Spiritual Thoughts

NEW YEAR’S RECIPE Take twelve fine months and trim from them all the old, leftover memories of hatred, jealousy and bitterness. Clean them of any clinging, unnecessary bits of spite. Snap off the specks of unwanted pettiness. Start the first (and each succeeding) month fresh and clean. Cut each month into thirty or thirty-one equal parts of twenty-four hours each. Prepare one day at a time. Do not plan too far in advance. Into each day, put a portion of generous tolerance, a dash of fun, a change of pace, occasionally, a cupful of laughter, an overflowing measure of good humor. Mix well; and garnish with smiles. Decorate with sprigs of beauty and serve with gentleness, unselfishness and love. A HAPPY NEW YEAR is assured. Positive Thinking e-newsletter Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicin...

In its purest form, truth is not a polite tap on the shoulder. Truth is a howling reproach. What Moses brought down from Mount Sinai were not 10 suggestions. -Ted Koppel All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth, To such as keep His covenant and His testimonies. Psalm 25:10

The vision that you glorify in your mind, the ideal that you enthrone in your heart - this you will build your life by, and this you will become. -- James Lane Allen (1849-1925) Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together. I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Psalm 34:3-4

Whatever your cross, whatever your pain, there will always be sunshine, after the rain .... Perhaps you may stumble, perhaps even fall, But God's always ready, to answer your call ... He knows every heartache, sees every tear, A word from His lips, can calm every fear ... Your sorrows may linger, throughout the night, But suddenly vanish, dawn's early light ... The Savior is waiting, somewhere above, To give you His grace, and send you His love .. Whatever your cross, whatever your pain, "God always sends rainbows .... after the rain ... " Unknown Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 2 Corinthians 1:3-5

J esus, Son of God Eternal E verlasting Life now has He, S avior of a world of sinners, U niversal King to be, S ought us, brought us victory. C hrist is due all adoration, H umbly born to save our race, R uler now of all creation; I ntercedes to give us grace, S aves us from sin's condemnation, T ruly worthy of all praise! unknown Keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting anxiously for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life. Jude 21 Your email address will not be shared with anyone.

Do little things as though they were great, because of the majesty of Jesus Christ who does them in us, and who lives in our life; and do the greatest things as though they were little and easy, because of His love. Blaise Pascal Jesus answered and said to him, "If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make Our home with him. John 14:23

HOW MANY LIVES DID YOU TOUCH? by Debbie Preuss How many lives did you touch today? As you went on your busy way Did you touch family or friend? Was there a relationship to mend? Did you smile at the stranger on the street? Or tip the waitress where you eat? Did you touch your co-worker's heart today? Tell me, did you stop to pray? Did you help someone, or meet a need? Was there one hungry, you helped to feed? Did you speak an encouraging word? When people talked, did they feel you heard? Did you remember the driver on the bus Is just another one of us? Family and strangers are all the same Each one of us, has a name. Tell me, did you share God's love? Or take the time to look above? Did you lift someone to God's throne? Did you move out of your comfort zone? Today may be the only touch you had Was it for the good or bad? Reach out to others while you can today The golden rule, please obey. For tomorrow just may be too late To touch others, or change their fate So as you...

EIGHT GIFTS THAT DON’T COST A CENT! The Gift of Listening But you must really listen. Don’t interrupt, don’t daydream, don’t plan your response. Just really listen. The Gift of Affection Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds. Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends. The Gift of Laughter Clip cartoons. Share articles and funny stories. Your gift will say, “I love to laugh with you.” The Gift of Solitude There are times when we want nothing better than to be left alone. Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others. The Gift of a Favor Every day, go out of your way to do something kind. The Gift of a Written Note It can be a simple, “Thanks for the help” note or a full sonnet. A brief, handwritten note may be remembered for a lifetime. The Gift of a Compliment A simple and sincere, “You look great in red,” “You did a super job,” or “That was a wonderful meal” can make someone’s day...

