Prepare For Ministry
You prepared a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my (brimming) cup runs over. Surely or only goodness, mercy, and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life, and through the length of my days the house of the Lord (and His presence) shall be my dwelling place. Psalm 23:5-6
Every day offers opportunities to "be in ministry." Someone will always need a helping hand, but you won't minister well if you don't prepare yourself by spending time with God. People can tell when you have had intimate moments with God recently, and also when you haven't.
The Lord anoints us to meet the needs of others, but if we are not being filled by Him, we will hinder the flow of His healing oil in our lives. Seek God early, before someone calls and needs your help.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Monday, March 30, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Series : Investing in a joyfull life in spite of a global economic downturn
Part 3 - Checking Your Attitude (Philippians 2:1-18)
Rev Ricky Ho
*Attitude in line with Christ Jesus
*Attitude more important than appearance, skills
*Attitude can break a church/home
*Attitude cannot change the past
Life is 10% what happens to be & 90% how I react
Key attitude -humility
wrong false perception on humility
1. What does it mean in the bible?
Philippians 2:3-4 Don't do anything from selfish ambition or from a cheap desire to boast, but be humble towards one another, always considering others better than yourselves. And look out for one another's interests, not just for your own.
*consider others better than yourself
*If you want to be great, you gotto put yourself last
*Do give ways to others rather than ourselves
In the economic situation = stress
One true humility is through Jesus Christ
2. Philippians 2:5-6 The attitude you should have is the one that Christ Jesus had : He always had the nature of God, but he did not think that by force he should try to become equal with God.
*Be unconcern about your personal decision
*The word "grasped" (v6) brings the idea that it was not something to be seized
*Many great congregations have suffered from people with divisive attitudes
*The Lord has placed each of us in his body to be lovingly
*Minor disagreements often escalate into huge differences that could easily have been overlooked for the greater good.
3. Make Yourself A Servant
*Now can there be joy in making yourself a servant?
*Now can it be that if you want to be joyfull,it is somehow bound up in choosing to be a servant to those around you?
*Attitude should be that of the good samaritan
*It should be that of giving
4. Obey even it is inconvenient
Philippians 2:8-18 He was humble and walked the path of obedience all the way to death- his death on the cross. For this reason God raised him to the highest place above and gave him the name that is greater that any other name. And so, in honour of the name of Jesus all beings in heaven, on earth, and in the world below will fall on their knees, and all will openly proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. So then, dear friends, as you always obeyed me when I was with you, it is eve more important that you obey me now while I am away from you. Keep on working with fear and trembling to complete your salvation, because God is always at work in you to make you willing and able to obey his own purpose. Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may be innocent and pure as God's perfect children, who live in a world of corrupt and sinful people. You must shine amopng them like stars lighting up the sky, as you offer them the message of life. If you do so, I shall have reason to be proud of you on the Day of Christ, because it will show that all my effort and work have not been wasted. Perhaps my life's blood is to be poured out like an offering on the sacrifice that your faith offers to God. If that is so, I am glad and share my joy with you all. In the same way, you too must be glad and share your joy with me.
*How far does my obedience go?
*Am I willing to obey the word of God if it means someone might not understand
*Am I willing to obey the word of God even if I don't really like what it has to say?
Philippians 2:12-13 So then, dear friends, as you always obeyed me when I was with you, it is eve more important that you obey me now while I am away from you. Keep on working with fear and trembling to complete your salvation, because God is always at work in you to make you willing and able to obey his own purpose
Work hard & Change the way of thinking (Let God change your will)
*How can you develop humility?
we must earn our salvations..it is to do with sanctification rather than justification
*In other words, we must do our part
*The world is full of ppl clamoring for attention, honor and prestige.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Rev Ricky Ho
*Attitude in line with Christ Jesus
*Attitude more important than appearance, skills
*Attitude can break a church/home
*Attitude cannot change the past
Life is 10% what happens to be & 90% how I react
Key attitude -humility
wrong false perception on humility
1. What does it mean in the bible?
Philippians 2:3-4 Don't do anything from selfish ambition or from a cheap desire to boast, but be humble towards one another, always considering others better than yourselves. And look out for one another's interests, not just for your own.
*consider others better than yourself
*If you want to be great, you gotto put yourself last
*Do give ways to others rather than ourselves
In the economic situation = stress
One true humility is through Jesus Christ
2. Philippians 2:5-6 The attitude you should have is the one that Christ Jesus had : He always had the nature of God, but he did not think that by force he should try to become equal with God.
*Be unconcern about your personal decision
*The word "grasped" (v6) brings the idea that it was not something to be seized
*Many great congregations have suffered from people with divisive attitudes
*The Lord has placed each of us in his body to be lovingly
*Minor disagreements often escalate into huge differences that could easily have been overlooked for the greater good.
3. Make Yourself A Servant
*Now can there be joy in making yourself a servant?
*Now can it be that if you want to be joyfull,it is somehow bound up in choosing to be a servant to those around you?
*Attitude should be that of the good samaritan
*It should be that of giving
4. Obey even it is inconvenient
Philippians 2:8-18 He was humble and walked the path of obedience all the way to death- his death on the cross. For this reason God raised him to the highest place above and gave him the name that is greater that any other name. And so, in honour of the name of Jesus all beings in heaven, on earth, and in the world below will fall on their knees, and all will openly proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. So then, dear friends, as you always obeyed me when I was with you, it is eve more important that you obey me now while I am away from you. Keep on working with fear and trembling to complete your salvation, because God is always at work in you to make you willing and able to obey his own purpose. Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may be innocent and pure as God's perfect children, who live in a world of corrupt and sinful people. You must shine amopng them like stars lighting up the sky, as you offer them the message of life. If you do so, I shall have reason to be proud of you on the Day of Christ, because it will show that all my effort and work have not been wasted. Perhaps my life's blood is to be poured out like an offering on the sacrifice that your faith offers to God. If that is so, I am glad and share my joy with you all. In the same way, you too must be glad and share your joy with me.
*How far does my obedience go?
*Am I willing to obey the word of God if it means someone might not understand
*Am I willing to obey the word of God even if I don't really like what it has to say?
Philippians 2:12-13 So then, dear friends, as you always obeyed me when I was with you, it is eve more important that you obey me now while I am away from you. Keep on working with fear and trembling to complete your salvation, because God is always at work in you to make you willing and able to obey his own purpose
Work hard & Change the way of thinking (Let God change your will)
*How can you develop humility?
we must earn our salvations..it is to do with sanctification rather than justification
*In other words, we must do our part
*The world is full of ppl clamoring for attention, honor and prestige.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Mind Your Language
Dr Lee Bee Teik
MYF meeting
28th March 2009
Many ways God can get his msg across
*Dance
*Music
*Song
*Language
Conflicts-2 or more ppl meet
God gives us gifts-Ephesians 4:14-16 Then we shall no longer be children, carried by the waves and blown about by every shifting wind of the teaching of deceitful men, who lead others into error by the tricks they invent. Instead, by speaking the truth in a spirit of love, we must grow up in every way to Christ, who is the head. Under his control all the different parts of the body fit together, and the whole body is held together by every joint with which it is provided. So when each separate part works as it should, the whole body grows and builds itself up through love
*Speaking the truth in love-truthing in love
*We can't be revealed about everything
*They are one- because they do everything together, Don't quarrel
*Noone has a perfect relationship together
*Not only reflect the image of God in relationships to your spouse, parents, friends, couples but to the community as well
*We need to come to our language through each other -gift of God.
*Speech-to many take it lightly
Colossians 4:5-6 Be wise in the way you act towards those who are not believers, making good use of every opportunity you have. Your speech should always be pleasant and interesting, and you sould know how to give the right answer to everyone.
A. Why Should We Discuss Speech?
3 reasons
Genesis 1:26 Then God said, " And now we will make human beings; they will be like us and resemble us. They will have power over the fish, the birds, and all animals, domestic and wild, large and small."
Genesis 3:8-9 That evening they heard the Lord God walking in the garden, and the hid from him among the trees. But the Lord God called out to the man, " Where are you?"
Genesis 18 A Son Is Promised To Abraham
Exodus 3:6 I am the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob." So Moses covered his face, because he was afraid to look at God.
B. 3 Factors Influencing Speech and Relationships
Temparament + Character = Personality
Temparament - unique basics creation gifts
Character - how we manage our temparament
Extrovert -the more voice the better
introvert - recharge their energy without using external stimules
to conterfeit it
Extroverts should learn to be quiet sometimes
Introverts should get enough rest but once in a while come out of the nutshell too
2 ways to make decsions
-in a logical way
- in a subjective/rational
the world tends to respect thinking more than feeling
4 Functions that effect how to speak
*Temparament
*Gender
*Conversation skills - small talk to fill in time
control talk(words use to influence)- heavy control talk & light control talk
search talk (use to obtain information)
straight talk - go straight and tell the person off - speaking the truth inlove
*The word affect relationships
We are encourage to be natural but do remember to use your strength instead of your weaknessess.
You can allow weakness to push to sin
Jesus have inperfect parents but he didin't allow weakness to push into sin
We have to control- matter of character and attitude
Jesus doens't condemn us.- confession, ask for forgiveness
quiet time- help us relate
practise speech to God
C. What Shall We Do Then?
Psalm 141:3 Lord, place a guard at my mouth, a sentry at the door ofmy lips.
John 3:16-17 For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who beleves in him may not die but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to be its judge, but to be its saviour.
John 2:24-25 But Jesus did not trust himself to them, because he knew them all. There was no need for anyone to tell him about them, because he himself knew what was in their hearts.
Revelations 3:20 Listen! I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into his house and eat with him, and he will eat with me.
Exodus 3 & 4 God Calls Moses and God Gives Moses Miraculous Power
1 Samuel 3:10 The Lord came and stood there, and called as he had before, " Samuel! Samuel!" Samuel answered, " Speak; your sevant is listening."
1 Samuel 3:19-21 As Samuel grew up, the Lord was with him and made everything that Samuel said come true. So all the people of Israel, from one end of the counrty to the other, knew that Samuel was indeed a prophet of the Lord. The Lord continued to reveal himself at Shiloh, where he had appeared to Samuel and had spoken to him. And when Samuel spoke, all Israel listened.
To me, communication is the key point to all relationships. The way we talk, how our body language is towards others means a lot to the other person. When facing conflict, one way to face it is to tell him/her directly alone how you feel, speak in a gentle manner without raising your voice or ask questions that would clear your doubts. Be understanding towards each other and always put yourself in that person's shoes. Always, be straight forward, clear your doubts before more conflicts and problems and uneasiness starts pilling up. This is make yourself and the other person better. This is the real meaning of speaking the truth in love.Most importantly, always keep the communication going on by spending time with the person and also, give and take. That is why we are always called to spend as much time with our family, friends, spouse, boyfriend/girlfriend because that will keep the relationship going and especially spend some time with the word or praying to our eternal FATHER in heaven.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
MYF meeting
28th March 2009
Many ways God can get his msg across
*Dance
*Music
*Song
*Language
Conflicts-2 or more ppl meet
God gives us gifts-Ephesians 4:14-16 Then we shall no longer be children, carried by the waves and blown about by every shifting wind of the teaching of deceitful men, who lead others into error by the tricks they invent. Instead, by speaking the truth in a spirit of love, we must grow up in every way to Christ, who is the head. Under his control all the different parts of the body fit together, and the whole body is held together by every joint with which it is provided. So when each separate part works as it should, the whole body grows and builds itself up through love
*Speaking the truth in love-truthing in love
*We can't be revealed about everything
*They are one- because they do everything together, Don't quarrel
*Noone has a perfect relationship together
*Not only reflect the image of God in relationships to your spouse, parents, friends, couples but to the community as well
*We need to come to our language through each other -gift of God.
*Speech-to many take it lightly
Colossians 4:5-6 Be wise in the way you act towards those who are not believers, making good use of every opportunity you have. Your speech should always be pleasant and interesting, and you sould know how to give the right answer to everyone.
A. Why Should We Discuss Speech?
3 reasons
Genesis 1:26 Then God said, " And now we will make human beings; they will be like us and resemble us. They will have power over the fish, the birds, and all animals, domestic and wild, large and small."
Genesis 3:8-9 That evening they heard the Lord God walking in the garden, and the hid from him among the trees. But the Lord God called out to the man, " Where are you?"
Genesis 18 A Son Is Promised To Abraham
Exodus 3:6 I am the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob." So Moses covered his face, because he was afraid to look at God.
B. 3 Factors Influencing Speech and Relationships
Temparament + Character = Personality
Temparament - unique basics creation gifts
Character - how we manage our temparament
Extrovert -the more voice the better
introvert - recharge their energy without using external stimules
to conterfeit it
Extroverts should learn to be quiet sometimes
Introverts should get enough rest but once in a while come out of the nutshell too
2 ways to make decsions
-in a logical way
- in a subjective/rational
the world tends to respect thinking more than feeling
4 Functions that effect how to speak
*Temparament
*Gender
*Conversation skills - small talk to fill in time
control talk(words use to influence)- heavy control talk & light control talk
search talk (use to obtain information)
straight talk - go straight and tell the person off - speaking the truth inlove
*The word affect relationships
We are encourage to be natural but do remember to use your strength instead of your weaknessess.
You can allow weakness to push to sin
Jesus have inperfect parents but he didin't allow weakness to push into sin
We have to control- matter of character and attitude
Jesus doens't condemn us.- confession, ask for forgiveness
quiet time- help us relate
practise speech to God
C. What Shall We Do Then?
Psalm 141:3 Lord, place a guard at my mouth, a sentry at the door ofmy lips.
John 3:16-17 For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who beleves in him may not die but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to be its judge, but to be its saviour.
John 2:24-25 But Jesus did not trust himself to them, because he knew them all. There was no need for anyone to tell him about them, because he himself knew what was in their hearts.
Revelations 3:20 Listen! I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into his house and eat with him, and he will eat with me.
Exodus 3 & 4 God Calls Moses and God Gives Moses Miraculous Power
1 Samuel 3:10 The Lord came and stood there, and called as he had before, " Samuel! Samuel!" Samuel answered, " Speak; your sevant is listening."
1 Samuel 3:19-21 As Samuel grew up, the Lord was with him and made everything that Samuel said come true. So all the people of Israel, from one end of the counrty to the other, knew that Samuel was indeed a prophet of the Lord. The Lord continued to reveal himself at Shiloh, where he had appeared to Samuel and had spoken to him. And when Samuel spoke, all Israel listened.
To me, communication is the key point to all relationships. The way we talk, how our body language is towards others means a lot to the other person. When facing conflict, one way to face it is to tell him/her directly alone how you feel, speak in a gentle manner without raising your voice or ask questions that would clear your doubts. Be understanding towards each other and always put yourself in that person's shoes. Always, be straight forward, clear your doubts before more conflicts and problems and uneasiness starts pilling up. This is make yourself and the other person better. This is the real meaning of speaking the truth in love.Most importantly, always keep the communication going on by spending time with the person and also, give and take. That is why we are always called to spend as much time with our family, friends, spouse, boyfriend/girlfriend because that will keep the relationship going and especially spend some time with the word or praying to our eternal FATHER in heaven.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Day 28 & 29, March
God Will Brighten Your Day
He set himself to seek God... and as long as he sought (inquired of, yearned for) the Lord, God made him prosper 2 Chronicles 26:5
Jesus got up early in the morning, long before daylight, and went out to a deserted place, and prayed --- He got alone
Mark 1:35 Very early the next morning, long before daylight, Jesus got up and left the house. He went out of the town to a lonely place, where he prayed.
