tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72157257927059580282024-03-05T18:28:45.630-08:00The Wonder of It AllA photo and devotional blog
(All original photos)Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.comBlogger251125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-45727584767969224122012-03-07T09:48:00.003-08:002012-03-07T10:04:06.372-08:00CHANGING SEASONS<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717215953479758274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZakbOeWGfh1uHckXNegNRJpXCmVdoejFJPITjVHMmpiGmfHpmwTwbMFOSShWFKa_Q6pOfyhsPDkx3T46MSgqBJcVjMdueBPwxVnPiUT0a0fOGxzta5wfN0Be9fP94h-86FKdP-QpgWE/s400/P2190257.JPG" /><strong>A few weeks ago, I read in a Birding Blog about a parliament (collective term for owls) of snowy owls that were roosting near the Dyke at Boundary Bay, B.C. These birds are infrequent visitors to these parts so I had to see for myself this rare occurence and the first free afternoon I had, I drove out to the site. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717215934214818338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwFH29X0FZZQe3lupgA-wXJMhYUZNpyxmAFoLQYvuF-t4Indrs6soPG0De3lxNLUaX8hwbvrbvU98_hipevIfOmsbjYs1ZVnSnUchNp424bG7q_RDK2yns27oT0WMjj4tfZ9QBSYqlTQw/s400/P2190212.JPG" /></strong> <br /><div><br /><div><strong>I counted 30 snowy owls that were wintering there from the High Arctic.<br />Most of them were so close to the dyke trail that you could see them clearly without the aid of binoculars or a spotting scope.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717215945148577906" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQMRycbkHBL08wjAG3BnR_RNHMShntShN74xRjAOUhuwIZGZA1PtGd1G4yQl-RPPNwm1DdfLKyvVk6xXUx0hH2SF5VGD-Ok1ntiWv-y1nr5Z0hfrY8DG9mN2IT7_L6w3RR1mH8QMDEf8/s400/P2190263.JPG" />This week I decided to revisit the owls and brought along my little granddaughter so she see snowy owls up close. (The word “owl” is one of the first words she mastered before she was 18 months old.)<br />Instead of the 30 something owls I expected to see, there were only 4 left. I overheard someone say that the owls have started on their Northern return journey to the Arctic.<br />Somehow most migratory creatures have a clear sense of the ever changing seasons.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717215961218565074" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaWIRBgL63YJ9RAcQ12sE7mnpcp67vawEWPP_GH74wKO0dfAeIOKTkYqCWv0gGOH5jsrHxQhpdhcfYcdUL0RJNNOfTluWenAcC6Xul7kUDUa3wbSzZeDP4uSnXtPKkgWTC1dqLZf-N7Hg/s400/P2190228.JPG" />I can feel it in the air – spring is almost here! For yours truly, daylight savings time marks the transition from the dark, damp winter to a brighter and longer spring season.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717215940549027858" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUzRcIzhQ5h1JOdtdoVPdb-J0r6P3TbpvQXAMgDDnhWqT6Hb3ZW97RjBVHQcdC_uP-g2-FKl90wIeiXkRGjwKvs7BUYSJq6HHpo-k4ev7nKIsWwPByYN5nicjiRmBNOdC973kTA0TBtso/s400/P2190244.JPG" /><span style="color:#000066;"><em>“But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you.”</em> 1 Thessalonians 5:1(NKJV)<br /></span><br />I wonder if most believers realize that there are also changing seasons in a person’s life; and if they do, I wonder if we make the most of each season? </strong></div></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-40583549721964872972012-02-14T10:56:00.001-08:002012-02-14T11:03:21.653-08:00A Panoramic View<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 131px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709067959949758242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNlYpsFU-CRCjEAg0Uz1tlI9CkUfBVbibjbAdtvbBxXjrXPL-NbkqtRcTjN8UBq4HvcV9qDEZUcjcDw36TqU34IvuigeENLppnahMU6UFm6CDsSW7iQO2fMDTyPPRaIn20Hg4U3OQ44MM/s400/P22020110.jpg" /> <br /><div><br /><div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>And the Lord said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him: “Lift your eyes now and look from the place where you are—northward, southward, eastward, and westward; for all the land which you see I give to you and your descendants forever.”</em> Genesis 13:14-15<br /></span>I’ve discovered that God’s promises are bigger than us and broader in its coverage than our imagination.<br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 142px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709067968284943058" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7BUysQAtvKEMZv5ZmtKEUBUCIPy0hU3rM9zI8b4XVfViUuXmgt8zfN0V6W5PymXHmWDMnSXfRLZjqMCBQSv6HWjC14pkeLwDYBUlKvRMBcSlOQTX34Wf4wsridlOT4yRMWYwOsYpEBmM/s400/P22030146.jpg" />There is a natural tendency for most of us to be myopic in our vision; and we often only focus on those things that attract our “fleshly” attention. The resulting pursuit of these earthbound and material things, distract us enough that we miss out on the bigger picture of God’s greater blessings.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 140px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709067984002934482" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3GN3XT68yaQauIBtqlpjdmevWaiqUKYW4Fy3uKgXzEWLXjlh01mkDlgw6z8xJX19Inrl5z3AlRSKBgTL17CSz2qt9bd3bC2qDRnqWsAUM5eFjavFUAkP9u6ymcgs7jxXsLpi357XY9k4/s400/P22030188.jpg" />When God called Abraham to leave behind his “riches” and step into God’s promises; he could only see what he was giving up.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 153px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709067979253947362" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUXAIWiVzw5fpwmWTR3Ul4jNr32ZxuTK7pAjnBDJ28-cpi9B-DXmOgJnLckZjXAxjL-K8QIOsI_RI0yhkUuWPRa8XO3bDJC8mfJhY_aiLBN7CXRFAQ2Sc6BKZ3pARUev8T_a9L-GMlxrc/s400/P22030167.jpg" />There are times in our life when we need to “lift our eyes and look from the place where you are.” </strong></div></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-53479067383224986802012-01-26T10:29:00.000-08:002012-01-26T10:57:59.985-08:00Old Traditions with New Things<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702011146017407858" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTPOiHgk52yjJs0W6Qqk7I7zCKK8AL_ZL8yADtbg4GgsFxuGt7S4kCputVig7S39AT72WFnNKMDyAGAupmRSusBxbqHeDXTB6Xgbt4Qy6STOJP-VSWIMNoktEywAPAYnT97ZAK9B_yhZA/s400/P1140840.JPG" /><strong>This week, I brought my granddaughter to a Chinese Shopping Mall to give her a first taste of Chinese New Year celebrations.<br />When we got to the turn-off for the car park, there was a long line-up of cars and I would have gone to another place except I was stuck in the center of it all. After what seemed like an eternity, we managed to get in and find a perfect lot.<br /><br />The place was packed and buzzing with families dressed in their Sunday best. I later found out that most of the schools in the area had a “Pro-D” Day. It seemed like every Chinese person in my city was packed into that Mall to usher in the New Year. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702011139221049010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ukiyyHE1yT3OrTbIwezvrHphJPdgReDEdCben4CqVRFyKLiRzH9gXwogG5D3GXPCzAPLTRTHraWYyzpvsUGkBmYMq2A_My0FA0uvL4N7GZYehyphenhyphenC3o9EO30IzxG4FvG1N8XOCzboqhY4/s400/P1140839.JPG" />The sights, sounds and smell of the entire place evoked memories of times gone by. There were red lanterns, red packets, red outfits, and red Lion dancers in their customary costumes. The incessant loud drumming of the Lion dance troupes made it almost impossible for us to talk or even think. Everything about the celebration revolved around prosperity and health but much of it involved age-old superstition and some aspects clearly had pagan roots. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702011134522076450" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXj9B0tbEJgJha7mWB29YtiZimrlDQDa5ziOU_46QaBjdqtNYFqUWpZacXvTDG9cfCh2I2M9jzisnWYeEUjC3T-mc72eYHJUaORrmtlNq83MziJDIiYlxAqpAQKwOY7-nsux3tLkDB4Dk/s400/P1140845.JPG" />For many traditional Chinese, there is the belief that each New Year presents a fresh new opportunity to prosper and wipe away the misfortunes and bad luck of the past seasons. That is probably the rationale behind the new clothes and new things in the home.<br />Chinese New Year, in one sense, is an oxymoron - old traditions that involve new things! <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702011153864040546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ3SCfQ931kiOrpOfHAzOl-qc4cpgdzya0lwP8UCYljkd4sp3vwqw436yFVulbBOGNJfRKTeE5m2T9Ar-YfrLmr2-r9zesy_qSWeOjYW6tqhUYatMC6r4BDSJZdQ8j92Tw6lNTICk2PaA/s400/P1140844.JPG" />As Christians, it’s a reminder that one day these old things will all pass away and God will make everything new. When that day comes, it will be a day of celebration without tears, without pain, and everything will be perfectly and perpetually new!<br /><br /><span style="color:#000066;"><em>Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.”</em> Revelation 21:5 </span></strong></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-73335754356956526482012-01-17T12:57:00.000-08:002012-01-17T13:18:10.679-08:00Birds of a Feather<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698710438526520098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoMfVtfVCfnH4gBpDFRITYsoFnsmJ8WEf5xMM_Ao28tcA2ktg0uRSBVRFN0fYueBvSgUqMB_imHCniQPXeOOVMdyCLalSrmgjkKVTWjVwOPlZWbEfzfsXLsvzFrtT2aWyDfcWFA5PmimE/s400/P1120053.JPG" /> <strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? </em></span></strong><strong><span style="color:#000066;">Matthew 6:26<br /></span><br />As the saying goes, “birds of a feather flock together!” Have you ever wondered what that really means? In this article, I’m not referring to the computer terminology BoF (birds of a feather) used to describe an informal discussion group. I’m focusing on why birds stick together while in flight, foraging for food and even when they resting. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698710424102039650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGKIvIY1CG_u3hApNLM9ZJ2EEydCfYSo0Jsq2m2rLRT8DsfJ5HpNPq5eRTiSl238DzerVvRF_pm9fTLoffSImVW4_wYVhBmO5nviWrrvoe9OtvCglC66YWU3iNGPEWwA0_lCUcNzHrBk/s400/PC170038.JPG" />In a past article, I’ve eluded to snow geese in flight and how they utilize laws of aeronautics to their advantage when they fly in their distinct “V”- formation. Water fowls birds stay close together to share body heat even when they are floating in cold water and I guess there’s safety in numbers. “Flocking together” must be essential for their survival! <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698710449273491426" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTORcmC8c_4G8th4DwWeLWqff4fel9Gp34p_Zt0O3fcmhZa1cqTEXjY4na5GL-V4cn0tGuRR5RljMc6EVqgRZlGhWBfZfihANlzo4k-TZFGwen9Z3YBiqkyDUPKpJkI8IBYrGcZWhbjNI/s400/P1140666.JPG" />Sometimes, creatures in the animal kingdom are wiser than humans. Isn’t it strange that the more developed our culture gets, the more socially isolated we seem to become!<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698710416029860194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0eirHD_s55ej6gy6e6mMVqsWUV9odm1Ugyu-GyFPNQ4HtBQSIB9e-AQmnhiIUE77gjcYvpA7zqzNdnzs90gbToW81PTAcMiCtAjsmaTyMMyUpRItdtOc9aPxaHf4LhJ7rVIv2hUYtUBk/s400/PC170027.JPG" />Some sociologists have suggested that new technologies such as the internet and social media lead to social isolation. These technologies make users more inclined to stay at home and miss out on socializing with neighbours and visiting public places such as parks. Many are drawn to convenient “face-book” relationships, instead of “face-to-face” time.<br />Perhaps it’s time to return to the age-old methods of “hanging-out” together and rediscovering the strength of “one-another” relationships.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698710412321565682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfwrV4V7eqEgUB_cWwjjo0bFH7DEXckN6v1nwamLY0EpSjQblMcgW3ID3vAWsyYk2JN7GzyxWOQjSMZ4Qxx2FSdMFrLHhuAWQ0fduD7jDKg1B9BHYjtpxzOP8g_zus2Xijh2bgrD6ztJ4/s400/PC170021.JPG" /><span style="color:#000066;"><em>And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.