For those of you who celebrate Christmas -- Remember God and Jesus - in everything! Christ’s birth is found in Matthew 1-2; Luke 1-2 --A CHRISTMAS ALPHABET A is for Angels, appearing so bright, Telling of Jesus that great blessed night. B is for Bethlehem, crowded and old, Birthplace of Jesus by prophet foretold. C is for Cattle, their manger His bed, There in the stable where He laid His head. D is for David and his ancient throne Promised forever to Jesus alone. E is for East, where shone the bright star Which Magi on camels followed afar. F is for Frankincense, with myrrh and gold, Brought by the Wise Men as Matthew has told. G is for God, who from heaven above Sent down to mankind the Son of His love. H is for Herod, whose murderous scheme Was told to Joseph in a nocturnal dream . I is for Immanuel, "God with us," For Christ shows us the way to the Father's house. J is for Joseph so noble and just, Obeying God's word with absolute trust. K is for King. A true kin...

Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever. - Mahatma Gandhi It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honor of kings is to search out a matter. Proverbs 25:2 And they sang a new song, saying: "You …..have redeemed us to God ……. and have made us kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth forever.” Revelation 5:9-10

Psalm 127:1-2 Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. …. - for he grants sleep to those he loves. This psalm was written by Solomon, David's son, who was noted for his wealth and wisdom. In Solomon's wisdom, he writes this psalm to give us a better perspective on the purpose of our life. In Solomon's time watchmen were kept around the city to guard it against enemy attacks. However, Solomon tells us that it is useless to put guards around the city if God is not watching over it. We spend most of our waking hours "building" and "guarding" our lives. Most of our days are spent working to make ends meet and to make our lives better. It is so easy to get so caught up in this "building" process that we begin to miss the joy of living. Solomon tells us that unless we let God build our "house" then all that we do is done in vain. It does not bene...

If life gives you limes, just rearrange the letters and return a Smile. Unknown A joyful heart is good medicine, Proverbs 17:22

Goals: I won't worry about what is, I won't worry about what isn't, I won't worry about what was, and I won't worry about what might be. (That about takes care of it). All because God is in control! Be anxious for nothing , but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

"It isn't what you have, or who you are, or where you are, or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about. " - Dale Carnegie He who has clean hands and a pure heart, Who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood And has not sworn deceitfully. He shall receive a blessing from the LORD And righteousness from the God of his salvation. Psalm 24:4-5

If you keep your mouth shut, you will stay out of trouble. Proverbs 21:23 (NLT) Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. Ecclesiastes 5:2

If you do nothing unexpected, nothing unexpected happens. Fay Weldon In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. James 2:17

Whenever you do a thing, act as if all the world were watching. Thomas Jefferson It is written: "'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, 'every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.'" So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. Romans 14:11-12

Sometimes the Road Get Rough Don’t be dismayed when you come to a pothole, a detour, a stretch of rough and rocky road. Don’t be surprised. Slow down a little. Be patient. It’s not the whole journey. It’s not the way it’ll always be. But it is part of your journey, too, part of your journey to your heart and soul. Even when we’re living with joy and freedom, we continue to learn, grow, feel, experience. And the road can still get rough. Happiness doesn’t mean feeling gleeful all the time. Happiness doesn’t mean the road we’re traveling is always smooth. Happiness means feeling all we need to feel. And accepting each part of the journey, even the changes of course and direction. Melody Beattie Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:12

" Patience is not passive; on the contrary, it is active; it is concentrated strength." -- Edward G. Bulwer-Lytton And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient... 2 Timothy 2:24

Patience is also a form of action. -Auguste Rodin And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 1 Thessalonians 5:14

If you are patient in one moment of anger, you will escape a hundred days of sorrow. -Chinese Epigram …..the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit. Be not quick to anger, for anger lodges in the bosom of fools. Ecclesiastes 7:8-9

If I have ever made any valuable discoveries, it has been owing more to patient attention than to any other talent. -- Isaac Newton (1642-1727) Be patient , therefore, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. Behold, the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient over it until it receives the early and the late rain. James 5:8 (RSV)

Attitude Changes Things You are not happy because you are well. You are well because you are happy. You are not depressed because trouble has come to you, but trouble has come to you because you are depressed. You can change your thoughts and feelings, and then the outer things will come to correspond, and indeed there is no other way of working. -- Emmet Fox Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God , which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Notice, we never pray for folks we gossip about, and we never gossip about the folk for whom we pray! For prayer is a great deterrent. -Leonard Ravenhill A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret. Proverbs 11:13 Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies down. Proverbs 26:20

Anger is a bad counselor. -- French Proverb A fool's anger is known at once, But a prudent man conceals dishonor. Proverbs 12:16

Goals are incredible important…or impotent. You decide." - Doug Firebaugh I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14

