From: Bryant Wright Ministries
Romans 8:18 "I consider the sufferings of the present to be as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed in us."
In your mind, picture a fifty-two-year-old executive, writer, artist, and speaker who has a national radio broadcast. What would you think if I told you that same person has been a quadriplegic since she was seventeen? Some of you know her name--Joni Erikson Tada. Her life has been an inspiration to many because she believes God can bring good out of the worst situation. She believes that suffering has purpose through faith in God, for God can use suffering to mold our character to make us a better person.
Are you going through a difficult time? Does your hardship and suffering seem meaningless?
Remember, God can take the worst life brings and turn it into something good if you'll put your trust in Him. He's in the business of turning chaos into a masterpiece when we turn our life over to Him.
Are you willing to believe God can bring good out of even your situation? I assure you He can.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Joy Comes In The Morning
From: Paul Wallace Ministries
Psalm 30:6 "For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but joy comes in the morning."
In this song David reminds us that our God given afflictions are very brief, but God's favor lasts all our life. We may cry through the night, but God brings us joy the next morning. Whatever trial we are facing, it helps to remember this truth.
Some trials seem long, but in the light of eternity and the favor of God upon our lives, they are fleeting. The Apostle Paul had a thorn in his side for years. It caused him to depend upon the grace and strength of God. This is quite different from dealing with the consequences of our sin. It is the condition of living in a fallen world.
God turns our wailing into an exuberant dance of joy. He takes the sackcloth of mourning from us and gives us a robe of joy. Know that on the other side of every trial there will be times of joy again, not just happiness, but heart filled joy.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Psalm 30:6 "For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but joy comes in the morning."
In this song David reminds us that our God given afflictions are very brief, but God's favor lasts all our life. We may cry through the night, but God brings us joy the next morning. Whatever trial we are facing, it helps to remember this truth.
Some trials seem long, but in the light of eternity and the favor of God upon our lives, they are fleeting. The Apostle Paul had a thorn in his side for years. It caused him to depend upon the grace and strength of God. This is quite different from dealing with the consequences of our sin. It is the condition of living in a fallen world.
God turns our wailing into an exuberant dance of joy. He takes the sackcloth of mourning from us and gives us a robe of joy. Know that on the other side of every trial there will be times of joy again, not just happiness, but heart filled joy.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Facing Rejection
From: Bryant Wright Ministries
Romans 8:28 "All things work together for good, for those who love God and are called according to His purpose."
Rejection is a part of life. We all face it, whether trying out for a team and being cut, being fired, or laid off. Toughest of all may be rejection in the family through a divorce, a child feeling rejected by a parent, or one sibling rejecting another.
Remember, God's power is sufficient for you to overcome rejection. How?
1. You have to trust Him completely to bring good out of the worst rejection.
2. You have to confess to God any feelings of resentment, bitterness, or anger and ask God to forgive you. Remember, "Bitterness is the poison we swallow while hoping the other person dies."
3. You have to ask God to give you the power to forgive the person who rejected you, and for the strength to move on.
Jesus is our ultimate example for dealing with rejection. He chose to forgive on the cross, and He gives us the power to do the same when others reject us.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Romans 8:28 "All things work together for good, for those who love God and are called according to His purpose."
Rejection is a part of life. We all face it, whether trying out for a team and being cut, being fired, or laid off. Toughest of all may be rejection in the family through a divorce, a child feeling rejected by a parent, or one sibling rejecting another.
Remember, God's power is sufficient for you to overcome rejection. How?
1. You have to trust Him completely to bring good out of the worst rejection.
2. You have to confess to God any feelings of resentment, bitterness, or anger and ask God to forgive you. Remember, "Bitterness is the poison we swallow while hoping the other person dies."
3. You have to ask God to give you the power to forgive the person who rejected you, and for the strength to move on.
Jesus is our ultimate example for dealing with rejection. He chose to forgive on the cross, and He gives us the power to do the same when others reject us.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Turn On The Light
From: Bryant Wright Ministries
John 8:12 "I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life."
When you're staying in an unfamiliar place, do you ever awaken in the night and get up without turning on the light? Next thing you know, you're tripping over a suitcase or walking into a table. The last time that happened to me, it was so painful! But when you turn on the light, everything is clear.
A lot of folks are trying to make it through life in darkness--spiritual darkness--and much self-inflicted pain and unnecessary falls take place, because most people in the dark feel they're doing just fine on their own.
But Jesus tells us He's the light of the world. He means He is the enlightenment about God, man, and life. Without Him, we're in the dark spiritually. We keep stumbling, falling, and feeling frustrated about it all. Hey, isn't it time to turn on the light, really see God, and understand life? If you do, everything will make sense.
John 8:12 "I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life."
When you're staying in an unfamiliar place, do you ever awaken in the night and get up without turning on the light? Next thing you know, you're tripping over a suitcase or walking into a table. The last time that happened to me, it was so painful! But when you turn on the light, everything is clear.
A lot of folks are trying to make it through life in darkness--spiritual darkness--and much self-inflicted pain and unnecessary falls take place, because most people in the dark feel they're doing just fine on their own.
But Jesus tells us He's the light of the world. He means He is the enlightenment about God, man, and life. Without Him, we're in the dark spiritually. We keep stumbling, falling, and feeling frustrated about it all. Hey, isn't it time to turn on the light, really see God, and understand life? If you do, everything will make sense.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
His Ultimate Purpose
From: Greg Laurie Ministries
Romans 8:28 "All things work together for good, for those who love God and are called according to His purpose."
