The Three Cows That Give Glory To God...

It was a year I will never forget! 1988 would see my family move back to the States after spending eight of the most rewarding years of our lives in the mission field of Thailand.

Our departure was more sudden than we had anticipated, as there were problems in our home congregation and the money just was not there. Paula and I prayed for wisdom, and the answer came loud and clear. Yet, we had made so many friends; and it was difficult to pack up eight years into shipping crates and footlockers, get on a train which would take us to an airplane, and just leave! But we did!

However, before we left, we spent several weeks traveling all over the country saying good bye to those we loved so much. It was a difficult assignment, but God provided the grace we all needed. I remember one particular good bye that will stay with me forever, or I hope it does. His name was Paw Phim. Paw in the Thai language is a term of respect and endearment for older men. It is equivalent to our "Father." Paw Phim had become like a second father to me, for it was in his village that I preached my first sermon in Thai.

On that particular day, I knew no one understood, but Paw Phim took my hand after the sermon and told me it was one of the finest sermons he had ever heard. Years later I would ask Paw Phim if he really understood what I said, and he told me, "Of course not, but what your face and heart said on that day spoke much louder than what came out of your mouth. I knew then that you loved the Thai people, and it was then I became to love you like a son." WOW! Aren't I a lucky man? Paw Phim was the last stop on my circuit of "good byes." It was the most difficult. I didn't usually bring food when I went to visit him because it offended him.

But I was tired of seeing him get up at 4:00 in the morning and walk over a mile on those swollen, beaten up knees, to go to a small pond to seine a few little fish for me to have in my soup and rice for breakfast. I was tired of seeing his family do without so I could have a little meat with my rice and vegetables at the evening meal. For my last visit, I brought two chickens and a bag full of vegetables and fruit. He didn't like it one bit and accepted it begrudgingly.

However, I was not to outdo Paw Phim! At our last meal, we had roasted beef along with a host of other delicacies. It was unbelievable! We never had beef -- there just wasn't any to be had -- water buffalo, yes, but not real beef from a cow! Yet there it was. I asked him where he got it and he told me not to worry about it. I was to eat it and enjoy it for this was the least he could do for me before we had to say our good byes. I kept digging, because I wanted to know what he had just done for me.

It was then that my heart began to break, for I found out that Paw Phim had slaughtered his only cow, which gave milk to his grand-kids, so I could have beef at our last meal. I gently rebuked him and offered to give him money to buy another cow. It was then that these words poured out of his weather-beaten face, "Joe, I didn't give my cow to you, I gave it to God. Do you think I would do that for you?" Again, WOW! How does God make people like this? I don't know, but everyone should have a Paw Phim in his or her life! This story came to its powerful conclusion three years later.

I went back to visit my second home in Thailand. Of course I went to see Paw Phim. His health was bad, but his mind and heart were the same. He asked me if I remembered that cow he had slaughtered, and I said that I had. He then took my hand and led me to the back of his house. Standing there were three beautiful cows! I asked Paw Phim where he got them, and his answer? "Where do you think I got them, Joe? God delivered them to me three weeks after you left!" No, I didn't buy those cows, but someone did! How God provided those three cows I'll never know, but I don't need to know!

The point of this story is not about the cows, but about the faith and trust of a Thai Christian named Paw Phim who lives on the other side of the world, yet still teaches us that faith and trust will always win the day! Thank you Paw Phim! I'll see you soon.

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No Jacket Required in the Palace

I shook my head in disbelief. This couldn't be the right place.

After all, I couldn't possibly be welcome here. I had been given an invitation several times, by several different people, and I had finally decided to see what this place was all about. But, this just couldn't be the right place.

Quickly, I glanced down at the invitation that I clutched in my hand. I scanned past the words, "Come as you are. No jacket required" and found the location. Yes, I was at the right place. I peered through the window again and saw a room of people whose faces seemed to glow with joy.

All were neatly dressed, adorned in fine garments and appeared strangely clean as they dined at this exquisite restaurant. Ashamed, I looked down at my own tattered and torn clothing, covered in stains. I was dirty, in fact, filthy. A foul smell seemed to consume me and I couldn't shake the grime that clung to my body.

As I turned around to leave, the words from the invitation seemed to leap out at me..."Come as you are. No jacket required." I decided to give it a shot. Mustering up every bit of courage I could find, I opened the door to this restaurant and walked up to a man standing behind a podium. "Your name, sir?" he asked me with a smile. "Jimmy D. Brown," I mumbled without looking up. I thrust my hands deep into my pockets, hoping to conceal their stains. He didn't seem to notice the filth that I was covered in and he continued, "Very good, sir.

A table is reserved in your name. Would you like to be seated?" I couldn't believe what I heard! A grin broke out on my face and I said, "Yes, of course!" He led me to a table, and sure enough, there was a place-card with my name written on it in a deep, dark red.

As I browsed over a menu, I saw many delightful items listed. There were things like, "peace," "joy," "blessings," "confidence," "assurance," "hope," "love," "faith," and "mercy." I realized that this was no ordinary restaurant! I flipped the menu back to the front in order to see where I was at..."God's Grace," was the name of this place.

The man returned and said, "I recommend the 'Special of the Day'. With it you are entitled to heaping portions of everything on this menu." You've got to be kidding! I thought to myself. You mean, I can have ALL of this?! "What is the 'Special of the Day'?" I asked with excitement ringing in my voice. "Salvation," was his reply. "I'll take it," I practically cried out. Then, as quickly as I made that statement, the joy left my body.

A sick painful ache jerked through my stomach and tears filled my eyes. Between my sobs I said..."Mister, look at me. I'm dirty and nasty. I am unclean and unworthy of such things. I'd love to have all of this, but, but, I just can't afford it." Undaunted, the man smiled again. "Sir, your check has already been taken care of by that Gentleman over there," he said as he pointed to the front of the room. "His name is Jesus."

Turning, I saw a man whose very presence seemed to light the room. He was almost too much to look at. I found myself walking towards Him and in a shaking voice I whispered, "Sir, I'll wash the dishes or sweep the floors or take out the trash. I'll do anything I can do to repay You for all this." He opened His arms and said with a smile, "Son, all of this is yours if you just come unto me. Ask me to clean you up and I will. Ask me to allow you to feast at my table and you will eat. Remember, the table is reserved in your name. All you must do is accept this gift that I offer you."

Astonished, I fell at his feet and said, "Please, Jesus. Please clean up my life. Please change me and sit me at your table and give me this new life." Immediately, I heard the words, "It is finished." I looked down and white robes adorned my body. Something strange and wonderful had happened.

I felt new, like a weight had been lifted and I found myself seated at His table. "The 'Special of the Day' has been served," the Lord said to me. "Salvation is yours." We sat and talked for a great while and I so enjoyed the time that I spent with Him. He told me, me of all people, that He would like for me to come back as often as I liked for another helping from God's Grace. He made it clear that He wanted me to spend as much time with Him as possible. As it drew near time for me to go back outside into the "real world," He whispered to me softly, "And Lo, I am with you always."

And then, He said something to me that I will never forget. He said..."My child, do you see these empty tables?" "Yes, Lord. I see them. What do they mean?" I replied. "These are reserved tables...but the individuals whose names are on each place-card have not accepted their invitation yet.

Would you be so kind as to hand out these invitations to those who have not joined us as yet?" Jesus asked. "Of course," I said with excitement as I picked up the invitations. "Go ye therefore into all nations." He said as I turned to leave. I walked into God's Grace dirty and hungry. Stained in sin. My righteousness as filthy rags.

And Jesus cleaned me up. I walked out a brand new man...robed in white, His righteousness. And so, I'll keep my promise to my Lord. I'll go. I'll spread the Word. I'll share the Gospel... I'll hand out the invitations.

And I'll start with you. Have you been to God's Grace? There's a table reserved in your name, and here's your invitation...