Anger is a wind which blows out the lamp of the mind. Robert Green Ingersoll He who is slow to anger has great understanding, But he who is quick-tempered exalts folly. Proverbs 14:29

Attitude of Gratitude [W]hen we learn to give thanks, we are learning to concentrate not on the bad things, but on the good things in our lives. Amy Vanderbilt (1908-1974) Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe… Hebrews 12:28

GRATITUDE can turn a negative into a positive. Find a way to be thankful for your troubles and they can become your blessings. ~ Author Unknown………. this saying is from a beautiful poem, which is in full below the Scripture quote. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. Colossians 3:16 BE THANKFUL - Author Unknown Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to? Be thankful when you don't know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn. Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow. Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement. Be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character. Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable...

The best gifts to give: To your friend, loyalty ; To your enemy, forgiveness; To your boss, service ; To a child, a good example; To your parents, gratitude and devotion ; To your mate, love and faithfulness ; To all men and women, loving kindness . -Oren Arnold And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Colossians 3:15

God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform; He plants his footsteps in the sea And rides upon the storm. -- William Cowper The LORD is slow to anger and great in power; the LORD will not leave the guilty unpunished. His way is in the whirlwind and the storm, and clouds are the dust of his feet. Nahum 1:3

God visits us often, but most of the time we are not home. -- French Proverb Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately. Luke 12:35-36

Love isn't like a reservoir. You'll never drain it dry. It's much more like a natural spring. The longer and the farther it flows, the stronger and the deeper and the clearer it becomes. Eddie Cantor (1892-1964) Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. Ephesians 4:15

"To dream anything that you want to dream, that is the beauty of the human mind. To do anything that you have to do, that is the strength of the human will. To trust God, and test your limits, that is the courage to succeed." -- Bernard Edmonds Be strong and let your heart take courage , All you who hope in the LORD. Psalm 31:24

The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena; whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement; and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly." -- Theodore Roosevelt Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called…. 1Timothy 6:12

If you can't be happy where you are, it's a cinch you can't be happy where you ain't. Charlie Jones But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful. Psalm 68:3

Being defeated is often only a temporary condition. Giving up is what makes it permanent. -- Marilyn vos Savant Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up . Galatians 6:9 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. Luke 18:1

A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles. Washington Irving An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up. Proverbs 12:25

It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light. Taylor Benson And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. 2 Peter 1:19

We have forty million reasons for failure, but not a single excuse. Rudyard Kipling My flesh and my heart may fail, But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalms 73:26 On our own we fail, only with Him can we truly be strong.

"Learn from the negative as well as the positive, from the failures as well as the successes." Jim Rohn It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees. Psalms 119:71

"The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." Winston Churchill That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:10

Swallowing angry words before you say them is better than having to eat them afterwards. H. Jackson Brown, Jr. "Life's Little Instruction Book" He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city. Proverbs 16:32

What does your Bible mean to you? MY BIBLE: When I am tired, the Bible is my bed; Or in the dark, the Bible is my light; When I am hungry, it is vital bread; Or fearful, it is armor for the fight; When I am sick, 'tis healing medicine; Or lonely, thronging friends I find therein. If I would work, the Bible is my tool; Or play, it is a harp of happy sound. If I am ignorant, it is my school; If I am sinking, it is solid ground. If I am cold, the Bible is my fire; And wings, if boldly I aspire. Should I be lost, the Bible is my guide; Or naked, it is raiment, rich and warm. Am I imprisoned, it is ranges wide; Or tempest-tossed, a shelter from the storm. Would I adventure, 'tis a gallant sea; Or would I rest, it is a flowery lea. - Amos R. Wells

He who would go a hundred miles should consider ninety-nine as halfway. -- Japanese Proverb By perseverance the snail reached the ark. - Charles Haddon Spurgeon "But the seed in the good soil, these are the ones who have heard the word in an honest and good heart, and hold it fast, and bear fruit with perseverance." Luke 8:15 (NASB) (other versions say "patience" for "perseverance")

If Jesus came back today, what would you be doing tomorrow??? "But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into. For this reason you also must be ready ; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will." Matthew 24:43-44

A gossip is one who talks to you about other people. A bore is one who talks to you about himself. A brilliant conversationalist is one who talks to you about yourself. -Dr. William King Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. 1 Thessalonians 5:15

"Pray without ceasing." 1 Thessalonians 5:17 This should include praying for husbands, wives, children, parents, siblings, friends, neighbors, anyone and everyone that surrounds you within praying distance! If you are worried, that is a sure signal to pray ! If you can't sleep, it is a great time to pray . If you are afraid, ashamed, depressed, those are all urgent times to pray . If you are happy, rejoicing, thankful, content, what better time to pray ? " Pray without ceasing ," for in doing so we are obedient to the Word of God and pleasing to our Heavenly Father.