We must remember that God never tests us without a purpose or a reason. You might wonder, Why does God allow His children to go through these trials? The answer is God's ultimate purpose is that we might be conformed into the image of Jesus Christ.
There are many times in our lives when we will go through trials, and things will work out really well. That's when we love to quote Romans 8:28: "All things work together for good, for those who love God and are called according to His purpose." Many things that make no sense at the time will work out in the end.
A classic example of this is Joseph. Talk about things really going wrong! Joseph went out to visit his brothers on an errand for his father and the next thing he knew, he was sold as a slave. But with God's providence, he was elevated to a position of great authority. He was able to help his brothers and his father and do much good.
Another reason God allows trials is so we will become strong spiritually. James 1:2–3 says, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience." Different translations say that testing produces "heroic endurance" or "fortitude." James meant that trials will toughen us up and give us staying power. God wants iron to enter our souls.
Temptation can be endured and overcome. Remember that God's ultimate purpose in allowing trials in our lives is so that we might be conformed into the image of Jesus Christ.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Romans 8:28 "All things work together for good, for those who love God and are called according to His purpose."
We must remember that God never tests us without a purpose or a reason. You might wonder, Why does God allow His children to go through these trials? The answer is God's ultimate purpose is that we might be conformed into the image of Jesus Christ.
There are many times in our lives when we will go through trials, and things will work out really well. That's when we love to quote Romans 8:28: "All things work together for good, for those who love God and are called according to His purpose." Many things that make no sense at the time will work out in the end.
A classic example of this is Joseph. Talk about things really going wrong! Joseph went out to visit his brothers on an errand for his father and the next thing he knew, he was sold as a slave. But with God's providence, he was elevated to a position of great authority. He was able to help his brothers and his father and do much good.
Another reason God allows trials is so we will become strong spiritually. James 1:2–3 says, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience." Different translations say that testing produces "heroic endurance" or "fortitude." James meant that trials will toughen us up and give us staying power. God wants iron to enter our souls.
Temptation can be endured and overcome. Remember that God's ultimate purpose in allowing trials in our lives is so that we might be conformed into the image of Jesus Christ.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Thanksgiving...Always And For Everything
From: Greg Laurie Ministries
Ephesians 5:20 "Give thanks to God the Father always and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
At this time of year, we tend put a lot of emphasis on Christmas. That is because merchants are pushing us in that direction, wanting us to believe that Christmas is all about trimming the tree, buying presents, and so on. In the process of all this, we can very easily forget this beautiful holiday called Thanksgiving.
Originally established as a holiday by President George Washington in 1789, Thanksgiving was initially a religious holiday and, more to the point, a Christian holiday. The first Thanksgiving was different than ours today. It lasted three days, during which the pilgrims feasted with their Indian guests.
Of course, our Thanksgiving is also about gathering with friends and family and having a feast. But sometimes at this particular time of year, we can forget about how thankful we ought to be. We need to never forget that God has blessed us to live in the United States of America, which is, in my opinion, the greatest country on the face of this earth. We have so many privileges here.
We have a lot to give thanks for, and certainly the Bible urges us to give thanks to the Lord. We are told in Psalm 106:1, "Praise the Lord! Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever."
Sometimes worship and thanksgiving can be a sacrifice, because we are down or depressed or things aren't going all that well for us. Maybe hardship or tragedy has hit our lives in some way and we don't want to thank God. But the Bible doesn't say, "Give thanks to the Lord, because you feel good." It says, "Give thanks to the Lord always and for everything, for He is good!"
Ephesians 5:20 "Give thanks to God the Father always and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
At this time of year, we tend put a lot of emphasis on Christmas. That is because merchants are pushing us in that direction, wanting us to believe that Christmas is all about trimming the tree, buying presents, and so on. In the process of all this, we can very easily forget this beautiful holiday called Thanksgiving.
Originally established as a holiday by President George Washington in 1789, Thanksgiving was initially a religious holiday and, more to the point, a Christian holiday. The first Thanksgiving was different than ours today. It lasted three days, during which the pilgrims feasted with their Indian guests.
Of course, our Thanksgiving is also about gathering with friends and family and having a feast. But sometimes at this particular time of year, we can forget about how thankful we ought to be. We need to never forget that God has blessed us to live in the United States of America, which is, in my opinion, the greatest country on the face of this earth. We have so many privileges here.
We have a lot to give thanks for, and certainly the Bible urges us to give thanks to the Lord. We are told in Psalm 106:1, "Praise the Lord! Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever."
Sometimes worship and thanksgiving can be a sacrifice, because we are down or depressed or things aren't going all that well for us. Maybe hardship or tragedy has hit our lives in some way and we don't want to thank God. But the Bible doesn't say, "Give thanks to the Lord, because you feel good." It says, "Give thanks to the Lord always and for everything, for He is good!"
When The Bottom Drops Out
From: Greg Laurie Ministries
James 1:2 "My brothers, count it pure joy when you are involved in every sort of trial."
Have you ever had the bottom drop out of your life? Things had been going reasonably well. The birds were singing. The sun was shining. Then without warning, the storm clouds began to gather. It started to rain on your parade. A calamity hit. A tragedy struck, and suddenly you felt lower than you had ever felt before. What was it all about?
Or, have you ever had one of those times where you were walking with God, trying to do all the things that should build you up in your Christian faith, when, out of nowhere, you were hit with a heavy-duty, intense temptation? It often happened at the worst conceivable time, like when you were in prayer or in church. You wondered, Why is this happening to me?