"Come as you are. No jacket required." ------ "For by grace are you saved through faith: and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God." - Ephesians 2: 8

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The Power of Worrying...

Death was walking toward a city one morning and a man asked, "What are you going to do?"

"I'm going to take 100 people," Death replied. "That's horrible!" the man said.

"That's the way it is," Death said. "That's what I do."

The man hurried to warn everyone he could about Death's plan.

As evening fell, he met Death again. "You told me you were going to take 100 people," the man said.

"Why did 1,000 die?" "I kept my word," Death responded.

"I only took 100 people. Worry took the others."

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Why Use MasterCard and Not Visa?

By now you have probably seen the catchy television commercials for MasterCard. They start by identifying some things that people can buy with their MasterCard, then show a moment that is priceless and end by saying, "There are some things money can't buy, for everything else there's MasterCard."

For example, in one such commercial there is a man and his young son headed to the baseball park. The commercial shows the dad buying his son a hot dog and you hear the words, "Hot dog at the big leaguegame...$3.00."The next scene shows the dad buying a game program and the words,"Program...$6.00."

Then, one of those large, orange hands with thefingers forming a #1 is shown and you hear something like, "Large,orange hand...$15.00." The commercial finishes by showing the father explaining some important aspect of the game to his son, who is listening intently as he looks up at his father with excitement in his eyes, "Meaningful conversation between a father and a son... priceless."

"There are some things money can't buy, for everything else there'sMasterCard."Friends, I'm not unlike those agencies promoting their favorite credit card. I'm here to advertise. You see, my life is a commercial for others to see. I'm a card carrying representative for the Master's Card. That's right, the MASTER'S CARD.

Let me tell you about it. There are no finance charges, no payments due. My bill has already been covered...it's a prepaid deal. I couldn't afford the price, so Jesus stepped in and paid it for me. My Name is written on the card for all to see.It is accessible twenty-four hours a day from anywhere in the world.

The MASTER'S CARD has so many benefits it's hard to list them all. Let me share some of them with you...you might want to apply for a personal card yourself. Just for starters there is UNLIMITED GRACE. That's right, there is no preset limit to the amount of grace you receive from the MASTER'S CARD. Have you been looking for love in all the wrong places?

Then, look no farther than the MASTER'S CARD. It offers the greatest rate on love that has ever been offered.The MASTER'S CARD gives you access to many "members only" benefits.

Want real joy despite the difficulties of life? Apply for the MASTER'S CARD. Want a lasting peace? Apply for the MASTER'S CARD.Want real joy despite the difficulties of life? Apply for the MASTER'S CARD. Want a lasting peace? Apply for the MASTER'S CARD. Looking for something you can always rely on in a jam?

The MASTER'S CARD is perfect for you.Another great thing about the MASTER'S CARD is that it never expires. Once you're a member, you're a member for life...eternal life, that is. Membership has its privileges, you know.How do you receive the MASTER'S CARD. Dial 1-800-ROMANS 10:9 "That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. ."

Jesus is standing by right now to take your call. Don't delay. This great offer won't last forever. Peace, joy and hope: Invaluable. Faith, contentment and assurance: Inestimable. Salvation: Priceless. There are some things money can't buy.

For those, there's the Master's Card. Christian, why not be an advertisement for the MASTER'S CARD. Let your life be a commercial today for Jesus Christ.

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Be a purposeful Christian

Today's Scripture

"My determined purpose is to know Him and the power flowing out from His resurrection." (Philippians 3:10)

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

God has many great things in store for you, but you will never go to a new level of victory without opposition. That's why you must stay focused and committed to what God is calling you to do. You must continually stay in fellowship with your Heavenly Father through prayer, worship, study of His Word, and fellowship with other believers.

I encourage you today to rise up and take authority over any area in your life that's keeping you in defeat. Be on the aggressive. Be on the offensive. If you'll stay focused and determined, God will take you places that you've never dreamed of and you'll live that overcoming life of victory that rightfully belongs to you.

A Prayer for Today

God, it is with a renewed focus that I pray to You today. I am determined to grow in my faith and to experience Your love on a personal level so I can lead the life of victory that I was born to lead. In Jesus' name – Amen.

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Proverbs 3 : 1 - 35

1 My son, do not forget my teaching,
but keep my commands in your heart,

2 for they will prolong your life many years
and bring you prosperity.

3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.

4 Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man.

5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;

6 in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight. [a]

7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the LORD and shun evil.

8 This will bring health to your body
and nourishment to your bones.

9 Honor the LORD with your wealth,
with the firstfruits of all your crops;

10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
and your vats will brim over with new wine.

11 My son, do not despise the LORD's discipline
and do not resent his rebuke,

12 because the LORD disciplines those he loves,
as a father [b] the son he delights in.

13 Blessed is the man who finds wisdom,
the man who gains understanding,

14 for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold.

15 She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.

16 Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.

17 Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.

18 She is a tree of life to those who embrace her;
those who lay hold of her will be blessed.

19 By wisdom the LORD laid the earth's foundations,
by understanding he set the heavens in place;

20 by his knowledge the deeps were divided,
and the clouds let drop the dew.

21 My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment,
do not let them out of your sight;

22 they will be life for you,
an ornament to grace your neck.

23 Then you will go on your way in safety,
and your foot will not stumble;

24 when you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.

25 Have no fear of sudden disaster
or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked,

26 for the LORD will be your confidence
and will keep your foot from being snared.

27 Do not withhold good from those who deserve it,
when it is in your power to act.

28 Do not say to your neighbor,
"Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow"—
when you now have it with you.

29 Do not plot harm against your neighbor,
who lives trustfully near you.

30 Do not accuse a man for no reason—
when he has done you no harm.

31 Do not envy a violent man
or choose any of his ways,

32 for the LORD detests a perverse man
but takes the upright into his confidence.

33 The LORD's curse is on the house of the wicked,
but he blesses the home of the righteous.

34 He mocks proud mockers
but gives grace to the humble.

35 The wise inherit honor,
but fools he holds up to shame.

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The Comfort of Heavenly Father

Do you know that the heavenly Father cannot be comforted without you?

In the early days, in the land of Palestine there lived a father and two sons whose occupation was to tend sheep. The two sons took care of the sheep in the pasture while the father prepared the meals for them.

Every sundown, the father would go up the high hill and beckon his two sons to return, "Joseph, Enoch! Come home and eat!" Hearing their father's summon, the two sons would shepherd the flock home.

However, as the two boys grew and life remained hard for the family, they decided to go to America to make a living. The two sons left their father and found a rewarding life in America.

But the father soon became ill from thinking about his sons. Every sundown he would still go up the high hill and cry out his sons' names. Day after day, year after year, rain or shine, he continued to do this. But everytime, he went home sorrowfully without his sons.

When the neighbors saw this, they could bear it no longer and sent people to bring news to the two sons. The boys decided to come home. Upon arriving at the village, as the day was still young, the two hid in the place where they usually brought their sheep and waited for sundown.

At the appointed time, they saw a white-haired old man limped his way up to the top of the hill, supported by a staff. His aged appearance and poor health completely took the sons by surprise.

Then the old man started to cry out, "O Joseph! O Enoch! Come home!" the two sons came out from hiding and ran to their father, crying, "O Father! We have come home!" The old man saw them from afar and was filled with unspeakable joy as he took a few steps forward to welcome them. They hugged and kissed each other and happily returned home.

Friends, the father could have no joy without seeing his sons; the sons could not completely be at peace without returning home to their father. Likewise, without you the heavenly Father cannot be comforted; without the heavenly Father your heart and spirit cannot be satisfied.

If you are willing to return and be reconciled to the heavenly Father, please pray the following, "O Father God! I never knew You nor of Your love for me. Now I understand, and I am willing to receive the way of salvation You have prepared for me. I believe that You have sent the Lord Jesus to be crucified on the cross for my sins. Forgive my sins in Your Son! In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen!" By this you express from your heart that you already receive Jesus as Savior.