There are no hopeless situations; there are only people who have grown hopeless about them. - William Barclay Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, Out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. For You are my hope, O Lord GOD ; You are my trust from my youth. Psalms 71:4-5 We never need to be without hope, for God is our hope and we are never without God. No matter how dark things may look, we have the comfort that God is with us and He will never leave or forsake us.

Look outward and be distressed, Look inward and be depressed, Look upward and be at rest. - Corrie Ten Boom Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. or our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 2 Corinthians 4:16-17

Happiness can be the result of circumstances, but joy endures in spite of circumstances. Unknown Author You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11 We have the freedom to choose our attitude in any and every circumstance of life. We can choose to let trouble leave us depressed and weak, or we can choose to be happy and strong in spite of our trials. When we choose to have joy, our worst moments can be turned into our greatest triumphs.

Encouragement I read about a man who had become so depressed and despondent that he decided to take his life by jumping off a bridge. As he walked toward the bridge, he made the decision that if he went by just one person who would smile and seem friendly, that he would not jump. How did the story end? You to finish it. What would have happened if that man had passed you on his way to that bridge. Would he have turned around and chosen life over death? Or would he have gone through with his desperate plan? The reality is that everyday we can come in contact with many people who are carrying heavy burdens, facing trials of every kind, or are full of worry about the future. Every one of them longs for a kind word or two, a sympathetic ear, or just a warm smile. They are looking for someone who cares. Be a person who is ready with a big smile that reflects the love of Christ. Be the kind of person that would have caused that desperate man to turn around and walk off that bridge. Encourag...

Colossians 4:5 "Redeem the time" .... Have you heard of the man who didn't have time? He hadn't have time to greet the day, he hadn’t have time to laugh or play; He hadn't time to wait a while, he hadn't time to glean the news, He hadn't time to dream or muse; He hadn't time to train his mind; He hadn't time to see a joke, he hadn't time to write his folks; He hadn't time to read a book, he hadn't time to deeply feel, He hadn't time to take a rest, he hadn't time to do his best; He hadn’t time to help a cause, he hadn't time to make a pause; He hadn't time to pen a note, he hadn't time to say a prayer; He hadn't time to sing a song, he hadn't time to right a wrong; He hadn't time to send a gift, he hadn't time to read God's word; He hadn't time to exercise, he hadn't time to say good-bye; He hadn't time to enjoy love, he hadn't time to repress noise; He hadn't time to serve hi...

A man is literally what he thinks, his character being the complete sum of all his thoughts. You cannot change your thoughts without changing your life in the process – either for good or for bad. Immerse yourself in the right thoughts and you will become the person you long to be, just as surely as the planting of an acorn yields an oak tree and not a pine tree. Unknown "As a man thinks in h is heart, so he is." Proverbs 23:7

Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can. ~ John Wesley ~ (1703-1791) Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

" Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless." unknown But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness , goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22

A Friend – A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24 A Friend – (A) ccepts you as you are (B) elieves in "you" (C) alls you just to say "Hi" (D) oesn't give up on you (E) nvisions the whole of you (even the unfinished parts) (F) orgives your mistakes (G) ives unconditionally (H) elps you (I) nvites you over (J) ust enjoys being with you (K) eeps you close at heart (L) oves you for who you are (M) akes a difference in your life (N) ever stops trusting you (O) ffers support (P) icks you up (Q) uiets your fears (R) aises your spirits (S) ays nice things about you (T) ells you the truth when you need to hear it (U) nderstands you (V) alues you (W) alks beside you (X)- plain things you don't understand (Y) ells when you won't listen, and (Z) aps you back to reality Author Unknown

Live as you will wish to have lived when you are dying. -- Christian Furchtegott Gellert I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day - and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:7-8

"A day hemmed in prayer is less likely to unravel." Unknown Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

"Faith . . . Hope . . . Love . . ." 1 Corinthians 13:13 But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love. L ------ Looking to God and Jesus all the time O ------ Opening my heart to His ways only V ------ Verifying everything in God's Holy Word E ------ Extending myself to help others in their walk with the Lord. (Unknown Author) By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and observe His commandments. 1 John 5:2