What is the purpose of trials and temptations in the life of the Christian? Is there anything we can do to move them along a little more quickly?
Without a doubt, none of us enjoy trials. None of us enjoy being tempted, but there are some valuable lessons that come through these times God allows in our lives. In fact, the Bible tells us, "My brothers, count it pure joy when you are involved in every sort of trial, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing" (James 1:2–4).
I have heard people say, "Christians are a lot like tea bags: you don't know what they are made of until you put them into hot water." Sometimes we think we are doing pretty well spiritually when all of a sudden, God puts us in some hot water. He lets us go through a trial. He allows temptation in our lives. Yet it is those difficult times that help to strengthen us spiritually .
James 1:2 "My brothers, count it pure joy when you are involved in every sort of trial."
Have you ever had the bottom drop out of your life? Things had been going reasonably well. The birds were singing. The sun was shining. Then without warning, the storm clouds began to gather. It started to rain on your parade. A calamity hit. A tragedy struck, and suddenly you felt lower than you had ever felt before. What was it all about?
Or, have you ever had one of those times where you were walking with God, trying to do all the things that should build you up in your Christian faith, when, out of nowhere, you were hit with a heavy-duty, intense temptation? It often happened at the worst conceivable time, like when you were in prayer or in church. You wondered, Why is this happening to me?
What is the purpose of trials and temptations in the life of the Christian? Is there anything we can do to move them along a little more quickly?
Without a doubt, none of us enjoy trials. None of us enjoy being tempted, but there are some valuable lessons that come through these times God allows in our lives. In fact, the Bible tells us, "My brothers, count it pure joy when you are involved in every sort of trial, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing" (James 1:2–4).
I have heard people say, "Christians are a lot like tea bags: you don't know what they are made of until you put them into hot water." Sometimes we think we are doing pretty well spiritually when all of a sudden, God puts us in some hot water. He lets us go through a trial. He allows temptation in our lives. Yet it is those difficult times that help to strengthen us spiritually .
God Is In The Control Tower
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
1 Timothy 4:15 "Attend to your duties; let them absorb you, so that everyone may see your progress."
A well-known Bible teacher tells of a pilot friend who received word from the control tower saying, "You're cleared for 5,000 feet." When he got there he had to hold for further instructions.
Next came the words, "You're cleared for 10,000 feet." Gradually the controller took him level by level to 35,000 feet where he was cleared to fly to his destination. God spoke to this Bible teacher and said, "I wish you would trust me like that. Instead you want to go straight to 35,000 feet in one thrust!"
Try to understand this: God sees the end from the beginning and He has already mapped out your journey. He knows that if you rise too quickly there are dangers. You may be in the cockpit, but God's in the control tower. And His Word to you today is: "Trust Me and I'll get you safely to your destination." God's plan for your life can't be rushed. When you try to move too quickly you end up in a tug-of-war with Him. And you lose every time!
Before God could trust David to lead the nation He first had to see how he'd handle his father's flock. It was here David built a relationship with God and developed the qualities that would sustain him through the tough times ahead when he was king.
God will let you practice in a place where your weaknesses can be worked on, your gifts developed, and where your mistakes won't affect too many others. That's because He cares for them too! If God has put you on hold today, it's because He loves you and wants only what's best for you.
1 Timothy 4:15 "Attend to your duties; let them absorb you, so that everyone may see your progress."
A well-known Bible teacher tells of a pilot friend who received word from the control tower saying, "You're cleared for 5,000 feet." When he got there he had to hold for further instructions.
Next came the words, "You're cleared for 10,000 feet." Gradually the controller took him level by level to 35,000 feet where he was cleared to fly to his destination. God spoke to this Bible teacher and said, "I wish you would trust me like that. Instead you want to go straight to 35,000 feet in one thrust!"
Try to understand this: God sees the end from the beginning and He has already mapped out your journey. He knows that if you rise too quickly there are dangers. You may be in the cockpit, but God's in the control tower. And His Word to you today is: "Trust Me and I'll get you safely to your destination." God's plan for your life can't be rushed. When you try to move too quickly you end up in a tug-of-war with Him. And you lose every time!
Before God could trust David to lead the nation He first had to see how he'd handle his father's flock. It was here David built a relationship with God and developed the qualities that would sustain him through the tough times ahead when he was king.
God will let you practice in a place where your weaknesses can be worked on, your gifts developed, and where your mistakes won't affect too many others. That's because He cares for them too! If God has put you on hold today, it's because He loves you and wants only what's best for you.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Don't Worry
From: Our Daily Bread Ministries
Matthew 6:31-32 "Do not worry . . . . Your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.
My nephew's job was soon to be eliminated, so I was glad to hear from his wife that he had just accepted an offer for a new position.
"We prayed, I worried, and Eric was determined to get another job," Angie wrote in an e-mail, explaining the journey they'd been on for the last few months.
It's easy for us to panic when we face serious concerns—the loss of a job, a family member with cancer, a wayward child.
So we pray. And we get busy. We start doing everything we can think of to move forward in a positive way.
And we worry. We know it's a waste of time. Yet a lot of us find ourselves in this dilemma—we know we should trust God, but we wonder just what He's going to do.
That's when we turn to His Word—to remind us that He is walking with us and inviting us to hand over to Him our worries and burdens. Scripture tells us, "Cast all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7), and "God shall supply all your needs in a way worthy of His magnificent riches in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:19).
When your mind turns to anxious thoughts about the future, remember that "your heavenly Father knows" (Matt. 6:32) and will give you what you need.
