly advice", I begin to lower my standards. Unfortunately, that doesn't make me any happier. It cheapens my experience and makes me feel unfullfilled, because I'm assured that the God I serve is a High and Holy God. He can help me to accomplish what I cannot do in my own strength.

The apostle, Paul, said that he'd rather glory in his weakness, because when he is weak, he's strong. I truly know that I can do, and have done, many great things through Christ who has strengthened me over the years. When I've started feeling doubt, procrastination, discouragement, and like emotions, it was because I was looking at myself and relying on own skill and strength.

This race is not won yet. The journey is not over. We must endure to the end.
If you're felt that the race was too much for you and fell away. It's not too late to suit up and continue from where you left off. There are people who will welcome you with open arms and most of all there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels over one sinner that repents.

Let's not believe the lies of those who would have us forfeit our crown of eternal life. Press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

*Italicized text are paraphrases from the word of God.

CALENDAR EVENTS

2009-09-16T05:38:00.007-05:00

YARD SALE & COMMUNITY FAIR
Date: Sunday, September 20, 2009
Time: 11:00am - 4:00pm
Location: Parking Lot between the Church and the Fellowship Hall
4807 42nd Place
Hyattsville, MD 20781
FMI call Isabel 240-386-9339
Included: Natural Health Talks, Activities for the children and more

COOKING CLASS
Date: Sunday, September 27, 2009
Time: 11:00am - 1:30pm
Location: Fellowship Hall
4807 42nd Place,
Hyattsville, MD 20781
FMI: Doris Hernandez
540-672-3100
Cost: $5 per plate (cash)
Note: Instruction and materials in Spanish, but your visual aquity and taste buds will compensate and be excellent translators.

Personal note: Delicious, sumptuous food with no guilt or pain afterwards

EVANGELISTIC SERIES
Speaker: Mario Torres
Dates: October 16-November 14, 2009
Days: Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays nightly
Times: 7:00pm
Location: Hyattsville Seventh-day Adventist Church
4905 42nd Place,
Hyattsville, MD 20781
FMI:call Pastor Samuel (the most accessible Pastor I know) 301-318-0133

THE LEGACY OF ADAM AND EVE

2009-09-09T07:51:00.006-05:00

In the garden of Eden, when Adam and Eve ate the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, they ran and hid themselves, feeling guilt and shame for the first time. That feeling was too overwhelming to bear, so when God addressed them, they found self-justification and accusation against others much easier to bear.

Six thousand years later, we are still experiencing that strong tug of emotions when we do something wrong. The Holy Spirit convicts us of wrong so we are brought to godly sorrow, but instead of humbly confessing our sins so that we will be forgiven, we justify our wrongs and/or blame others for them.

Jesus, the Messiah, came to free us from such mental chains. Christ's love is a freeing love. He does not want any of his creation burdened with guilt and shame. There is therefore now no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus, who walk after the Spirit and not after the flesh (Romans 8:1). For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace (Romans 8:6).

We are behooved to reflect upon the character of God. "And the LORD passed by before him [Moses], and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth generation." Exodus 34:6,7

The mental chains that Satan wants to put on us are not the Lord choosing. Let us now become the Devil's plaything.

"If the Son therefore shall may you free, ye shall be free indeed." (John 8:36)

RECENT RECIPES

2009-09-08T12:54:00.004-05:00

MUELSI

Ingredients
3 cups rolled oats
3 cups apple juice*
1/2 cup raisins
¼ cup shredded coconut
1 tbsp cardamom
½ cup walnuts (finely or coarsely chopped)

Method
Mix all ingredients in a baking dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, serve with unsweetened rice, soy or nut milk. Enjoy with fresh fruit.

*may substitute 1 cup water if you don’t want your oatmeal too sweet

Serves 6

RED ONION-SUNFLOWER DIP

Ingredients
½ red onion
Fresh Rosemary
½ tsp salt or chicken-style seasoning
2 tbsp water (Extra water as needed)
1 cup sunflower seeds

Method
Heat the water and add everything except the sunflower seeds. When the onions turn clear, add mixture to a blender with ¼ cup water (more for desired consistency). Blend until creamy. May also leave it chunky if you like that texture.

Serve warm as a spread on crackers, bread, savory pancakes, wraps or pizza*

*On cooked pizza dough or savory pancakes or crepes, spread a thin layer of dip and put homemade spaghetti sauce or pizza sauce on top. Enjoy.