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Footprints in the Sand

One night a man had a dream. He dreamed he was walking along the beach with the LORD.

Across the sky flashed scenes from his life.

For each scene, he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand; one belonged to him, and the other to the LORD.

When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he looked back at the footprints in the sand.

He noticed that many times along the path of his life there was only one set of footprints. He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life.

This really bothered him and he questioned the LORD about it. "LORD, you said that once I decided to follow you, you'd walk with me all the way.

But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of footprints.

I don't understand why when I needed you most you would leave me.”

The LORD replied, "My precious, precious child, I love you and I would never leave you. During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you."

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But God !

Today's Scripture

“O LORD, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me!...but you are a shield around me, O LORD; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head” (Psalm 3:1-3)

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

When David wrote this verse, He was in a very difficult situation. He was actually running for his life from his very own son who wanted to kill him and take over the throne! Can you imagine?! David was probably feeling overwhelmed, distraught, heart-broken, betrayed, and abandoned. Have you ever felt that way? But notice that David didn’t just tell the Lord all about his problems, he told the Lord about his faith when he said, “But you, God, are a shield around me…”
David made the choice to focus on God’s goodness no matter what!

We have to remember, circumstances may be tough, but God is working behind the scenes on your behalf. You may have a difficult relationship, but God is your Restorer today. You may have an overwhelming need, but God is your Provider today! The doctors may have told you that you have an incurable disease, but God is your Healer today! Things may look impossible today, BUT WITH GOD all things are possible! If you’ll keep that constant attitude of faith and victory, you’ll see the hand of God move in your life, and you will experience the life of victory He has in store for you!

A Prayer for Today

Father God, thank You for always being faithful and working in my life. Today, I open my heart to You and choose to focus on Your goodness no matter what my circumstances look like. I know that with You, all things are possible. In Jesus Name. Amen.

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Take Refuge in GOD...

Today's Scripture

“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him” (Psalm 34:8).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Where do you take refuge when the storms of life come? Where do you go for comfort and safety? Some people find it easy to turn to their friends, their job, or even a bowl of ice-cream! There’s nothing wrong with any of those things, but God the Father wants us to turn to Him first. He wants us to take refuge in Him. He longs to protect us and defend us and give us His strength.

We serve a good God, and when we take refuge in Him, He will pour out His abundant blessing in our lives. Taste and see that the Lord is good today. Taste and see that His promises are good. When you turn to God, the Bible promises that you will find rest and refuge for your soul. No matter what you may be facing today, come to the Father. He will give you His peace and strength, and you’ll live the blessed life He has prepared for you!

A Prayer for Today

Heavenly Father, today I open my heart to You and choose to take refuge in You. Thank You for Your peace and rest and for showing me Your hand of blessing in every area of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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Thump-Thud, Thump-Thud

Thump-Thud, Thump-Thud
by Max Lucado

When a potter bakes a pot, he checks its solidity by pulling it out of the oven and thumping it. If it “sings,” it’s ready. If it “thuds,” it’s placed back in the oven.

The character of a person is also checked by thumping.

Been thumped lately?

Late-night phone calls. Grouchy teacher. Grumpy moms. Burnt meals. Flat tires. You’ve-got-to-be-kidding deadlines. Those are thumps. Thumps are those irritating inconveniences that trigger the worst in us. They catch us off guard. Flat-footed. They aren’t big enough to be crises, but if you get enough of them, watch out! Traffic jams. Long lines. Empty mailboxes. Dirty clothes on the floor. Even as I write this, I’m being thumped. Because of interruptions, it has taken me almost two hours to write these two paragraphs. Thump. Thump. Thump.

How do I respond? Do I sing, or do I thud?

Jesus said that out of the nature of the heart a man speaks (Luke 6:45). There’s nothing like a good thump to reveal the nature of a heart. The true character of a person is seen not in momentary heroics but in the thump-packed humdrum of day-to-day living.

If you have a tendency to thud more than you sing, take heart.

There is hope for us “thudders”:

Begin by thanking God for thumps. I don’t mean a half-hearted thank-you. I mean a rejoicing, jumping-for-joy thank-you from the bottom of your heart (James 1:2). Chances are that God is doing the thumping. And he’s doing it for your own good. So every thump is a reminder that God is molding you (Hebrews 12:5-8).

Learn from each thump. Face up to the fact that you are not “thump-proof.” You are going to be tested from now on. You might as well learn from the thumps—you can’t avoid them. Look upon each inconvenience as an opportunity to develop patience and persistence. Each thump will help you or hurt you, depending on how you use it.

Be aware of “thump-slump” times. Know your pressure periods. For me, Mondays are infamous for causing thump-slumps. Fridays can be just as bad. For all of us, there are times during the week when we can anticipate an unusual amount of thumping. The best way to handle thump-slump times? Head on. Bolster yourself with extra prayer, and don’t give up.

Remember no thump is disastrous. All thumps work for good if we are loving and obeying God.

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Medicine for Your Soul...

The next time you feel like GOD can't use you, just remember...

Noah was a drunk

Abraham was too old

Isaac was a daydreamer

Jacob was a liar

Leah was ugly

Joseph was abused

Moses had a stuttering problem

Gideon was afraid

Samson had long hair and was a womanizer

Jeremiah and Timothy were too young

David had an affair and was a murderer

Elijah was suicidal

Isaiah preached naked

Jonah ran from God

Naomi was a widow

Job went bankrupt

Peter denied Christ

The Disciples fell asleep while praying

Martha worried about everything

The Samaritan woman was divorced, more than once

Zaccheus was too small

Paul was too religious

Timothy had an ulcer..

ANDLazarus was dead!


And Don't forget Jesus Helped them all!!!!

Now! No more excuses ! God can use you to your full potential. Besides you aren't the message, you are just themessenger.


In the Circle of God's love, God's waiting to use yourfull potential.

1. God wants spiritual fruit, not religious nuts.

2. Dear God, I have a problem, it's Me.

3. There is no key to happiness. The door is always open.

4. Silence is often misinterpreted but nevermisquoted.

7. Do the math .. count your blessings.

8. Faith is the ability not to panic.

9. If you worry, you didn't pray . If you pray,don't worry.

10. As a child of God, prayer is kind of like calling home everyday.

11. Blessed are the flexible for they shall not bebent out of shape.

12. The most important things in your house are thepeople.

13. When we get tangled up in our problems, be still. God wants us to be still so He can untangle the knot.

14. A grudge is a heavy thing to carry.

15. He who dies with the most toys is still dead.

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Refreshed Others

Today's Scripture

“A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

God’s system works on the principle of sowing and reaping. Simply put, if you are kind to others, then others will be kind to you. What you sow, you shall reap. When you refresh others, you yourself will be refreshed. That word “refresh” means to restore or revive. When you reach out to others to restore them or offer strength to them, you are planting seeds for your own future.

And there are many ways to refresh others—a smile, a kind word. You might buy someone a tank of gas. You could pay for someone’s groceries in line at the grocery store. You could make a special meal for a friend in need. If you ask God to show you how to refresh others, He will. Get in the habit of looking for ways to be a blessing to other people. Have a generous attitude, step out and refresh others. As you do, you’ll reap an abundant harvest in your life, and you will live the life of blessing the Lord has for you!

A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, thank You for being a blessing to me so that I can be a blessing to others. Show me ways to refresh people in my daily life and help always to honor You in everything I say and do. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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Thirst for God...

Today's Scripture

“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.” (Psalm 42:1-2)

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Does your soul need a refreshing drink of water today? There’s a popular slogan that simply says, “Obey your thirst.” What are you thirsting for? Does your soul thirst for God? When you hunger and thirst for God, you will be satisfied. In the natural, you will crave whatever you constantly feed yourself. In the same way, your soul—which is your mind, will, and emotions—will crave whatever you meditate on and allow to enter your mind through your eyes - what you see and your ears - what you listen to. You can direct your thoughts toward God by focusing on Him and His Word.