</em> Hebrews 10:25 </span></strong></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-89494682254296610682012-01-12T09:33:00.000-08:002012-01-12T09:48:30.351-08:00Where is La Nina?<div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696802400795076946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcONJNAGfVJEaLHn_mdKqNloKpZVIKORLIcxVB3hbjuHpF0SvRCvBa4KwSyT2FBQjhIfCCYqWnXY6PQ0F5kPNJrboSTYwSv2FSgHk9dmp0XiIgAO6F_KbzCPWx1qyn67zRLQ2LfQm5654/s400/PC160010.JPG" /> <br /><div><br /><div><strong>Isn’t it strange how the weather can affect so many things in life?<br />We’ve been preparing for a colder than usual winter because the weather experts have predicted a La Nina type winter. So far, it has been wetter and warmer than usual.<br />Don’t get me wrong; I’m not complaining! After my last trip to Edmonton, and the white-out conditions, I’m more appreciative of the rainy conditions here.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696802386784350082" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwUKMNJfrFzusE7_c48XQw_MIn0pWc2a3M3HCAqV_gMd5GC9ubw2dQ9NZYPiz5cCQUr7SEjpM9Cm1lk9jN9ayyHVmWbWn7myUdOTH4-d97cb08LAawrnw_LlWQsYWX5PaJepcYY3Ccpac/s400/PC170018.JPG" />A lot of our responses in life are based on conditioning. The mind can condition one’s response to be overly negative and often the results are a complaining spirit. God’s Word exhorts us to “give thanks in all circumstances” and not allow our environment to dictate our heart condition.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696802379116009026" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpIpif5XKwFl2t9XBrZII_vaO2_T8oqIQd_EwToH_t-IU2iLtgWLlXcVYg0oUT8ZJ-a9hy1MGafu9HBF1JsYkhnom1Iu1H3JIFVY6RowxD-Xh5GKwORon8xcbbORCxoe3Pu5oFTywY8QM/s400/PC170011.JPG" />I’m not one to make New Year’s Resolutions but I’ve decided that I will do more, give more and enjoy more in 2012, no matter the state of the world around me!<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696802408719791698" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF2UDllHG7u4KWlvC21QPke78crfXgVTOpWh5qkXQCU97A3wZo9L-72G-M0dCSibYNf6yjZKVbG2V8DzlGQapLIDw_8RGJai42RQox6QM7IljpiesJcOT46nHDMxnjGanSqw2soRwQh1Q/s400/PC310177.JPG" /><em><span style="color:#000066;">Honour the LORD with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine. </span></em><span style="color:#000066;">Proverbs 3:9-10<br /></span></strong></div></div></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-50252031817462944532012-01-11T11:08:00.000-08:002012-01-11T11:31:37.112-08:00Closing the Year on a High Note<div><br /><div><br /><div><strong><br /><div>After 2 months of preparations and practises, we pulled it off. Everything fell into place when we packed-out both venues in our Christmas Musical; “Twas the light before Christmas.” </div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696455851483288882" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU2tHfwKhe2HeFjA9nvT2U8NRJN7tudi9kgysiaCRATElf2VUkM4GgmLDUNBSNtWw_87Rdwrvz2d1We2smHPvDkkoFTJEF0d9OOdi0__KDAQK1VflvRRpiRkJHHltFPl8b-neLWFQBtA/s400/P1140694.JPG" /> <br /><div>This was a first in many areas; the first time we’ve ever put together a 100-voice choir comprising kids as young as 5, with adults. Well done to our choir trainers, in both campuses, who patiently worked to teach all the parts and coordinated the rehearsals!<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696455871225903442" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuctGhRzxbeD3Htf4Azq-3RUWYCJ6F1AsNXM9z-oR5F2DrzahDQBK2TBTUYem2otJkHXpEByXJVPJ0WnXQC8w4L00tvVOqTas-yflewu03C049-7_j76vIMEheNEeYsj3CM_xlDe_b44/s400/P1140582.JPG" />This was also a first for certain “new” members who bravely “volunteered” to be the actor/narrators in the show. They practiced their lines week after week before finessing it on the two presentations. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696455864465529714" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9k-eoUGtTxUMf4W-pE_3kQONrDS6qmMb3pAwwzPnNev8VMlnNydI5xrSjSMr-uSkgEkbJimqkqMmqv4-0qKVevtg6SRkiIJWOasUBfKVCy86d-V823NrQ7Pf-hJHEHBdKP2mt8Fg7oJc/s400/P1140602.JPG" />Thanks to every musician, dancer, choreographer, technical crew and volunteer who all share in the great satisfaction and reward of seeing many give their lives to the Lord.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696455847710635890" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAEva_VQUkHnJxsEKqJlksjZDNl-b0uyY5WlWAFJTa2tkC3xCBvLIrPyJXPPCTybnRa2nHS57gqJgnSw0npMVHHEG6b6SLqpPfDPaica3F1qHAmI2ZnRJEdyAYFDM6_-DNFqI35xBVGlg/s400/PC170034.JPG" />May God grant you great joy and satisfaction in knowing your work for Him is never in vain. </div></strong></div></div></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-43129794828835179292011-11-25T10:35:00.000-08:002011-11-25T10:58:15.884-08:00On the Road of Life<div align="center"><strong>I just returned from a short trip to a cold place that shall not be named.<br />This road trip began like countless ones we embarked on before. The sun was shining and the roads were clear and dry.<br /></div><br /><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679005996500620866" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiqYOhSEjuvI4QvJJO5ZKstsLiznH6-kfrKnnelEYmJtiKAFLdN08L9PbUxB7mVB-KJwOqGlhzpaK5-GT3gYuYRD0cgJCdP5NPB1TnYgZkn2IdricuHc9Wi2kvbjCbdNTRnHiqAllNdB8/s400/P1140479.JPG" />Although I was driving through one of the most scenic places on earth, I was actually looking forward to the end of this 1200 km journey. We had packed well for the trip; we had everything we needed for any emergency. We packed in 24 bottles of water, snacks and food to keep me going for 24 hours, an emergency kit, and a shovel in case we needed to dig ourselves out.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679006008122816738" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw-kTQ5gej_sCzyLmokxlLz1GX0JXSEXy9XlV9Z1WjWxMpHaHG2ootiv_FgkHEezgPPPMROmDJSGPfQcut7C2CAsNemIRb2WZ7JxIbTCrbgh775WxckWOD4XeAUcCV7zkAkIrZYb-QVYU/s400/P1140540.JPG" />Upon arrival at our destination, we went up to the front desk and were greeted by the hotel manager who instinctively knew our names. I had a bad feel about the situation. It’s never a good thing when the manager comes out to personally greet you. True to my gut feeling, we were told they had oversold and rebooked us at a different hotel. My old nature, wearied by the 12 hour drive, wanted to react but we gave him grace to make amends, which he did. They paid for our hotel room that night and cut other fees and taxes so we ended up saving a bit of money. </strong></div><strong><br /><div align="center"><br /><span style="color:#330033;">“Being happy doesn't mean that everything is perfect. It means that you've decided to look beyond the imperfections.” Anonymous </div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679009049701404082" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNIUT5D8JuAwnCkCHT7S7uHvwCMvhUoYJ7YMU32rK4s1GL9Z2Or5IPpqDVHt_u9K-iL4plR6QpcnJc36TVQRL4luaRSUwRmcJRMXLjE0LAiFf8yaySK9HrnaANtXo4PSgXy4xGYlII-1E/s400/P1140488.JPG" /></span><span style="color:#330033;"> <br /><div align="center"></span>I’ve learned that if things don’t turn out the way you’ve planned it, God always turn things around to suit His superior plan.<br /><br />As we slept that night, a storm blew in and dumped a foot of snow in the minus 23 degree weather.<br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679009055584109090" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3y8aPkFpEsBMAHdwOtktflYNM-aXKA3rd98DFCKDpfbzgq6HyOXg1VoUmLhJaEzNsdsKvbSzOFKdNt7Fsd7nk7VaYGDm6z-uN4jZW1blLAu42weH7fKeoQ_tmDx3qdM7sjO2hVop_NM/s400/P1140493.JPG" />The next morning we had to get up earlier than we planned on and managed to get to my daughter’s convocation with five minutes to spare.<br />The rest of the time there was uneventful but I was ever conscious of His presence and favour.<br /><br />Our return trip started with great promise of a smooth ride home, at least for the first three hours. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679006004592677538" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipFZBaD9iib5Jm8yeK5iZVi2Tkxcg5sk4kzQjdtnv1sN4ZTlrTC_ifh46lYj3KbGMQjjZ8qFkCvdmDvhAiNpf2AnkqC6mZoOu-1ilDpirC1DMdHMgmHrHAXDY3ToQuSq3J26UU5BudXaY/s400/P1140535.JPG" />Half an hour into the next leg of the journey, I hit the perfect storm; below zero conditions, blowing winds and snow made for total white-out conditions. Within half an hour, my rear windscreen was covered with 6 inches of snow rendering my wiper immobile. As I ploughed through a foot of snow on the highway, I attempted to stay on the road by following the wheels tracks of the car that was 20 feet ahead (I hope) and almost invisible to me. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679006813695709218" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIMg3t54ngnONCaO-FBltyjjlAOc-N-1oNrCTAY867DsJwo7dxTjqPQEay5hW9fBpWhAwdzUgXkRyyXmooNbF1UJgWG6m-FrKaPsJiWpIb2KrMC5XdTQAoJ9QNGF0ldGBuJSu4hCv9oMs/s400/P1140569.JPG" />Every time an oncoming semi-truck would pass us, we would be blind for up to 3- 5 seconds. The worst scenario was when we would pass on a narrow bridge, with inches on either side. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679006806222163282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieDOT2MVay6JzTK3zvwEiCuJprtNrvhJ7M70CWATFV0Bv0J4FwtI3-CNr1hFW4bhmm5zD-8BytviqvLYMeIsz5nf1SXDG3LqzqmFs-cPEiSaN7nNOXPs8C72G1uy99rIvbwpbtkKEAtY8/s400/P1140570.JPG" /> <br /><p align="center">It took us three hours to cover a short stretch of the highway, but I was so thankful and relieved when we finally made it out of the storm and into the next town.<br />The next 3 hours was smooth driving through compact snow conditions, but we had to face another storm in the last segment of our journey home.<br />It was so bad that that highway was closed a few hours after we arrived home! It was still close two days after! Phew!<br /></p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679006024018051490" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKiOQY_BT4WwH07IEaOXSa-YT9vSs-WV4vdXle-iH3f6hY6RxB-TRrnXjvL6uX4wGX1sPylzetKCuPgXttBk0War94-BKvZ6Md309O7NfQeDh5WDG5lIKG-jsHnCqDQMnHk5xxvAb4skc/s400/P1140568.JPG" />By the time I got out of the last mountain pass, I had to make one last pit stop at the gas station. I had to get out of my car to stretch and celebrate, get out of my sweat-soaked jacket, and thank God for seeing us through this hazardous segment in our journey of life.<br /><br />A day after the journey home, I read in the papers about two guys who lost their lives in this same storm system because they crossed the center median and crashed head on into a semi-truck. That could have been us!<br /><br /><span style="color:#330033;">“The Road of life twists and turns and no two directions are ever the same. Yet our lessons come from the journey, not the destination.” Don Williams Jr.</span><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679005994056789026" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJlVH3F1CgYlCetmcj6Z96KY6tb6FVAGXj8hXGVxjIVj9kPh0vmT7EAcOf6MGUo18F9kLhZ-DyP2Ak7R64b_253xUWHCYe04La_yenHMAXG04xAw9WC3f3R1DoRyZhZT5mWF-ePVNo1A/s400/P1140507.JPG" /> <span style="color:#000000;">Thanks to my faithful congregation that were praying for us during this trip!</span></strong>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-80424819041105519742011-09-30T11:33:00.000-07:002011-09-30T11:47:28.539-07:00Psalm 45 - A Good Theme<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 303px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5658225528134146450" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTy2CQLqAdpslCWBhJYyA_w-AzTIIQdNVhRQbHOoFUd4hGRuOemQq3WhADlTLd9DWQtNAL4kyVeZIvoNfeGv1BpQfjXuuWx8665eJaClrTuS6DSxI9EoPjBEGQQNbOiqdak_WodcHQF7U/s400/P227150038.jpg" /><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><em><span style="color:#000066;">My heart is overflowing with a good theme; I recite my composition concerning the King; my tongue is the pen of a ready writer.