There were so many people who followed Jesus everywhere He went that He probably wouldn't have had any time alone if He hadn't gotten up really early.
If you aren't a morning person, the thought of getting up early may make you nervous. But you can decipher yourself what " early" means for you. Nine o'clock is early if you are used to staying in bed until noon. Even if you only get up fifteen minutes earlier than usual to have some time alone with God, you will still honor Him, and that time with Him, will make your whole day brighter.
Enjoy the Pursuit
Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is he who considers the weak and the poor; the Lord will deliver him in the time of evil and trouble. Psalm 41:1
Do you ever feel that no matter where you go, somebody pursues you and hunts you down? Does someone seem to need something every time you start doing what you set out to do? Someone needs a ride to school, or somebody forgets their lunch, and before you know it, half your day is wasted.
Jesus knows what it is like to be pursued, but H was never upset by it. As soon as He ministered to everyone in one place, He went to the next town to find more people who needed Him. He never said, " Leave me alone." Ask God to show you the needs of people through the eyes of Jesus today, and your days will never be wasted.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
He set himself to seek God... and as long as he sought (inquired of, yearned for) the Lord, God made him prosper 2 Chronicles 26:5
Jesus got up early in the morning, long before daylight, and went out to a deserted place, and prayed --- He got alone
Mark 1:35 Very early the next morning, long before daylight, Jesus got up and left the house. He went out of the town to a lonely place, where he prayed.
There were so many people who followed Jesus everywhere He went that He probably wouldn't have had any time alone if He hadn't gotten up really early.
If you aren't a morning person, the thought of getting up early may make you nervous. But you can decipher yourself what " early" means for you. Nine o'clock is early if you are used to staying in bed until noon. Even if you only get up fifteen minutes earlier than usual to have some time alone with God, you will still honor Him, and that time with Him, will make your whole day brighter.
Enjoy the Pursuit
Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is he who considers the weak and the poor; the Lord will deliver him in the time of evil and trouble. Psalm 41:1
Do you ever feel that no matter where you go, somebody pursues you and hunts you down? Does someone seem to need something every time you start doing what you set out to do? Someone needs a ride to school, or somebody forgets their lunch, and before you know it, half your day is wasted.
Jesus knows what it is like to be pursued, but H was never upset by it. As soon as He ministered to everyone in one place, He went to the next town to find more people who needed Him. He never said, " Leave me alone." Ask God to show you the needs of people through the eyes of Jesus today, and your days will never be wasted.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Friday, March 27, 2009
haha!
When you just had a bad day or woke up at the wrong side of the bed, its always nice to switch on the tv or plop in a video or two or more on funny shows like MR BEAN where you can never get bored off.
ahhh...don't you just thank God for comedians =)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
ahhh...don't you just thank God for comedians =)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Day 27, March
Petition With Thanksgiving
And God's peace (shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace) which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
We can petition the Lord for things we need every morning. God's Word tells us to lay our requests before Him : "Do not fret or any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God"
Philippians 4:6 Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart.
But don't spend all your time with God petitioning for things. You are out of balance if your petitions outweigh your praise and thanksgiving. A heart full of thankfulness will make any day better.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
And God's peace (shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace) which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
We can petition the Lord for things we need every morning. God's Word tells us to lay our requests before Him : "Do not fret or any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God"
Philippians 4:6 Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart.
But don't spend all your time with God petitioning for things. You are out of balance if your petitions outweigh your praise and thanksgiving. A heart full of thankfulness will make any day better.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Day 26, March
Be God's Ambassador
And (Pray) also for me, that (freedom of) utterance may be given me, that I may open my mouth to proclaim boldly the mystery of the good news (the Gospel), for which I am an ambassador in a coupling chain (in prison. Pray) that I may declare it boldly and courageously, as I ought to do. Ephesians 6:19-20
If you start your day right, you will have a better day, and you will be a better witness for the Lord. Dedicate yourself to God afresh each morning.
Tell Him, " Lord, I give You the gifts and talents that You put in me. I want to use them for Your glory. I want to lead somebody to You. Put in my path someone to whom I can minister, someone I can encourage. Help me to be a blessing to someone today. Lord, I want to be Your ambassador and represent You today."
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
And (Pray) also for me, that (freedom of) utterance may be given me, that I may open my mouth to proclaim boldly the mystery of the good news (the Gospel), for which I am an ambassador in a coupling chain (in prison. Pray) that I may declare it boldly and courageously, as I ought to do. Ephesians 6:19-20
If you start your day right, you will have a better day, and you will be a better witness for the Lord. Dedicate yourself to God afresh each morning.
Tell Him, " Lord, I give You the gifts and talents that You put in me. I want to use them for Your glory. I want to lead somebody to You. Put in my path someone to whom I can minister, someone I can encourage. Help me to be a blessing to someone today. Lord, I want to be Your ambassador and represent You today."
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Day 25, March
Start With Praise
Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name. Hebrews 13:15
Moses rose early in the morning, built an altar, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings to God. Then he prayed and read the Book of the Covenant
(Exodus 24:1-7) The Lord said to Moses, " Come up the mountain to me, you and Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy of the leaders oif Israel; and while you are still some distance away, bow down in worshi. You alone, and none of the others, are to come near me. The people are not even to come up the mountain." Moses went and told the people answered together, " We will do everything that the Lord has said." Moses wrote down all the Lord's commands. Early the next morning he built an altar at the foo of one for each of the twelve tribes of Israel. Then he sent young men, and they burnt sacrifices to the Lord and sacrificed some cattle as fellowship-offerings. Moses took half the blood of the animals and put it in bowls; and the other half he threw against the altar. Then he took the book of the covenant, in which the Lord's commands were written, and read it aloud to the people. They said, " We will obey the Lor and do everything that he has commanded."
Thankfully, God no longer asks us to build an altar out of rocks, slaughter a bull, drain its blood, and build a fire in order to honor Him with a burnt sacrifice.
God doesn't want a dead sacrifice anymore. He wants us, living sacrifices, full of zeal to serve Him each day. All we have to do is wake up and say, "Thank You, Lord. I give You the sacrifice of praise. I give You myself, a living sacrifice, ready to live for You today."
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name. Hebrews 13:15
Moses rose early in the morning, built an altar, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings to God. Then he prayed and read the Book of the Covenant
(Exodus 24:1-7) The Lord said to Moses, " Come up the mountain to me, you and Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy of the leaders oif Israel; and while you are still some distance away, bow down in worshi. You alone, and none of the others, are to come near me. The people are not even to come up the mountain." Moses went and told the people answered together, " We will do everything that the Lord has said." Moses wrote down all the Lord's commands. Early the next morning he built an altar at the foo of one for each of the twelve tribes of Israel. Then he sent young men, and they burnt sacrifices to the Lord and sacrificed some cattle as fellowship-offerings. Moses took half the blood of the animals and put it in bowls; and the other half he threw against the altar. Then he took the book of the covenant, in which the Lord's commands were written, and read it aloud to the people. They said, " We will obey the Lor and do everything that he has commanded."
Thankfully, God no longer asks us to build an altar out of rocks, slaughter a bull, drain its blood, and build a fire in order to honor Him with a burnt sacrifice.
God doesn't want a dead sacrifice anymore. He wants us, living sacrifices, full of zeal to serve Him each day. All we have to do is wake up and say, "Thank You, Lord. I give You the sacrifice of praise. I give You myself, a living sacrifice, ready to live for You today."
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Series : Investing In A Joyfull Life Inspite Of A Global Downturn
Rev Ricky Ho
Part 2- Live With An Eternal Perspective
(Philippians 1:12-29)
*Perspective is important, crucial in life
*We need to accept them
*As believers, we can turn/face it with joy
*At one time, we will face crummy situations
*God can take difficulties, trials & suffering & turn to an occasion of joy
*Paul was going to be persecuted but he had the chance of spreading the good news
*Paul saw the positive results of his imprisonment
*Like Paul, we are able to see what God is doing in our life inspite of the downturn
*All things work out good for those who trust in the Lord
1. Let God Use Our Tough Circumstances For His Purpose (vs12-14)
*Paul says what has happened has really served to advance the gospel (v12)
*The harder the situation, the more powerful our testimony will be about faithfulness (v13)
*Others have been encouraged to speak the word of God (v14)
*When we are in tough situations, praise God, continue to show joy & faith in God. This will encourage others who are in tough situations or easier situations to do the same
*When you fall, it is not the end nomatter how difficult it is (its how you end it)
*Christian Understanding has proven -it is able to use to become a means of testifying
*It is the best time to spread the gospel & be teachable in love & allow God to mould, change, & transform them
2. Don't Get Sidetracked By Petty Disagreements (v15-18)
*Paul is not saying to put up with false doctrine
*Some christians have the time to disagree about the mode of baptism- this raises conflicts among churches
*They actually lost the purpose of God-we have little time to bring ppl to know the Lord
*They lost the big picture God intends us to be
*Anyone who preach the word of God is for a good purpose
3. Live For Christ Everyday (v19-30)
Paul :" Christ will be exalted in my body wheter in life or in death"
" To live is Christ, to die is gain" -its ok if I die, I'll be walking with God
Gordon Lee (AOG) - Plus factor has become our primary passion
- What do we live for? Personal advancement, material things, pleasure,
your kids, your spouse, your bf/gf
*We are told to love them as much as possible but love Christ ABOVE ALL
*Other things will disappoint us but not Christ
*When you are on your deathbed, we have to evalute our relationship with God
*Living with Christ is the key of JOY
In Conclusion
*Live life in eternal perspective if you want a life full of joy
*We must choose to live a life of God & inspire thousands of peopl instead of living a life full of regret
*Live a day 1 at a time
*Rather than wasting time quarrelling, your should witness to others.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Part 2- Live With An Eternal Perspective
(Philippians 1:12-29)
*Perspective is important, crucial in life
*We need to accept them
*As believers, we can turn/face it with joy
*At one time, we will face crummy situations
*God can take difficulties, trials & suffering & turn to an occasion of joy
*Paul was going to be persecuted but he had the chance of spreading the good news
*Paul saw the positive results of his imprisonment
*Like Paul, we are able to see what God is doing in our life inspite of the downturn
*All things work out good for those who trust in the Lord
1. Let God Use Our Tough Circumstances For His Purpose (vs12-14)
*Paul says what has happened has really served to advance the gospel (v12)
*The harder the situation, the more powerful our testimony will be about faithfulness (v13)
*Others have been encouraged to speak the word of God (v14)
*When we are in tough situations, praise God, continue to show joy & faith in God. This will encourage others who are in tough situations or easier situations to do the same
*When you fall, it is not the end nomatter how difficult it is (its how you end it)
*Christian Understanding has proven -it is able to use to become a means of testifying
*It is the best time to spread the gospel & be teachable in love & allow God to mould, change, & transform them
2. Don't Get Sidetracked By Petty Disagreements (v15-18)
*Paul is not saying to put up with false doctrine
*Some christians have the time to disagree about the mode of baptism- this raises conflicts among churches
*They actually lost the purpose of God-we have little time to bring ppl to know the Lord
*They lost the big picture God intends us to be
*Anyone who preach the word of God is for a good purpose
3. Live For Christ Everyday (v19-30)
Paul :" Christ will be exalted in my body wheter in life or in death"
" To live is Christ, to die is gain" -its ok if I die, I'll be walking with God
Gordon Lee (AOG) - Plus factor has become our primary passion
- What do we live for? Personal advancement, material things, pleasure,
your kids, your spouse, your bf/gf
*We are told to love them as much as possible but love Christ ABOVE ALL
*Other things will disappoint us but not Christ
*When you are on your deathbed, we have to evalute our relationship with God
*Living with Christ is the key of JOY
In Conclusion
*Live life in eternal perspective if you want a life full of joy
*We must choose to live a life of God & inspire thousands of peopl instead of living a life full of regret
*Live a day 1 at a time
*Rather than wasting time quarrelling, your should witness to others.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Day 24, March
Know God Intimately
Rejoice in the Lord always (delight, gladden yourselves in Him); again I say, Rejoice! Philippians 4:4
In Philippians 3:10 the apostle Paul wrote, "(For my determined purpose is) that i may know Him (that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly), and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection (which exerts over believers)."
As you grow in knowledge of God, you will get so happy you will run the devil right out of your life. Decide that today will be dedicated to recognizing God's power at work in your life. Keep your mind on whatever is right and true and lovely and pure and of a good report
(Philippians 4:8) In Conclusion, my brothers, fill your minds with those things that are good and that deserve praise : things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honourable.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Rejoice in the Lord always (delight, gladden yourselves in Him); again I say, Rejoice! Philippians 4:4
In Philippians 3:10 the apostle Paul wrote, "(For my determined purpose is) that i may know Him (that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly), and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection (which exerts over believers)."