The more you meditate on the Word, the more you will think about the scriptures, and the more you will be drawn to Him. Before long, your soul will thirst for God and nothing else will satisfy! The Bible says that His Spirit is like refreshing water and that we are washed and renewed by the water of the Word. Direct your thirst toward God and focus on Him in your everyday life. As you do, you will be refreshed and enjoy the life of blessing He has in store for you!

A Prayer for Today

Heavenly Father, today I choose to set my heart and mind on You. I know that only You can satisfy the longing in my soul. Fill me with Your peace and joy today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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Grace Abounds

Today's Scripture

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. (2 Corinthians 9:8).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

We serve a God of abundance! Our God is more than enough! What is it that you have need of today? No matter what is on your “plate” of life, God wants to pour out His grace on you. One of the meanings of grace is God’s good will, loving-kindness and favor. His grace keeps us, strengthens us, and causes us to increase. In fact, He’s already extending that grace to you right now; all you have to do is open your heart and humbly receive it by faith. Humility is an important key to receiving God’s grace.

If we are prideful and seeking our own ways, it blocks God from working in our lives. But when we are humble and seeking His ways, then He will empower us by His grace. Notice in this verse that when He pours out His grace on you, you will have all that you need at all times…that’s living in abundance! And when you are living in abundance, you are equipped to pour out that goodness and blessing on those around you. Seek Him and His ways today and allow Him to refresh you and empower you with His grace so that you can live the abundant life He has for you!

A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, today I humbly come before You. I surrender my heart, will, mind, and emotions to You. I ask that You pour out Your grace on me today and equip me for every good work. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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Choose to Trust

Today's Scripture

“Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust…” (Psalm 40:4).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Is your trust in the Lord today? Trusting in the Lord is a decision we make just like we choose anything else in life. You chose what to wear today, you probably chose what you would have for breakfast, and you can choose to trust God today, too! Just like the decision to receive salvation, when you choose to trust God, there is a peace that settles on the inside of your heart. There are blessings in store for you when you trust Him. No matter what you are facing in life today, you can have faith that God will come through for you.

You can trust that His Word is always true. In Psalm 32, David calls God his “hiding place.” In other words, not only can you choose to trust God in the midst of your difficulty; you can actually hide in Him and find rest for your soul. When the circumstances of life seem to be overwhelming, choose to trust that God is ordering your steps. Find security in Him knowing that He’s making your crooked places straight and leading you into the everlasting life He has prepared for you!

A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, today I choose to put my trust in You. I know You are a good and faithful God, and I trust that You have my best interest at heart. Help me stay focused on Your goodness today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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The Different Version of LOVE...

THE ORIGINAL VERSION:
If you love somebody, Set her free...
If she comes back, she's yours,
If she doesn't, she never was yours....

THE PESSIMIST VERSION:
If you love somebody, Set her free ...
If she ever comes back, she's yours,
If she doesn't, well, as expected, she never was.

THE OPTIMIST VERSION:
If you love somebody, Set her free ...
Don't worry, she will come back.

THE SUSPICIOUS VERSION:
If you love somebody, Set her free ...
If she ever comes back, ask her why.

THE IMPATIENT VERSION:
If you love somebody, Set her free ...
If she doesn't comes back within some time limit, forget her.

THE PATIENT VERSION:
If you love somebody, Set her free ...
If she doesn't come back, continue to wait until she comes back ...

THE PLAYFUL VERSION:
If you love somebody, Set her free ...
If she comes back, and if you love her still, set her free again...

THE LAWYER'S VERSION:
If you love somebody, Set her free...
Clause 1a of Paragraph 13a-1 in the second amendment of the Matrimonial Freedom Act clearly states that...

THE STATISTICIAN'S VERSION:
If you love somebody, Set her free...
If she loves you, the probability of her coming back is high
If she doesn't, your relationship was improbable anyway.

THE POSSESSIVE VERSION:
If you love somebody don't ever set her free.

THE MBA VERSION:
If you love somebody set her free...instantaneously...and look for others simultaneously.

THE PSYCHOLOGIST'S VERSION:
If you love somebody set her free...
If she comes back, her super ego is dominant
If she doesn't comeback, her iq is supreme
If she doesn't go, she must be crazy.

THE FINANCE EXPERT VERSION:
If you love somebody set her free...
If she comes back, its time to look for fresh loans.
If she doesn't, write her off as an asset gone bad.

THE MARKETING VERSION:
If you love somebody set her free...
If she comes back, she has brand loyalty
If she doesn't, reposition the brand in new markets.

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Why Women Cry?

A little boy asked his mother, "Why are you crying?" "Because I'm awoman," she told him.

"I don't understand," he said. His Mom just hugged him and said, "Andyou never will."

Later the little boy asked his father, "Why does mother seem to cry forno reason?"

"All women cry for no reason," was all his dad could say.

The little boy grew up and became a man, still wondering why women cry.

Finally he put in a call to God. When God got on the phone, he asked,"God, why do women cry so easily?" God said: "When I made the woman she had to be special.

I made her shoulders strong enough to carry the weight of the world, yetgentle enough to give comfort.

I gave her an inner strength to endure childbirth and the rejection thatmany times comes from her children.

I gave her a hardness that allows her to keep going when everyone elsegives up, and take care of her family through sickness and fatiguewithout complaining.

I gave her the sensitivity to love her children under any and allcircumstances, even when her child has hurt her very badly.

I gave her strength to carry her husband through his faults andfashioned her from his rib to protect his heart.

I gave her wisdom to know that a good husband never hurts his wife, butsometimes tests her strengths and her resolve to stand beside himunfalteringly. And finally,

I gave her a tear to shed. This is hers exclusively to usewhenever it is needed."

"You see my son," said God, "the beauty of a woman is not in the clothesshe wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair.

The beauty of a woman must be seen in her eyes, because that is thedoorway to her heart - the place where love resides."

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God's Open Letter to the World

To Listen and Read Just Click Here

Please give comments about God's Open Letter to the World.

Thanks for your time :-)

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Belly Tecson's Life Testimony

By: Belly Tecson

Freedom

Freedom! This is the cry of the people who are in prison, to be set free. I grew up in a strict family. As the only child, my parents were so strict in my studies, and friends I spend time with. They taught me to live a good life and do good works.

During my childhood, every time I was caught doing things that displeased them, my parents disciplined me through beatings. My parents didn’t permit me to go to far places to hang out with my friends. They always checked my activities and the people I’m with. That made me feel like a prisoner bound by the chains of do’s and don’ts. During my High School, they enrolled me in private school 10 kilometers away from our home.

From that on, I took the advantage and started to rebel with my parents. I started going home late and I learned to skip classes just to hang out with my friends playing computer games and strolling. I’ve learned to cheat, lust and did many things that even displeased God. It was because of my rebellion that, at one time, caused my father’s high blood pressure.

After that moment, I asked forgiveness from my parents and wanted to change myself. But when I went to college during our first semester, my life turned for the worse. I failed a subject but that did not stop me from always hanging out with my friend at night going to very compromising places which caused me to sin.

November 29, 2001, while I was cleaning my room, I found a booklet brought by my board mate that talks about Jesus and the things that He did on the cross for my sins. When I read that booklet, I realized that I need to receive Christ as my Lord and Savior for me to experience change from the inside out and experience freedom from sin. After that, I made a decision in my life and received Him, by faith through prayer, surrendering my life to Him.

My new life with Christ enabled me to cope with peer pressure, rebellion, lust and cheating. I hungered for God’s Word and desired to grow in my relationship with him. It was in my relationship with God that I experience true freedom – freedom from sin and freedom from do’s and don’ts. God assures me that I am forgiven through Christ’s death on the cross and I am set free from sin because of what He did. He helped me understand the process, not to live in performance to gain His favor and love, but to live in freedom in obedience to His Word out of love and gratitude for Him. Finally, I am truly FREE!