<br /></span></em><br />I’ve never really heard it put this way before; “heart overflowing with a good theme.” If someone could decipher the contents of your heart, what kind of book would it be? It your heart was a musical symphony, what genre of music would it play. Would it be a recurring theme of low notes; a novel full of tragedies, or would it be an upbeat version of “What a wonderful world?” Whatever you “say to yourself” in your heart will express itself cogently to others through your countenance or callous words </span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><br />The reality of life is this; whatever is in your heart inevitably and eventually works its way to your lips. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5658225533454785090" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd8rtb5mDN1M3XKKgJbo_YoYno8rp00hyphenhyphenK9sLcHjvTA4lhuU0y3GWvv1g4a5J1Tu6HwFlelivasrta_cJX9j-Lj0qDVNGPeIOzSHqFWIKF3eafZwfKo0RbL4eP7wLmtG0F2bl2Mk-bxjg/s400/P7230030.JPG" />God, please give me a heart that is refreshed, renewed and full of your sunshine; let it always have a good theme. Amen! </span></strong></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-581840499110623912011-09-16T10:12:00.000-07:002011-09-16T10:37:08.322-07:00Psalm 42 - Make like a Deer<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653011510831097682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCdgVMq9vB8IzAJNoC_9J9IIX0TbUAdgdlRPqueAn9BCTCcBBvKrQ-0-1gG-2YoxKztk8EhUh0aFrnoaBlM5ApMG8F67uMp1IzGPXY00jKru2K0Gtten4TsigdpjGnhBaQbY38dOnb9xI/s400/P1140110.JPG" /> <strong><span style="color:#000066;"><span style="color:#000000;">This year I discovered a quaint little seaside town in Washington State called Ocean Shores. As the name connotes, it is a seaside holiday town with a unique feature; deer that wander freely through the homes and the town.<br />It’s been sometime since I last spotted a deer in the wild and so this was a treat for me as I was there for the surf and sand. Actually we were there at the invitation of my precious grand-daughter. </span></span></strong><br /><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"></span></strong></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653008892504322834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV4M_XuFiro5zcZrh3gmTS-chyIBlQXLD6m_DDu1wSQOYfPWcm6fShJf-El8TC3E6hvU9Sg1QSwQmR5y98A8eyNC_HrtIyvg66ZQ476QYFmTJDLNWqKyCBnzWbWga-O-j8lvmLnzK6mQ8/s400/P1140140.JPG" /> <br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God.<br />My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God? My tears have been my food day and night, while they continually say to me, “where is your God?”</em></span></strong><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653011520153993986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij5mXyxhBIuSpBa71hOPqvhmCy8Xz1jJ4LKlNV0_tIPVI7HDyMp3yXQohyphenhyphena0gutwAkryz-QZ7Z8oQbUYJmcLkIkg7GvHp0jxsQGbHAQ0BqNrZAfj0STWqP5kRM6dRBRUc9gGHM1SgrX9c/s400/P1140113.JPG" /></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em></em></span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><span style="color:#000000;">Life can be pretty draining, especially when you are in my line of work. To ensure that I don’t burn out, I have to “make like a deer” at times. There are many things that drain me so I have to consciously seek out activities that “fill me up.”<br />Before I get any super spiritual advice on how God is all you need; I must say that while it is vitally important for us to maintain an intimate and current relationship with the Lord, it is essential that we take time out to refresh our soul. I find that nature appeals to my senses more than even music or other activities. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653008901373023890" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHvNT9j5e94krZOTd6Cas4z9J4tjte34nesHAjxoyFgfAecfgqG08pRUBfMys6p3zzrvSjKo8CnGR1rJ6uDv8fH0UHWSitr5A1fPjOQHKwFZj9PUWq-hRRlw-8OaBGA3pfbzZp9MToGS0/s400/P1140103.JPG" /></span></span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>When I remember these things, I pour out my soul within me. For I used to go with the multitude; I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept a pilgrim feast.<br /></div></em></span></strong><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653008908752079586" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvybnvMARWQjimMQn8LWxPlQvyCY3X9ocmHc8qzAd13_lIHWeGr7vuFUvOsbuRG391QNA4gaZPn12IJDcT6STFkVgcHBCqkLAv7FNPm7n8UqkI8XaT4wO7Ksg00oyjc74V7zng2rVzFm4/s400/P1140088.JPG" /><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>There is a season for everything in life. While corporate celebration is exhilarating and passionate; it can also be tiring, hence the need to steal away to be quiet in His presence.<br />High praise is powerful but quiet contemplation allows God to penetrate the soul into the depths of our heart.<br />Both are needed if we are to have a balanced walk and a healthy soul!<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653008899712361762" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNJ87S7pf1qeo7hhKfs1il0_IDkUFkHUwtVZLyMFYFj7OLzjdWounfz-ty23w2BcC5MxHOMZ2XTD7SS8CrZmmodcPXHiY-Be4ZXJY1Ouw3TlFAbgEoCPVDoJoGcCUwncEzWBjR6PefLu0/s400/P1140124.JPG" /></strong></span></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-63328517357493403252011-09-08T12:38:00.000-07:002011-09-08T12:48:31.751-07:00PSALM 40 – SLAYER<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650076836767838178" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4J_u_khhaHUFlDaTaQGCQbgqlTbYdOVyoq7TiF6co8U2WbkIZc7u4vzEU9SxLttiPMkfV9XE9cGbisCTFvAC4xSDt_YDbkIMb5BtBgoIpHUZ76Umri3KJQBoUZ4pgYtoaApM2QIJmgyo/s400/P8270530.JPG" /> <strong><span style="color:#000066;"><span style="color:#000000;">What is six inches long and can cut down a man six feet tall ?<br />If you answered “the tongue,” you probably are suffering from Post Traumatic Syndrome Disorder because of some verbal lashing from someone in the near past. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650076847924993778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfgiZKYxJgjsXJupdmZXNKX_v7X9c3GU_bepdgUZJXFMrJ9GSiz94SZ_CuaWyEhYDOdmaHj1igL07YeR8VapNNzCNWxax4cmsSmINpPbZD02dAavZfdgnp2VRP81KiGHWIc3OpdQxtP30/s400/P8310565.JPG" /></span><em>I said, “I will guard my ways, lest I sin with my tongue; I will restrain my mouth with a muzzle, while the wicked are before me.”<br />I was mute with silence, I held my peace even from good; and my sorrow was stirred up. My heart was hot within me; while I was musing, the fire burned. Then I spoke with my tongue: “LORD, make me to know my end, and what is the measure of my days, that I may know how frail I am. Indeed, You have made my days as handbreadths, and my age is as nothing before You; certainly every man at his best state is but vapour. Selah<br /><br /></em><span style="color:#000000;">We know it is Christian thing to be kind with our words however, we also need to be wise when to speak, and with whom we speak to.<br />Just as our careless tongue could “slay” another, we could also become a victim if we simply open our hearts up to the wrong people.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650076845143421170" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsX-1U52-YOzwntjgHnn-L47zX4K8bWDs3LquEzRTlcMoIgzqrQ7VEd_GIqvhttIWP6pgadB1EtpP1PoflU0yrxOgAw6lmoWNU7yRI0XYdzD3XNRQJXjXT_HAOZviRztJEJYYhU4JfeBc/s400/P8310564.JPG" /></span><em>Surely every man walks about like a shadow; surely they busy themselves in vain; he heaps up riches, and does not know who will gather them.<br />“And now, Lord, what do I wait for? My hope is in You. Deliver me from all my transgressions; do not make me the reproach of the foolish.<br />I was mute, I did not open my mouth, because it was You who did it. Remove Your plague from me; I am consumed by the blow of Your hand. When with rebukes You correct man for iniquity, you make his beauty melt away like a moth; surely every man is vapour. Selah <br /><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650076840735672242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUFyjTffRWdJxi35mpdAbmIgsziRyFKmDmpJpfU_xwNEQQr-pTQeZxMIQE5yRzrcigC7oujFUjMngaPMEqMqDLTc87bCuu_e1tGRjXeD_G0gt7Y2LMLUx1KraHlqv9EogHsW52VD_dEgY/s400/P8310567.JPG" /></em><span style="color:#000000;">Be very careful what we say when bad things happen; hold back any quick judgement or attempt to place blame. Sometimes bad things happen to good people because God has a good plan that we are unaware of.<br /><br /></span><em>“Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear to my cry; do not be silent at my tears; for I am a stranger with You, a sojourner, as all my fathers were.<br />Remove Your gaze from me, that I may regain strength, before I go away and am no more.”</em></span></strong></div></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-14030683413057992972011-08-30T13:33:00.000-07:002011-08-30T13:50:05.693-07:00Psalm 36 – Silver Lining<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646753664071515826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCuVO4lH9_7VgVn0JEXfDUOiBFyzj4FDg4-xxFqeJv41GrnsIDNi73oy0jC6UcCW2W6IAdKHCYGT-kwCEXyog5sIXW-F_PyWUR1Hk5UGMcD-SxLqnGKQFWJGMej8l0ExnftpGELZ2BbC8/s400/P1140086.JPG" /> <strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>Your unfailing love, O LORD, is as vast as the heavens; your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the ocean depths. You care for people and animals alike, O LORD.
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<br /></em></span></strong><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646751972598006706" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4Rt65O5izB-uBvOw49_8ozeslc7Y7F6GIzENEnMnwTnTf0UHxZNi8qZI3m8vPhSUz2RQv_qWQ1KT-97f3eCyi1GPJ6NiKidfNlO2ugR7JyzYmsDv6AHDIpWe0rkvVVSFnaHu7RBhf8U/s400/P9220049.JPG" /></em><span style="color:#000000;">Here in the Pacific Northwest, we are blessed with plenty of watersheds, literally, a “land of many waters.” Oceans, mountains, rivers and clouds provide the right mix to create a perfect system for rain and lush vegetation. In that sense, we are a blessed people although we sometimes complain about the over abundance of this watery treasure. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646751970630497730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogdaPL8msZS2VimicFEzh30R0CR-Av_RFt-Bb4ww2UGDWOlh8LkFOmmhYONv0UyrFtNkuGOBgBrebfaMGOUzvd2Og3huWYjlGDH-TybKmDQtm9_-TznB2nrxv1I1BRsdT3TkiB8A5RGU/s400/P9220047.JPG" /></span><em>How precious is your unfailing love, O God! All humanity finds shelter in the shadow of your wings. You feed them from the abundance of your own house, letting them drink from your river of delights.
<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646751964915700818" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj04Sz-4y0Z86K_QhdHDK9YdetXdoxwNUhVIpUxYkdDS0mzWB4SXPmuGMwHyVfOz7cYZksOYI_Ez4Rfbw30jeWqTzBqh29UDR7GGRB_HdbC6tQeGPD_SnyXeOn9Ter7_GHcyRODNyQUUXE/s400/P9220045.JPG" /></em><span style="color:#000000;">In recent years, studies have highlighted the alarming depletion of the ozone layer covering the earth. Now more than ever, we have become aware of the protection of this unseen umbrella that protects us from the Ultra Violet rays of the sun.
<br />Oh that humanity would similarly realize the need to come under the invisible but impregnable shelter that our God provides for our vulnerable soul!
<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646751962067302850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitCauF35keA2UpWWXcqJ637DYJsY2CXZUit99IEwVZ85OVrjs800MqVHI9cUWE81cvVZ3_ynoDU1wsLhRaIma0vvnVevRrPDsqSHY_GC8c19By28F13DLhGTtfLrPegOI2rMMUkZbYZo4/s400/P9220044.JPG" />
<br /><div align="center"></span><em>For you are the fountain of life, the light by which we see. Pour out your unfailing love on those who love you; give justice to those with honest hearts.