- Cindy Hess Kaspar
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Matthew 6:31-32 "Do not worry . . . . Your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.
My nephew's job was soon to be eliminated, so I was glad to hear from his wife that he had just accepted an offer for a new position.
"We prayed, I worried, and Eric was determined to get another job," Angie wrote in an e-mail, explaining the journey they'd been on for the last few months.
It's easy for us to panic when we face serious concerns—the loss of a job, a family member with cancer, a wayward child.
So we pray. And we get busy. We start doing everything we can think of to move forward in a positive way.
And we worry. We know it's a waste of time. Yet a lot of us find ourselves in this dilemma—we know we should trust God, but we wonder just what He's going to do.
That's when we turn to His Word—to remind us that He is walking with us and inviting us to hand over to Him our worries and burdens. Scripture tells us, "Cast all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7), and "God shall supply all your needs in a way worthy of His magnificent riches in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:19).
When your mind turns to anxious thoughts about the future, remember that "your heavenly Father knows" (Matt. 6:32) and will give you what you need.
- Cindy Hess Kaspar
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Friday, November 16, 2007
The Ultimate Franchise
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman Ministries
Luke 2:49 "Jesus said to them: 'Why did you search for me? Did you not know I had to be about My Father's business?'"
Earth is God's business. He has set up many franchises (churches) designed to send His representatives (Body of Christ) into the world to make known the best product ever given to mankind (Jesus). His branch managers (pastors) have been given the responsibility to teach and support those in the field.
God's goal is to establish a franchise in every nation, state, and city. It is the ultimate business because when you introduce someone to His product (Jesus), you receive a reward from the home office (Heaven).
God has promised that His representatives will have all the tools and customer support needed to accomplish their strategic plans. Jesus knew that He was to be about His Father's business. He knew He was sent to earth not to enjoy the pleasures of lowly man, but to accomplish a task for which He alone was sent.
When He had accomplished His mission, He was to entrust this mission to other representatives into whom He poured His life for three years. This field training allowed Jesus to mentor, model, befriend, and demonstrate firsthand the model for a successful business to be launched and sustained.
God has big plans for His franchise. He wants every human being to partake of His product; however, even God knows that not everyone will. Nevertheless, this does not thwart His efforts in seeking to make it known among His audience.
You have been called to be part of the ultimate franchise. How many new recruits have you been responsible for bringing into the franchise lately?
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Luke 2:49 "Jesus said to them: 'Why did you search for me? Did you not know I had to be about My Father's business?'"
Earth is God's business. He has set up many franchises (churches) designed to send His representatives (Body of Christ) into the world to make known the best product ever given to mankind (Jesus). His branch managers (pastors) have been given the responsibility to teach and support those in the field.
God's goal is to establish a franchise in every nation, state, and city. It is the ultimate business because when you introduce someone to His product (Jesus), you receive a reward from the home office (Heaven).
God has promised that His representatives will have all the tools and customer support needed to accomplish their strategic plans. Jesus knew that He was to be about His Father's business. He knew He was sent to earth not to enjoy the pleasures of lowly man, but to accomplish a task for which He alone was sent.
When He had accomplished His mission, He was to entrust this mission to other representatives into whom He poured His life for three years. This field training allowed Jesus to mentor, model, befriend, and demonstrate firsthand the model for a successful business to be launched and sustained.
God has big plans for His franchise. He wants every human being to partake of His product; however, even God knows that not everyone will. Nevertheless, this does not thwart His efforts in seeking to make it known among His audience.
You have been called to be part of the ultimate franchise. How many new recruits have you been responsible for bringing into the franchise lately?
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Just Do It!
From: Bryant Wright Ministries
John 15:4 "Abide in Me, as I do in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you, unless you abide in Me."
Everyone has seen a Nike commercial. The implication is, that all that's needed to become an athlete is determination, hard work, and those shoes.
When it comes to human nature, life is very different. Human beings just aren't disciplined enough to do all we need to do. We can't change ourselves by our own initiative.
One of the Bible writers, an avid sports fan by the name of Paul, recognized that changing human nature calls on something else--a supernatural change agent. Our only responsibility is to be willing to allow that change agent to bring about the needed improvements.
No, He might not improve your golf game, even though you wish He would. He may not give you the ability to hit home runs. He will adjust your attitude, your character, and your relationships for the better.
So just do it. Allow Christ to change you from an ineffective, frustrated self-improver, to a winner in the game of life.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
John 15:4 "Abide in Me, as I do in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you, unless you abide in Me."
Everyone has seen a Nike commercial. The implication is, that all that's needed to become an athlete is determination, hard work, and those shoes.
When it comes to human nature, life is very different. Human beings just aren't disciplined enough to do all we need to do. We can't change ourselves by our own initiative.
One of the Bible writers, an avid sports fan by the name of Paul, recognized that changing human nature calls on something else--a supernatural change agent. Our only responsibility is to be willing to allow that change agent to bring about the needed improvements.
No, He might not improve your golf game, even though you wish He would. He may not give you the ability to hit home runs. He will adjust your attitude, your character, and your relationships for the better.
So just do it. Allow Christ to change you from an ineffective, frustrated self-improver, to a winner in the game of life.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
The Right Company
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
Proverbs 27:17 "As iron sharpens iron, so man sharpens his fellow man."
Do you have a Spiritual family? Who do you go to for strength? It's been said that your company determines your conduct, your conduct determines your character, and your character determines your destiny.
So ask God to lead you into 'the right company.' When you find them you'll wonder how you ever made it without them.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Proverbs 27:17 "As iron sharpens iron, so man sharpens his fellow man."