As you grow in knowledge of God, you will get so happy you will run the devil right out of your life. Decide that today will be dedicated to recognizing God's power at work in your life. Keep your mind on whatever is right and true and lovely and pure and of a good report
(Philippians 4:8) In Conclusion, my brothers, fill your minds with those things that are good and that deserve praise : things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honourable.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Monday, March 23, 2009
A conversation
boo boo says:
how was camp
tell me all about it
ba ba says:
good good good
for me
boo boo says:
spill the beans
ba ba says:
well i tell you my own opinion..
boo boo says:
lol ok
ba ba says:
i really felt that god spoke to me
boo boo says:
wow, that good?did u had a touch or personal encounter with the lord?
ba ba says:
well its because, before the camp i was so stressed out and all
some things obviously was worrying ..but in the end i left it all to the Lord and all was WELL
AMEN!
including the weather
boo boo says:
lol
ba ba says:
when we were having activities outdoor ..it was sooo sunny and nice
boo boo says:
wa
ba ba says:
when we were indoor, it rained so heavily
hehe
yay!
yea
and then..as i really listen and took notes in the sessions and devotions
i really felt that he was talking to me
i opened up and God showed me the way
well coz i felt uncomfortable with some ppl in the group before.Some of their words hurt me..
then when i opened up, the most amazing thing happen
those ppl actually opened about how he/she was defending me..
and some even did a great effort in following up the campers
hallelujah
really touched me
boo boo:
amen la
ba ba says:
yup
i knew that wen i continue praying for and with them and i continually said i love them, it would all turn out well
im enjoying my life as i rededicated my life to him..my relationships especially
ohhhh life is sooo good with God around
boo boo says:
yes
what did u all do?
ba ba says:
with the effort of putting the blog up, writing notes about sermons, really spending my all for him, giving him my all, letting him enter my life
haha
ohhh
well we had an awesome speaker with 2 lovely kids and nice wife
he really explained well the scriptures...
boo boo says:
ah
ba ba says:
tho many ppl felt it was dry (coz he gave us the devotion books)
boo boo says:
did he give hell fire preaching?
lol
ba ba says:
but i thought it was good for the non and blur christians
aha no i wouldnt say that
he gave a fairly fine session
he really cared how the campers felt
wheter it was dry or deep
coz the age gap is so wide
std 6 to uni ppl
haha
its hard for him
but he really did it well
haha
boo boo says:
lol good
im exposing myself 2 alot of hell fire preaching
and..i love it =)
ba ba says:
wow
thats gotto be extreme but eye opener and a good experience
boo boo says:
yes
ba ba says:
hmmm thats really good
boo boo says:
so how was worship?
and prayer!
ba ba says:
ohhh many ppl liked worship
it was different this year in a way that it was only one night that had a full band and the rest were all acoustic..but really i loved worship
u noe i always do
haha
prayer
wow
we prayed like in the morning before the start of the day, before and after devotions, before i went to bed
it was really nice..
boo boo says:
wa
ba ba says:
i mean it was not too deep and all coz of the new and blur christians that won't be able to get use to it with too much prayer
but as the time went by, i noticed that everyone started to pray longer and wasn't shy anymore
hallelujah...again!
hehe
boo boo says:
true
ba ba says:
it was nice
the last day, we held each others arms around us and prayed together...then we did the mike g thing...jc rocks...
haha
boo boo says:
hmm
wow
so..how about the other ppl's feedbacks?
wait..any1 came 2 christ?
ba ba says:
hmmm no news for now...
boo boo says:
so tell me more about the camp
ba ba says:
hmmm
what else
funny discussions
boo boo says:
how are the cell groups bla bla
im sure there are problems in getting ppl 2 talk
ba ba says:
okok my cell at first was soooo quiet..
yea
boo boo says:
LOL
ba ba says:
we had like silent treatment
boo boo says:
so i guessed right..
ba ba says:
and i was told not to campur tangan
let the leader and the assistand group leader handle it.
but i couldnt tahan
knowing me
then slowly as the day went by, we discuss with the leaders and the assistand group leaders
so we did, and slowly the leaders and the assistant learned and by the 3rd day everyone was SO SO SO noisy
laughing, joking, talking loudly..
wow.
the contrast.
boo boo says:
so how many new faces in myf?
will i feel lost and like a stranger when i come?
cuz there is 2 many new faces
ba ba says:
a lot!
no la..
boo boo says:
WA
ba ba says:
we will make friends with everyone
boo boo says:
oh have i told u what diff challenges im facing now?
ba ba says:
nope
humour me
boo boo says:
i realised one thing
evangelism here
is VERY different
from msia
and its ways of running a christian event here is very different
ba ba says:
hmmm
boo boo says:
and i dun think here is better den malaysia..i still think malaysians are more on fire
ba ba says:
haha
boo boo says:
here is more..wild and gamish
lets say..if fired up malaysians come here and see how ppl run camps here..
tell u they will die of heart attack and rebreak their leg
ba ba says:
hmm won be surprise
hahaha
tho some people commented the camp was not spiritual enough
yea at every camp
including ours
tho i didnt feel it
boo boo says:
oh
here's my view
different ppl got diff spiritual lvls right?
but however high our standards are
we r not supposed 2 judge
whether or not this was spiritual
because..
for him
it may be light stuff
but for the new ones
this might be a whole new world opened to them
this maybe be like..their big moment dat they will rmb as long as they live
so..i think its just god's way of working
who he chooses to touch
ba ba says:
yup
boo boo says:
because this is something i learned when i got here
dont judge the spiritual level of a camp
because its not our job to judge..its gods'
different ppl..different level of spiritual sensitivity..
so..i leanred not 2 judge a camp by its spiritual level
ba ba says:
but diff ppl are diff
we gotto accept
boo boo says:
cuz we ourselves have..no ways to measure it
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
how was camp
tell me all about it
ba ba says:
good good good
for me
boo boo says:
spill the beans
ba ba says:
well i tell you my own opinion..
boo boo says:
lol ok
ba ba says:
i really felt that god spoke to me
boo boo says:
wow, that good?did u had a touch or personal encounter with the lord?
ba ba says:
well its because, before the camp i was so stressed out and all
some things obviously was worrying ..but in the end i left it all to the Lord and all was WELL
AMEN!
including the weather
boo boo says:
lol
ba ba says:
when we were having activities outdoor ..it was sooo sunny and nice
boo boo says:
wa
ba ba says:
when we were indoor, it rained so heavily
hehe
yay!
yea
and then..as i really listen and took notes in the sessions and devotions
i really felt that he was talking to me
i opened up and God showed me the way
well coz i felt uncomfortable with some ppl in the group before.Some of their words hurt me..
then when i opened up, the most amazing thing happen
those ppl actually opened about how he/she was defending me..
and some even did a great effort in following up the campers
hallelujah
really touched me
boo boo:
amen la
ba ba says:
yup
i knew that wen i continue praying for and with them and i continually said i love them, it would all turn out well
im enjoying my life as i rededicated my life to him..my relationships especially
ohhhh life is sooo good with God around
boo boo says:
yes
what did u all do?
ba ba says:
with the effort of putting the blog up, writing notes about sermons, really spending my all for him, giving him my all, letting him enter my life
haha
ohhh
well we had an awesome speaker with 2 lovely kids and nice wife
he really explained well the scriptures...
boo boo says:
ah
ba ba says:
tho many ppl felt it was dry (coz he gave us the devotion books)
boo boo says:
did he give hell fire preaching?
lol
ba ba says:
but i thought it was good for the non and blur christians
aha no i wouldnt say that
he gave a fairly fine session
he really cared how the campers felt
wheter it was dry or deep
coz the age gap is so wide
std 6 to uni ppl
haha
its hard for him
but he really did it well
haha
boo boo says:
lol good
im exposing myself 2 alot of hell fire preaching
and..i love it =)
ba ba says:
wow
thats gotto be extreme but eye opener and a good experience
boo boo says:
yes
ba ba says:
hmmm thats really good
boo boo says:
so how was worship?
and prayer!
ba ba says:
ohhh many ppl liked worship
it was different this year in a way that it was only one night that had a full band and the rest were all acoustic..but really i loved worship
u noe i always do
haha
prayer
wow
we prayed like in the morning before the start of the day, before and after devotions, before i went to bed
it was really nice..
boo boo says:
wa
ba ba says:
i mean it was not too deep and all coz of the new and blur christians that won't be able to get use to it with too much prayer
but as the time went by, i noticed that everyone started to pray longer and wasn't shy anymore
hallelujah...again!
hehe
boo boo says:
true
ba ba says:
it was nice
the last day, we held each others arms around us and prayed together...then we did the mike g thing...jc rocks...
haha
boo boo says:
hmm
wow
so..how about the other ppl's feedbacks?
wait..any1 came 2 christ?
ba ba says:
hmmm no news for now...
boo boo says:
so tell me more about the camp
ba ba says:
hmmm
what else
funny discussions
boo boo says:
how are the cell groups bla bla
im sure there are problems in getting ppl 2 talk
ba ba says:
okok my cell at first was soooo quiet..
yea
boo boo says:
LOL
ba ba says:
we had like silent treatment
boo boo says:
so i guessed right..
ba ba says:
and i was told not to campur tangan
let the leader and the assistand group leader handle it.
but i couldnt tahan
knowing me
then slowly as the day went by, we discuss with the leaders and the assistand group leaders
so we did, and slowly the leaders and the assistant learned and by the 3rd day everyone was SO SO SO noisy
laughing, joking, talking loudly..
wow.
the contrast.
boo boo says:
so how many new faces in myf?
will i feel lost and like a stranger when i come?
cuz there is 2 many new faces
ba ba says:
a lot!
no la..
boo boo says:
WA
ba ba says:
we will make friends with everyone
boo boo says:
oh have i told u what diff challenges im facing now?
ba ba says:
nope
humour me
boo boo says:
i realised one thing
evangelism here
is VERY different
from msia
and its ways of running a christian event here is very different
ba ba says:
hmmm
boo boo says:
and i dun think here is better den malaysia..i still think malaysians are more on fire
ba ba says:
haha
boo boo says:
here is more..wild and gamish
lets say..if fired up malaysians come here and see how ppl run camps here..
tell u they will die of heart attack and rebreak their leg
ba ba says:
hmm won be surprise
hahaha
tho some people commented the camp was not spiritual enough
yea at every camp
including ours
tho i didnt feel it
boo boo says:
oh
here's my view
different ppl got diff spiritual lvls right?
but however high our standards are
we r not supposed 2 judge
whether or not this was spiritual
because..
for him
it may be light stuff
but for the new ones
this might be a whole new world opened to them
this maybe be like..their big moment dat they will rmb as long as they live
so..i think its just god's way of working
who he chooses to touch
ba ba says:
yup
boo boo says:
because this is something i learned when i got here
dont judge the spiritual level of a camp
because its not our job to judge..its gods'
different ppl..different level of spiritual sensitivity..
so..i leanred not 2 judge a camp by its spiritual level
ba ba says:
but diff ppl are diff
we gotto accept
boo boo says:
cuz we ourselves have..no ways to measure it
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
A well-known speaker started off his seminar by:
holding up a $20.00 bill In the room of 200, he asked, 'Who would like this $20 bill?' Hands started going up. He said, 'I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first, let me do this. He proceeded to crumple up the $20 dollar bill . ? He then asked, 'Who still wants it?' Still the hands were up in the air. Well, he replied, 'What if I do this?' And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty. 'Now, who still wants it?' Still the hands went into the air. My friends, we have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value.
It was still worth $20.
Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never lose your value. Dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still
priceless to those who
DO LOVE you.
The worth of our lives comes not in what we do or who we know, but by WHO WE ARE and WHOSE WE ARE. ?
You are special - Don't EVER forget it.'
Count your blessings, not your problems.
'And remember: amateurs built the ark .... professionals built the Titanic.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
holding up a $20.00 bill In the room of 200, he asked, 'Who would like this $20 bill?' Hands started going up. He said, 'I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first, let me do this. He proceeded to crumple up the $20 dollar bill . ? He then asked, 'Who still wants it?' Still the hands were up in the air. Well, he replied, 'What if I do this?' And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty. 'Now, who still wants it?' Still the hands went into the air. My friends, we have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value.
It was still worth $20.
Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never lose your value. Dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still
priceless to those who
DO LOVE you.
The worth of our lives comes not in what we do or who we know, but by WHO WE ARE and WHOSE WE ARE. ?
You are special - Don't EVER forget it.'
Count your blessings, not your problems.
'And remember: amateurs built the ark .... professionals built the Titanic.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Untimely death!
Death is certain but the Bible speaks about untimely death!
(Galatians 6:7):
'Be not deceived; God is not mocked:
for whatsoever a man sow,
that shall he also reap."
Here are some men and women who mocked God :
John Lennon (Singer):
Some years before, during his interview with an American Magazine, he said:
'Christianity will end, it will disappear.
I do not have to argue about that. I am certain.
Jesus was ok, but his subjects were too simple, today we are more famous than Him' (1966).
Lennon, after saying that the Beatles were more famous than Jesus Christ, was shot six times.
Tancredo Neves (President of Brazil ):
During the Presidential campaign, he said if he got 500,000 votes from his party, not even God would remove him from Presidency.
Sure he got the votes, but he got sick a day before being made President, then he died.
Cazuza (Bi-sexual Brazilian composer, singer and poet):
During A show in Canecio ( Rio de Janeiro ),
while smoking his cigarette, he puffed out some smoke into the air and said:'God, that's for you.'
He died at the age of 32 of LUNG CANCER in a horrible manner.
The man who built the Titanic :
After the construction of Titanic, a reporter asked him how safe the Titanic would be.
With an ironic tone he said:
'Not even God can sink it'
The result: I think you all know what happened to the Titanic
Marilyn Monroe (Actress)
She was visited by Billy Graham during a presentation of a show.
He said the Spirit of God had sent him to preach to her.
After hearing what the Preacher had to say, she said: 'I don't need your Jesus'. A week later, she was found dead in her apartment
Bon Scott (Singer)
The ex-vocalist of the AC/DC. On one of his 1979 songs he sang:
'Don't stop me; I'm going down all the way, down the highway to hell'.
On the 19th of February 1980, Bon Scott was found dead, he had been choked by his own vomit.
Campinas (IN 2005)
In Campinas , Brazil a group of friends, drunk, went to pick up a friend.....
The mother accompanied her to the car and was so worried about the drunkenness of her friends and she said to the daughter holding her hand, who was already seated in the car:
'My Daughter, Go With God And May He Protect You.' She responded: 'Only If He (God) Travels In The Trunk, Cause Inside Here......It' s Already Full '
Hours later, news came by that they had been involved in a fatal accident, everyone had died,
the car could not be recognized what type of car it had been, but surprisingly, the trunk was intact
The police said there was no way the trunk could have remained intact. To their surprise, inside the trunk was a crate of eggs, none was broken
Christine Hewitt (Jamaican Journalist and entertainer):
said the Bible (Word of God) was the worst book ever written.
In June 2006 she was found burnt beyond recognition in her motor vehicle.
Many more important people have forgotten that there is no other name that was given so much authority as the name of Jesus.
Many have died, but only Jesus died and rose again, and he is still alive.
'Jesus'
I have done my part, Jesus said
'If you are embarrassed about me,
I will also be embarrassed about you before my father.'
'Lord, I love you and I need you, come into my heart, and bless me, my family, my home, and my friends, in Jesus' name. Amen.'
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
(Galatians 6:7):
'Be not deceived; God is not mocked:
for whatsoever a man sow,
that shall he also reap."
Here are some men and women who mocked God :
John Lennon (Singer):
Some years before, during his interview with an American Magazine, he said:
'Christianity will end, it will disappear.
I do not have to argue about that. I am certain.
Jesus was ok, but his subjects were too simple, today we are more famous than Him' (1966).
Lennon, after saying that the Beatles were more famous than Jesus Christ, was shot six times.
Tancredo Neves (President of Brazil ):
During the Presidential campaign, he said if he got 500,000 votes from his party, not even God would remove him from Presidency.
Sure he got the votes, but he got sick a day before being made President, then he died.
Cazuza (Bi-sexual Brazilian composer, singer and poet):
During A show in Canecio ( Rio de Janeiro ),
while smoking his cigarette, he puffed out some smoke into the air and said:'God, that's for you.'
He died at the age of 32 of LUNG CANCER in a horrible manner.
The man who built the Titanic :
After the construction of Titanic, a reporter asked him how safe the Titanic would be.
With an ironic tone he said:
'Not even God can sink it'
The result: I think you all know what happened to the Titanic
Marilyn Monroe (Actress)
She was visited by Billy Graham during a presentation of a show.
He said the Spirit of God had sent him to preach to her.
After hearing what the Preacher had to say, she said: 'I don't need your Jesus'. A week later, she was found dead in her apartment
Bon Scott (Singer)
The ex-vocalist of the AC/DC. On one of his 1979 songs he sang:
'Don't stop me; I'm going down all the way, down the highway to hell'.