<br />Don’t let the proud trample me or the wicked push me around. Look! Those who do evil have fallen! They are thrown down, never to rise again.
<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646751953416772130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvDKiODNgvXxdQLP75qARm9Hkjhx1UlpVqHqUR5EwbJGnuE8OtIEZzYETynz8Pko0bB0-gHzOflB346ZSftu3M-hWeljciF_xUF-POQkoa4b9e0QLWkAG2fNAC2BfuZrZtBqXNLchkWhg/s400/P9220043.JPG" /></em><span style="font-size:130%;color:#330033;">Drink deep and drink daily from the Fountain of life! <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646753674296994034" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSZ_0SJCJ7NGYRx54jWB9acuh_tHeB-D8JwZj2ID_N7nD_7tqi6q7wwKSbobyZv8S44jp2YtK_AziAwzgKBzNFvjcHMwjkXOYly6Idcq-PqemD0k3iDKmayIBS9CjvfCAS0stuger5FRI/s400/PB270043.JPG" /></span></span></strong></div></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-82533425367088029662011-08-19T09:30:00.000-07:002011-08-19T10:02:18.781-07:00Psalm 37 – The High Road<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642607995906449746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRW1_fCYmmwX3I7CfCyPeJqtUsxYI_mbbfl7cUvoKTXcx2avlzQHV9MSy6vXeVYmA-m6-xsMZmF9obN7VAI0JLSjh31hQ-6hpkFN0vgFUWv1YAY9RtutkYiEc_sTtcH94ugi4MDOhcqUY/s400/P9220051.JPG" />
<br /><div><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642607989607458194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl37JWeCTzcVuFxtkNYclkrhxXbJou7DsngpJJiaIufNlLbqOznBDa5LrvwIz7badoy0HCRPYVj7PwU6qXcdEHiEisFqS8H6XwC6o_qqL9xNJ0mkMifA9rE6brF8us5DLbW_P_7ojEKgU/s400/P9220050.JPG" /></em><span style="color:#000000;">Of late our local newspaper headlines have been filled with the criminal actions of gangsters who terrorist entire cities with their random gunfights, and the anaemic justice system that seems powerless to punish the guilty. In various major cities, riots have broken out with thousands who loot, rampage and beat up innocent citizens resulting in deaths, destruction and massive property damage. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642607982551947170" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQA9sq3HS1YtNapn48Df1kWmt8py0LnMyksTKGpPmrr7zeKqm8biZKygiTIZfKS5aWiQhefipPtAaEGSi2LOoOK3YYaVSGua-gzqNSXSX1PtYyk2qJJ6Yasxg3UtUD7wPoxqQqxUYSVA/s400/P9190021.JPG" />In many cases, these hoodlums and lawless ones will get off without punishment.
<br />It almost seems like the legal systems in our land was written to protect the rights of the guilty at the expense of the innocent. Often when I read about this, it gets me all riled up and mad. Complaining about injustice and unfairness in life only serves to foul ones spirit and does not change anything. </span></span></strong></div>
<br /><div><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><span style="color:#000000;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642612487908923938" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJiW_4nKS9GAETJjptSW51VfaNUXNWI80J5FKrA6cfrQrGfs5sJ747zMxtx93vI3MS1VX9r537bs5a-0CTlmX4-rcXPZdVNxCVNr2GvyiLtLhe2pCXJ4c6YgU8CJHu4Q8NPHehcQ22x8/s400/P1140103.JPG" /></span><em>Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.
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<br /></em><span style="color:#000000;">It is true that Edmund Burke once said that; “all that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.”
<br />Some have suggested vigilante justice as a corrective response to this evil tide that threatens our society.
<br />We can actually do something positive by taking the high road, which is to do good, instead of succumb to the same angry attitude of out-of-control rioters.
<br />The Bible reminds us that we are “light” and “salt”, not fuel for the anger that burns in many hearts. It does no one any good for everyone to be walking around in frustration and anger. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642612477563745154" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS_j9owUy-MgsLWVzV1jQqAMyUmLYFgCl9g9g4MedPQZeCkOITEtgLZzB3I6LXmh3tRhXpkMIjsJvkBE0d1RJFKDyQQomSHmd2wseOMmZpJ-sLsPIqMhO-zc-Mea22N0o-i8mtVwWTKzw/s400/P1140083.JPG" /></span><span style="color:#000000;">The Psalmist actually points out that these evildoers shall reap what they now sow; “for they shall soon be cut down like grass, and wither as the green herb.”
<br /></span><em></em></span></strong></div>
<br /><div><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.
<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642607986267400066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEika9_v-Ws1LBTk3HWRJiZ-u0flLBD8EKZHw-TdfmIeHpeb0lGKVKCkI1x_XYZi7lf-qsUk7CSUzmXGPO7HTgt-gnBKtwkes17fTrr5KqI9H712i0qplaFs9YLAIoW6uioruDUAFRq6UnQ/s400/P9220049.JPG" /></em><span style="color:#000000;">Divine distraction is what the Psalmist prescribed for a perturbed heart.
<br />There can only be one outcome when one stands in the presence of God – you go away transformed, infected with his Glory, affected by his love. </span></span></strong><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><span style="color:#000000;">
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<br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642607975554196674" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCB7Thokt7o0wVex03bHwsvA_EVs3M_UmMHQ1LC3AIvWTm0geCpr4Rr3BIt4pEfLz59Ie9-B9_XbTdbUDt5epobBibELYU2nFZlEMt1YQERCvq6nyOmSqyR7lZ5KyXRWSPthzCmZWgHhE/s400/P8130036.JPG" /></span><em>Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass. He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him; do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret—it only causes harm.</em> </span></strong></span></span></strong></div></div></div></div></div></div>
<br />Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-28844340171675105582011-08-18T10:12:00.000-07:002011-08-18T10:54:20.675-07:00PSALM 34 - God is Good<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642253456969382530" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOwgXEMh7m-axX6055DI94TyB1F02NUQAnAo0ZyNJc8xrY0UMQHci1YBYPfu9Odj6uu9bo2F_vV_Ej3dadydVa3JPCHpCfsQGpVMlkUu2szLh8LmM0DR7pNZF315x0sSSUIBzQUGuje9g/s400/P8090066.JPG" />
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<br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#000066;"><strong><em>I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
<br /></em></strong></span><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; the humble shall hear of it and be glad. </em></span><span style="color:#000066;"><em>Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt His name together.
<br />I sought the LORD, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.
<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642249532524243826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1DpPXv7MS42CFP_okRv9sVwfvaUIxtdodOXWe_Y98M8Za0MBkhyO3Olx_6HwyKh8OvfFMdPfhflsX_amS1OlYs-2Kq_9AhdKg6tFHP9Rli239xsczJPXiw8_uybbFQL4KI74qgA-y-IU/s400/P1130528.JPG" /> </em><span style="color:#000000;">Looking back at the last fifty-some years, I can’t help but be thankful for all that God has been to me. Through good and bad times, He’s always been there! <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642253445747383666" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLX4gi3EttOnXQO8dMsfb1YftdVFVdejPqTdG_Uvlfgcbw_IT2rRwgU5jWxVJsygUVeoB4URcjTopEVWKO8QKxAPsiixHGJp4mP-zjnTzub0xEmbUdnULxNl3m1HohbWDDueq1tx4lE7c/s400/Jan2010+010.JPG" />One of the consistent patterns is that blessings always seem to follow trials. I don’t know if it’s because we always ask Him for some pampering after each punishing test, or it’s just God’s way of showing us the light at the end of the tunnel so we have something good to hope for. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642253469374766258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GLMQaJBZM-AYJ3C3ikQ8wxG5WHpJdKiMW5e-ESYkCObPnWceLHM2aGQqDkj7B7x1J2tBMCBkJv2xr1QMOx6okqEMDbV3Ztw7vMTL49Dv6QF0UvlrzDi69sY-Vgq4umSGarBmNqAy8KM/s400/P8150116.JPG" /></span><em>They looked to Him and were radiant, and their faces were not ashamed.
<br />This poor man cried out, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.
<br />The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642249528886966066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMa-6N9fJrmDN36M314QwGnfzYzbkp4iO8HZwZcgx_oxcLTBD5Qm8Pm1jXQ4m4azFS3MFWAB-aNlcyIHqwn2RGrVAbCSOyiJZYljuCI44gZ_vG3LRg3JC9apOLa_yB9vp7FInUSbls7Lo/s400/P1130507.JPG" /></em><span style="color:#000000;">I took a trip back to my birthplace again this year; visited some haunts as well as spying out some places we’ve never been. It’s strange how tourists seem to see more of a place than those who are born and live there!</span></span></strong></div></div>
<br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><span style="color:#000000;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642249510231579538" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLayMK1AIU6qC3Nlo16ja8-WkAtWGOek4g6__X9FfKe5i60wlLh2G-zuvAqnzWhjtZzp1CIDyi60WcMgFOlaTXMSMm3HCrCUMhFvy8G6wO5A65aEMOfn9512wmyVf4mIWdqFe6WaU6584/s400/P5120140.JPG" />While new places inspire me and broaden my horizons, old places bring back memories of God’s goodness and grace. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642249525147512530" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEich6uuc3cDz9wYRlkI-_-Srpv6-nToiJwv8Z2xXDr0plU8EDSS2BwFas68zdUh4bt-JizqkCE6FC_TrKvThlwnsmWxEtI0wKwlK2rbvpC5Vs3Fg3KG5bvuXVFpq3r407rD24XjPvO5KWE/s400/P5080163.JPG" /> </span><em><span style="font-size:130%;">Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him! <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642253463119261170" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiREf7REC0HbrOefhufV8taTbRyhpj5_zm3FuBYwjldv_t2dJ6ddw250PFNnFv-AkpIJmHD7guTH9rRnb52amN-8GNlv3y2iehylmTC4jpjbrAGuM-aiaaCCBq5H8PcFeR8MT_xnB4BPs/s400/P7110149.JPG" /></span></em></span></strong> <strong><span style="color:#000066;"><span style="color:#000000;">Some of them look good to eat but others seem non edible and even repulsive. Yet one taste test and you are hooked for life!
<br />I’ve tasted God’s goodness and I’m never the same again; no turning back; I’m following Him all the days of my life.
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<br /><em>Oh, fear the LORD, you His saints! There is no want to those who fear Him.
<br />The young lions lack and suffer hunger; but those who seek the LORD shall not lack any good thing. </em></span></strong>
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<br /><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><span style="color:#000000;">We came to Canada as poor missionaries, but yet my children got to see things and visit places that their richer cousins only dream of. God blessed them with private school education and both girls graduated from a top university with no student loans. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642253452058433234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZT-lkcM4J5SjMYbiNLTkItXeY9Q0H2y-XBEmJhRVZ4zsXzlzrU0Q2SFtxhBc4J9XmsujOgm3tnPD6tQLhRUWHJ3C_QONGBx4WhK99k7wtZgBLcpp6wwOpTxa95Ug1XMw-V0LTvNNuL4/s400/18Jan2010+061.JPG" />I now live in a nice home, in the most beautiful city in the world. Both cars are totally paid off, no credit card debt, God has been good!
<br />By any measurement of success, we’ve made it. Not through my own merits or wisdom, but by the providence of God.
<br /></span></span></strong><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><span style="color:#000000;"></span></strong></span></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-1456433029540922622011-08-17T11:45:00.000-07:002011-08-17T11:57:57.659-07:00Psalm 34 - Maestro Me<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIb2dfnnuGnYj7ZM7Bilq4Iqwksygem9BAMadXb8KlIqNlippvsWVzVI6vOu8GcwWNvN72UeZkkbzqepySiKftAJbxgzWteP69-Kir89DsKtoQi-b-We7odG39D5ZTej6Vd2G-eFrwrYA/s1600/P7190028.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641900675171594018" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIb2dfnnuGnYj7ZM7Bilq4Iqwksygem9BAMadXb8KlIqNlippvsWVzVI6vOu8GcwWNvN72UeZkkbzqepySiKftAJbxgzWteP69-Kir89DsKtoQi-b-We7odG39D5ZTej6Vd2G-eFrwrYA/s400/P7190028.JPG" /></a>
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<br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>Rejoice in the LORD, O you righteous! For praise from the upright is beautiful. Praise the LORD with the harp; make melody to Him with an instrument of ten strings. Sing to Him a new song; play skillfully with a shout of joy.