War Story #1 Spiritual Multiplication

Let me share the impact of Spiritual Multiplication. It was in 2001 that I received Christ. In 2002, one of the volunteer staff of CCC shared Christ in our classroom and one of my classmates, Albert, received Christ as his Lord and Savior. After that moment he expressed his desire to grow in his relationship with God. My discipler told me that I would help him grow in his relationship with God.

At first I was hesitant to handle him in our bible study because he was an idealistic man. He had an activist heart; he believed that change in the society will happen only through civil war. He had a rebellious heart towards the government. But God changed him. He realized that only God can change man from the inside out and in turn will result to a change in society.

In 2003, Albert shared the Gospel to Mark and discipled him. In 2004, Mark led Jan Michael to Christ and discipled him. Jan Michael became passionate to share Christ with other students. In 2006, he also led his father to Christ. His father became involved in a Church and is growing in his relationship with God. That is 3 generations of disciples in 4 years. To God be the glory!

War Story #2 Broken Man

I met a guy 2 years ago. His name is Christian. I shared my faith to him and discipled him. He came from a broken family. He was involved in different kinds of vices like drugs, liquor and premarital sex before he became a Christian. When I shared Christ to him, he received Him as his Lord and Savior. After that moment he still struggled with his identity and had a hard time understanding and experiencing God’s love because of his past.

At times doubts crept in his mind. He had difficulty trusting God about his struggles. After one year God changed him slowly. God mended his broken heart. God helped him to overcome his vices. He experienced God’s love and forgiveness and learned to trust God with his life. Last year he learned how to share his faith and how to help others grow in their relationship with God.

Through his experience he became passionate in helping students know Christ. He realized that there were some students like him that needed the Lord. He also had the opportunity to minister to one of the students that also came from a broken family.

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The MIRACLE in Business...

Jesus replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." ~ Matthew 17:20

Does God do miracles in business?

Is He concerned about the mountains we face in our work life?

Does He want us to bring the everyday problems we face in the workplace to His attention?

The answer to every one of these questions is yes. God wants to be involved in every aspect of our lives.

Gunnar Olson, the Swedish founder of the International Christian Chamber of Commerce, tells a story about God performing a miracle in his own business a few years ago. He owns a plastics company in Sweden. They make huge plastic bags that are used to cover bales of hay in the farmlands across Europe. It was the harvest season and they were getting ready to ship thousands of pallets of these bags to their customers.

More than 1,000 pallets were ready to ship when an alarming discovery was made. Every bag on the warehouse floor had sealed shut from top to bottom. Scientists declared the entire stock as worthless trash. Nothing could be done. The company would go out of business.

Gunnar, his wife, and children sought the Lord in prayer about this catastrophe. The Holy Spirit spoke through various family members. The wife said, "If God can turn water into wine, what are plastics?" The daughter said, "I don't believe this is from the Lord. We should stand against it."

Gunnar sensed they were to trust God for a miracle in this situation. They began to pray. They took authority over this mountain of a problem based on Matthew 17, which gave them the authority to cast a mountain into the sea if faith only the size of a mustard seed could be exercised.

The following Monday they went to the warehouse and laid hands on every pallet asking the Lord to restore the bags to their original condition. It took several hours.

Later, the employees began to inspect the bags. As they inspected the bags, they discovered that every single bag had been restored to its original condition! An incredible miracle had taken place.

What obstacles have been placed in your life that need a miracle today?

Could God be setting the stage in your life for you to trust Him at new levels you've never trusted before?

God sets the stage to allow His power to be revealed for those willing to exercise the faith of a mustard seed.

All things are possible with God.

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Who Is Your Daddy?

A number of years ago a seminary professor was vacationing with his wife in Gatlinburg, Tennessee where they were eating breakfast at a little restaurant, hoping to enjoy a quiet family meal.

While they were waiting for their food, they noticed a distinguished looking, white-haired man moving from table to table visiting with the guests.

The professor leaned over and whispered to his wife: "I hope he doesn't come over here." But sure enough, the man did come over to their table. "Where are you folks from?" he asked in a friendly voice. "Oklahoma," they answered. "Great to have you here in Tennessee," the stranger said. "What do you do for a living?" "I teach at a seminary," he replied. "Oh, you teach preachers how to preach? Well, I've got a really great story for you."

And with that, the gentleman pulled up a chair and sat down at the table with the couple. "See that mountain over there?" (pointing out the restaurant window). Not far from the base of that mountain, there was a boy born to an unwed mother.

He had a hard time growing up, because every place he went, he was always asked the same question: 'Hey boy, Who's your daddy?' Whether he was at school, in the grocery store or drug store, people would ask the same question, "Who's your daddy?"

He would hide at recess and lunchtime from other students. He would avoid going into stores because that question hurt him so bad. When he was about 12 years old, a new preacher came to his church. He would always go in late and slip out early to avoid hearing the question, "Who's your daddy?"

But one day, the new preacher said the benediction so fast he got caught and had to walk out with the crowd. Just about the time he got to the back door, the new preacher not knowing anything about him, put his hand on his shoulder and asked him, "Son, who's your daddy?"

The whole church got deathly quiet. He could feel every eye in the church looking at him. By now, everyone knew the answer to the question, 'Who's your daddy?'

This new preacher, though, sensed the situation around him and using discernment that only the Holy Spirit could give, said the following to that scared little boy... '

Wait a minute!' he said, 'I know who you are. I see the family resemblance now. You are a child of God.' With that he patted the boy on his shoulder and said: 'Boy, you've got a great inheritance. Go and claim it.' With that, the boy smiled for the first time in a long time and walked out the door a changed person. He was never the same again.

Whenever anybody asked him, 'Who's your Daddy?' he'd just tell them, 'I'm a Child of God.' The distinguished gentleman got up from the table and said, "Isn't that a great story?"

The professor responded that it really was a great story! As the man turned to leave, he said, "You know, if that new preacher hadn't told me that I was one of God's children, I probably never would have amounted to anything!"

And he walked away. The seminary professor and his wife were stunned. He called the waitress over and asked her, "Do you know who that man was who just left who was sitting at our table?" The waitress grinned and said, "Of course. Everybody here knows him.

That's Ben Hooper. He's the former governor of Tennessee!"

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God Lead's You To Victory

Today's Scripture

“But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory making us conquerors through our Lord Jesus Christ” (I Corinthians 15:57).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

God desires that you live in victory in every area of your life. The scripture says He always causes us to triumph through Christ Jesus! No matter what you may be facing today, God wants to make you more than a conqueror. Are you battling sickness? God wants to give you healing. Are you struggling with a broken relationship? God wants to give you restoration and peace. Are you facing a need—physically, spiritually, or emotionally? God wants to give you provision and supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. Notice this verse starts out by saying, “Thanks be to God…”

Many times in the Bible when God’s people were going into battle, the worshipers were out in front of the warriors. When you choose to be thankful and bless the Lord in the midst of your battle, you are making a way for Him to move in your life. Start today by thanking Him for His goodness and the promise to give you the victory. Magnify your God, don’t magnify your problems! As you do, you’ll see Him move on your behalf, and He’ll lead you into victory in every area of your life!

A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, today I give You thanks for Your mercy and faithfulness in my life. Thank You for leading me in to victory! I magnify You and bless Your holy Name today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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A Woman's Question...

When we fall in love with the beauty of the face of our lover, that love fades with every wrinkle that time would bring. It is when we fall in love with the heart that such love grows and blooms into a flower worthy of Eden.

What makes marriage so special and precious is the fact that it is ever-humbling. What makes it ever-humbling is the fact that another person, another human being, another mortal, with life as fleeting as our own, with such a short time to stay in this world, chose to spend and commit the rest of his or her life with us.

And once we have truly grasped the shortness of life, the preciousness of mortality and the beauty of moments that pass with the whispers of every breath, time becomes golden in our eyes. And what makes this even more of a treasure is the fact that this time is spent with us.