On the 19th of February 1980, Bon Scott was found dead, he had been choked by his own vomit.
Campinas (IN 2005)
In Campinas , Brazil a group of friends, drunk, went to pick up a friend.....
The mother accompanied her to the car and was so worried about the drunkenness of her friends and she said to the daughter holding her hand, who was already seated in the car:
'My Daughter, Go With God And May He Protect You.' She responded: 'Only If He (God) Travels In The Trunk, Cause Inside Here......It' s Already Full '
Hours later, news came by that they had been involved in a fatal accident, everyone had died,
the car could not be recognized what type of car it had been, but surprisingly, the trunk was intact
The police said there was no way the trunk could have remained intact. To their surprise, inside the trunk was a crate of eggs, none was broken
Christine Hewitt (Jamaican Journalist and entertainer):
said the Bible (Word of God) was the worst book ever written.
In June 2006 she was found burnt beyond recognition in her motor vehicle.
Many more important people have forgotten that there is no other name that was given so much authority as the name of Jesus.
Many have died, but only Jesus died and rose again, and he is still alive.
'Jesus'
I have done my part, Jesus said
'If you are embarrassed about me,
I will also be embarrassed about you before my father.'
'Lord, I love you and I need you, come into my heart, and bless me, my family, my home, and my friends, in Jesus' name. Amen.'
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Day 23, March
Consecrate Your Mouth
I have proclaimed glad tidings of righteousness in the great assembly (tidings of uprightness and right standing with God). Behold, I have not restrained my lips, as You know, O Lord. Psalm 40:9
What would happen if every morning we gave our mouth to God so that only godly things came our of our lips? Psalm 34:13 says, " Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit."
Dedicate your mouth to God and use it only for what pleases Him : praise and worship and edification and exhortation and giving thanks. Put your lips on the altar each morning. Give your mouth to God through praying His Word : " O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall show forth Your praise" (Psalm 51:15)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
I have proclaimed glad tidings of righteousness in the great assembly (tidings of uprightness and right standing with God). Behold, I have not restrained my lips, as You know, O Lord. Psalm 40:9
What would happen if every morning we gave our mouth to God so that only godly things came our of our lips? Psalm 34:13 says, " Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit."
Dedicate your mouth to God and use it only for what pleases Him : praise and worship and edification and exhortation and giving thanks. Put your lips on the altar each morning. Give your mouth to God through praying His Word : " O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall show forth Your praise" (Psalm 51:15)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Day 20, 21, 22, March
Make a Fresh Commitment
Honor the Lord with your capital and sufficiency (from righteous labors) and with the firstfruits of all your income; so shall your storage places be filled with plenty, and your vats shall be overflowing with new wine. Proverbs 3:9-10
The parable of the talents (see Matthew 25:14-30) instructs us to use what God gives to us to expand the Master's kingdom. Invest yourself, your time, andyour money in the Lord's work. Rededicate your finances to God today.
Make a frest commitment to be a giver. Don't let the devil talk you out of giving just becauseyou have bills to pay and obligations that cause you to worry. In Matthew 6:25-34 Jesus said not to be anxious about anything, for God knows your needs and promises to care for you.
Consecrate Your Money
And God is able to make all grace (every favour and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient (possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation) 2 Corinthians 9:8
The apostle paul said that the believers in Macedonia not only gave their money to God, but they also gave themselves to the Lord's service
(2 Corinthians 8:1-5)
Paul too gave his life in service to God's people.
Many people want to receive all they can from God, but they are not willing to give all of themselves to Him. If you have never dedicated yourself to the Lord's service, you are missing a great adventure. Dedicate this day to Him; He will lead you on a path to victory.
Consecrate Your Life
He who brings an offering of praise and thanksgiving honors and glorifies Me; and he who orders his way aright (who prepares the way that I may show him), to him I will demonstrate the salvation of God. Psalm 50:23
When I minister to people, I share with them my life and my family. We tell about our victories and our failures. We tell about our mistakes , the stupid things we do, and the wise things we do. We give a testimony of our lives to help others live victoriously too.
Someone needs your life today. Give your life to God, and let Him show you who needs ministry on His behalf. Give Him everything that you are, everything you hope to be, all your dreams, all your visions, all your hopes, and desires. Make everything His, and He will demonstrate His power through your life.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Honor the Lord with your capital and sufficiency (from righteous labors) and with the firstfruits of all your income; so shall your storage places be filled with plenty, and your vats shall be overflowing with new wine. Proverbs 3:9-10
The parable of the talents (see Matthew 25:14-30) instructs us to use what God gives to us to expand the Master's kingdom. Invest yourself, your time, andyour money in the Lord's work. Rededicate your finances to God today.
Make a frest commitment to be a giver. Don't let the devil talk you out of giving just becauseyou have bills to pay and obligations that cause you to worry. In Matthew 6:25-34 Jesus said not to be anxious about anything, for God knows your needs and promises to care for you.
Consecrate Your Money
And God is able to make all grace (every favour and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient (possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation) 2 Corinthians 9:8
The apostle paul said that the believers in Macedonia not only gave their money to God, but they also gave themselves to the Lord's service
(2 Corinthians 8:1-5)
Paul too gave his life in service to God's people.
Many people want to receive all they can from God, but they are not willing to give all of themselves to Him. If you have never dedicated yourself to the Lord's service, you are missing a great adventure. Dedicate this day to Him; He will lead you on a path to victory.
Consecrate Your Life
He who brings an offering of praise and thanksgiving honors and glorifies Me; and he who orders his way aright (who prepares the way that I may show him), to him I will demonstrate the salvation of God. Psalm 50:23
When I minister to people, I share with them my life and my family. We tell about our victories and our failures. We tell about our mistakes , the stupid things we do, and the wise things we do. We give a testimony of our lives to help others live victoriously too.
Someone needs your life today. Give your life to God, and let Him show you who needs ministry on His behalf. Give Him everything that you are, everything you hope to be, all your dreams, all your visions, all your hopes, and desires. Make everything His, and He will demonstrate His power through your life.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Day 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, March
Turn Down The Noise
Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls. Matthew 11:29
Noisy people don't hear from God. And we don't hear from Him when we are making noise, or wen everything around us is noisy. The only kind of noise you should have in the morning is my television program; thats all ( er, Im teasing here..) But don't turn on the radio or television just for noise.
Learn how to get comfortable being quiet. The Bible says, " But whoso hearkens to me (wisdom) shall dwell securely and in confident trust and shall be quiet, without fear or dread of evil" (Proverbs 1:33)
Linger in God's Presence
Be still and rest in the Lord; wait for Him and patiently lean yourself upon Him. Psalm 37:7
Sometimes in our conferences, we just " hang out" in God's presence. We sing and worship Him, and soon we enjoy the freshness of His marvelous wonder.
When we sense God is working in people's hearts, we don't worry about our meeting schedule or agenda. We set everything aside to just enjoy His awesome power working among His poeple. Many who came feeling bad are refreshed, and the sick are healed during this time of worship and waiting on the Lord. It happens all the time ____ there is healing in God's presence.
If you fell discouraged, He will cheer you up. If you feel tired, He will strengthen you. Just sit in His presence and wait for Him to move in your life.
Focus on God's Promises
For I the Lord your God hold your right hand; I am the Lord, Who says to you, Fear not; I will help you! Isaiah 41:13
The Lord says to you this morning the same thing He told Jacob in a dream : "I am with you and will keep (watch over you with care, take notice of) you wherever you may go, and I will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done all of which I have told you." (Genesis 28:15). Keep your mind on this promise in spite of any news you may hear that tempts you to be afraid today.
God promises to be with you, watch over you with care, take notice of you wherever you may go, and bring you back again. He says He will not leave you, and He will complete all the promises He has made to you. This means that no weapon formed against you will prosper
(Isaiah 54:17) But no weapon will be able to hurt you; you will have an answer for all who accuse you. I will defend my servants and give them victory." The Lord has spoken.
Rededicate Yourself
O Lord, (earnestly) remember now how I have walked before You in faithfulness and truth and with a whole heart (entirely devoted to You) and have done what is good in Your sight. 2 Kings 20:3
" And Jacob awoke from his sleep and he said, Surely the Lord is in this place and I did not know it" (Genesis 28:16). Many times the Lord is with us, and we don't even know it. God is there with you even when circumstances seem out of control. He is already working everything together for your good.
" And Jacob rose early in the morning and took the stone he had put under his head, and he set it up for a pillar (a monument to the vision in his dream), and he poured oil on its top (in dedication)" (v18). Likewise, we should rededicate ourselves to God every morning.
Give Your All to God
Before I formed you in the womb I knew (and) approved of you (as My chosen instrument), and before you were born I separated and set you apart, consecrating you; (and) I appointed you as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah 1:5
Every day you need to give yourself entirely to God. Say, " Lord, I am Yours. I want to be a vessel fit for Your use. I dedicate myself to You : I give You my hands, my mouth, my mind, my body, my money, and my time. Father, here I am. I am Yours; do with me whatever You want to do today."
Once you dedicate yourself to God, then go on about your business. But expect His leading all day long. Listen for His voice to direct you in the way you should go. Accept the challenge to be an instrument for the Lord's use today.
Grasp Every Chance
I will keep Your law continually, forever and ever (hearing, receiving, loving, and obeying it). Psalm 119:44
You can meet with God while lying in bed. You don't have to be in a private room, with the door closed, bowed down on your knees to meet God. You can meet Him in the shower, while driving to work, or when stuck in a traffic jam.
I am not suggesting that you shouldn't set apart time for God. But you should also take advantage of any time you dohave that you could be talking and listening to the Lord. Don't wait to talk to Him until you have a full hour to spend with Him. Grasp every minute you can find to open your ears to His voice. Take advantage of the idle moments already available to you and spend time with God.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls. Matthew 11:29
Noisy people don't hear from God. And we don't hear from Him when we are making noise, or wen everything around us is noisy. The only kind of noise you should have in the morning is my television program; thats all ( er, Im teasing here..) But don't turn on the radio or television just for noise.
Learn how to get comfortable being quiet. The Bible says, " But whoso hearkens to me (wisdom) shall dwell securely and in confident trust and shall be quiet, without fear or dread of evil" (Proverbs 1:33)
Linger in God's Presence
Be still and rest in the Lord; wait for Him and patiently lean yourself upon Him. Psalm 37:7
Sometimes in our conferences, we just " hang out" in God's presence. We sing and worship Him, and soon we enjoy the freshness of His marvelous wonder.
When we sense God is working in people's hearts, we don't worry about our meeting schedule or agenda. We set everything aside to just enjoy His awesome power working among His poeple. Many who came feeling bad are refreshed, and the sick are healed during this time of worship and waiting on the Lord. It happens all the time ____ there is healing in God's presence.
If you fell discouraged, He will cheer you up. If you feel tired, He will strengthen you. Just sit in His presence and wait for Him to move in your life.
Focus on God's Promises
For I the Lord your God hold your right hand; I am the Lord, Who says to you, Fear not; I will help you! Isaiah 41:13
The Lord says to you this morning the same thing He told Jacob in a dream : "I am with you and will keep (watch over you with care, take notice of) you wherever you may go, and I will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done all of which I have told you." (Genesis 28:15). Keep your mind on this promise in spite of any news you may hear that tempts you to be afraid today.
God promises to be with you, watch over you with care, take notice of you wherever you may go, and bring you back again. He says He will not leave you, and He will complete all the promises He has made to you. This means that no weapon formed against you will prosper
(Isaiah 54:17) But no weapon will be able to hurt you; you will have an answer for all who accuse you. I will defend my servants and give them victory." The Lord has spoken.
Rededicate Yourself
O Lord, (earnestly) remember now how I have walked before You in faithfulness and truth and with a whole heart (entirely devoted to You) and have done what is good in Your sight. 2 Kings 20:3
" And Jacob awoke from his sleep and he said, Surely the Lord is in this place and I did not know it" (Genesis 28:16). Many times the Lord is with us, and we don't even know it. God is there with you even when circumstances seem out of control. He is already working everything together for your good.
" And Jacob rose early in the morning and took the stone he had put under his head, and he set it up for a pillar (a monument to the vision in his dream), and he poured oil on its top (in dedication)" (v18). Likewise, we should rededicate ourselves to God every morning.
Give Your All to God
Before I formed you in the womb I knew (and) approved of you (as My chosen instrument), and before you were born I separated and set you apart, consecrating you; (and) I appointed you as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah 1:5
Every day you need to give yourself entirely to God. Say, " Lord, I am Yours. I want to be a vessel fit for Your use. I dedicate myself to You : I give You my hands, my mouth, my mind, my body, my money, and my time. Father, here I am. I am Yours; do with me whatever You want to do today."
Once you dedicate yourself to God, then go on about your business. But expect His leading all day long. Listen for His voice to direct you in the way you should go. Accept the challenge to be an instrument for the Lord's use today.
Grasp Every Chance
I will keep Your law continually, forever and ever (hearing, receiving, loving, and obeying it). Psalm 119:44
You can meet with God while lying in bed. You don't have to be in a private room, with the door closed, bowed down on your knees to meet God. You can meet Him in the shower, while driving to work, or when stuck in a traffic jam.
I am not suggesting that you shouldn't set apart time for God. But you should also take advantage of any time you dohave that you could be talking and listening to the Lord. Don't wait to talk to Him until you have a full hour to spend with Him. Grasp every minute you can find to open your ears to His voice. Take advantage of the idle moments already available to you and spend time with God.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Friday, March 13, 2009
Day 13, March
Slow Down
Peace I leave with you; My (own) peace now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. (Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.) John 14:27
Hurrying affects our spiritual life. Jesus wasn't in a hurry. We can't even picture Him jumping up and saying to His disciples, " Come on, boys, get up. Up , up, up, up! get this camp meeting cleaned up. We have some preaching to do. Get the camels packed up, boys. Let's go,let's go!"
When we think about Jesus, we picture peace. He went slow enough to hear from God all day long. We should set our pace with His today.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Peace I leave with you; My (own) peace now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. (Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.) John 14:27
Hurrying affects our spiritual life. Jesus wasn't in a hurry. We can't even picture Him jumping up and saying to His disciples, " Come on, boys, get up. Up , up, up, up! get this camp meeting cleaned up. We have some preaching to do. Get the camels packed up, boys. Let's go,let's go!"
When we think about Jesus, we picture peace. He went slow enough to hear from God all day long. We should set our pace with His today.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Thursday, March 12, 2009
What happens if...
*you don't feel comfortable,
don't feel stress,
don't feel sad,
when all feelings emerge
and you just need someone to talk to
thats when we open our eyes to see our God, our friends, our family
*keep our mind off all distractions
*tho there may be last minute decisions
due to unforseen circumstance
you will see a bright light at the end of the tunnel
*ppl may have different views,opinions
we have to accept and point out our views to speak the truth in love and to have the responsibility christians ought to do because these people may have
past experiences
*Remember, God is there to advise us for this very purpose
this is one way we can do it
*we try and understand
*don't separate,solve it.
whats the worse that could happen?
should we be optimistic or pessimistic about it?
is it just me?
same thing applies everywhere?
ridiculous?
always be optimistic about everything, knowing God has a way for you. Its not you. Its how you look at things. The same thing applies everywhere but we have different characteristics although we come from the same species. If God made us the same and we had the same type of communication, it would be like the tower of Babel won't it?=) It is not ridiculous, its God's Plan.