HARVEST NUT ROAST

Ingredients
2 cups celery, chopped
2 medium onions, chopped
½ cup walnuts, chopped
½ cup pecan or sunflower meal
1 tsp basil leaves
1 tsp salt
2 cups soy or rice milk
½ tsp sage
2 cups fresh bread crumbs (preferably Italian flavored)

Method
Sauté celery and onions in a small amount (1 tbsp water). Combine all ingredients, folding in breadcrumbs last. Place in oiled or non-stick loaf tin or casserole dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Loaf may need to be covered with foil near the end of baking if top begins to get two brown.*

Serve with gravy.

*if this happens, spread BBQ sauce or tomato paste on top.

LABOR SMARTER

2009-09-07T04:11:00.009-05:00

"Come onto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me. For I am meek and lowly in heart and you shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" Psalm 11:28-30.

Maybe you have longed for peace. You've heard that there is more to life than you are currently experiencing, but can't seem to find it. Far too many people have gone through life just existing. It's even worse for the Christian because he or she knows that Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10).

But where is it?

The experiences from early childhood and even as far back as the womb, have shaped our thoughts and behaviors today. Oftentimes we react to situations without understanding where our feelings come from.

There is hope! There are many Christ-centered resources out there that can help you. The Holy Bible is my recommended favorite. Psalm 147:3 says of God, "He heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds."

Proverbs gives insight into the human heart
Psalm gives us examples of rough times, but also the victories and reasons for praise
Ecclesiastes gives us wisdom for everyday living
James is a character detector
Revelation is a place to go for hope of a glorious future

Search the Holy Scriptures, in them is life!

"And this is life eternal, that they may know thee the only true God, AND Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." John 17:3 [emphasis added]

RANDOM QUOTES

2009-09-07T04:04:00.002-05:00

Reputation is what others think of you;
Character is what God knows of you.

2009 A.D. (Anno Domini which means "In the Year of our Lord")

...THEN SHALL THE END COME

2009-08-20T03:49:00.004-05:00

"And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." Matthew 24:14

EVANGELISTIC EFFORT
When: October 16-November 14 (Sundays, Mondays, Wednesday, Sabbath Morning and Saturday Evening
Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm
Place: Hyattsville Seventh-day Adventist Church
4905 42nd Place
Hyattsville, MD 20781
301-318-0133

RANDOM QUOTES

2009-08-19T12:30:00.003-05:00

"God gives opportunities; success depends upon the use made of them. The openings of Providence must be quickly discerned and eagerly seized upon." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, pg. 321)

"The true object of education is to restore the image of God in the soul." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, pg. 322)

JEHOVAH'S REST #654

2009-08-14T02:49:00.005-05:00

HOLY DAY, JEHOHAV'S REST
Written by F.E. Belden
Copyrighted 1886

1. Holy Day, Jehovah's rest, of creation's week the best;
Last of all the chosen seven, Blessed of God, to man 'twas given.

Refrain

Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome
Glad we hail it's presence blest, 'Tis the great Jehaovah's rest

2. First His six days' work was done, then the Sabbath was begun;
thus He blessed the seventh day, thus in resting we obey.

3. Thousands have His plan reversed, resting now upon the first;
Search the Book and you will know, there’s no scripture tells them so.

4. All who speak the truth must say, it was man who changed the day;
In God’s word no change appears, through the whole six thousand years.

5. Thus I searched; and when I saw; only one great Sabbath law;
then I hastened to obey-- plainy 'twas the only way. – F.E. Belden

If you have questions about these and other truths from God's Word, the Bible, please call or email me at 202-437-4867 or email me at leuannam@qis.net.

Leuanna

FINANCIAL CRISIS: FALSE ALARM?

2009-08-14T02:05:00.008-05:00

Last year, around this time, there were emails circulating about a financial crisis that was to come upon America and the World. Some people made plans as the what they were going to do about the crisis and actually executed that plan. Some ignored them and chalked the warnings up to the fanatical rantings of alarmists or bored emailers with nothing better to do. The last group, probably the majority, were concerned, but waited to see if Snopes.com or the evening news carried the story before they jumped into action.

This fall, another such warning has been issued.

Beloved, let me share with you a financial crisis that is soon to come upon the earth and the source is True.

"Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you.

Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten.

Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days.

Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth.

Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter.

Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you.

Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.

Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh". James 5:1-8

To find out when these things will come, read about them in the timeline put forth in the New Testament books of Matthew Chapter 24, verses 1-24; Luke Chapter 21: verses 5 to the end; and Mark Chapter 13.