These golden times and moments become as diamonds. And as the ancients used to say, where your treasure is, there your heart is also.

Who am I to deserve a gift as gentle as the twinkle of a star?

Who am I to receive a treasure as priceless as the song of a silent waterfall?

How could I hope to believe that I deserve an ounce of another’s fragile heart.

Here I am, trying to stay deserving, yet ever-failing, holding on to the hope that she cares enough to give me that angel-kiss.

Here I am, struggling to stay moldable in the Potter’s hands.

Here I am, here I am, waiting, hoping, believing.

A Woman's Question
-Lena Lethropdo

You know you have asked for the costliest thingever made by the Hand above?

A woman's heart, and a woman's life-and a woman's wonderful love.

Do you know you have asked for this priceless thingas a child might ask for a toy?

Demanding what others have died to win,with the reckless dash of a boy.

You have written my lesson of duty out, manlike, you have questioned me.now stand at the bars of my woman's souluntil i shall question thee. You require your mutton shall always be hot, your socks and your shirt be whole; I require your heart be true as God's starsand as pure as His heaven your soul.

You require a cook for your mutton and beef, I require a far greater thing; a seamstress you're wanting for socks and shirts-I look for a man and a king. A king for the beautiful realm called Home, and a man that his Maker, God, shall look upon as He did on the firstand say: "It is very good. "I am fair and young, but the rose may fadefrom this soft young cheek one day; will you love me then 'mid the falling leaves, as you did 'mong the blossoms of May?

Is your heart an ocean so strong and true, I may launch my all on its tide? A loving woman finds heaven or hellon the day she is made a bride.

I require all things that are grand and true, all things that a man should be; if you give this all, I would stake my life to be all you demand of me. If you cannot be this, a laundress and a cook you can hire and little to pay; but a woman's heart and a woman's lifeare not to be won that way.

Ladies, keep your standards high. Require all things that are grand and true. Don't lower your standards for a moment; any guy who asks you to do so is not worth your time.

Men, have we grasped the costliness, the pricelessness, of a woman's love? It is no small thing, no game, to invite a woman to accompany us through life. May we earn the right to make such a request by striving to be men of integrity- men whose hearts are strong and true. Then, and only then, should we stand at the bars of a woman's soul and ask to gain entrance.

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Embrace Change

Today's Scripture

He changes times and seasons.” -Daniel 2:21

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

God is always looking to take us to higher levels. He wants us to grow and increase in every area of life. Change is often a catalyst for growth in our lives. It keeps us from getting stuck in a rut. God will supernaturally open and close doors to keep us on the path toward our destiny. He will “stir us” out of comfortable situations and stretch us because He loves us too much to allow us to live in mediocrity. Just like a mother eagle will stir her young, God will stir His children. Do you know how an eaglet learns to fly?

That eagle will take her eaglet to the very highest point—way out of its comfort zone—and then she releases it. As the eaglet falls, the mother swoops down and picks it back up again. She does this over and over until the eaglet spreads its wings and soars through the air. That’s what God wants for you today. He wants you to soar in life! You might feel like that eaglet learning to fly, but know that God is right there with you! He’ll never leave you. Embrace God’s change today, knowing that He is using it to take you up higher so that you can live in victory all the days of your life!

A Prayer for Today

Dear God, today I open my heart and mind to receive all that You have for me. I trust that You are with me directing my every step. I embrace Your seasons of change and thank You for helping me grow and increase in every area. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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The Perfect Mistake

My Mother's father worked as a carpenter. On this particular day, he was building some crates for the clothes his church was sending to orphanages in China. On his way home, he reached into his shirt pocket to find his glasses, but they were gone. When he mentally replayed his earlier actions, he realized what had happened; the glasses had slipped out of his pocket unnoticed and fallen into one of the crates, which he had nailed shut. His brand new glasses were heading for China!

The Great Depression was at its height and Grandpa had six children. He had spent $20 for those glasses that very morning. He was really upset by the thought of having to buy another pair. "It's not fair," he told God as he drove home in frustration. "I've been very faithful in giving of my time and money to your work, and now this."

Months later, the director of the orphanage was on furlough in the United States. He wanted to visit all the churches that supported him in China, so he came to speak one Sunday at my grandfather's small church in Chicago.

The missionary began by thanking the people for their faithfulness in supporting the orphanage. "But most of all," he said, "I must thank you for the glasses you sent last year. You see, the Communists had just swept through the orphanage, destroying everything, including my glasses. I was desperate. Even if I had the money, there was simply no way of replacing those glasses. Along with not being able to see well, I experienced headaches every day, so my coworkers and I were much in prayer about this. Then your crates arrived.

When my staff removed the covers, they found a pair of glasses wedged between two blankets. The missionary paused long enough to let his words sink in. Then, still gripped with the wonder of it all, he continued: "Folks, when I tried on the glasses, it was as though they had been custom made just for me! I want to thank you for being a part of that."

The people listened, happy for the miraculous glasses. But the missionary surely must have confused their church with another, they thought. There were no glasses on their list of items to be sent overseas. But sitting quietly in the back, with tears streaming down his face, an ordinary carpenter realized the Master Carpenter had used him in an extraordinary way.

There are times we want to blame God instead of thanking him! Perhaps it is something we ought to try more often, "Thank you, God, for not allowing my car to start this morning." He may have been saving your life from a car accident. "Lord Jesus, thank you for letting me lose my glasses; I'm sure they'll be put to good use or there is a lesson to be learned."

I have to remember this in these times of trial with my own family.

May GOD bless your week. Look for the perfect mistakes. God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. - Phil 4:19

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Ask For Wisdom

Today's Scripture

“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Do you need wisdom for something today? Ask God. He loves it when you call upon Him, and He longs to give generously to you. Do you need wisdom to lead your family? Do you need wisdom on your job? Do you need wisdom for a decision you have to make in life? Ask God! The next verse goes on to say that when you ask, you must ask in faith without wavering. That means you have to be absolutely determined to get your answer from Him. You can’t just ask and then decide to do things your own way, or doubt that He will give you the answer. That’s being double-minded.

When you’re double-minded, the Bible says you won’t be able to receive anything from the Lord. Don’t let that be you! Have a one-track mind that’s focused on God and His promises. Believe that He is going to generously bless you with His wisdom. As you keep an attitude of faith and expectancy, He’ll cause you to rise higher and higher, and you’ll live the abundant life He has in store for you!

A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, thank You for being a good and generous God. Thank You for pouring out Your abundant blessing in my life. Keep my heart and mind focused on You always. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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Mustard Seed Faith

Today's Scripture

“If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea’ and it will obey you” (Luke 17:6).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

A mustard seed is a very small thing. But when it’s planted, it grows into a huge tree. In the same way, Jesus is saying that a little bit of faith can bring tremendous results! As a believer in Him, you already have enough faith on the inside of you to overcome any obstacle. The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead actually dwells in you! It doesn’t matter if you grew up in church or not; it doesn’t matter what you know or don’t know; God wants to work in your life today. And you may not see how, but all you have to do is believe God. With God, all things are possible.

Do you have mustard seed faith today? The Bible says that faith without works is dead. When you have faith, your words and actions reflect it. Take a step of faith today and declare your trust in Him. Even if you don’t see how, declare that God is working behind the scenes in your life. As you act on your mustard seed faith, you’ll see it grow stronger and stronger, and you will live in victory all the days of your life!

A Prayer for Today

Father God, today I confess my trust and reliance on You. Thank You for depositing seeds of faith in my heart so that I can live in total victory. I believe that with You all things are possible! In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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The Taxi Driver Story

Twenty years ago, I drove a cab for a living. It was a cowboy's life, a life for someone who wanted no boss. What I didn't realize was that it was also a ministry. Because I drove the night shift, my cab became a moving confessional. Passengers climbed in, sat behind me in total anonymity, and told me about their lives.