*be aware of the presence of the Lord
am i the only one feeling this way?
If i defend, would they fight?
You are not alone. Many people would be feeling this way. Including God himself knows how you feel. Defend in such a way they would not fight but accept.
*We cannot satisfy every one.
but we can try and make the best for everyone
Remember that we must please God
then He will bless us back
Do not complain
try being in God's shoes
*Some people may not mean it but we may feel hurt.
Everyone is different. It is the indifference we should accept
some ppl are all behind u. support u fully.
think that this is all worth it
to love doing the work for God in the end
if i cant sacrifice a little, look at Jesus who sacrificed his BLOOD
*Don't hurt anyone even how you disagree with the person, your conscience will tell you
love them
They don't see it?its okay, as long as theres someone up there sees u
so just stand ur ground
*Don't expect anythin in return
*we need friends
don't give a bad impression on others
their one very nice ppl that u wouldnt wanna miss having
have a good relationship with everyone.
dun have enemies
*do what you got to do
see happy faces on ppl
but don't forget, others want to see ur happy face as well
*care for both parts of the world
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
don't feel stress,
don't feel sad,
when all feelings emerge
and you just need someone to talk to
thats when we open our eyes to see our God, our friends, our family
*keep our mind off all distractions
*tho there may be last minute decisions
due to unforseen circumstance
you will see a bright light at the end of the tunnel
*ppl may have different views,opinions
we have to accept and point out our views to speak the truth in love and to have the responsibility christians ought to do because these people may have
past experiences
*Remember, God is there to advise us for this very purpose
this is one way we can do it
*we try and understand
*don't separate,solve it.
whats the worse that could happen?
should we be optimistic or pessimistic about it?
is it just me?
same thing applies everywhere?
ridiculous?
always be optimistic about everything, knowing God has a way for you. Its not you. Its how you look at things. The same thing applies everywhere but we have different characteristics although we come from the same species. If God made us the same and we had the same type of communication, it would be like the tower of Babel won't it?=) It is not ridiculous, its God's Plan.
*be aware of the presence of the Lord
am i the only one feeling this way?
If i defend, would they fight?
You are not alone. Many people would be feeling this way. Including God himself knows how you feel. Defend in such a way they would not fight but accept.
*We cannot satisfy every one.
but we can try and make the best for everyone
Remember that we must please God
then He will bless us back
Do not complain
try being in God's shoes
*Some people may not mean it but we may feel hurt.
Everyone is different. It is the indifference we should accept
some ppl are all behind u. support u fully.
think that this is all worth it
to love doing the work for God in the end
if i cant sacrifice a little, look at Jesus who sacrificed his BLOOD
*Don't hurt anyone even how you disagree with the person, your conscience will tell you
love them
They don't see it?its okay, as long as theres someone up there sees u
so just stand ur ground
*Don't expect anythin in return
*we need friends
don't give a bad impression on others
their one very nice ppl that u wouldnt wanna miss having
have a good relationship with everyone.
dun have enemies
*do what you got to do
see happy faces on ppl
but don't forget, others want to see ur happy face as well
*care for both parts of the world
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Day 12, March
Go to Your Room!
And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom and ability, in understanding and intelligence, and in knowledge, and in all kinds of craftmanship. Exodus 31:3
The Author : My children didin't like it when I started spending time alone to seek God. They said, " You're always in that room."
One day I told them, " You'd better be glad I am in that room, because it is making your life a whole lot better. If you were smart, you would beg me to go to my room, instead of calling me to come out."
Next time you find yourself screaming, ranting, raving, and carrying on at your children (or anyone else), excuse yourself and say, " I am going to my room." Take time to ask God what He thinks of everything that is going on. You will quickly get your day started right.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom and ability, in understanding and intelligence, and in knowledge, and in all kinds of craftmanship. Exodus 31:3
The Author : My children didin't like it when I started spending time alone to seek God. They said, " You're always in that room."
One day I told them, " You'd better be glad I am in that room, because it is making your life a whole lot better. If you were smart, you would beg me to go to my room, instead of calling me to come out."
Next time you find yourself screaming, ranting, raving, and carrying on at your children (or anyone else), excuse yourself and say, " I am going to my room." Take time to ask God what He thinks of everything that is going on. You will quickly get your day started right.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Stress
Either its stress or worries, we should always remember that God has the no. 1 button to control our lives. We don't even have to do anything. Just sit back, do your job, relax and let the miracle take place. If we have enough trust and faith in him, he will make all things right...or even better! so, enough worries just go with the flow and dun make God's plan for you a ruin =)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Day 10 & 11, March
Refill Your Peace
It is the Lord Who goes before you; He will (march) with you; He will not fail you or let you go or forsake you; (let there be no cowardic or flinching, but) fear not, neither become broken (in spirit) (depressed, dismayed, and unnerved with alarm). Deuteronomy 31:8
Many times, believers with Christian bumper stickers on thir cars are seen driving around like crazy people, yelling at their kids, throwing their hands in the aird, and looking mad at the world. If there isn't any peace in our heart when we leave home, our bumper stickers are not going to impress anybody. we need to get ourselves straightened out before we go out.
Pray, " My (inner) self (as well as my body) is also exceedingly disturbed and troubled. But You, O Lord, how long (until You return and speak peace to me)?" (Psalm 6:3). Let God refill you with peace.
Put God First
But seek (aim atand strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given you besides. Matthew 6:33
I have learned that spending time with God is a vital necessity in my life. I cannot do what I am called to do if I don't seek the presence of God every day. If I don't have time for God first, nothing else in my life works out.
God isn't happy with second place or third place in our lives.
When we are desperate enough, we find time to seek God. We turn the telephone off, we say no to our friends, and we turn our face away from all distractions and seek Him. That is when we get our breakthrough.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
It is the Lord Who goes before you; He will (march) with you; He will not fail you or let you go or forsake you; (let there be no cowardic or flinching, but) fear not, neither become broken (in spirit) (depressed, dismayed, and unnerved with alarm). Deuteronomy 31:8
Many times, believers with Christian bumper stickers on thir cars are seen driving around like crazy people, yelling at their kids, throwing their hands in the aird, and looking mad at the world. If there isn't any peace in our heart when we leave home, our bumper stickers are not going to impress anybody. we need to get ourselves straightened out before we go out.
Pray, " My (inner) self (as well as my body) is also exceedingly disturbed and troubled. But You, O Lord, how long (until You return and speak peace to me)?" (Psalm 6:3). Let God refill you with peace.
Put God First
But seek (aim atand strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given you besides. Matthew 6:33
I have learned that spending time with God is a vital necessity in my life. I cannot do what I am called to do if I don't seek the presence of God every day. If I don't have time for God first, nothing else in my life works out.
God isn't happy with second place or third place in our lives.
When we are desperate enough, we find time to seek God. We turn the telephone off, we say no to our friends, and we turn our face away from all distractions and seek Him. That is when we get our breakthrough.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Monday, March 9, 2009
Christian Practice in the Workplace
Dato Daniel Tay
Introduction
Workplace appearances
*Workplace-any place we work or spend our recreation
* Most people spend a lot of time there
Workplace parables
* Manger is a workplace for shephards
*132 recorded public appearances of Jesus,122 recorded in the workplace
*82 parables recorded in the workplace including :
The parable of the talents -which shows investments
The parable of the building rock-which shows construction
Workplace emphasis
*enter the workplace
Christian practice in the workplace
Christian practice as an Employee- more bonus, salary
Christian practice as an Employer-pay employee, pay more attention to profits and productivity
Christian pratice as an Investor
Some work because of Self-esteem
What happens if your driving a nice car..chevolet..yeaa..and you saw ur bestfriend, an old aunty who has asma or your dream girl (you know that she's the one your gonna marry and have kids), who would you pick?
well..the best answer would be give the car to your best friend, take the old aunty who has asma to the hospital and stay in the house of the girl of your dreams
We have responsibility too of Jesus Christ.
1st Obligation of A Christian Employee
*please Jesus Christ
*obey our employers - except if it goes beyond what God wants us to do.
*We must have the right attitude
*We must have sincerity of LOVE
*In whatever we do, we must always work with all our HEART
A joke- Intelligent Blondes
One blond wanted to find an odd job to do, so she went around houses and asked if anyone was offering odd jobs. Then came this house, and a guy opened the door and agreed for her to paint his porch. He asked how much should he pay her and after the blond said 50 bucks, they both agreed. So, she took paint from the garage as being told and started painting. The porch was quiet big so the guy presumed that she would take a long time to finish it. An hour later, she returned to his door. He asked "Have you finished?" She replied " Yes, and i have some leftover paint for you too. " So the guy was soo happy, gave he a 50 dollar note as her payment and included a 10 dollar bill as a tip" Then the girl said " Thank you, by the way, its not a porshe, its a lexus"
Blonds or Blacks - Were blonds with responsibility- work with our whole HEART. That resembles Christianity.
Colossians 3:23 says Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for men.
Salary and bonus is not all- you will recieve inheritance from the Lord
Christian Employer
Colossians 4:1 says Masters, be fair and just in the way you treat your slaves. Remember that you too have a Master in heaven.
*To please employee- treating employees with respect- not inconsiderate
*some employees from simple and poor backgrounds accidentally spoil our machines
we can impose a small fine to remind them not to repeat the mistake but it is advisable to not put the FULL AMOUNT
*Remember your master in heaven- you must give an account on how you treat your employees when youre in heaven.
*They work and earn for us, employers. So, what do we do with the money?
they are..the treasury of the Kingdom of the World
but we must CONVERT to the treasury of the Kingdom of GOD
However, this does not mean we do not treat our families.
WE must ensure that our families are WELL PROVIDED
This is just a reminderof how we should use our money in best use.
Christian Investor
*What is the Christian Practice of an Investor?
*We may not see the needs of the people
*The love of MONEY
exp: Judas-he saw the cripple walk, the sick healed but when he came to the love of MONEY, he betrayed!
*$ is important, because we can use it to buy homes for orphans..
*$ is important, but we can also use it to buy weapons
In Conclusion
A Christian should always have:
Integrity!
*Christians need to have the highest integrity
* We are reminded to work with all our HEART
Excellence!
*A man like Daniel continued his job. Daniel was there, Daniel saw God's handwriting, Daniel was there at the 3rd reign, and he was there to bear witness of God.
Influence!
We should have full integrity and excellence.
WE must work with our whole HEART for the LORD, not men.
WE must change our attitude towards $-let us start changing our banana money (old Japanese money) into the money of HEAVEN
WE CHRISTIANS EITHER CHANGE OUR BEHAVIOUR OR CHANGE OUR NAME BECAUSE WE BEAR THAT NAME.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Introduction
Workplace appearances
*Workplace-any place we work or spend our recreation
* Most people spend a lot of time there
Workplace parables
* Manger is a workplace for shephards
*132 recorded public appearances of Jesus,122 recorded in the workplace
*82 parables recorded in the workplace including :
The parable of the talents -which shows investments
The parable of the building rock-which shows construction
Workplace emphasis
*enter the workplace
Christian practice in the workplace
Christian practice as an Employee- more bonus, salary
Christian practice as an Employer-pay employee, pay more attention to profits and productivity
Christian pratice as an Investor
Some work because of Self-esteem
What happens if your driving a nice car..chevolet..yeaa..and you saw ur bestfriend, an old aunty who has asma or your dream girl (you know that she's the one your gonna marry and have kids), who would you pick?
well..the best answer would be give the car to your best friend, take the old aunty who has asma to the hospital and stay in the house of the girl of your dreams
We have responsibility too of Jesus Christ.
1st Obligation of A Christian Employee
*please Jesus Christ
*obey our employers - except if it goes beyond what God wants us to do.
*We must have the right attitude
*We must have sincerity of LOVE
*In whatever we do, we must always work with all our HEART
A joke- Intelligent Blondes
One blond wanted to find an odd job to do, so she went around houses and asked if anyone was offering odd jobs. Then came this house, and a guy opened the door and agreed for her to paint his porch. He asked how much should he pay her and after the blond said 50 bucks, they both agreed. So, she took paint from the garage as being told and started painting. The porch was quiet big so the guy presumed that she would take a long time to finish it. An hour later, she returned to his door. He asked "Have you finished?" She replied " Yes, and i have some leftover paint for you too. " So the guy was soo happy, gave he a 50 dollar note as her payment and included a 10 dollar bill as a tip" Then the girl said " Thank you, by the way, its not a porshe, its a lexus"
Blonds or Blacks - Were blonds with responsibility- work with our whole HEART. That resembles Christianity.
Colossians 3:23 says Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for men.
Salary and bonus is not all- you will recieve inheritance from the Lord
Christian Employer
Colossians 4:1 says Masters, be fair and just in the way you treat your slaves. Remember that you too have a Master in heaven.
*To please employee- treating employees with respect- not inconsiderate
*some employees from simple and poor backgrounds accidentally spoil our machines
we can impose a small fine to remind them not to repeat the mistake but it is advisable to not put the FULL AMOUNT
*Remember your master in heaven- you must give an account on how you treat your employees when youre in heaven.
*They work and earn for us, employers. So, what do we do with the money?
they are..the treasury of the Kingdom of the World
but we must CONVERT to the treasury of the Kingdom of GOD
However, this does not mean we do not treat our families.
WE must ensure that our families are WELL PROVIDED
This is just a reminderof how we should use our money in best use.
Christian Investor
*What is the Christian Practice of an Investor?
*We may not see the needs of the people
*The love of MONEY
exp: Judas-he saw the cripple walk, the sick healed but when he came to the love of MONEY, he betrayed!
*$ is important, because we can use it to buy homes for orphans..
*$ is important, but we can also use it to buy weapons
In Conclusion
A Christian should always have:
Integrity!
*Christians need to have the highest integrity
* We are reminded to work with all our HEART
Excellence!
*A man like Daniel continued his job. Daniel was there, Daniel saw God's handwriting, Daniel was there at the 3rd reign, and he was there to bear witness of God.
Influence!
We should have full integrity and excellence.
WE must work with our whole HEART for the LORD, not men.
WE must change our attitude towards $-let us start changing our banana money (old Japanese money) into the money of HEAVEN
WE CHRISTIANS EITHER CHANGE OUR BEHAVIOUR OR CHANGE OUR NAME BECAUSE WE BEAR THAT NAME.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Day 9, March
Increase Your Days
Behold, the Lor's eye is upon those who fear Him (who revere and worship Him with awe), who wait for Him and hope in His mercy and loving-kindness, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. Psalm 33:18-19
When I(the author) talk about seeking God early, many people think they will have to get up at three o'clock in the morning! I am not trying to tell you how to do it. I am not even suggesting that you pray for an hour. I am just saying that some way, somehow, if you want to start your whole day right, you must find time to seek God's wisdom in the morning.