Do you have a Spiritual family? Who do you go to for strength? It's been said that your company determines your conduct, your conduct determines your character, and your character determines your destiny.
So ask God to lead you into 'the right company.' When you find them you'll wonder how you ever made it without them.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Land Of Affliction
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman Ministries
2 Corinthians "He comforts us in all our afflictions and thus enables us to comfort those who are in trouble, with the same consolation we have received from Him ."
Whenever God takes us through the land of affliction, He will do two things through that affliction: 1) He will bring such healing that we will be able to forget the pain, and 2) He will make us fruitful from the painful experiences.
God does not waste our afflictions if we allow Him the freedom to complete the work in us. His desire is to create virtue that remains during the times of testing so that He can bring us into the place of fruitfulness in the very area of our testing.
He has never promised to keep us from entering the valleys of testing, but He has promised to make us fruitful in them. He is the God who turns the Valley of Achor (trouble) into a door of hope (see Hos. 2:15).
If you are in the valley of affliction, now is the time to press into Him. When the time comes to bring you out of this valley, He will heal your memories and bring fruit from this very time .
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
2 Corinthians "He comforts us in all our afflictions and thus enables us to comfort those who are in trouble, with the same consolation we have received from Him ."
Whenever God takes us through the land of affliction, He will do two things through that affliction: 1) He will bring such healing that we will be able to forget the pain, and 2) He will make us fruitful from the painful experiences.
God does not waste our afflictions if we allow Him the freedom to complete the work in us. His desire is to create virtue that remains during the times of testing so that He can bring us into the place of fruitfulness in the very area of our testing.
He has never promised to keep us from entering the valleys of testing, but He has promised to make us fruitful in them. He is the God who turns the Valley of Achor (trouble) into a door of hope (see Hos. 2:15).
If you are in the valley of affliction, now is the time to press into Him. When the time comes to bring you out of this valley, He will heal your memories and bring fruit from this very time .
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Quiet Reflection And God's Direction
From: Crosswalk Devotionals - Laura MacCorkle
Isaiah 40:31 "They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles' wings; they will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint."
At this time of year, a lot is heading downward.
Leaves are falling. Temperatures are dipping. And with the time change, the sun is setting a little earlier. For many, these changes bring about depression, lethargy, fatigue and other problems. In its most serious form, it adds up to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
But symptoms such as these don't occur just in the fall or only at times when there is less sunlight. In their lesser form, these feelings can come about quite easily in day-to-day living .
Like when an unkind word from a co-worker crushes your spirit and sets the rest of the work day into a tailspin. Should you be surprised? Or when your best friend is the one who is getting married or having a baby or got a promotion. And you got… nothing.
Or perhaps you've said yes to organizing and leading every church committee, every parent-organized school event, the community Bible study and your neighborhood's monthly block party. Your mind is mush, your body is shutting down and you have nothing left to give.
See? We can quickly sink to the depths of despair in our spirits or become quickly fatigued taking care of everything and everyone else and not ourselves. We're tired and weary, stumbling and falling. And… we're human, after all.
But thankfully, when we are feeling weighted down, the Lord will help us to soar. He is the one who raises us up, not any 12-step plan or self-help book or 10-week audio tape series. Now while these are worthy aids—and God can work through systems and processes designed by men— we must look to Him and His Word first for direction in how we should live.
David was a man who understood this. Many passages in the book of Psalms read like his personal diary of sorts and record the times when he felt down and sought the Lord.
He had it right when he said in Psalm 62:5-8 "Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; He is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge."
When we focus on our circumstances and what is or isn't happening in our lives, we will feel down. Like David, we need to go to the One who will lift us up. It is in God alone that we will rise above and find our rest.
Intersecting Faith & Life: What is bringing you down? Is the Lord asking you to make a change in your life? Is it time to simplify in some area? Take some time for quiet reflection and seek God's direction for what He would have you do .
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Isaiah 40:31 "They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles' wings; they will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint."
At this time of year, a lot is heading downward.
Leaves are falling. Temperatures are dipping. And with the time change, the sun is setting a little earlier. For many, these changes bring about depression, lethargy, fatigue and other problems. In its most serious form, it adds up to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
But symptoms such as these don't occur just in the fall or only at times when there is less sunlight. In their lesser form, these feelings can come about quite easily in day-to-day living .
Like when an unkind word from a co-worker crushes your spirit and sets the rest of the work day into a tailspin. Should you be surprised? Or when your best friend is the one who is getting married or having a baby or got a promotion. And you got… nothing.
Or perhaps you've said yes to organizing and leading every church committee, every parent-organized school event, the community Bible study and your neighborhood's monthly block party. Your mind is mush, your body is shutting down and you have nothing left to give.
See? We can quickly sink to the depths of despair in our spirits or become quickly fatigued taking care of everything and everyone else and not ourselves. We're tired and weary, stumbling and falling. And… we're human, after all.
But thankfully, when we are feeling weighted down, the Lord will help us to soar. He is the one who raises us up, not any 12-step plan or self-help book or 10-week audio tape series. Now while these are worthy aids—and God can work through systems and processes designed by men— we must look to Him and His Word first for direction in how we should live.
David was a man who understood this. Many passages in the book of Psalms read like his personal diary of sorts and record the times when he felt down and sought the Lord.
He had it right when he said in Psalm 62:5-8 "Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; He is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge."
When we focus on our circumstances and what is or isn't happening in our lives, we will feel down. Like David, we need to go to the One who will lift us up. It is in God alone that we will rise above and find our rest.