I encountered people whose lives amazed me, ennobled me, made me laugh and weep. But none touched me more than a woman I picked up late one August night. I was responding to a call from a small brick four-plex in a quiet part of town.

I assumed I was being sent to pick up some partyers, or someone who had just had a fight with a lover, or a worker heading to an early shift at some factory for the industrial part of town.

When I arrived at 2:30 a.m., the building was dark except for a single light in a ground floor window. Under such circumstances, many drivers just honk once or twice, wait a minute, then drive away. But I had seen too many impoverished people who depended on taxis as their only means of transportation. Unless a situation smelled of danger, I always went to the door. This passenger might be someone who needs my assistance, I reasoned to myself. So I walked to the door and knocked."

Just a minute," answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear something being dragged across the floor. After a long pause, the door opened. A small woman in her 80s stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned on it, like somebody out of a 1940s movie. By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one had lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets. There were no clocks on the walls, no knickknacks or utensils on the counters.

In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware. "Would you carry my bag out to the car?" she said. I took the suitcase to the cab, then returned to assist the woman. She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb. She kept thanking me for my kindness. "It's nothing," I told her. "I just try to treat my passengers the way I would want my mother treated.""Oh, you're such a good boy," she said. When we got in the cab, she gave me an address, then asked, "Can you drive through downtown?" "It's not the shortest way," I answered quickly. "Oh, I don't mind," she said. "I'm in no hurry. I'm on my way to a hospice." I looked in the rearview mirror. Her eyes were glistening. "I don't have any family left," she continued. "The doctor says I don't have very long."I quietly reached over and shut off the meter. "What route would you like me to take?" I asked.

For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the building where she had once worked as an elevator operator. We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when they were newlyweds. She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl. Sometimes she'd ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and would sit staring into the darkness,saying nothing.

As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, "I'm tired. Let's go now." We drove in silence to the address she had given me. It was a low building, like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico. Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been expecting her. I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was already seated in a wheelchair. "How much do I owe you?" she asked, reaching into her purse."Nothing," I said. "You have to make a living," she answered. "There are other passengers," I responded.

Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me tightly. "You gave an old woman a little moment of joy," she said. "Thank you." I squeezed her hand, then walked into the dim morning light. Behind me, a door shut. It was the sound of the closing of a life. I didn't pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly, lost in thought.

For the rest of that day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift? What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven away? On a quick review, I don't think that I have done anything more important in my life.

We're conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments. But great moments often catch us unaware beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a small one.

PEOPLE MAY NOT REMEMBER EXACTLY WHAT YOU DID, OR WHAT YOU SAID,~ BUT ~THEY WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL.

==>>CLICK HERE

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Hello Friends, I Have A Good News For You To Share :-)

Last 22 April 2008 (Tuesday), I received and email from Blogged.com

I am so glad, blessed and inspired to share it to you guys...

============================

Dear Jaime Parmis,

Our editors recently reviewed your blog and have given it an 8.2 score out of (10) in the Society/Religion & Spirituality category of Blogged.com.

This is quite an achievement!

http://www.Goodnews.visit.ws

We evaluated your blog based on the following criteria: Frequency of Updates, Relevance of Content, Site Design, and Writing Style.

After carefully reviewing each of these criteria, your site was given its 8.2 score.

We’ve also created Blogged.com score badges with your score prominently displayed. Simply visit your website’s summary page on Blogged.com:

Click on the "Show this rating on your blog!" link underneath the score and follow the instructions provided.

Please accept my congratulations on a blog well-done!!

Sincerely,

Amy Liu
Marketing
www.blogged.com

=================================

I thank you guys for those of you who had visited my blog and was blessed and inspired to read the aritcles written there in...

God bless.

James Parmis - http://www.JamesParmis.com

==========================================

Undergoing MyBlogLog Verification

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What Women Do Not Know

Women are like apples on trees.

The best ones are at the top of the tree.

Most men don't want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid of falling and getting hurt.

Instead, they just get the rotten apples from the ground that aren't as good, but easy......

So the apples at the top think something is wrong with them, when in reality, they're amazing.

They just have to wait for the right man to come along, the one who's brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree.....

So girls, just wait patiently OK???

==>>CLICK HERE

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The Ice Cream Prayer...

Nothing is more precious than the beauty of a child's perception...

Last week I took my children to a restaurant. My six-year-old son asked if he could say grace. As we bowed our heads he said, "God is good. God is great. Thank you for the food, and I would even thank you more if Mom gets us ice cream for dessert. And Liberty and justice for all! Amen!"

Along with the laughter from the other customers nearby I heard a woman remark, "That's what's wrong with this country. Kids today don't even know how to pray. Asking God for ice cream! Why, I never!"

Hearing this, my son burst into tears and asked me, "Did I do it wrong? Is God mad at me?"

As I held him and assured him that he had done a terrific job and God was certainly not mad at him, an elderly gentleman approached the table.

He winked at my son and said, "I happen to know that God thought that was a great prayer." "Really?" my son asked. "Cross my heart." Then in a theatrical whisper he added (indicating the woman whose remark had started this whole thing), "Too bad she never asks God for ice cream. A little ice cream is good for the soul sometimes."

Naturally, I bought my kids ice cream at the end of the meal. My son stared at his for a moment and then did something I will remember the rest of my life.

He picked up his sundae and without a word walked over and placed it in front of the woman.

With a big smile he told her, "Here, this is for you. Ice cream is good for the soul sometimes, and my soul is good already."

==>>CLICK HERE

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God Gives Strength

Today's Scripture

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak” -Isaiah 40:29

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Have you ever felt backed into a corner about a particular situation, and you couldn’t see a way out? We’ve all felt overwhelmed by the circumstances of life at one time or another. Be encouraged today because the Bible says in Isaiah that when you cry to God for help, as soon as He hears, He will answer you! He will give you strength when you are weary and increase your power when you feel weak.

No matter what is going on in your life today, God is greater than any obstacle or difficulty you may be facing. Do you need strength today to overcome a challenge in your life? Do you need power to stand strong in the midst of a storm? Call on Him and He will hear you. The answer is on the way while the words are still on your lips! Open your heart and by faith receive His strength and might, and let Him empower you to live in victory all the days of your life!

A Prayer for Today Father in heaven, thank You for hearing and answering my prayers. Fill me with Your strength and power today. I give You my whole heart and ask that You remove anything from my life that isn’t pleasing to You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

==>>CLICK HERE

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Living a Resurrected Life

Living a Resurrected Life
By: Joel Osteen

Every person goes through adversities or times of difficulty. Maybe you didn’t get a promotion you deserved, or you lost a loved one, a friend betrayed you. It’s easy to get negative and bitter and lose your enthusiasm for life, but understand today, you are not defined by your past, you are prepared by your past. Every challenge you’ve been through, every adversity you’ve faced, God has deposited something on the inside of you.

Your character was being developed. Strength was being increased. Your vision was being enlarged. With every difficulty, you can experience a new level of God’s goodness! You may have had unfair things happen, but remember, all things work together for good when you love the Lord! It doesn’t say that all things are good, but God will turn your test into a testimony.

No matter what challenge you may be facing now, no matter what you’ve experienced in your past, if you’ll stay in faith God will turn it around for your good! Choose to have a resurrection mentality—you may have gone through an emotional death, and burial but it’s time for you to rise again. God wants to give you His beauty for ashes, and joy for mourning. He wants to bring you out stronger, happier, healthier, better off than you were before!

==>>CLICH HERE

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Something Out Of Nothing

Today's Scripture

“The earth was formless and void…and God said, Let there be light.” (Genesis 1:2-3).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Are you believing God for something today that seems impossible? We serve a great and mighty God. and He can create something out of nothing. He can make a way when there seems to be no way! Genesis tells us that in the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. But before He spoke the world into existence, it was formless and void. If God can make the world out of nothing, He can take the empty places in your life and create something beautiful, too! He can speak light into your darkest hour. He can take your formless dreams and give them shape. He can resurrect your dormant gifts and talents! He can make your crooked places straight!