Time with God adds years to your life! God is eager to give us insight and understanding. His Word says, "For by me (Wisdom from God) your days shall be multiplied, and the years of your life shall be increased" (Proverbs 9:11)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Behold, the Lor's eye is upon those who fear Him (who revere and worship Him with awe), who wait for Him and hope in His mercy and loving-kindness, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. Psalm 33:18-19
When I(the author) talk about seeking God early, many people think they will have to get up at three o'clock in the morning! I am not trying to tell you how to do it. I am not even suggesting that you pray for an hour. I am just saying that some way, somehow, if you want to start your whole day right, you must find time to seek God's wisdom in the morning.
Time with God adds years to your life! God is eager to give us insight and understanding. His Word says, "For by me (Wisdom from God) your days shall be multiplied, and the years of your life shall be increased" (Proverbs 9:11)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Day 7 & 8, March
Worship with Your Whole Heart
I will cry to God Most High, Who performs on my behalf and rewards me (who bring to pass His purposes for me and surely completes them)! Psalm 57:2
Great worship leaders know to come into the presence of God with their entire being, prepared to give thanks and praise
Deuteronomy 10:12 "Now, people of Israel, listen to what the Lord your God demands of you : Worship the Lord and do all that he commands. Love him, serve him withall your heart.
They don't just roll out of bed, throw water on their face, and run a comb through their hair before church. They know that the anointing comes from a sincere pursuit of loving God with their whole heart.
Likewise, as you approach God in the morning, come to Him with a heart full of worship, expressing your awe of Him for His faithfulness towards you. He promises that He will never forsake you, but will be with you all day long
Joshua 1:5 Joshua, no one wil be able to defeat you as long as you live. I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will always be with you; I will never abandon you.
Find Quiet Time
The (reverent) fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, even than much fine gold; they are sweeter also than honey and drippings from the honeycomb. Psalm 19:9-10
Sometimes I(the author) set aside the entire day just to be with God. I stop everything and seek Him. I know I am not going to hear from God if I don't get quiet on purpose by that time set aside for Him.
It is so important to have some "down time" to be alone and just sit quietly. You may think you don't have time, but if somebody was giving out thousand dollar bills at the mall, you would find time to get there. Don't use the time to try to figure out something; just be still and available to the Lord's attention.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
I will cry to God Most High, Who performs on my behalf and rewards me (who bring to pass His purposes for me and surely completes them)! Psalm 57:2
Great worship leaders know to come into the presence of God with their entire being, prepared to give thanks and praise
Deuteronomy 10:12 "Now, people of Israel, listen to what the Lord your God demands of you : Worship the Lord and do all that he commands. Love him, serve him withall your heart.
They don't just roll out of bed, throw water on their face, and run a comb through their hair before church. They know that the anointing comes from a sincere pursuit of loving God with their whole heart.
Likewise, as you approach God in the morning, come to Him with a heart full of worship, expressing your awe of Him for His faithfulness towards you. He promises that He will never forsake you, but will be with you all day long
Joshua 1:5 Joshua, no one wil be able to defeat you as long as you live. I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will always be with you; I will never abandon you.
Find Quiet Time
The (reverent) fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, even than much fine gold; they are sweeter also than honey and drippings from the honeycomb. Psalm 19:9-10
Sometimes I(the author) set aside the entire day just to be with God. I stop everything and seek Him. I know I am not going to hear from God if I don't get quiet on purpose by that time set aside for Him.
It is so important to have some "down time" to be alone and just sit quietly. You may think you don't have time, but if somebody was giving out thousand dollar bills at the mall, you would find time to get there. Don't use the time to try to figure out something; just be still and available to the Lord's attention.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Saturday, March 7, 2009
You are not alone
Nickleback is a great writer and motivator.
Gotta Be Somebody
This time, I wonder what it feels like
To find the one in this life, the one we all dream of
But dreams just aren't enough
So I'll be waiting for the real thing, I'll know it by the feeling
The moment when we're meeting, will play out like a scene
Straight off the silver screen
So I'll be holding my own breath, right up 'til the end
Until that moment when, I find the one that I'll spend forever with
'Cause nobody wants to be the last one there
'Cause everyone wants to feel like someone cares
Someone to love with my life in their hands
There's gotta be somebody for me like that
'Cause nobody wants to do it on their own
And everyone wants to know they're not alone
There's somebody else that feels the same somewhere
There's gotta be somebody for me out there
Tonight, out on the street, out in the moonlight
And dammit this feels too right, it's just like déjà vu
Me standing here with you
So I'll be holding my own breath, could this be the end
Is it that moment when, I find the one that I'll spend forever with
'Cause nobody wants to be the last one there
'Cause everyone wants to feel like someone cares
Someone to love with my life in their hands
There's gotta be somebody for me like that
'Cause nobody wants to do it on their own
And everyone wants to know they're not alone
There's somebody else that feels the same somewhere
There's gotta be somebody for me out there
You can't give up, looking for a diamond in the rough
You never know, when it shows up, make sure you're holding on
'Cause it could be the one, the one you're waiting on
'Cause nobody wants to be the last one there
And everyone wants to feel like someone cares
Someone to love with my life in their hands
There's gotta be somebody for me, ohhh
Nobody wants to do it on their own
And everyone wants to know they're not alone
There's somebody else that feels the same somewhere
There's gotta be somebody for me out there
Nobody wants to be the last one there
'Cause everyone wants to feel like someone cares
There's somebody else that feels the same somewhere
There's gotta be somebody for me out there
http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/n/nickelback/gotta_be_somebody.html
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Gotta Be Somebody
This time, I wonder what it feels like
To find the one in this life, the one we all dream of
But dreams just aren't enough
So I'll be waiting for the real thing, I'll know it by the feeling
The moment when we're meeting, will play out like a scene
Straight off the silver screen
So I'll be holding my own breath, right up 'til the end
Until that moment when, I find the one that I'll spend forever with
'Cause nobody wants to be the last one there
'Cause everyone wants to feel like someone cares
Someone to love with my life in their hands
There's gotta be somebody for me like that
'Cause nobody wants to do it on their own
And everyone wants to know they're not alone
There's somebody else that feels the same somewhere
There's gotta be somebody for me out there
Tonight, out on the street, out in the moonlight
And dammit this feels too right, it's just like déjà vu
Me standing here with you
So I'll be holding my own breath, could this be the end
Is it that moment when, I find the one that I'll spend forever with
'Cause nobody wants to be the last one there
'Cause everyone wants to feel like someone cares
Someone to love with my life in their hands
There's gotta be somebody for me like that
'Cause nobody wants to do it on their own
And everyone wants to know they're not alone
There's somebody else that feels the same somewhere
There's gotta be somebody for me out there
You can't give up, looking for a diamond in the rough
You never know, when it shows up, make sure you're holding on
'Cause it could be the one, the one you're waiting on
'Cause nobody wants to be the last one there
And everyone wants to feel like someone cares
Someone to love with my life in their hands
There's gotta be somebody for me, ohhh
Nobody wants to do it on their own
And everyone wants to know they're not alone
There's somebody else that feels the same somewhere
There's gotta be somebody for me out there
Nobody wants to be the last one there
'Cause everyone wants to feel like someone cares
There's somebody else that feels the same somewhere
There's gotta be somebody for me out there
http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/n/nickelback/gotta_be_somebody.html
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Patience
Only when you are patient, can you expect the day even happier than u've imagine.
Don't think so hard.
Don't worry so hard.
Just go with the flow.
and God in his mercy, will make your day just right, or even, better!
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Don't think so hard.
Don't worry so hard.
Just go with the flow.
and God in his mercy, will make your day just right, or even, better!
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Friday, March 6, 2009
Day 6, March
Be Prepared
What does the Lord your God require of you but (reverently) to fear the Lord your God, (that is) to walk in all His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the Lord your God with all your (mind and) heart and with your entire being. Deuteronomy 10:12
Complaining is death, and thanksgiving is life. Yet there are people who complain on their way to church while hoping to recieve blessings. They don't understand that complaining keeps them from getting what they want. They don't come prepared to receive blessing in the Lord's presence.
Prepare yourself for blessings by offering thanksgiving for what God has already done for you. The Words says," For by your words you will be justified and acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned and sentenced" (Matthew 12:37). Choose your words wisely today, and prepare yourself for God's blessings.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
What does the Lord your God require of you but (reverently) to fear the Lord your God, (that is) to walk in all His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the Lord your God with all your (mind and) heart and with your entire being. Deuteronomy 10:12
Complaining is death, and thanksgiving is life. Yet there are people who complain on their way to church while hoping to recieve blessings. They don't understand that complaining keeps them from getting what they want. They don't come prepared to receive blessing in the Lord's presence.
Prepare yourself for blessings by offering thanksgiving for what God has already done for you. The Words says," For by your words you will be justified and acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned and sentenced" (Matthew 12:37). Choose your words wisely today, and prepare yourself for God's blessings.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Day 5, March
Speak Life
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it (for death or life). Proverbs 18:21
If we ride to work with somebody and gossip about our boss and talk about how we hate our job and what a stupid place it is, we will have a bad day. The Bible says, " A man's (moral) self shall be filled with the fruit of his mouth; and with the consequence of his words he must be satisfied (whether good or evil)" (Proverbs 18:20)
Clearly, we will have to eat our words, so we need to talk about the right things to be happy. If we murmur and gossip, we will eat the fruit of death. But if we speak life, we will eat the fruit of the Spirit
Matthew 12:37 Your words will be used to judge you- to declare you either innocent or guilty.
Choose to eat good fruit today.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it (for death or life). Proverbs 18:21
If we ride to work with somebody and gossip about our boss and talk about how we hate our job and what a stupid place it is, we will have a bad day. The Bible says, " A man's (moral) self shall be filled with the fruit of his mouth; and with the consequence of his words he must be satisfied (whether good or evil)" (Proverbs 18:20)
Clearly, we will have to eat our words, so we need to talk about the right things to be happy. If we murmur and gossip, we will eat the fruit of death. But if we speak life, we will eat the fruit of the Spirit
Matthew 12:37 Your words will be used to judge you- to declare you either innocent or guilty.
Choose to eat good fruit today.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Day 4, March
Answers Will Come
Wait and hope for and expect the Lord; be brave and of good courage and let your heart be stout and enduring. Psalm 27:14
I used to wake up wishing it was night, and at night I wished it was morning; I was not enjoying my life. Now I look forward to each day. God arranged life in twenty-four-hour periods; we sleep for a while, and then wake up refreshed to start all over again. God intended every morning to be a brand new start, a fresh opportunity.
We can go to bed feeling hopeless and worn out, thinking, I just don't believe I can go on. But somehow a good night's rest renews us, and we wake up with faith again, thinking, Maybe today my breakthrough will come, and I will get an answer; I can make it one more day.
So thank God for mornings.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Wait and hope for and expect the Lord; be brave and of good courage and let your heart be stout and enduring. Psalm 27:14
I used to wake up wishing it was night, and at night I wished it was morning; I was not enjoying my life. Now I look forward to each day. God arranged life in twenty-four-hour periods; we sleep for a while, and then wake up refreshed to start all over again. God intended every morning to be a brand new start, a fresh opportunity.
We can go to bed feeling hopeless and worn out, thinking, I just don't believe I can go on. But somehow a good night's rest renews us, and we wake up with faith again, thinking, Maybe today my breakthrough will come, and I will get an answer; I can make it one more day.
So thank God for mornings.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
God Be In My Head
A lovely song in the time of lent.
"God be in my head, and in my understanding;
God be in mine eyes, and in my looking;
God be in my mouth, and in my speaking;
God be in my heart, and in my thinking;
God be at mine end, and at my departing. "
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qif2rfBmcTA
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
"God be in my head, and in my understanding;
God be in mine eyes, and in my looking;
God be in my mouth, and in my speaking;
God be in my heart, and in my thinking;
God be at mine end, and at my departing. "
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qif2rfBmcTA
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Pride
"Why am I so sad?
Why am I so troubled?
I will put my hope in God,
and once again I will praise him,
my savior and my God"
Psalm 42:5, TEV
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Why am I so troubled?
I will put my hope in God,
and once again I will praise him,
my savior and my God"
Psalm 42:5, TEV
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
All Things Bright and Beautiful
All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small
All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all.
Each little flow'r that opens, Each bird that sings
He made their glowing colors, He made their tiny wings.
All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small
All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all.
The purple-headed mountain
The river running by
The sunset and the morning
That brighten up the sky.
The cold wind in the winter
The pleasant summer sun
The ripe fruits in the garden
He made them, every one.
All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small
All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all.
He gave us eyes to see them, And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty
Who has made all things well.
All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small
All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all.
Each little flow'r that opens, Each bird that sings
He made their glowing colors, He made their tiny wings.
All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small
All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all.
The purple-headed mountain
The river running by
The sunset and the morning
That brighten up the sky.
The cold wind in the winter
The pleasant summer sun
The ripe fruits in the garden
He made them, every one.
All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small
All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all.
He gave us eyes to see them, And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty
Who has made all things well.
All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small
All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Expectations
Don't expect too much. Only then, will you experience true joy and happiness (in the long term)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Day 3, March
Cling To God
My whole being follows hard after You and clings closely to You; Your right hand upholds me. Psalm 63:8
The Word of God has much to say about morning. David started his day praying and listening to God. He instructed the priests to stand every morning to thank and praise the Lord, and like wise at evening. He said " The Lord has given peace and rest to His people"
1 Chronicles 23:25-30 David said "The Lord God of Israel has given peace to his people, and he himself will live in Jerusalem for ever. So there is no longer any needfor the Levites to carry the Tent of the Lord's presence and all the equipment used in worship." On the basis of David's final instructions all Levites were registered for service when they reached the age of twenty, and were assigned the following duties : to help the priests descended from Aaron with the temple worship, to take care of its courtyards and its rooms, and to keep undefiled everything that is sacred; to be responsible for the bread offered to God, the flour mixed with olive oil; to weigh and measure the temple offerings; and to praise and glorify the Lord every morning and every evening.
Many times we pray and pray, but, like Lot, we don't listen. For example, angels prompted Lot early in the morning to flee from Sodom and avoid its coming destruction
Genesis 19:15 At dawn the angels tried to make Lot hurry. "Quick!" they said. " Take your wife and your two daughters and get out, so that you will not lose your lives when the city is destroyed."
We can avoid disasters when we wait on God's instructions before acting.
A great beginning leads to a great finish. Begin your day with thanksgiving and praise, and in the evening before you rest, thank the Lord again for a great day.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
My whole being follows hard after You and clings closely to You; Your right hand upholds me. Psalm 63:8
The Word of God has much to say about morning. David started his day praying and listening to God. He instructed the priests to stand every morning to thank and praise the Lord, and like wise at evening. He said " The Lord has given peace and rest to His people"
1 Chronicles 23:25-30 David said "The Lord God of Israel has given peace to his people, and he himself will live in Jerusalem for ever. So there is no longer any needfor the Levites to carry the Tent of the Lord's presence and all the equipment used in worship." On the basis of David's final instructions all Levites were registered for service when they reached the age of twenty, and were assigned the following duties : to help the priests descended from Aaron with the temple worship, to take care of its courtyards and its rooms, and to keep undefiled everything that is sacred; to be responsible for the bread offered to God, the flour mixed with olive oil; to weigh and measure the temple offerings; and to praise and glorify the Lord every morning and every evening.