Intersecting Faith & Life: What is bringing you down? Is the Lord asking you to make a change in your life? Is it time to simplify in some area? Take some time for quiet reflection and seek God's direction for what He would have you do .
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Your Thought Life
From: Max Lucado Ministries
Philippians 4:8 "Finally, my brothers, your thoughts should be wholly directed to all that is true, all that deserves respect, all that is honest, pure, admirable, decent, virtuous, or worthy of praise."
Thoughts are the thermostat that regulates what we accomplish in life. If I feed my mind upon doubt, disbelief, and discouragement, that is precisely the kind of day my body will experience. If I adjust my thermostat forward to thoughts filled with vision, vitality, and victory, I can count on that kind of day. Thus, you and I become what we think about.
Neither Dale Carnegie nor Norman Vincent Peale originated such a message. God did. “For as [a man] thinks within himself, so he is” (Prov. 23:7). “Therefore, prepare your minds for action” (1 Peter 1:13).
The mind is a “thought factory” producing thousands, perhaps hundreds of thousands, of thoughts each day. Production in your thought factory is under the charge of two foremen. One we shall call Mr. Triumph, the other Mr. Defeat.
Mr. Triumph specializes in producing reasons why you can face life victoriously, why you can handle what comes your way, why you’re more than able to conquer. Mr. Defeat is an expert in the opposite. He develops reasons why you cannot succeed, why you’re inadequate, why you should give up and give in to worry, failure, discouragement, and inferiority.
Give a positive signal, and Mr. Triumph will see to it that one encouraging, edifying thought after another floods your mind. But Mr. Defeat is always standing by, awaiting a negative signal (which he would rather you call “reality” or “common sense!”), and when he gets it, he cranks out discouraging, destructive, demoralizing thoughts that will soon have you convinced you can’t or won’t or shouldn’t.
Thoughts, positive or negative, grow stronger when fertilized with constant repetition. That may explain why so many who are gloomy and gray stay in that mood . . . and why those who are cheery and enthusiastic continue to be so.
You need only one foreman in your mental factory: Mr. Triumph is his name.
His real name is the Holy Spirit, the Helper.
Philippians 4:8 "Finally, my brothers, your thoughts should be wholly directed to all that is true, all that deserves respect, all that is honest, pure, admirable, decent, virtuous, or worthy of praise."
Thoughts are the thermostat that regulates what we accomplish in life. If I feed my mind upon doubt, disbelief, and discouragement, that is precisely the kind of day my body will experience. If I adjust my thermostat forward to thoughts filled with vision, vitality, and victory, I can count on that kind of day. Thus, you and I become what we think about.
Neither Dale Carnegie nor Norman Vincent Peale originated such a message. God did. “For as [a man] thinks within himself, so he is” (Prov. 23:7). “Therefore, prepare your minds for action” (1 Peter 1:13).
The mind is a “thought factory” producing thousands, perhaps hundreds of thousands, of thoughts each day. Production in your thought factory is under the charge of two foremen. One we shall call Mr. Triumph, the other Mr. Defeat.
Mr. Triumph specializes in producing reasons why you can face life victoriously, why you can handle what comes your way, why you’re more than able to conquer. Mr. Defeat is an expert in the opposite. He develops reasons why you cannot succeed, why you’re inadequate, why you should give up and give in to worry, failure, discouragement, and inferiority.
Give a positive signal, and Mr. Triumph will see to it that one encouraging, edifying thought after another floods your mind. But Mr. Defeat is always standing by, awaiting a negative signal (which he would rather you call “reality” or “common sense!”), and when he gets it, he cranks out discouraging, destructive, demoralizing thoughts that will soon have you convinced you can’t or won’t or shouldn’t.
Thoughts, positive or negative, grow stronger when fertilized with constant repetition. That may explain why so many who are gloomy and gray stay in that mood . . . and why those who are cheery and enthusiastic continue to be so.
You need only one foreman in your mental factory: Mr. Triumph is his name.
His real name is the Holy Spirit, the Helper.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Pay Attention!
From: Bryant Wright Ministries
Isaiah 28:23 "Give ear and hear My voice, pay attention and listen to what I say."
Have you ever noticed how noise fills our lives? We wake to music or alarms. We get in the car and what's the first thing we do--slip in a tape, CD, or turn on the radio. When we walk into the house or a hotel room, the first thing we do is turn on the TV. It seems that, with noise, we just don't feel so alone.
In the midst of all of this noise, are you missing the most important voice of all?
God still speaks in a still, small voice. In the busyness and noisiness of our lives, it's easy to miss Him. The only way to hear Him is to make an intentional effort to quiet the noise of our lives and spend some time listening, through prayer and reading His Word. You will never get a more important phone call or crucial message.
Find some time each day to be alone and quiet, and listen to the most important voice of all. It will enrich your life tremendously.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Isaiah 28:23 "Give ear and hear My voice, pay attention and listen to what I say."
Have you ever noticed how noise fills our lives? We wake to music or alarms. We get in the car and what's the first thing we do--slip in a tape, CD, or turn on the radio. When we walk into the house or a hotel room, the first thing we do is turn on the TV. It seems that, with noise, we just don't feel so alone.
In the midst of all of this noise, are you missing the most important voice of all?
God still speaks in a still, small voice. In the busyness and noisiness of our lives, it's easy to miss Him. The only way to hear Him is to make an intentional effort to quiet the noise of our lives and spend some time listening, through prayer and reading His Word. You will never get a more important phone call or crucial message.