Further Study

Matthew 6:19-21
Luke 12:13-40
Matthew 19:16-21

If you have questions about these and other truths from God's Word, the Bible, please call or email me at 202-437-4867 or email me at leuannam@qis.net.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Leuanna

FANNIE J. CROSBY (1823-1915)

2009-08-09T15:13:00.002-05:00

#388 Don't Forget the Sabbath

Words by Fanny J. Crosby (1820-1915)

Music by William B. Bradbury (1816-1868)

Don’t forget the Sabbath,

The Lord our God hath blest,

Of all the week the brightest,

Of all the week the best;

It brings repose from labor,

It tells of joy divine,

Its beams of light descending,

With heav’nly beauty shine.

Refrain

Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,

Blessèd Sabbath day,

Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,

Blessèd Sabbath day.

Keep the Sabbath holy,

And worship Him today,

Who said to His disciples,

“I am the living Way”;

And if we meekly follow

Our Savior here below,

He’ll give us of the fountain

Whose streams eternal flow.

Refrain

Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,

Blessèd Sabbath day,

Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,

Blessèd Sabbath day.

Day of sacred pleasure!

Its golden hours we’ll spend

In thankful hymns to Jesus,

The children’s dearest Friend;

O gentle, loving, Savior,

How good and kind Thou art,

How precious is Thy promise

To dwell in every heart!

Refrain

Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,

Blessèd Sabbath day,

Welcome, welcome, ever welcome,

Blessèd Sabbath day.

THE FOOLISH VIRGINS

2009-07-17T05:33:00.005-05:00

Read the story from Matthew 25:1-13

The class represented by the foolish virgins are not hypocrites. They have a regard for the truth, they have advocated the truth, they are attracted to those who believe the truth; but they have not yielded themselves to the Holy Spirit's working. They have not fallen upon the Rock, Christ Jesus, and permitted their old nature to be broken up.

This class are represented also by the stony-ground hearers. They receive the word with readiness, but they fail of assimilating its principles. Its influence is not abiding. The Spirit works upon man's heart, according to his desire and consent implanting in him a new nature; but the class representing the foolish virgins have been content with a superficial work. They do not know God. They have not studied His character; they have not held communion with Him; therefore they do not know how to trust, how to look and live.

Their service to God degenerates into a form. "They come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as My people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them; for with their mouth they show much love, but their heart goeth after covetousness" Ezekiel 33:31.

The apostle Paul points out that this will be the special characteristic of those who live just before Christ's second coming. He says, "In the last days perilous times will come; for men shall be lovers of their own selves;...lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof" 2 Timothy 3:1-5.

Christ Object Lessons, Ellen G. White, pg. 411

TRUSTING GOD: Lesson from the Sermon on the Mount

2009-07-16T07:13:00.005-05:00

"In His Sermon on the Mount, Christ taught His disciples precious lessons in regard to the necessity of trusting in God. These lessons were designed to encourage the children of God through all ages, and they came down to our time full of instruction and comfort. The Savior pointed His followers to the birds of the air as they warbled their carols of praise, unencumbered with thoughts of care, for 'they sow not, neither do they reap.' And yet the great Father provides for their needs. The Savior asks, 'Are ye not much better than they? Matthew 6:26.

The great Provider for man and beast opens His hand and supplies all His creatures. The birds of the air are not beneath His notice. He does not drop the food into their bills, but He makes provision for their needs. They must gather the grains He has scattered for them. They must prepare the material for their little nests. They must feed their young. They go forth singing to their labor, for 'your heavenly Father feedeth them.' And 'are ye not much better than they?' Are not you, as intelligent, spiritual worshipers, of more value than the birds of the air? Will not the Author of our being, the Preserver of our life, the One who formed us in His own divine image, provide for our necessities if we but trust in Him?

Steps to Christ, Ellen G. White, pg. 123

TRUST

2009-07-16T06:57:00.004-05:00

"It is the love of self that brings unrest.

When we are born from above, the same mind will be in us that was in Jesus, the mind that led Him to humble Himself that we might be saved. Then we shall not be seeking the highest place.

We shall desire to sit at the feet of Jesus, and learn of Him. We shall understand that the value of our work does not consist of making a show and noise in the world, and in being active and zealout in our own strength. The value of our work is in proportion to the impartation of the Holy Spirit.

Trust in God brings holier qualities of mind, so that in patience we may possess our souls."

Desire of Ages, Ellen G. White, pg. 330-331