Many times we pray and pray, but, like Lot, we don't listen. For example, angels prompted Lot early in the morning to flee from Sodom and avoid its coming destruction
Genesis 19:15 At dawn the angels tried to make Lot hurry. "Quick!" they said. " Take your wife and your two daughters and get out, so that you will not lose your lives when the city is destroyed."
We can avoid disasters when we wait on God's instructions before acting.
A great beginning leads to a great finish. Begin your day with thanksgiving and praise, and in the evening before you rest, thank the Lord again for a great day.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Monday, March 2, 2009
If you fall down..
Its ok if you fall down.
The most important thing is learn from your experience, however bad they may be, trying to get up, and slowly standing again =)
its not easy, but its POSSIBLE =)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
The most important thing is learn from your experience, however bad they may be, trying to get up, and slowly standing again =)
its not easy, but its POSSIBLE =)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Are we human?
The Killers Human Lyrics:
I did my best to notice
when the call came down the line
up to the platform of surrender
I was brought but I was kind
and sometimes I get nervous
when I see an open door
Close your eyes, clear your heart
Cut the cord
are we human or are we dancer
my sign is vital, my hands are cold
and I´m on my knees looking for the answer
are we human or are we dancer
Pay my respects to grace and virtues
end my condolences to good
give my regards to soul and romance
they always did the best they could
and so long to devotion, you taught me everything I know
wave good bye, wish me well
You gotta let me go
are we human or are we dancer
my sign is vital, my hands are cold
and I´m on my knees looking for the answer
are we human or are we dancer
Will your system be all right
when you dream of home tonight
there is no message we're receiving
let me know is your heart still beating
Are we human or are we dancer
my sign is vital, my hands are cold
and I´m on my knees looking for the answer
You´ve gotta let me know
are we human or are we dancer
my sign is vital, my hands are cold
and I´m on my knees looking for the answer
are we humanor are we dancer
Are we human or are we dancer
Are we human or are we dancer...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jz6AqRvTpjM&feature=related
(Armin's remix =P)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
I did my best to notice
when the call came down the line
up to the platform of surrender
I was brought but I was kind
and sometimes I get nervous
when I see an open door
Close your eyes, clear your heart
Cut the cord
are we human or are we dancer
my sign is vital, my hands are cold
and I´m on my knees looking for the answer
are we human or are we dancer
Pay my respects to grace and virtues
end my condolences to good
give my regards to soul and romance
they always did the best they could
and so long to devotion, you taught me everything I know
wave good bye, wish me well
You gotta let me go
are we human or are we dancer
my sign is vital, my hands are cold
and I´m on my knees looking for the answer
are we human or are we dancer
Will your system be all right
when you dream of home tonight
there is no message we're receiving
let me know is your heart still beating
Are we human or are we dancer
my sign is vital, my hands are cold
and I´m on my knees looking for the answer
You´ve gotta let me know
are we human or are we dancer
my sign is vital, my hands are cold
and I´m on my knees looking for the answer
are we humanor are we dancer
Are we human or are we dancer
Are we human or are we dancer...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jz6AqRvTpjM&feature=related
(Armin's remix =P)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
haha
Check out this website
http://wisdomofwords.blogspot.com/
2 words
IRONY and CONTRAST
check it out =)
In the end, all religions are teaching us the right way to do good and be a better person ;)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
http://wisdomofwords.blogspot.com/
2 words
IRONY and CONTRAST
check it out =)
In the end, all religions are teaching us the right way to do good and be a better person ;)
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
yes yes yes Trinity Methodist Church has set up a camp just FOR YOU!So..calling all youths age 13 and above..(if your below 13 but ur older sibling is above 13, you're entitle to go!)
Registration is STILL OPEN! closing date for EARLY BIRD was on 01.03.09
Theres gonna be fun with games, worship and sessions with non other then Youth Worker,RONALD!!!
So..bring ur fwens..have some fun..theres so may facilities in MBS kuang , rawang..a basketball/ping pong/badminton court, a swimming pool, nice area for campfires(yes, thats one of the programmes) and nice dorms as well as CLEAN bathrooms.
So, book your dates, come and just have fun lahh!
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Day 2, March
Wake Up With Praise
"My mouth shall praise You with joyful lips when I remember You upon my bed and meditate on You in the night watches. For You have been my help." Psalm 63:5-7
Many people never have a decent finish to their day because they let the enemy keep them from starting it right. Satan tries to capture our thoughts early in the morning. He wants to get us thinking about all the wrong things as soon as we wake up. His intent is to steal out peace by upsetting us as soon as out alarm goes off. He is always working to set us up to get us upset.
That is why it is important to learn how to defeat the devil early each day. Every morning is a new opportunity to start your day right. Praise God as soon as your eyes open to a new day.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
"My mouth shall praise You with joyful lips when I remember You upon my bed and meditate on You in the night watches. For You have been my help." Psalm 63:5-7
Many people never have a decent finish to their day because they let the enemy keep them from starting it right. Satan tries to capture our thoughts early in the morning. He wants to get us thinking about all the wrong things as soon as we wake up. His intent is to steal out peace by upsetting us as soon as out alarm goes off. He is always working to set us up to get us upset.
That is why it is important to learn how to defeat the devil early each day. Every morning is a new opportunity to start your day right. Praise God as soon as your eyes open to a new day.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
Sunday, March 1, 2009
PMS
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) (sometimes referred to as PMT or Premenstrual Tension)
*a collection of physical, psychological, and emotional symptoms related to a woman's menstrual cycle.
*most women of child-bearing age (about 80 percent) have some symptoms of PMS
*the official definition limits the scope to having symptoms of "sufficient severity to interfere with some aspects of life".Such symptoms are usually predictable and occur regularly during the two weeks prior to menses. Generally, symptoms may vanish both before or after the start of menstrual flow.
*While some experts claim that virtually all menstruating women experience PMS, a more recent and intermediate position shows that a only small percentage of women (2 to 5%) have significant premenstrual symptoms that are separate from the discomfort associated with menstruation.
For some women with PMS, the symptoms are so severe that they are considered disabling. This form of PMS has its own psychiatric designation: premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
*Culturally, the abbreviation PMS is widely understood in the United States (and other countries, for example Australia) to refer to difficulties associated with menses, and the abbreviation is used frequently even in casual and colloquial settings, without regard to medical rigor. In these contexts, the syndrome is rarely referred to without abbreviation, and the connotations of the reference are frequently more broad than the clinical definition.
Symptoms
*PMS is a collection of symptoms. More than 200 different symptoms have been identified, but the three most prominent symptoms are irritability, tension, and dysphoria (unhappiness).
*The exact symptoms and their intensity vary from woman to woman. Most women with premenstrual syndrome experience only a few of the problems. The following symptoms can also be attributed to PMS
Abdominal bloating
Abdominal cramps
Breast tenderness or swelling
Stress or anxiety
Trouble falling asleep (insomnia)
Joint or muscle pain
Headache
Fatigue
Acne
Mood swings
Worsening of existing skin disorders, and respiratory (eg, allergies, infection) or eye (bulbar disturbances, conjunctivitis) problems
Risk factors
High caffeine intake
Stress may precipitate condition
Increasing age
History of depression
Tobacco use
Family history
Dietary factors(Low levels of certain vitamins and minerals, particularly magnesium, manganese, and vitamin E)
*Family history is often a good predictor of the probability of premenstrual syndrome; studies have found that the occurrence of PMS is twice as high among identical twins compared with fraternal twins.
*Although the presence of premenstrual syndrome is high among women with affective disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, a causal relationship has not been established.
Vitamin B can also assist with unstable emotions.
Diagnosis
*There is no laboratory test or unique physical findings to verify the diagnosis of PMS. To establish a pattern, a woman's physician may ask her to keep a prospective record of her symptoms on a calendar for at least two menstrual cycles.This will help to establish if the symptoms are, indeed, premenstrual and predictably recurring.
*A number of standardized instruments have been developed to describe PMS, including the Calendar of Premenstrual syndrome Experiences (COPE), the Prospective Record of the Impact and Severity of Menstruation (PRISM), and the Visual Analogue Scales (VAS).
*Other conditions that may explain symptoms better must be excluded.A number of medical conditions are subject to exacerbation at menstruation, a process called menstrual magnification. These conditions may lead the patient to believe that she may have PMS, when the underlying disorder may be some other problem. A key feature is that these conditions may also be present outside of the luteal phase.
*Conditions that can be magnified perimenstrually include depression, migraine, seizure disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, asthma, and allergies.
*Although there is no universal agreement about what qualifies as PMS, two definitions are commonly used in research programs:
The National Institute of Mental Health research compares the intensity of symptoms from cycle days 5 to 10 to the six-day interval before the onset of menses.
*To qualify as PMS, symptom intensity must increase at least 30% in the six days before menstruation. Additionally, this pattern must be documented for at least two consecutive cycles.
*The definition formulated at the University of California at San Diego requires both affective (emotional) and somatic (physical) symptoms during the five days before menses in each of three consecutive cycles, and must not be present during the pre-ovulatory part of the cycle (days 4 through 13).
*For this definition, affective symptoms include symptoms like depression, angry outbursts, irritability, anxiety, confusion, and social withdrawal. Somatic symptoms include symptoms like breast tenderness, abdominal bloating, headache, and swelling of hands and feet.
Etiology (Causes)
*The exact causes of PMS are not fully understood. While PMS is linked to the luteal phase, measurements of sex hormone levels are within normal levels. PMS tends to be more common among twins, suggesting the possibility of some genetic component.
*Current thinking suspects that central-nervous-system neurotransmitter interactions with sex hormones are affected.It is thought to be linked to activity of serotonin (a neurotransmitter) in the brain.
*Genetic factors also seem to play a role, as the concordance rate is two times higher in monozygotic twins than in dizygotic twins. Preliminary studies suggest that up to 40% of women with symptoms of PMS, have a significant decline in their circulating serum levels of beta-endorphin. Beta endorphin is a naturally occurring opioid neurotransmitter which has an affinity for the same receptor that is accessed by heroin and other opiates. Some researchers have noted similarities in symptom presentation between PMS symptoms and opiate withdrawal symptoms.
*A variety of evolutionary rationales for the syndrome have been offered, including that it is an epiphenomenon due to the selective advantage accruing to other phases of the hormonal cycle, that it leads to "intensification of male ardour during the next onset of fertility", and that it prompts females to reject infertile males (who cause PMS due to not impregnating the female). "... an infertile male/potentially fertile female partnership would tend to break down, thus allowing a new pair-bond to be formed. The greater the degree of premenstrual hostility of the female, the sooner a fertile mating could ensue."Any theory would have to account for the persistence of PMS over substantial evolutionary time, as it appears to afflict baboons as well
Treatment
*Many treatments have been suggested for PMS, including diet or lifestyle changes, and other supportive means. Medical interventions are primarily concerned with hormonal intervention and use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
*Supportive therapy includes
evaluation,
reassurance,
informational counseling,
and is an important part of therapy in an attempt to help the patient regain control over her life.
* aerobic exercise has been found in some studies to be helpful Some PMS symptoms may be relieved by leading a healthy lifestyle:
Reduction of caffeine, sugar, and sodium intake and increase of fiber,
adequate rest
sleep.
*Dietary intervention studies indicate that calcium supplementation (1200 mg/d) may be useful. Also vitamin E (400 IU/d) has shown some effectiveness.A number of other treatments have been suggested, although research on these treatments is inconclusive so far:
Vitamin B6,
magnesium,
manganese and
tryptophan.
*SSRIs can be used to treat severe PMS.The drug most widely studied is fluoxetine at doses of 20-60 mg/d. Other drugs include
sertraline,
paroxetine,
clomipramine,
fluvoxamine,
and nefadozone.
*These drugs can also be given intermittently, that is when symptoms are expected to occur. Although intermittent therapy might be more acceptable to some women, this might be less effective than continuous regimens.
*Hormonal intervention may take many forms:
Hormonal contraception is commonly used; common forms include the combined oral contraceptive pill and the contraceptive patch.
Progesterone support has been used for many years but evidence of its efficacy is inadequate.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists can be useful in severe forms of PMS but have their own set of significant potential side effects.
Diuretics have been used to handle water retention. Spironolactone has been shown in some studies to be useful.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; eg ibuprofen) have been used.
Evening Primrose Oil, which contains gamma-Linolenic acid (GLA), has been advocated but lacks scientific support.
Clonidine has been reported to successfully treat a significant number of women whose PMS symptoms coincide with a steep decline in serum beta-endorphin on a monthly basis.
Prognosis
*PMS is generally a stable diagnosis, with susceptible women experiencing the same symptoms at the same intensity near the end of each cycle for years.
*Treatment for specific symptoms is usually effective at controlling the symptoms. Even without treatment, symptoms tend to decrease in perimenopausal women, and disappear at menopause.
*Women who have PMS have an increased risk for clinical depression.
Epidemiology
*The number of women who experience PMS depends entirely on the stringency of the definition of PMS.While 80% of menstruating women have experienced at least one symptom that could be attributed to PMS, estimates of prevalence range from as low as 3% to as high as 30%.
*Mood symptoms such as emotional lability are both more consistent and more disabling than somatic symptoms such as bloating.
*A woman who experiences mood symptoms is likely to experience these symptoms consistently and predictably, whereas physical symptoms may come and go. Most women find that physical symptoms related to PMS are less disruptive than emotional symptoms.
History
*PMS was originally seen as an imagined disease.
When women first started reporting these symptoms, they were often told it was "all in their head". Interest in PMS began to increase after it was used as a criminal defense in Britain during the early 1980s.
*The study of PMS was brought about by many characters in society. Physicians and researchers study and treat recognized medical conditions. In order to have an impact, the existence, and importance of a disease needs to be socially accepted. Women have contributed to the rise of interest in PMS and society's acceptance of it as an illness.
It is argued that women are partially responsible for the medicalization of PMS.By legitimizing this disorder, women have contributed to the social construction of PMS as an illness. It has also been suggested that the public debate over PMS and PMDD was impacted by organizations who had a stake in the outcome including feminists, the APA, physicians and scientists.
*The study of PMS symptoms is not a new development. Debates about the definition and validity of this syndrome have a long history. As stated above, growing public attention was given to PMS starting in the 1980’s.Up until this point, there was little research done surrounding PMS and it was not seen as a social problem. Through clinical trials and the work of feminists, viewing PMS in a social context had begun to take place.
Alternative views
*Some medical professionals suggest that PMS might be a socially constructed disorder.
Supporters of PMS' medical validity claim support from work on the similar problem, Premenstrual dysphoric disorder ("PMDD").
*In women with PMDD, studies have shown a correlation between self-reported emotional distress and levels of a serotonin precursor as measured by Positron emission tomography (PET).
*PMDD also has a consistent treatment record with SSRIs, when compared with placebos.However, the diagnosis has been controversial (including in regard to the pharmaceutical company influence,) and questioned on scientific grounds as medicalization.
However, most supporters of PMS as a social construct do not dispute PMDD's medical status.