"Faith . . . Hope . . . Love . . ." 1 Corinthians 13:13 “But now faith, hope, love abide these three, but the greatest of these is love H ------ Helping others see Jesus Christ O ------ Offering my life to the service of Jesus Christ P ------ Praying always for others, lost or not, to see Jesus Christ E ------ Encouraging others to follow God and Jesus Christ to God's Kingdom (Unknown Author) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope. Romans 15:13

"Faith . . . Hope . . . Love . . ." 1 Corinthians 13:13 But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love. F ------ Fervently Praying A ------ Accepting whatever outcome from prayer I ------- In tune with Jesus Christ T ------ Teaching others about Jesus Christ H ------ Hope keeps me going in my daily walk (Unknown Author) For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world - our faith. 1 John 5:4 (“Hope” tomorrow)

All time spent angry, is time lost being happy. -- Mexican Proverb An angry man stirs up dissension, and a hot-tempered one commits many sins. Proverbs 29:22

When you blame others you give up your power to change. ~ Author Unknown ~ Take responsibility for your own actions, and do your best for God. Through all this Job did not sin nor did he blame God. Job 1:22 (also, read Job 42:1-6)

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. - Leo Buscaglia So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other. Colossians 3:12-13

You are never so high as when you are on your knees. Unknown Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving. Colossians 4:2

Character is a long standing habit. - Plutarch Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us. Romans 5:3-5

Am I not destroying my enemies when I make friends of them? Abraham Lincoln But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. Matthew 5:44-45

"Sophistication and lifestyle is understanding the difference between trinkets and treasures ." - Jim Rohn Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

A smooth sea never made a skilled mariner. English proverb My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. James 1:2-3

"LUCK = Laboring Under Correct Knowledge " - Denis Waitley …. to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding ; that you may have a walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; Colossians 1:9-10

"There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it." -- Edith Wharton And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:18

"Kind words and good deeds are eternal. You never know where their influence will end." -- H. Jackson Browne [and add] to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:7-8

We can't take any credit for our talents. It's how we use them that counts. Madeleine L'Engle Also the one who had received the two talents came up and said, 'Master, you entrusted two talents to me. See, I have gained two more talents.' His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.' Matthew 25:22-23

If we get everything that we want, we will soon want nothing that we get. Vernon Luchies Then He said to them, "Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions. "So is the man who stores up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God." Luke 12:15, 21

Ego has a voracious appetite, the more you feed it, the hungrier it gets. ~ Nathaniel Bronner Jr. In his pride the wicked does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God. Psalm 10:4 When pride comes, then comes dishonor, But with the humble is wisdom. Proverbs 11:2

"Being miserable is a habit; being happy is a habit; and the choice is yours." -- Tom Hopkins But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:15

Worry "Worry gives small things a big shadow." Unknown Proverb But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:33-34

Worry "I've had many troubles in my life time, only half of which ever came true." Mark Twain And do not seek what you will eat and what you will drink, and do not keep worrying. For all these things the nations of the world eagerly seek; but your Father knows that you need these things. But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added to you. Luke 12:29-31

If you worry, why pray and if you pray, why worry! Unknown The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. 1 Peter 4:7

"It is not work that kills men; it is worry . Work is healthy; you can hardly put more upon a man than he can bear. Worry is rust upon the blade. It is not the revolution that destroys the machinery, but the friction. Fear secrets acids; but love and trust are sweet juices." -- Henry Ward Beecher The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful. But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown." Matthew 13:22-23

Worry Do you remember the things you were worrying about a year ago? How did they work out? Didn't you waste a lot of fruitless energy on account of most of them? Didn't most of them turn out all right after all? - Dale Carnegie "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." Jeremiah 17:7-8

Our attitudes control our lives. Attitudes are a secret power working 24 hours a day, for good or bad. It is of paramount importance that we know how to harness and control this great force. - Tom Blandi A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control. Proverbs 29:11

Do not wait; the time will never be 'just right.' Start where you stand, and work with whatever tools you may have at your command, and better tools will be found as you go along. - Napoleon Hill Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it. - Lou Holtz I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore . . . have this attitude. Philippians 3:14-15

Security is having the Word of God in your own language. Peace is having the Word of God in your heart. -Corrie Ten Boom Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God ; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