Find some time each day to be alone and quiet, and listen to the most important voice of all. It will enrich your life tremendously.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Your Spiritual Fruit
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman Ministries
1 Chronicles 14:2 “And David knew that the Lord had established him as king over Israel and that his kingdom had been highly exalted for the sake of His people Israel.”
King David learned an important lesson every leader must learn if he is to ensure God's continual blessing. He knew why God blessed him. It wasn't because he deserved it, though he was a man who sought God with his whole heart. It wasn't because of his great skill, though he was a great military strategist. It wasn't because he was perfect, for he committed some horrible sins during his reign as king. No, it was for none of these reasons. God blessed David for the "sake of His people Israel."
God never blesses an individual just for that person's exclusive benefit. God calls each of us to be a blessing to others. So often we forget this last part.
R.G. LeTourneau, a businessman who built heavy construction equipment, came to realize this only after God took him through many trials. Once the Lord had all of LeTourneau, he came to realize (on tithing) that the question wasn't how much of his money he would give to God. Rather, the question was, "How much of God's money should I keep for myself?" LeTourneau was known for giving 90 percent of his income toward the end of his career and was a great supporter of world missions.
But the Lord doesn't bless workplace believers just for the ability to give financially. God has given workplace believers many more gifts beyond the financial.
What is happening with the spiritual fruit of God's blessing on your life? Is it clogged, or is it freely flowing to others? Ask the Lord to free you to be a blessing to those in your circle of influence.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
1 Chronicles 14:2 “And David knew that the Lord had established him as king over Israel and that his kingdom had been highly exalted for the sake of His people Israel.”
King David learned an important lesson every leader must learn if he is to ensure God's continual blessing. He knew why God blessed him. It wasn't because he deserved it, though he was a man who sought God with his whole heart. It wasn't because of his great skill, though he was a great military strategist. It wasn't because he was perfect, for he committed some horrible sins during his reign as king. No, it was for none of these reasons. God blessed David for the "sake of His people Israel."
God never blesses an individual just for that person's exclusive benefit. God calls each of us to be a blessing to others. So often we forget this last part.
R.G. LeTourneau, a businessman who built heavy construction equipment, came to realize this only after God took him through many trials. Once the Lord had all of LeTourneau, he came to realize (on tithing) that the question wasn't how much of his money he would give to God. Rather, the question was, "How much of God's money should I keep for myself?" LeTourneau was known for giving 90 percent of his income toward the end of his career and was a great supporter of world missions.
But the Lord doesn't bless workplace believers just for the ability to give financially. God has given workplace believers many more gifts beyond the financial.
What is happening with the spiritual fruit of God's blessing on your life? Is it clogged, or is it freely flowing to others? Ask the Lord to free you to be a blessing to those in your circle of influence.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Choose To Be Responsible
From: Our Daily Bread Ministries
Matthew 21:29 "He answered and said, 'I will not', but afterward he regretted it and went."
Have you ever faced an unwanted chore and felt as if it were the last thing on earth you wanted to do? Mowing the lawn, doing the wash, cleaning the house, or even preparing a Sunday school lesson after an exhausting week can make us feel like procrastinating.
When this happens, my wife and I have a motto we repeat to each other: "I don’t feel like it—but I’m going to do it anyway." There is something about recognizing our lack of motivation and then choosing to be responsible that helps us follow through.
God’s value on faith and obedience can be seen in the parables of Jesus. Christ spoke about two sons who were asked to work in the vineyard. The first said no, but "afterward he regretted it and went" (Matt. 21:29). The second said yes but did not follow through. Then the Lord asked His listeners, "Which of the two did the will of his father?" (v.31). The obvious answer is the one who finished the task.
Our Lord’s illustration underscores a key spiritual principle. God is interested in our faith and obedience—not just our good intentions. Next time you are tempted to shirk your duties, ask God for the grace to do it anyway. - Dennis Fisher
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Matthew 21:29 "He answered and said, 'I will not', but afterward he regretted it and went."
Have you ever faced an unwanted chore and felt as if it were the last thing on earth you wanted to do? Mowing the lawn, doing the wash, cleaning the house, or even preparing a Sunday school lesson after an exhausting week can make us feel like procrastinating.
When this happens, my wife and I have a motto we repeat to each other: "I don’t feel like it—but I’m going to do it anyway." There is something about recognizing our lack of motivation and then choosing to be responsible that helps us follow through.
God’s value on faith and obedience can be seen in the parables of Jesus. Christ spoke about two sons who were asked to work in the vineyard. The first said no, but "afterward he regretted it and went" (Matt. 21:29). The second said yes but did not follow through. Then the Lord asked His listeners, "Which of the two did the will of his father?" (v.31). The obvious answer is the one who finished the task.
Our Lord’s illustration underscores a key spiritual principle. God is interested in our faith and obedience—not just our good intentions. Next time you are tempted to shirk your duties, ask God for the grace to do it anyway. - Dennis Fisher
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Keep Climbing!
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
James 1:12 "Blessed is the man who perseveres."
It's said that halfway up the Swiss Alps there's a popular rest house. It's a good day's climb from the bottom to the top, but you can usually get to the rest house by lunchtime. And that's where you separate the men from the boys. When some amateur climbers feel the warmth of the fire and smell the good cooking they say to their companions, "I'll just wait here while you go to the top. When you come back down I'll join you and we'll go to the base together." A glaze of satisfaction comes over them as they sit by the fire, or play the piano and sing mountain-climbing songs.