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<br /></em><span style="color:#000000;">What makes humans so distinct a species is our ability to enjoy a wide variety of experiences in life. Our ability to create coupled with our unique craving for our senses to be gratified makes life pleasurable and gratifying. Most of us appreciate music in one genre or another. We marvel at the master pianist who can let their fingers glide up and down the 66 keys at will; we stand in awe at the violinist whose touch can make create the right vibrato on a string.
<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641900669455787650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6N-b0Cotgg4jR7o8Br0I9KUhAusjVfm991_xAIQNMzY4dkqPVcUlEY0XtbyBjgplneETXlH2Wp9YuTYmKx5-E830FZmyEzCD5MJ6vuGmzOncbAun6Sui5vqgZf9V41x03m87LZg2PRPg/s400/P7190045.JPG" /></span><span style="color:#000000;">More than the awe and marvel at man’s musical abilities, is the mind-blowing knowledge that the God who created it all takes pleasure in my off- beat, sometimes off tune rendering of worship!
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<br /><em>For the word of the LORD is right, and all His work is done in truth. He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD. By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth. He gathers the waters of the sea together as a heap; He lays up the deep in storehouses. Let all the earth fear the LORD; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.
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<br />The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect. The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance. </em></span></strong>
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<br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641900667983557458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZhhjN-TUHVT_zaWEw5gHhofRJES_l9fSeKoyFBaxRqI3ePiQNGxJQVgs_filRNNefVhMxnUpBYdi1xf7_mseMmibVcIaDqwyb43GTlKb_fkUH_wYZVvxdBBjkCbxzRS241YbbSJCQBmI/s400/Olympics+vector+lights+040.JPG" />
<br /><div><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>The LORD looks from heaven; He sees all the sons of men. From the place of His dwelling He looks on all the inhabitants of the earth; fashions their hearts individually; He considers all their works. No king is saved by the multitude of an army; a mighty man is not delivered by great strength. A horse is a vain hope for safety; neither shall it deliver any by its great strength. Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him, on those who hope in His mercy, to deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine. Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy name. Let Your mercy, O LORD, be upon us, just as we hope in You.</em> </span></strong></div></div>
<br />Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-46319255261060196742011-08-12T08:59:00.000-07:002011-08-12T09:16:40.767-07:00Psalm 31 – Our Rock<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640001848166145970" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4r2njlo1f9xR9Sp8xFjebslVx-VQHCuOpYYsizn-cULDnWuUacpVE3HfWrw6FmB_Y9JmM14jh4YTbyNdDp7CCzci3MGXkZ9qJpBJQlsdXysx1CFeTDdvYnbsVirQeN2KpOj0bA2V354/s400/PB080251.JPG" />
<br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>In You, O LORD, I put my trust; let me never be ashamed; deliver me in Your righteousness. Bow down Your ear to me, deliver me speedily; be my rock of refuge, a fortress of defence to save me.
<br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640003618268630482" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgXq3FEDnmnyZmSineoQmuxoqMtbEuoLNIUe8sOAbUOL9fT8FdAmnodPSqJzdVnTnxJtvEmwcsr1NQALWV6_qSI3pHraTaVM0wGfu1Z2kF2LLQFP-XVjrjPgeOrcAiWk5RInrBzqXZeE/s400/P8090057.JPG" /></em><span style="color:#000000;">In this troubled world and these uncertain times, fortunes disappear over-night, riots break out in major cities, families fall apart and uncertainty is the order of the day.
<br />Without a rock and strong foundation; no one can endure the strong winds of adversity that are threatening your earthly foundations.
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<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640003613217501746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48n2MdFP1dMfXtXhrPyLRtgBkjV83S5lMjBHHZbL6gq7p2HtXM6sEEDEACwW1bVW2OFhbsn7LC2LvNwVdFdFb21hXF7xO0tN5qgQooGf0OZ4HvqTORU6hK2PvjzrEgp9HzU6-hBHoNHg/s400/P1120025.JPG" />It is in times like this that one is forced to look beyond this flimsy facade of material possessions and technological wizardry to find some sure footing and hope for tomorrow.
<br />Those who have attempted to look within themselves for inner strength have realized the bankruptcy of the soul and the need to perhaps look upward for a more lasting resource – the One who spoke in being the foundations of this world.
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<br /></span><em>For You are my rock and my fortress; therefore, for Your name’s sake, lead me and guide me. Pull me out of the net which they have secretly laid for me, for You are my strength. Into Your hand I commit my spirit; You have redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.
<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640001857988842642" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisScPo-cDnszFI6Kv_x5XpvwAbqkUTtL4d-DfK1Y6oir1oavfZWU075GTGaMALoXjrrbScU-lObAhjDVcKSoEvwYIKx_YGtFxbl_D2MmnsKS0rd_UEtVxQYlgmVpwTf-_Q_ujoPSd0YGI/s400/P3130022.JPG" /></em><span style="color:#000000;">What is the one thing you hold onto when everything around you falls apart?
<br />Is there one person in your life that you can run to when you need a shoulder to cry on?
<br />I’m thankful to have found Christ in an early age and I’m grateful for my family and friends that I can depend on.
<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640001851485373490" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicP6GAy6pFgNUfFihUjxa2bVJ8fg2r-X9UAW4rHrylvB05nM_9_XeCCU5tap8NM5KYdWiCbv1m29e0VTAM6_9eH7IgG-HdHqBnA8NRz_o0N7x6Q8xuRxM-k6r40-sT04SD32hLCjQsZ54/s400/P8040046.JPG" /></span><em>But as for me, I trust in You, O LORD; -I say, “You are my God.” My times are in Your hand; deliver me from the hand of my enemies, and from those who persecute me. Make Your face shine upon Your servant; save me for Your mercies’ sake. Do not let me be ashamed, O LORD, for I have called upon You; let the wicked be ashamed; let them be silent in the grave. Let the lying lips be put to silence, which speak insolent things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous. Oh, how great is Your goodness, which You have laid up for those who fear You, which You have prepared for those who trust in You in the presence of the sons of men! <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640001859266486786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSFl2lIV-6iIvljWTq4ROeRVQO2KDDAQVRl4SKd9QzsAMrIcwIIwwZshjmu4May7RfAo_wrGgedLLGsHMUeTLWLaW2qd2JXvw2TxYvZD6hWihwyIESuDE-rmrH_ZRoHByo1iUGvSkEzg8/s400/P1120034.JPG" /></em></span></strong> <strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the plots of man; You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
<br />Blessed be the LORD, for He has shown me His marvelous kindness in a strong city! For I said in my haste, “I am cut off from before Your eyes”; nevertheless You heard the voice of my supplications when I cried out to You.
<br />Oh, love the LORD, all you His saints! For the LORD preserves the faithful, and fully repays the proud person. Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the LORD. </em></span></strong></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-15074943543265103902011-07-28T09:23:00.000-07:002011-07-28T09:46:04.654-07:00Psalm 30 – Good Times<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2uJkl50UhIIjYBTVTRbW6ynd0vpoVH6vrO8VbH_DNT_ZktQzkydv51eW8Mg0v2Fjs_3PF6Ia_cXz9YemaKVJSV5OyuuK2dtNlUg1-dM_eTPJ3YC2hIo0kPJIdpHeq5qYjVcmFaIoEWts/s1600/bike+ride+2009+009.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634445166894240114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2uJkl50UhIIjYBTVTRbW6ynd0vpoVH6vrO8VbH_DNT_ZktQzkydv51eW8Mg0v2Fjs_3PF6Ia_cXz9YemaKVJSV5OyuuK2dtNlUg1-dM_eTPJ3YC2hIo0kPJIdpHeq5qYjVcmFaIoEWts/s400/bike+ride+2009+009.JPG" /></a> <br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><span style="color:#000000;">This is a Psalm King David wrote at the dedication of his house.<br /><br /></span><em>I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up, and have not let my foes rejoice over me. O LORD my God, I cried out to You, and You healed me.<br />O LORD, You brought my soul up from the grave; You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit. Sing praise to the LORD, you saints of His, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name. </em></span></strong><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em><br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634443592508027506" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Mwte1tFUa9ArhH_cGRGpiSMS5nh_q4OvWo-vlwSe472P1n7fGP-X2KdTSGsrv6MxfBtzTltlhdzjiDVvFOn9r-NfKjllUUlwEJlx3ayKnUYdnwSmJZbe1f0QcQDuK3PRUGOBEY-YMLQ/s400/P8180018.JPG" /></em><span style="color:#000000;">One of the recurring themes in the Psalmist life is the celebration and rejoicing that often follows hardship and struggles. Goods times should always follow bad times as far the child of God is concerned!<br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634443587510976066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikbD1uPyPztbf_7Qj6F1jOYsuUKjaDlVn2xvopzCIUNlDSw3mzANRRFG6Na25JyOVurAa1Gj31qZh1RU_ZcnNeb6Dwl9WUGC15cA6bUs8CuDeCa5RSNjn0_R1FJ3gPJuCqP6mUfYraHCw/s400/mushrooms09+135.JPG" /></span><em>For His anger is but for a moment, His favour is for life; weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.<br /></em><span style="color:#000000;">Anyone who has enjoyed the blessings of God understands the importance of first finding favour with Him. One of the outstanding characteristics of our God is His grace and mercy. Often when we offend Him, he is ever forgiving and never holds anything against us forever. </span></span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>Now in my prosperity I said, “I shall never be moved.” LORD, by Your favour You have made my mountain stand strong; You hid Your face, and I was troubled. </em><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634443596220904722" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQ6fYuDizewMkKHGwEh5ODjj4QrmNeE6AUt6ZezNFAAb0Te9XNk6UirBlpwczwapuDcOPCORVOs2u2hPVsUezkpsMHwRnzap3TvrMC-Wo72XhWUy8IZmI5DXfrMEI1_biLuoPaan7KGA/s400/P1130761.JPG" /><span style="color:#000000;">The challenge for all believers is maintaining a correct focus during the good times, because prosperity has its way of diluting our Christian commitment and distracting us from the real issues in life. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634443603947294466" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4gOaZaYsPdEemZHN27cZqVE1OwKOqBelDsxdKCovdraps_nYNXTTpiO2meWBFPReXH9Olgq3r5imBAOlz1zCc-cD6hgmgp-Z5a8SS0n4D7glPYlxGpSNvsTD_L6En1wlyMrp7ucOSAMw/s400/P1120264.JPG" /></span><em>I cried out to You, O LORD; and to the LORD I made supplication: “What profit is there in my blood, when I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise You? Will it declare Your truth? Hear, O LORD, and have mercy on me; LORD, be my helper!”<br />You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, to the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent.<br /><br /></em><span style="color:#000000;">May we never forget where we came from and how we got here! </span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">May we always give generously through the good and even the bad times!<br /></span><br /><em>O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever.<br /></em></span></strong></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-86647663543778948352011-07-27T09:33:00.000-07:002011-07-27T09:59:35.123-07:00Psalm 29 – His Master’s Voice<div align="center"><strong><em><span style="color:#000066;">Give unto the LORD, O you mighty ones, give unto the LORD glory and strength.