It is not enough to be busy, so are the ants. The question is, 'What are we busy about?' - Henry David Thoreau Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! Proverbs 6:6 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Romans 12:11

Be assured that you’ll always have time for things you put first. Liane Steele But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33

Some things have to be believed to be seen Ralph Hodgsen These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. Hebrews 11:13

Faith is a journey Not a guilt trip Unknown For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith." Romans 1:17

Storm warning Stop telling God how big your storm is; instead, tell the storm how big your God is! Unknown The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1

If you hope, you cope. If you don't, you mope. -Genevieve Kunkel We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you. Psalm 33:20,22

Anger is a wind which blows out the lamp of the mind. Robert Green Ingersoll Make no friendship with an angry man, and with a furious man do not go,lest you learn his ways and set a snare for your soul. Proverbs 22:24-25

We have two ears, but only one mouth, so that we may listen more and talk less. Zeno (c. 334-262 B.C.) My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:19-20, 22

Never fear shadows. They simply mean there's a light shining somewhere nearby. -Ruth E. Renkel When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12

I held many things in my hands, and I have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God's hands, that I still possess. Corrie ten Boom You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever. Psalm 30:11-12

Happy moments, PRAISE GOD. Difficult moments, SEEK GOD. Quiet moments, WORSHIP GOD. Painful moments, TRUST GOD. Every moment, THANK GOD. Rick Warren Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me." Psalm 50:14-15

Statistically, the probability of any one of us being here is so small that you'd think the mere fact of existing would keep us all in a contented dazzlement of surprise. Lewis Thomas (1913-1993) Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD from the heavens; Praise Him in the heights! Let them praise the name of the LORD, For He commanded and they were created. He has also established them forever and ever; He has made a decree which will not pass away. Kings of the earth and all peoples; Princes and all judges of the earth; Both young men and virgins; Old men and children. Let them praise the name of the LORD, Praise for all His godly ones; . Praise the LORD! Psalm 148

Oh the comfort, the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person; having neither to weight thoughts nor measure words, but to pour them out, just as they are, chaff and grain together, knowing that a faithful friend will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and then, with the breath of kindness, blow the rest away. - George Elliot ...there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24

God never promises to remove us from our struggles. He does promise, however, to change the way we look at them. -Max Lucado For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Ephesians 6:12-13

Never mistake knowledge for wisdom. One helps you make a living, the other helps you make a life. -Sandra Carey So shall the knowledge of wisdom be to your soul; if you have found it, there is a prospect, and your hope will not be cut off. Proverbs 24:14

To carry a grudge is like being stung to death by one bee. William H. Walton Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD. Leviticus 19:18

Kindness is for all times in all situations - not just when it suits you. Audray Landrum Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

"How Long, Lord!? Have you forgotten about me?" This is a question that I've asked many times. It's such a foolish question. How could God forget about one of his children? He can't. We find David in distress in Psalm 13 (see below) and he's wondering how long he must endure his trials. Yet, in verse 5, David finds the strength to carry on. His faith in the protection of God gives him strength and security and, in verse 6, he has quickly had his sadness turned to joy has he realizes what God has done for him. My Daily Psalm How long, O LORD? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me? But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. Psalm 13:1-2, 5

The most called-upon prerequisite of a friend is an accessible ear. Maya Angelou My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. James 1:19 Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation. Psalms 5:2-3

"The heart is the rudder of the soul, and till the Lord take it in hand we steer in a false and foul way." -- C.H. Spurgeon Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:22

We can not become what we need to be, by remaining what we are. Oprah Winfrey And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 18:3-4

If you plant for a year, plant grain. If you plant for ten years, plant trees. If you plant for a 100 years, plant men. If you plant for eternity, plant the word. -Unknown Listen then to what the parable of the Sower means: When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is the seed sown along the path . The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. But since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away. The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful. But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word ...

EXCUSES, EXCUSES The streets of the City of Failure are paved with alibis --some of which are absolutely perfect. Harry A. Earnshaw No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame, but they will be put to shame who are treacherous without excuse. Psalm 25:3

Being defeated is often only a temporary condition. Giving up is what makes it permanent. - Marilyn vos Savant Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21

Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly and if you speak, speak accordingly. Benjamin Franklin There is deceit in the hearts of those who plot evil, but joy for those who promote peace. Proverbs 12:20 Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, 1 Peter 2:1-2