*Rather, they believe PMDD and PMS to be unrelated issues: one a product of brain chemistry, the other a product of a hypochondriatic culture. There has not been enough debate between the two views to come to any sound conclusion. Part of the reason the validity of the emotional aspects of PMS is being doubted is the lack of scientifically-sound studies on the matter.
*Many Western studies on PMS (PMS is primarily seen in Western Europe and North America) rely solely on self-reporting, and since Western women are socially conditioned to expect PMS or to at least know of its purported existence, they report their symptoms accordingly.
*Another view holds that PMS is too frequently or wrongly diagnosed in many cases. A variety of problems, such as chronic depression, infections, and outbursts of frustration can be mis-diagnosed as PMS if they happen to coincide with the premenstrual period. Often, says this theory, PMS is used as an explanation for outbursts of rage or sadness, even when it is not the primary cause.
*Some feminists have suggested that viewing PMS as a disease is born out of a patriarchal society. They assert that the symptoms that are associated with PMS are often in conflict with the way a woman "should" behave, contending that anger, irritability and increased sex drive are patterns of behavior which go against social norms for women. Some people believe that PMS, along with other female-attributed disorders, are used to enforce gender stereotypes.
*Some feminists assert that the emergence of PMS as a disorder occurred during a time when women's roles in society were changing. Particularly, women were beginning to enter the work force at increasing numbers. They argue that this may not be mere coincidence, asserting a belief that PMS is used as a method of social control.
*The use of multiple SSRI's to treat PMS has caused some controversy. The makers of Prozac began marketing the generic form, fluoxetine, under the name Sarafem to treat PMS. This coincided with their loss of patent on Prozac, which has led to suggestions that their motivations are not completely benign.
* Recently an oral contraceptive named Yaz has become the only birth control pill approved to treat PMDD. The marketing of Yaz centers on this aspect of the drug.
*Critics have also charged that the belief in PMS and its effects is mainly a Western creation. They assert that the diagnosis and definition of PMS and PMDD are not universal across the world, contending that in some non-Western countries societies this part of a women’s life is not seen in a negative way.
*They contend that while non-Westerners generally agree that women can be affected by their menstrual cycle, the defining PMS in terms of a disease is specific to the West in general and the United States in particular.Official recognition of PMDD has only taken place in the U.S. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accepts PMDD as an illness but the World Health Organization (WHO) does not.
*In Europe, PMDD was forcibly taken off the list of indications for Prozac due to lack of supporting evidence for its effectiveness. Some feminist scholars have argued that the Western or American view of the symptoms of these two disorders as negative in the U.S. and in need of treatment has allowed unwarranted involvement and regulation of women’s lives by the medical establishment.
One statement : WOMEN ARE COMPLICATED, DONT MESS WITH THEM TOO MUCH.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
*a collection of physical, psychological, and emotional symptoms related to a woman's menstrual cycle.
*most women of child-bearing age (about 80 percent) have some symptoms of PMS
*the official definition limits the scope to having symptoms of "sufficient severity to interfere with some aspects of life".Such symptoms are usually predictable and occur regularly during the two weeks prior to menses. Generally, symptoms may vanish both before or after the start of menstrual flow.
*While some experts claim that virtually all menstruating women experience PMS, a more recent and intermediate position shows that a only small percentage of women (2 to 5%) have significant premenstrual symptoms that are separate from the discomfort associated with menstruation.
For some women with PMS, the symptoms are so severe that they are considered disabling. This form of PMS has its own psychiatric designation: premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
*Culturally, the abbreviation PMS is widely understood in the United States (and other countries, for example Australia) to refer to difficulties associated with menses, and the abbreviation is used frequently even in casual and colloquial settings, without regard to medical rigor. In these contexts, the syndrome is rarely referred to without abbreviation, and the connotations of the reference are frequently more broad than the clinical definition.
Symptoms
*PMS is a collection of symptoms. More than 200 different symptoms have been identified, but the three most prominent symptoms are irritability, tension, and dysphoria (unhappiness).
*The exact symptoms and their intensity vary from woman to woman. Most women with premenstrual syndrome experience only a few of the problems. The following symptoms can also be attributed to PMS
Abdominal bloating
Abdominal cramps
Breast tenderness or swelling
Stress or anxiety
Trouble falling asleep (insomnia)
Joint or muscle pain
Headache
Fatigue
Acne
Mood swings
Worsening of existing skin disorders, and respiratory (eg, allergies, infection) or eye (bulbar disturbances, conjunctivitis) problems
Risk factors
High caffeine intake
Stress may precipitate condition
Increasing age
History of depression
Tobacco use
Family history
Dietary factors(Low levels of certain vitamins and minerals, particularly magnesium, manganese, and vitamin E)
*Family history is often a good predictor of the probability of premenstrual syndrome; studies have found that the occurrence of PMS is twice as high among identical twins compared with fraternal twins.
*Although the presence of premenstrual syndrome is high among women with affective disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, a causal relationship has not been established.
Vitamin B can also assist with unstable emotions.
Diagnosis
*There is no laboratory test or unique physical findings to verify the diagnosis of PMS. To establish a pattern, a woman's physician may ask her to keep a prospective record of her symptoms on a calendar for at least two menstrual cycles.This will help to establish if the symptoms are, indeed, premenstrual and predictably recurring.
*A number of standardized instruments have been developed to describe PMS, including the Calendar of Premenstrual syndrome Experiences (COPE), the Prospective Record of the Impact and Severity of Menstruation (PRISM), and the Visual Analogue Scales (VAS).
*Other conditions that may explain symptoms better must be excluded.A number of medical conditions are subject to exacerbation at menstruation, a process called menstrual magnification. These conditions may lead the patient to believe that she may have PMS, when the underlying disorder may be some other problem. A key feature is that these conditions may also be present outside of the luteal phase.
*Conditions that can be magnified perimenstrually include depression, migraine, seizure disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, asthma, and allergies.
*Although there is no universal agreement about what qualifies as PMS, two definitions are commonly used in research programs:
The National Institute of Mental Health research compares the intensity of symptoms from cycle days 5 to 10 to the six-day interval before the onset of menses.
*To qualify as PMS, symptom intensity must increase at least 30% in the six days before menstruation. Additionally, this pattern must be documented for at least two consecutive cycles.
*The definition formulated at the University of California at San Diego requires both affective (emotional) and somatic (physical) symptoms during the five days before menses in each of three consecutive cycles, and must not be present during the pre-ovulatory part of the cycle (days 4 through 13).
*For this definition, affective symptoms include symptoms like depression, angry outbursts, irritability, anxiety, confusion, and social withdrawal. Somatic symptoms include symptoms like breast tenderness, abdominal bloating, headache, and swelling of hands and feet.
Etiology (Causes)
*The exact causes of PMS are not fully understood. While PMS is linked to the luteal phase, measurements of sex hormone levels are within normal levels. PMS tends to be more common among twins, suggesting the possibility of some genetic component.
*Current thinking suspects that central-nervous-system neurotransmitter interactions with sex hormones are affected.It is thought to be linked to activity of serotonin (a neurotransmitter) in the brain.
*Genetic factors also seem to play a role, as the concordance rate is two times higher in monozygotic twins than in dizygotic twins. Preliminary studies suggest that up to 40% of women with symptoms of PMS, have a significant decline in their circulating serum levels of beta-endorphin. Beta endorphin is a naturally occurring opioid neurotransmitter which has an affinity for the same receptor that is accessed by heroin and other opiates. Some researchers have noted similarities in symptom presentation between PMS symptoms and opiate withdrawal symptoms.
*A variety of evolutionary rationales for the syndrome have been offered, including that it is an epiphenomenon due to the selective advantage accruing to other phases of the hormonal cycle, that it leads to "intensification of male ardour during the next onset of fertility", and that it prompts females to reject infertile males (who cause PMS due to not impregnating the female). "... an infertile male/potentially fertile female partnership would tend to break down, thus allowing a new pair-bond to be formed. The greater the degree of premenstrual hostility of the female, the sooner a fertile mating could ensue."Any theory would have to account for the persistence of PMS over substantial evolutionary time, as it appears to afflict baboons as well
Treatment
*Many treatments have been suggested for PMS, including diet or lifestyle changes, and other supportive means. Medical interventions are primarily concerned with hormonal intervention and use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
*Supportive therapy includes
evaluation,
reassurance,
informational counseling,
and is an important part of therapy in an attempt to help the patient regain control over her life.
* aerobic exercise has been found in some studies to be helpful Some PMS symptoms may be relieved by leading a healthy lifestyle:
Reduction of caffeine, sugar, and sodium intake and increase of fiber,
adequate rest
sleep.
*Dietary intervention studies indicate that calcium supplementation (1200 mg/d) may be useful. Also vitamin E (400 IU/d) has shown some effectiveness.A number of other treatments have been suggested, although research on these treatments is inconclusive so far:
Vitamin B6,
magnesium,
manganese and
tryptophan.
*SSRIs can be used to treat severe PMS.The drug most widely studied is fluoxetine at doses of 20-60 mg/d. Other drugs include
sertraline,
paroxetine,
clomipramine,
fluvoxamine,
and nefadozone.
*These drugs can also be given intermittently, that is when symptoms are expected to occur. Although intermittent therapy might be more acceptable to some women, this might be less effective than continuous regimens.
*Hormonal intervention may take many forms:
Hormonal contraception is commonly used; common forms include the combined oral contraceptive pill and the contraceptive patch.
Progesterone support has been used for many years but evidence of its efficacy is inadequate.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists can be useful in severe forms of PMS but have their own set of significant potential side effects.
Diuretics have been used to handle water retention. Spironolactone has been shown in some studies to be useful.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; eg ibuprofen) have been used.
Evening Primrose Oil, which contains gamma-Linolenic acid (GLA), has been advocated but lacks scientific support.
Clonidine has been reported to successfully treat a significant number of women whose PMS symptoms coincide with a steep decline in serum beta-endorphin on a monthly basis.
Prognosis
*PMS is generally a stable diagnosis, with susceptible women experiencing the same symptoms at the same intensity near the end of each cycle for years.
*Treatment for specific symptoms is usually effective at controlling the symptoms. Even without treatment, symptoms tend to decrease in perimenopausal women, and disappear at menopause.
*Women who have PMS have an increased risk for clinical depression.
Epidemiology
*The number of women who experience PMS depends entirely on the stringency of the definition of PMS.While 80% of menstruating women have experienced at least one symptom that could be attributed to PMS, estimates of prevalence range from as low as 3% to as high as 30%.
*Mood symptoms such as emotional lability are both more consistent and more disabling than somatic symptoms such as bloating.
*A woman who experiences mood symptoms is likely to experience these symptoms consistently and predictably, whereas physical symptoms may come and go. Most women find that physical symptoms related to PMS are less disruptive than emotional symptoms.
History
*PMS was originally seen as an imagined disease.
When women first started reporting these symptoms, they were often told it was "all in their head". Interest in PMS began to increase after it was used as a criminal defense in Britain during the early 1980s.
*The study of PMS was brought about by many characters in society. Physicians and researchers study and treat recognized medical conditions. In order to have an impact, the existence, and importance of a disease needs to be socially accepted. Women have contributed to the rise of interest in PMS and society's acceptance of it as an illness.
It is argued that women are partially responsible for the medicalization of PMS.By legitimizing this disorder, women have contributed to the social construction of PMS as an illness. It has also been suggested that the public debate over PMS and PMDD was impacted by organizations who had a stake in the outcome including feminists, the APA, physicians and scientists.
*The study of PMS symptoms is not a new development. Debates about the definition and validity of this syndrome have a long history. As stated above, growing public attention was given to PMS starting in the 1980’s.Up until this point, there was little research done surrounding PMS and it was not seen as a social problem. Through clinical trials and the work of feminists, viewing PMS in a social context had begun to take place.
Alternative views
*Some medical professionals suggest that PMS might be a socially constructed disorder.
Supporters of PMS' medical validity claim support from work on the similar problem, Premenstrual dysphoric disorder ("PMDD").
*In women with PMDD, studies have shown a correlation between self-reported emotional distress and levels of a serotonin precursor as measured by Positron emission tomography (PET).
*PMDD also has a consistent treatment record with SSRIs, when compared with placebos.However, the diagnosis has been controversial (including in regard to the pharmaceutical company influence,) and questioned on scientific grounds as medicalization.
However, most supporters of PMS as a social construct do not dispute PMDD's medical status.
*Rather, they believe PMDD and PMS to be unrelated issues: one a product of brain chemistry, the other a product of a hypochondriatic culture. There has not been enough debate between the two views to come to any sound conclusion. Part of the reason the validity of the emotional aspects of PMS is being doubted is the lack of scientifically-sound studies on the matter.
*Many Western studies on PMS (PMS is primarily seen in Western Europe and North America) rely solely on self-reporting, and since Western women are socially conditioned to expect PMS or to at least know of its purported existence, they report their symptoms accordingly.
*Another view holds that PMS is too frequently or wrongly diagnosed in many cases. A variety of problems, such as chronic depression, infections, and outbursts of frustration can be mis-diagnosed as PMS if they happen to coincide with the premenstrual period. Often, says this theory, PMS is used as an explanation for outbursts of rage or sadness, even when it is not the primary cause.
*Some feminists have suggested that viewing PMS as a disease is born out of a patriarchal society. They assert that the symptoms that are associated with PMS are often in conflict with the way a woman "should" behave, contending that anger, irritability and increased sex drive are patterns of behavior which go against social norms for women. Some people believe that PMS, along with other female-attributed disorders, are used to enforce gender stereotypes.
*Some feminists assert that the emergence of PMS as a disorder occurred during a time when women's roles in society were changing. Particularly, women were beginning to enter the work force at increasing numbers. They argue that this may not be mere coincidence, asserting a belief that PMS is used as a method of social control.
*The use of multiple SSRI's to treat PMS has caused some controversy. The makers of Prozac began marketing the generic form, fluoxetine, under the name Sarafem to treat PMS. This coincided with their loss of patent on Prozac, which has led to suggestions that their motivations are not completely benign.
* Recently an oral contraceptive named Yaz has become the only birth control pill approved to treat PMDD. The marketing of Yaz centers on this aspect of the drug.
*Critics have also charged that the belief in PMS and its effects is mainly a Western creation. They assert that the diagnosis and definition of PMS and PMDD are not universal across the world, contending that in some non-Western countries societies this part of a women’s life is not seen in a negative way.
*They contend that while non-Westerners generally agree that women can be affected by their menstrual cycle, the defining PMS in terms of a disease is specific to the West in general and the United States in particular.Official recognition of PMDD has only taken place in the U.S. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accepts PMDD as an illness but the World Health Organization (WHO) does not.
*In Europe, PMDD was forcibly taken off the list of indications for Prozac due to lack of supporting evidence for its effectiveness. Some feminist scholars have argued that the Western or American view of the symptoms of these two disorders as negative in the U.S. and in need of treatment has allowed unwarranted involvement and regulation of women’s lives by the medical establishment.
One statement : WOMEN ARE COMPLICATED, DONT MESS WITH THEM TOO MUCH.
**Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path**
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