<br />Give unto the LORD the glory due to His name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness. </span></em></strong><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHnvI2Yuu3OJOa7Gi_fCGz5bep3B38LRbAEDWccTQFB9EsfKTwEQ8t2f2zjblQ70sLhlV_WH3wI72P_O-PeeUv9ZIKVd58a1D8hyphenhyphenFu99pA5_Vc-Yk9I-9eQXaY059wWBZwhLuW55kM4Nw/s1600/Florida2010pt3+242.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634077021513629682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHnvI2Yuu3OJOa7Gi_fCGz5bep3B38LRbAEDWccTQFB9EsfKTwEQ8t2f2zjblQ70sLhlV_WH3wI72P_O-PeeUv9ZIKVd58a1D8hyphenhyphenFu99pA5_Vc-Yk9I-9eQXaY059wWBZwhLuW55kM4Nw/s400/Florida2010pt3+242.JPG" /> <br /><p align="center"></a><span style="color:#000066;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>His Master's Voice (HMV) is a famous trademark in the music business, and for many years was the name of a large record label. The name was created in 1899 with a logo of a dog sitting by wind-up gramophone.<br /></strong></span><strong><em></p><br /><div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634075045117571826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv33TYsFFw_dU78pqYCnTdAFVpokEnL5LkUPOfXgFs5Qw6prCZnS1vgL2T-ac_P1UYNEmTctNNjmjPkuX10VoBYCmkseRuTyQrPfeTPi0eOM2lpTTLTAIC1RV09rGo4EhqcCrW5xxrOb8/s400/P7230054.JPG" /></em><span style="color:#000000;">It’s sad that in life, most people don’t know and don't acknowledge the Master’s Voice. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634075032894446306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbNO3Yl6FFTspDmNj1T6UhsJGYDqrCHoRMWCvI4mXpIjEbTLcGD3UP_lIujrt3G2akJWWnFyUpvla4o7HOIBjft996hlWepf8JvA5fktOP-D7R94TnypB1PgQKYwSOqUzp_EMfRiT028/s400/P8040044.JPG" /></span></strong></span><span style="color:#000066;"><em><strong>The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders; the LORD is over many waters. The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is full of majesty.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634075039502934434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjov2fy4Qmz-KTIWHl_TGAtoTfqyiZ-gKoWKstpVOhG5_0SunVq-BbGix30fk7ycTodLRStU1O6iDZt9eInX4C_izelRVKESqPfPG6_LTe8NqUnJZZ-LwEaa8cq6b_HGVEgQS3s03m4oBw/s400/P8040080.JPG" /></strong></em><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Perhaps you may not be acquainted with some interesting facts about sound:<br /><br />Do you know that sound travels faster over water than land?<br />Sound travels nearly five times faster underwater than on land.<br />A glass has a natural resonance, a frequency at which it will vibrate easily. Blow across a beer bottle and you might get a note.<br />I remember an occasion where my siblings and I filled champagne glasses with water and with our fingers we played the rim of the glasses. It all came to an abrupt end when one of us dropped one glass and shattered into a thousand pieces.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634075044252245986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv8syEyvtqMNqsJG2ZMXFSQSCJOWhG66A-Ty8fvQ7IrBhU6MKO1QEWJpUGOeMuERzcOxbHXeNeyzYNB6R8_fFVgIm8mc-Ne0beVODFpW58NWG2ro3CVrpxr74FqtzhpUDF7VoloZRXJtE/s400/PA010330.JPG" /></strong></span><em><strong>The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars, yes, the LORD splinters the cedars of Lebanon. He makes them also skip like a calf, Lebanon and Sirion like a young wild ox. The voice of the LORD divides the flames of fire. The voice of the LORD shakes the wilderness; the LORD shakes the Wilderness of Kadesh. The voice of the LORD makes the deer give birth, and strips the forests bare; and in His temple everyone says, “Glory!”<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634075049626641778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRspaBpYhMpOOCSuHnrhaQRLr_7WqkwV9aMDnoTEzeq-3MvQ7Y7_Pdjee_Udmu8dNXhf42YpVMPB-5hA6SSeUXywHjPfFyKoG8ffJHrb17soZrQcbNiVnxRb7i_Q1OGN2ynkikZxHvqE/s400/P7190016.JPG" /></strong></em><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>God’s voice is recognized by all of creation yet we often drop His call.<br />The ability to hear his voice brings peace and comfort, especially in times of great distress. </strong></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#000066;"><em><strong>The LORD sat enthroned at the Flood, and the LORD sits as King forever. The LORD will give strength to His people; the LORD will bless His people with peace.</strong></em></span><br /></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-60712498686080530602011-07-26T09:18:00.000-07:002011-07-26T10:05:41.216-07:00Psalm 27 – God’s House<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633704689963018658" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_mzXVOCM5dLYC8YGWYpqFyZtHTkzBVP-8-_b4HPKFc1eFl2uLoaaZIvbmgfZD1xOlsq0_AUIg8LUuJPOKKI8TEP1X6e_ciMRkg4U2j1nUnUp6UUgEazXTmcxb-s7_z1r7Tw7yQ4jbc78/s400/florida2010Pt2+098.JPG" /> <strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>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? When the wicked came against me to eat up my flesh, my enemies and foes, they stumbled and fell. Though an army may encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war may rise against me, in this I will be confident. One thing I have desired of the LORD, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple. </em></span></strong><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633707176511842130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP-V5ayGnoQ0GuZZx0L0KM9xSZoHlucEmE2HPLLeLgRs2jRjgq9USoAt25CBPDRvaPK3WIXgf7cqPIJKdBiDh12zdMwplfOCC-uYgu6AEtzvrzztYyR2m9WOkG5-_GK7vC4EOXdXaOktw/s400/PA200290.JPG" /> <br /><div><strong><span style="color:#000000;">When I was growing up, we lived in a two-bedroom apartment. Imagine six kids sharing one bedroom, with one bathroom for the entire family. I also distinctly remembered my cousin staying in the living room for extended periods of time.<br />The strange thing about it is that I have the best memories in that tiny flat.</span></strong></div><br /><div><br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 353px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633697982386118754" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR7DXCONOWPLRS34Xy3XUdO6F1A6SBKHVyVlDt84xf7saZfQj2OdeeBDqvADoGhyphenhyphen5vuf3duyHubxC8auQ510vcnBlRoLZV8IMmvp558so_vSDCNtZ4OW2ek8KVfurQNiSGl21drqdJpj8/s400/Dad%2527s+80th+Birthday+019.jpg" /> <strong><span style="color:#000000;">Perhaps what made the difference was not the place but the people who lived there, particularly, my mom. Her meals were simple yet I can never replicate the taste. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 393px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633697978573283634" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05BpELQ1lx8g764aX3d3poff9w8Hdf32coLPs0FsRa9znV9CvOAJQaBhRZy_erNPVQwPzbBornLtWRiJh6kAnWJMkYwAR05E0gQcANJ8cmCJ_RGirlvYvlnrxkkeSN_3vbssyFe86zIY/s400/Dad%2527s+80th+Birthday+002.jpg" /></span></strong><br /><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:130%;">May God bless my mom as she just turned 80 this month! </span></span></strong></div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633700628318451378" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijXYpKItu-mjOBBs_hiqfCedELIKd7Y6NqqCk2ZUhcA-BxqnRLfQy8t63nLo3N2cVffpXT-Oc9qOPU-JZ-zLTkVT745uT3LWiqP8zodWi_2SPV547ivnfPkc6mQ1-7BUfkJYryg5zSKRk/s400/P5190010.JPG" /> <strong><span style="color:#000000;">Although we lived in the tropics, it felt just warm enough so that we were not too uncomfortable. I remembered lying down on the concrete floor in the balcony when tropical storms would pay their daily visits and bath my senses with the smell and sound of fresh rainfall. </span></strong><strong><span style="color:#000000;">It felt like time stood still on many occasions; yet it was only a tiny moment in time that I lived in that house. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633700635661291298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqO9aqhyaZp48cFCPc-554SkQMXfebStTrtGwZFzrPnj9ncEr1Q5sDOOadiobjns4OwUtWQuXU3oOYPuHGFM-vK69Cm6qnqyQHPAhplKZ7SZlKwgpqvWPwXv3qDNxv_wn52QLhs63D7w/s400/P5190120.JPG" /> I guess that the Psalmist's expereince in God's house was so life-changing and memorable that it was all that he lived for after that. </span></strong><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633704680980335122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMGu2tlLxbjLWXiTojsSBHXH8mANZeNUhF53g1v5_wiCD0unCxLv7RdaUx9hE1DP4bwXQ2MNjMAcJufKbfkhdbDNV7PXceZACtkNmY66PNHeALv23F0IJBaOaAqmc0OulpD7e_-9sUgjw/s400/P1120438.JPG" /> <strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em><span style="font-size:180%;">“That I may dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”<br /></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633702872559062242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxPUbqlP4ZBq0oh7Xvlq8FYKeM5VwzpQA6kfsKLrWmshytVRT0wgThQg1ZXDcKpj7cwoKaqKr5Q1McAM_tp4q-wjzUvz-ZWk1UGySae7h6l0OwXIqWJDi7bDI0fhHKGmcWWrfHUy4vTX8/s400/PA200302.JPG" /></span>For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; in the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock.<br /><br /></em><span style="color:#000000;">Double-barrelled locks, spy-hole, steel doors, alarm system and motion-activated security lights; these are just some of the standard features of the modern day home. Have you found a home that seemed more secure and safe than any other home you’ve visited?<br />The Psalmist must have found his refuge and “panic room” in the Lord.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633702876068865458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsdHwAU7R58tHf_rSoCAaFFwIcnq4tCMVoiCJ-z3SRaMk3VMV1j7GZXISleuZ7aXEG31v-gU1fDvDJ5iNs8wek08haORBl9ykpcdvghAx1th4YrffcXCDpzefFDMml4SkYPdHrr7yLyak/s400/PA200276.JPG" /></span><em>And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me; therefore I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the LORD. Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice! Have mercy also upon me, and answer me. When You said, “Seek My face,” my heart said to You, “Your face, LORD, I will seek.” Do not hide Your face from me; do not turn Your servant away in anger; You have been my help; do not leave me nor forsake me, O God of my salvation. 0 When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take care of me. Teach me Your way, O LORD, and lead me in a smooth path, because of my enemies. Do not deliver me to the will of my adversaries; for false witnesses have risen against me, and such as breathe out violence. I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the LORD! </em></span></strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#000000;">Discover for yourself the "Refuge" that is God!</span></strong><br /></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-69073409927090833852011-07-22T12:11:00.000-07:002011-07-22T12:32:26.282-07:00Psalm 25 – Lost<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHw8yV47my9LrNNBwvvdce_gRPpKMc0uedhn3ssM_BRroc66WQSJ1Yn6VEzXt6qZzYbq5yKB46LnIDTnsxNMuL60sBp6KzbxMvmzrxQdVnOUG2NLs0d1KcY2ULxLzy_giZGu1bCFf2v0k/s1600/florida2010Pt2+065.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632260754681177538" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHw8yV47my9LrNNBwvvdce_gRPpKMc0uedhn3ssM_BRroc66WQSJ1Yn6VEzXt6qZzYbq5yKB46LnIDTnsxNMuL60sBp6KzbxMvmzrxQdVnOUG2NLs0d1KcY2ULxLzy_giZGu1bCFf2v0k/s400/florida2010Pt2+065.JPG" /></a> <br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>To You, O LORD, I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in You; let me not be ashamed; let not my enemies triumph over me. Indeed, let no one who waits on You be ashamed; Let those be ashamed who deal treacherously without cause.<br />Show me Your ways, O LORD; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; on You I wait all the day.