But at about 3:30 in the afternoon everything changes; they start looking toward the mountaintop as their friends reach it. Suddenly the atmosphere in the rest house changes and they think - If only I'd kept climbing!
Three things can cause you to lose sight of your God-given goals:
(1) Weariness. Jesus told Peter, "Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail" (Luke 22:31-32). We all have to overcome the failing faith syndrome.
(2) Fear. Some days the mountain just seems too high and we're tempted to give up. Then a voice whispers, "Have not I commanded you? Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God will be with you" (Joshua 1:9).
(3) Comfort. "Woe to you who are at ease in Zion" (Amos 6:1). Conflict and hard times keep us on our toes - and on our knees. But too much comfort can seduce us into settling short of our goal. So keep climbing!
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
James 1:12 "Blessed is the man who perseveres."
It's said that halfway up the Swiss Alps there's a popular rest house. It's a good day's climb from the bottom to the top, but you can usually get to the rest house by lunchtime. And that's where you separate the men from the boys. When some amateur climbers feel the warmth of the fire and smell the good cooking they say to their companions, "I'll just wait here while you go to the top. When you come back down I'll join you and we'll go to the base together." A glaze of satisfaction comes over them as they sit by the fire, or play the piano and sing mountain-climbing songs.
But at about 3:30 in the afternoon everything changes; they start looking toward the mountaintop as their friends reach it. Suddenly the atmosphere in the rest house changes and they think - If only I'd kept climbing!
Three things can cause you to lose sight of your God-given goals:
(1) Weariness. Jesus told Peter, "Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail" (Luke 22:31-32). We all have to overcome the failing faith syndrome.
(2) Fear. Some days the mountain just seems too high and we're tempted to give up. Then a voice whispers, "Have not I commanded you? Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God will be with you" (Joshua 1:9).
(3) Comfort. "Woe to you who are at ease in Zion" (Amos 6:1). Conflict and hard times keep us on our toes - and on our knees. But too much comfort can seduce us into settling short of our goal. So keep climbing!
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Passing The Tests
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman Ministries
1 Samuel 28:17 "The Lord has torn the kingdom out of your hands and given it to one of your neighbors-to David."
When God anoints a person, a pattern of testing appears to take place at specific times in the leader's life. The person's response to these tests is the deciding factor in whether they can advance to the next level of responsibility in God's Kingdom.
Control - Control is one of the first tests. Saul spent most of his time as king trying to prevent others from getting what he had. Saul was a religious controller. This control led to disobedience and ultimately being rejected by God because Saul no longer was a vessel God could use.
Bitterness - Every major character in the Bible was hurt by another person at one time or another. Jesus was hurt deeply when Judas, a trusted follower, betrayed Him. Despite knowing this was going to happen, Jesus responded by washing Judas' feet. Every anointed leader will have a Judas experience at one time or another. God watches us to see how we will respond to this test. Will we take up an offense? Will we retaliate? It is one of the most difficult tests to pass.
Power - Power is the opposite of servanthood. Jesus had all authority in Heaven and earth, so satan tempted Jesus at the top of the mountain to use His power to remove Himself from a difficult circumstance. How will we use the power and influence God has entrusted to us? Do we seek to gain more power? There is a common phrase in the investment community, "He who has the gold rules." Jesus modeled the opposite. He was the ultimate servant leader.
Greed - This is a difficult one. Money has the ability to have great influence for either good or bad. When it is a focus in our life, it becomes a tool of destruction. When it is a by-product, it can become a great blessing. Many leaders started out well-only to be derailed once prosperity became a part of their life. There are thousands who can blossom spiritually in adversity; only a few can thrive spiritually under prosperity.
As leaders, we must be aware when we are being tested. You can be confident that each one of these tests will be thrown your way if God calls you for His purposes. Will you pass these tests? Ask for God's grace today to walk through these tests victoriously.
1 Samuel 28:17 "The Lord has torn the kingdom out of your hands and given it to one of your neighbors-to David."
When God anoints a person, a pattern of testing appears to take place at specific times in the leader's life. The person's response to these tests is the deciding factor in whether they can advance to the next level of responsibility in God's Kingdom.
Control - Control is one of the first tests. Saul spent most of his time as king trying to prevent others from getting what he had. Saul was a religious controller. This control led to disobedience and ultimately being rejected by God because Saul no longer was a vessel God could use.
Bitterness - Every major character in the Bible was hurt by another person at one time or another. Jesus was hurt deeply when Judas, a trusted follower, betrayed Him. Despite knowing this was going to happen, Jesus responded by washing Judas' feet. Every anointed leader will have a Judas experience at one time or another. God watches us to see how we will respond to this test. Will we take up an offense? Will we retaliate? It is one of the most difficult tests to pass.
Power - Power is the opposite of servanthood. Jesus had all authority in Heaven and earth, so satan tempted Jesus at the top of the mountain to use His power to remove Himself from a difficult circumstance. How will we use the power and influence God has entrusted to us? Do we seek to gain more power? There is a common phrase in the investment community, "He who has the gold rules." Jesus modeled the opposite. He was the ultimate servant leader.
Greed - This is a difficult one. Money has the ability to have great influence for either good or bad. When it is a focus in our life, it becomes a tool of destruction. When it is a by-product, it can become a great blessing. Many leaders started out well-only to be derailed once prosperity became a part of their life. There are thousands who can blossom spiritually in adversity; only a few can thrive spiritually under prosperity.
As leaders, we must be aware when we are being tested. You can be confident that each one of these tests will be thrown your way if God calls you for His purposes. Will you pass these tests? Ask for God's grace today to walk through these tests victoriously.
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