<br /></div></em></span></strong><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632260749967153330" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCIInhHeb6DXSVV98Dz1RIw2phDgNSp4D1rTUdtz8I6RzkG9ATZIvBkdK4zcF1FhO5HtYDTRVCaytP5khn9rmBE7EgrmT0uzIEGKE6J9KtHF525VNfs2GPVbaUVteqQ6LrsvICeErhHCk/s400/florida2010Pt2+167.JPG" /><span style="color:#000000;">Before the age of modern gadgets, we depended on maps and street signs for directions. Today, most carry a GPS if they need to go on a trip somewhere. It sure makes things so much easier, and reduces the bickering in the family vehicle.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632259014882953698" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitx7oE4AnKrHpml0GIaG08dDllnju4xUWkdv64Cc7PSjAsPOSsMGaEFsdI7rtUiVyOhfIB78le1jQWFBcoExLOSORZQWHebR4d5rBF8tBFurTOM-hS_JeqOezrilG-E8geXx5RXUUbHXo/s400/florida2010Pt2+064.JPG" /></span><span style="color:#000000;">God always had a GPS for his believers – a.k.a. God’s Principles for Success.<br />His Word has always guided the pilgrim; directed the topographically-challenged, and led His sheep. </span><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><br /><em>Remember, O LORD, Your tender mercies and Your loving-kindnesses, for they are from of old. Do not remember the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions; according to Your mercy remember me, for Your goodness’ sake, O LORD.<br />Good and upright is the LORD; therefore He teaches sinners in the way.<br />The humble He guides in justice, and the humble He teaches His way.<br /><br />All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth, to such as keep His covenant and His testimonies. For Your name’s sake, O LORD, pardon my iniquity, for it is great. Who is the man that fears the LORD? Him shall He teach in the way He chooses. He himself shall dwell in prosperity, and his descendants shall inherit the earth. The secret of the LORD is with those who fear Him, and He will show them His covenant. My eyes are ever toward the LORD, for He shall pluck my feet out of the net. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632258996993535650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYtzHmydq1orQZejoyFd0OzujT0HFzL9oG438W9mKv7NHNcO3rYtGm1aKihGTicLLS5RU0toHIkVAdbUAvCastjytiXcaueyiAnBe5ciJwcp2k2Ed6QioW17SWAGuxVlYtYrebt7FNAE/s400/P1130805.JPG" /></em><span style="color:#000000;">Even with a GPS, one can choose to ignore the directions or simply mute the device so it doesn’t get on your nerve. Our attitude toward wise instructions and precise directions is the difference between prosperity and poverty; fruitfulness or barrenness! </span></span></strong><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632259005808919554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh-yFcWzwry5Ii1XIeFcjyo4Gq_cyicE9i0wTrk7TO2Um4vBpSwCQbxsuH-S52c7GuPz1FfYsYv_RBsZNf_tzzwiZ-mHFg184_YoCxH_aoeabQAu08D580VifMPO6CIdf67w3k2Kxk65I/s400/florida2010+Pt1+164.JPG" /><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><span style="color:#000000;"><br /><br /><div align="center">His path may not be the straightest or the easiest; but it promises to be the safest and most rewarding. We've got to trust Him like a pilot depends on the air traffic controller to guide him to a safe landing.<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632258992172147986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhhvTHYNJU2UhSClOQKaZsQaRwsVsWq_Ng32l_DxcKc_mNv9zj9AhgwC2MG3Rk6Is5lqkpyE9xn1PSxeRE-NCealsn2-IphxM0V5yuG8VLGBzfzieic7zpxfQWzCSiq05kiM3wSx0Y94E/s400/P1130812.JPG" /></div><br /><br /><div align="center"></span><em>Turn Yourself to me, and have mercy on me, for I am desolate and afflicted.<br />The troubles of my heart have enlarged; bring me out of my distresses!<br />Look on my affliction and my pain, and forgive all my sins.<br />Consider my enemies, for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred.<br />Keep my soul, and deliver me; let me not be ashamed, for I put my trust in You.<br />Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for You.<br />Redeem Israel, O God, out of all their troubles! </div></em></span></strong>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-37421317235371903472011-07-21T08:48:00.000-07:002011-07-21T09:23:00.014-07:00Psalm 24 – Blue Planet<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631837831516280594" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6aQOKz204CO_xpATVW6ohcFUG0zTYoTI0bPf0CoNIhlHAehCLEb3kPIoGeze5tbzCjVVzdBl14G9aSJE-OuOjo5v9rkwk0MRYk2pETuOZ7tZzi_RGlxwO8_TZlw6z2G9t78y1GUJnCDs/s400/P1110892.JPG" /> <strong><em><span style="color:#000066;">The earth is the LORD’s, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein. For He has founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the waters. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631836105922056338" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnyXNwzeFggDnUGFQS7jBDtEKEFJWowwO604QKxEtJhZrFJdnowHtIfFz2F9R0kiYlJhqFNGj3hdgjDJFuup0TMKOVDBnm4C2YBV2ybDkqlmtvvfKm7IfF0DrxgoXF6i07tAIArx3LmkA/s400/florida2010+Pt1+569.JPG" /></span></em> There’s something about the ocean and seas that has a magnetic draw on people. Maybe that’s why water-front properties fetch a premium price in real-estate.<br />As long as I can remember, I’ve always loved the sea and all the creatures that live in it. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631836094979496818" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFcrWoWHkPW0eST0z4o3tEJ0Eulm451NdtZZfKvn76Zpdz4S22aIJlyGhhzcb17DIGd-R4a9IwpRVRMJ_KiNFPIE1jrmB5wVfV_qd00CuLIOJljFib0MZ9vMu1k06EO3ngPMrsUFBYzdk/s400/underwater2010+444.JPG" />I see the creative hand of God in every aspect of sea life; from the symbiotic relationships of many of its creatures to the fragile balance of entire eco systems.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631836109938281282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0EZFrGo8w6ZRlOuLR9-QZQqEo-ieTKh-fAxuTW-hkIT2QZAfepsn9yLq2I9RueF3aza1BgLMI0lWQSkU6cyI9PMd38MkLVKObi1PvI9PJsYAT6Z32DfG0i2RIZglY9gvzj7NMZWtC4Ao/s400/florida2010+Pt1+546.JPG" /><em>Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD? Or who may stand in His holy place?<br />He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to an idol, nor sworn deceitfully.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631839710751107490" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWP49mt6mDHOQ3CVk_vB3zONIQdGmRoG0Ak2fWiXFEyR36l7oNslQVkegR9LZ38oN2iieSaqxpBxpx1ZA0HdK8T6S8SilLzh8FJfQYaLvwTcYjwrPywlfDl7tg3Kji7hpGB9NRyAkIZI0/s400/P1110770.JPG" /></em>Hills and mountains have always presented a challenge to adventurous individuals. Scaling a high peak is a feat that is reserved for those who possess a stout heart and abs of steel.<br />However, there is another hill that cannot be conquered by mere mortals. It far exceeds physical and earthly abilities and can only be accessed in the spiritual realm.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631837837971000546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhXOiAvjEm2W2XyyA-vzedHxF-jRn58PPxgt4k0lrDUx1jJOv-deGhwA09u1ZQ33wfoKVWsyH2of6K1hfDAf2VShxUExkLFR7w7xPC2RoV4KYuFPbUbx-v0KhuS4QTmiN5rPszPHm5ZHk/s400/P1110905.JPG" /><em><span style="color:#000066;">He shall receive blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation. This is Jacob, the generation of those who seek Him, who seek Your face. Selah<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631837824324618738" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0ksr3S1jLbBqIJiCUS1WZFnQbyBL61fiQ5UmbIKGqR6BE3llxWMWmKYZIB8IXD8QUjC0mJ_iM7dbxc-4A70DMlU8SD4Rvwy-O2GcbB10D4aI-ngDtjkusumMbcvQtL9GViTYBeiuGZ0/s400/PA200291.JPG" /></span></em><em><span style="color:#000066;">Lift up your heads, O you gates! And be lifted up, you everlasting doors! And the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O you gates! Lift up, you everlasting doors! And the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, He is the King of glory. Selah <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631839713562181122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18Th-OYEIxQhdcv0fMDpWZCmUCVvJGQJOMlTurbtuP7H2IGYn8VISIFUzOfLrHrkWXGXSOrFEC604foOqZCest6FP3PNmeggY0DHCQcwgSeMfYEeafBo_e_r8G_ng58YoU1fMphyyVwk/s400/P1110859.JPG" /></span></em></strong><br /><br /><strong>It’s very easy to be caught up with the “save-the-earth” movements, even in the church today. More important than our stewardship of the earth and its resources, is our call to discipleship. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631839717457581954" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0JYBuO0SpI7AeSsh5ChKRPuBv5rTPCAELBPiSYzukJYusxWZIrZJ5apnoqCg52vvApFExbF82ZM0Zykt9j6ZqEgMosDyCHQH2D-VdprU01jFmOmpz0qR97dlhulFCG7e1jnthPMa5nkw/s400/P1110878.JPG" />God has designed this earth so that the physical elements always point upward to the spiritual. The Psalmist was ever conscious of the King and His kingdom even as he wrote poetry and songs about creation. </strong>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-87190056453269881862011-07-20T08:50:00.000-07:002011-07-20T09:11:04.081-07:00Psalm 23 – Sheep Talk<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631463975280841810" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh4d-G7kwfNA0uiTw4kV0EvHKo8lGgSu13-1kBKWWEDmKQytqRXwhb8_MfNNqIqfkrd910mW_cJYoDObVJeN9y5QMwGFRGUahsUY9CGKOTdof_pUSVPyJ2yRu_pxKGlGlJda-JtvdB6fM/s400/P4180450.JPG" /> <strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. </em></span></strong><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631463962496557650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoE9cMWZKLzl_QmFO8QK_jkw0G9R5V6AtJz2bovan8mnLx6B7SzX4RfG3OEYgEWvG3laspKG8bw0unGRc3ozQFBtVnZNODk5NPK-QXEeXSv8AmAUGj-vB1BVBhyphenhyphen64O42pefqbqjQ-_uxc/s400/P4180456.JPG" /> <br /><div><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. </em></span></strong></div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631466332603884690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3g_gYw_n2GDig0N0qMEYNwfSwFrk0hmCTZ7rmvp-yMLS1AMHb_J6uuqtVGS2IeDvu4rnZRmGA6dcTMIv93ng-gjHIr_REo6VNLvh6cXnrCPzk4HQ6RkUH-4GlYNpFcKd3RJO1NzuvZg/s400/P1120721.JPG" /> <br /><div><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em></em></span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em></em></span></strong></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.<br /></em></span></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631463987976848626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf-RFTzktkQEb7RNXuwS0a6qkLZCoUGowfhGjxUhjtB1cESncv3ChuOB8RB9KlXaiOIrc13xjjqOfpVDMexBvnXaLkIL_JuG9O4AT_pdJvMTT33GiJ_MsRSIUeWoNPgYTqBuVcAjAE77w/s400/P4180280.JPG" />They say; “confession is good for the soul.” Perhaps they might have meant it a different way; but confession of God’s goodness is definitely very good for the soul.<br />One sure way of countering the pervasive complaining attitude in our world today is to begin to think, and talk about the countless benefits of being a believer.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631466338707799618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7hKIBGKYga0alVsCBab1aFVO0Q1_gibjFhbzGXrdsZrKwfzAbRpGXOPI55E44JhvHn_LRRJRlPxNgdwUMDL6-0MDWvJijTiZ2-3ysukTO0WXIbATYNKJDJW6bVNrD6GNd6ZCcyhAwWiM/s400/florida2010Pt2+078.JPG" />The more one focuses on the blessings of being His sheep, the more one actually begins to experience it. Faith expels fear; confidence replaces complaining and hope dethrones despair. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631464000311601314" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijUqK15NGUwAZZuFM1VH_ImERtMjgpoQPw4KxKqQ5-1vN7NVg9bav_85AFUS2Wj-WEvcg5n-U1jqhggRgplH2O2wxtlF8-XldvUC98dsKlSzfwpjJqbSOaBOsio_IDjPIycVjci13WE9o/s400/P3310040.JPG" /><span style="color:#330033;"><em>SURELY GOODNESS AND MERCY SHALL FOLLOW ME ALL THE DAYS OF MY LIFE! </em></span></strong></div><br /></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-41088726077880325402011-07-15T09:14:00.000-07:002011-07-15T09:35:53.522-07:00Psalm 20 – Prayer of Blessing<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629617228646345298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPfEBYH3lMvVOBprW6tV424FA973aN0XtECTBG5FymrsZE92ccROINNUTOzduRuKbWJx8Z4aPemNPxxH1fEK5TzlyHzDQ6eQeQoy6TcaXCEacWFQ9hTqOLf2d3QBbTlZ-BQworwwizi9k/s400/PA200289.JPG" /> <strong><em><span style="color:#000066;">May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble; may the name of the God of Jacob defend you; may He send you help from the sanctuary, and strengthen you out of Zion; may He remember all your offerings, and accept your burnt sacrifice. Selah<br /><br />May He grant you according to your heart’s desire, and fulfill all your purpose.<br />We will rejoice in your salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners! May the LORD fulfill all your petitions. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629617220740995378" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJqjc6RAiZtekmYedAJyaQLrfwXehz5iz1SuTe-cjFq0ZypmrYsoP8NcElc-zPEqh9hP3d5QLsCglhJJd6kFsLnExAKDmQDYixQHo5LadRkeLdA2nL2q6o2n6Rm6ZlnfI7YCRSz_Bbp8g/s400/PA200315.JPG" /></span></em>The Psalmist is not wishing some good things upon the recipients of his prayer.<br />He certainly is not merely mouthing some meaningless verses but pronouncing a prayer blessing.<br />His prayers are based on his past personal experiences with a faithful God.<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629615840130721474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezf1qvVk7EJAzQYg-hZnPoMkaDJu0DiQ2llJhmJv0ZkhjLLu5iXnYvB-kYlcQ4_9i7_C96DxVLZyx7e1cglmqDXRbmSMsndETNXz15WuPPqlhbxONX75q7zCJ0A9OP-kuLHJaoyUUzGc/s400/PA210444.JPG" /><em><span style="color:#000066;">Now I know that the LORD saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven with the saving strength of His right hand. </span></em></strong><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629618450365482674" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRqITHP22JkWZpQ981Qx16zP6RXzs9w8v7R-mAyajIm4NgDJjQ52mlkFZqgJBdfKSEhduqxWoJjfPrLyASLoMqMM0_esVTly7YhA0M_QD739I1CDWBf2Z-3gXVtQIqJQFwvFJBG0t4jk/s400/PA200320.JPG" /> <br /><div><br /><div><strong><em><span style="color:#000066;"><br /><div align="center"></span></em>Often our prayers are powerless because we have a shaky confidence in our petition or intercession. We are trained to depend more on our own strength and knowledge rather than the omnipotence of God<br /><br /><em><span style="color:#000066;">Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. They have bowed down and fallen; but we have risen and stand upright. Save, LORD! May the King answer us when we call. </div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629615834592898786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEB642gSq_GN-f3nyJb2jtDLy-xJ7cmC0PDShdqpc6o9yJT7wZJhS_8S2R4aRlCq7rmJH-hPZQXj6nD9w96WcdYEis5OXw-iaMRAA9QyaaH2Vc_4s4LAyS9ia07jq5xn7gzi_zCKKUCNk/s400/P3130022.JPG" /></span></em></strong></div></div></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-72953165120601604162011-07-13T09:17:00.000-07:002011-07-13T10:00:55.617-07:00Psalm 19 – God Speaks Clearly<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628875176379859490" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigg9GoIFw5Jfe3umfuWzrNI9TpbYWX_o1IEXCyiworQcmunzfcufwmAQgTwwWuKYUEalGbOHxgwZtzqdS5hAtm1IsgsACkpyAVYqqO991FfmaZ5Sys_-KiGhsx1vs7NEe09QIIoNBLXOQ/s400/PB080254.JPG" /> <br /><div><br /><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="color:#000066;">The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork. Day unto day utters speech, and night unto night reveals knowledge. There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard.<br />Their line has gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them He has set a tabernacle for the sun, which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoices like a strong man to run its race.<br />Its rising is from one end of heaven, and its circuit to the other end; and there is nothing hidden from its heat. </div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628875169706929954" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB22mhjRzwZKAvJXBOpzLtEIW00zvVXD3kgIQbxCLOsxUCUu6NZ-RcvyhNBWxdWexOBmiMEQxspskwi0BKZSPFULl3jh1M6rcfHieJVL4zgNjP-BHYvaZb7raHOfRZuY545VkIhub1UzU/s400/P1120530.JPG" /> </span></em>God’s character is revealed in creation order and harmony; everything works like clockwork and is so dependable that we take it for granted.<br /><br /><em><span style="color:#000066;">The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628875172475623714" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWDezQw5ZwD5aXSl9l0DN2OXLeUQuCUsRh4y-hDGxqHHKij8ucVMLfv6z0O7oLIv1ifOwF-rTdjvk3gRt9SrofeOh5Ix4wkY3kiouzIruZZVbYNeVPhDEBCR1jqBzjCi-vapxLefzfM8Q/s400/PB080251.JPG" />More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them Your servant is warned, and in keeping them there is great reward.<br /></span></em><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628881060634760962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRkBpgx-9WK4FYUgWqZsBC4lfviv2rBvUrhPFrDodneed-XhwS3SOD1jvVX2_kRJ9KuF9Q4vDn0dg43TLBG7UiwuhDeBeBTlDy4ow-0nzUn3jBLbciWHcFdTwx6hYvBRqTLShqPsW2zs/s400/PB050237.JPG" />Along with creation, God has put in place laws and principles. Natural laws like gravity, laws of flight are unseen, yet accepted as fact by humanity. What eludes many are spiritual laws that supercede and will outlast natural laws.<br />The Psalmist discovered that living by these higher laws will result in higher rewards. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628881071610836002" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYOr2_aRmYb4UUkOeM5tPta0jYVOHCSlHpC1AGUOFLu_BO48rFahwe5VLFNCUy9SWGOQfhgpiWGae5P4bNYk-jlYc0P6iaRNGLb2IIzsXfMqPayte-Y6WfaQqi0sb1mrk0PUbf0JEWJVA/s400/PB080252.JPG" /><em><span style="color:#000066;">Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults. Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and I shall be innocent of great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628881065177868578" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp4ay_vKhfML5a4VbEXNkPN64b1EvtsBgjxyNfYj45QiMAzuaHKPrrqYyDy37gf8Cqrq4x7qKQs0fRA5Cz80umalsyJvq4SLHkDezH_ORJza6-CYxGfa4L84HAhd1OK3WB4T4SbcV6tLg/s400/PB080262.JPG" /></span></em> There's more to it than correct actions and righteous deeds; God always searches our true motives, and is more interested in our heart condition than what we offer as peace offerings. </strong></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-28091303875874360252011-07-08T09:06:00.000-07:002011-07-08T09:20:55.206-07:00Psalm 13 – “Emo”<div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627015465214033394" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZFkV0gCq7VvaZDWF6PzqHMQ9-diYQIabOlb1Tstzt23BkGxyVsVUGpruTxWn181IvWiGdLX84kBAaJbVa4-zGOA4_Qt3Ujx_5fnQXmSdwaDuQ5dOi-ZM38jnn-Qr0_5ZlxtDCiu4OCE/s400/P2200007.JPG" /> <br /><div><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em>How long, O LORD? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me?<br />How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily? How long will my enemy be exalted over me?<br />Consider and hear me, O LORD my God; enlighten my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death; lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed against him”; lest those who trouble me rejoice when I am moved. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627016957571685106" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgytB-X0c7sUycKEkdkNe3qn6u3pELGYqudYZROADK5HO6xwm_AHONl-QKmIzVZ87kfiGSqOG2crqTDTRRkuMffmw9jcKdU0_Rc2O8ESjAkBgKewgTERV7BEIU2o4cmqzXFEhfW-R0JJlo/s400/P3050127.JPG" /></em></span></strong></div><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><em></em></span></strong></div><strong><span style="color:#000066;"></span></strong><br /><strong><span style="color:#000066;"><br /><div></span>Sometimes life gets the better of us; even the man-of-God succumbs to the constant bombardment on his mind. His emotions are the first to give and he starts resorting to what comes naturally to all of us; griping and complaining.<br /><br />When that doesn’t work, he calls on the Lord; something he should have done from the start.<br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627015454838493730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLaZUqny7irAZDNYIooilDwpBrpKyzcSogzLSs0EJ2pwEq2B0o4u_yOLiCAvVYQkgIkPbOmkH7x_xGbtFxtfjXTGsKLY4eXgKkjZYqFXn-Db6rsuqdTrnFHwD5rlD0okekmu1aSKXN2uY/s400/P3310039.JPG" /><em><span style="color:#000066;">But I have trusted in Your mercy; my heart shall rejoice in Your salvation.<br />I will sing to the LORD, because He has dealt bountifully with me. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627015459473751650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy959GLi833D9VykL95WR6HejzXBF95Wz89iJUhsCGPB3vtWhak1zWHdQmTQScQDq9u4d1Uerxl6LmUlRiyePeGXOaK2ER-2Jf6bzNHkVDtyAjclE62f9xU4RGvEOdJTCiRMkhy2IzrM8/s400/P3310052.JPG" /></span></em>It almost seems schizophrenic when you compare the former ranting of the Psalmist with his latter response. That’s the difference when God gets invited into the situation; the out-of-control emotions are brought under control, fear is dispelled and the peace of God prevails. </strong>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7215725792705958028.post-77358677903945648552011-07-07T13:51:00.000-07:002011-07-07T14:05:08.304-07:00PSALM 12 - WORDS<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvd4SOf29qO-gU5IKjfDWtOx6-niDX6DqNKRD8q16LF3V7ke6jWrjLampNeqTNDNxkvCPmPxjzVGCnSYiVbNqxwis1iZt83IxOeWQ6SKy_c2_ajHTeev8BnVgljFDt9v2fmH7vpwktOKM/s1600/P4160071.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626718973913773154" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvd4SOf29qO-gU5IKjfDWtOx6-niDX6DqNKRD8q16LF3V7ke6jWrjLampNeqTNDNxkvCPmPxjzVGCnSYiVbNqxwis1iZt83IxOeWQ6SKy_c2_ajHTeev8BnVgljFDt9v2fmH7vpwktOKM/s400/P4160071.JPG" /></a> <br /><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="color:#000066;">Help, LORD, for the godly man ceases! For the faithful disappear from among the sons of men. They speak idly everyone with his neighbour; with flattering lips and a double heart they speak. May the LORD cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaks proud things, who have said, “With our tongue we will prevail; our lips are our own; who is lord over us?” Psalm 12:1-4<br /></span><br /></em>The society in which we live in demands freedom of speech. While we are free to speak what comes to our mind; in the end it really is not free because there are consequences and a day of reckoning for careless and evil words.<br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626718968790776658" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTAQxDwuaT80VJyCtpFe3OEyK8iORGprV2C_-VgplRWJmPOEDVTqbz6ZKN2aXqRn2zlX8Nk5pzvV-auLRNl_wTccIrpZunoFV8hUNmxVmjnpUjcszebZxIat_vADr_8jKw0cwPeOJZ0fc/s400/P4160029.JPG" /><em><span style="color:#000066;">“For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now I will arise,” says the LORD; “I will set him in the safety for which he yearns. The words of the LORD are pure words, like silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. You shall keep them, O LORD, you shall preserve them from this generation forever. The wicked prowl on every side, when vileness is exalted among the sons of men. Psalm 12:5, 6 <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626718966463551170" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKG90r1UoBzq-Iucyw8CkhiCCIfAaIyyERwN3nHhIp1VRduN_Efe_dNJ_EbQ1USHjApXe3wDV1CdjXXawmCs6tfKUdkC0r8q2fvJaFWjVRfLaWKHXUqKGsvKoeYFSJ5Nam-AStDuT4V58/s400/P4160083.JPG" /></span></em>In the entertainment industry, vileness and harsh speech is passed-of as stand-up comedy; even kids resort to vulgarities because of the influence of their Hollywood “heroes.”<br /><br />Clothes may make the man of the world, but pure words define the man of God!<br /><br /><span style="color:#330033;">“Watch your thoughts, for they become words.<br />Watch your words, for they become actions.<br />Watch your actions, for they become habits.<br />Watch your habits, for they become character.<br />Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.”<br /></span></strong></div>Pastor James' Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15865391476126469521noreply@blogger.com0