Remember, you are created in the image of almighty God. There’s power in your words, and there’s power when you’re in agreement with Him. Start saying what God says about your situation. Speak life to your broken dreams, today. Stay in an attitude of faith and expectancy. As you do, God will take you places that you’ve never dreamed, and you’ll live in victory all the days of your life!

A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, I trust that You are willing and able to make a way where there seems to be no way in my life. Fill me with Your peace and faith and give me a vision for all You have for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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Is Praying Supposed To Be Fun?

By: Bo Sanchez

Yes, If You Use Your Own Prayer Language.

Do you struggle praying daily?
I did. For years.
But no matter what I felt, I prayed anyway. That was the “teaching” and “rule” for good
Christians like me.

So each day, I went into my room and talked to God.

30 minutes, I was taught. So 30 minutes I did.
Some days, it was Ok.
Some days, it was like being root-canalled.
Or lipo-suctioned. (Just in case you’re wondering, I’ve never experienced it, but my friends tell me it’s torture.)

During those difficult days of prayer, every part of me wanted to get out of that room. I felt so dry. So empty. So distant from God.

And I didn’t know why. Why did I feel so depressed?
I simply concluded it was the spiritual dryness that saints experienced regularly (Ahem.) I read that St. Therese of Avila had spiritual dryness that lasted for 20 years. Who was I to complain?

Until I stumbled upon what I now call “Prayer Language”.
Today, I realize that perhaps many people’s spiritual dryness come from simply not loving themselves. How? By not respecting their own personality, not listening to their needs, and not using their own prayer language.

My Spiritual Arrogance

Once upon a time, I thought there was only one way of praying: My way!
My way of praying meant going to a room, sitting down or standing up, and singing, listening, and talking to God. For years, I’d teach people to do this exact same thing. I called it “Prayer Time” and it had only one definition—Mine.

I remember a woman who said, “Bo, I do my gardening every morning. And when I do, I imagine Him gardening beside me. Surrounded by the fresh air and the beauty of the flowers around me, I spend time with Him. As I dirty my hands with the soil of the earth, I’m blessed. And I feel so refreshed each morning…”

I frowned at her. I said, “That’s nice. But you still need a formal prayer time where you go into a room—and then sit down and stand up. And then use A.C.T.S.—Adoration, Contrition, Thanksgiving, and Supplication…”

Forgive me Lord for my spiritual arrogance!

Perhaps a part of me looked down on anyone who was having too much fun in their prayer life. How could she when I was suffering through my prayers?
I never saw that she was probably closer to God than I was.

Because God made her a gardener. And He was meeting her in the garden. God was talking to her with the prayer language He gave her.

What Is Your Prayer Language?

I still meet people who insist that others pray the way they pray.

“You should go to the Blessed Sacrament and kneel for an hour…”
“You should pray in tongues…”
“You should pray the Liturgy of the Hours…”
“You should pray, worship, jump, and dance like in a prayer meeting…”
“You should pray the rosary…”
“You should pray in quiet, emptying your mind…”

All of the above are prayer languages.

But never the language.

There is no such thing.

Today, I tell people to discover their own prayer language.
I did.

And boy, did I feel relieved that my prayer language wasn’t going into a room and doing the A.C.T.S. No wonder I had great difficulty! I felt disconnected.

My Prayer Language?

Here’s what I do for my daily time with God….

In the morning, I walk out of the house and pray in tongues. That’s just a few minutes of walking slowly, absorbing the sunlight, and inhaling God’s Presence and the beauty of the new day. I claim the blessings of the day. I pray the Novena to God’s Love prayer.

Why do I pray outside? Because I love nature. I feel God’s Presence much more outdoors than indoors. That’s just how God made me.

I then go into the house, fire up my laptop, and “pray” my Dreambook. This is a 15-page document that lists my ultimate mission in life. (My mission in life is composed of 4 words: “To Communicate God’s Love”.) It also lists my long-term dreams as well as my goals for the year. Why do I pray this way? Because God designed my psychology as a “futurist”.

And then, I start writing. I write my prayers, my reflections, and my insights. When I do this, I feel God’s Presence in a very palpable way. Why? Because God made me a writer, and writing is my prayer language.

I no longer struggle much when I pray.

I love praying. I have fun.
Because now, prayer can be all these activities and more.
Because I’m not stuck with one way of praying.
Because I’m using my prayer language—the language God gave me.
Because prayer is a relationship, not a fixed set of things to do imposed upon me by other people.

Hey, I’ve now come to respect the prayer languages of my friends too…

Examples of Prayer Languages

· One of my friends is a music lover. So each morning, he plays his worship CD. And he sings along for the next 8 to 10 songs, worshipping the Lord. He tells me that this prayer time really connects him to the Lord.

· My athletic uncle jogged daily. (He’s 80 now, so he’s slowed down.) But for years, he ran for miles. And he told me that each morning, he’d talk to God like the Almighty was jogging right beside him.

· A friend loves quiet. She walks to a nearby chapel and spends quiet time before the Blessed Sacrament. She loves it.

Praying Creatively In Difficult Circumstances
Some friends pray in creative ways by the force of their circumstances. In my immature days, I used to judge them, insisting that they “find” proper time for God. Today, I’ve come to admire them very much…

· A friend lives in Sta. Rosa Laguna and travels two hours to work and another two hours going home. She can sleep only 4 hours a day. But thanks to the heavy roadwork now in South Luzon Express Way, her relationship with God has been repaired too. Half of her travel time, she sleeps. And the other half, she turns the bus into her private chapel.

· A new mother can only grab snippets of prayer when she makes her baby sleep. Her “lullabies” are worship songs.

Friend, are you having difficulty praying daily?

What is your prayer language?

Tell me about it in the comments below. And share it to the world too. Someone might get encouraged by your way of praying.

==>>CLICK HERE

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The Amazing Bridge Keeper

The Bridge Keeper
http://www.JamesParmis.com

There once was a bridge which spanned a large river. During most of the day the bridge sat with its length running up and down the river paralleled with the banks, allowing ships to pass through freely on both sides of the bridge. But at certain times each day, a train would come along and the bridge would be turned sideways across the river, allowing a train to cross it. A switchman sat in a small shack on one side of the river where he operated the controls to turn the bridge and lock it into place as the train crossed.

One evening as the switchman was waiting for the last train of the day to come, he looked off into the distance through the dimming twilight and caught sight of the train lights. He stepped to the control and waited until the train was within a prescribed distance when he was to turn the bridge. He turned the bridge into position, but, to his horror, he found the locking control did not work. If the bridge was not securely in position it would wobble back and forth at the ends when the train came onto it, causing the train to jump the track and go crashing into the river. This would be a passenger train with many people aboard.

He left the bridge turned across the river, and hurried across the bridge to the other side of the river where there was a lever switch he could hold to operate the lock manually. He would have to hold the lever back firmly as the train crossed. He could hear the rumble of the train now, and he took hold of the lever and leaned backward to apply his weight to it, locking the bridge. He kept applying the pressure to keep the mechanism locked. Many lives depended on this man's strength. Then, coming across the bridge from the direction of his control shack, he heard a sound that made his blood run cold. “Daddy, where are you?” His four-year-old son was crossing the bridge to look for him.

His first impulse was to cry out to the child, “Run! Run!” But the train was too close; the tiny legs would never make it across the bridge in time. The man almost left his lever to run and snatch up his son and carry him to safety. But he realized that he could not get back to the lever. Either the people on the train or his little son must die. He took a moment to make his decision.
The train sped safely and swiftly on its way, and no one aboard was even aware of the tiny broken body thrown mercilessly into the river by the onrushing train. Nor were they aware of the pitiful figure of the sobbing man, still clinging tightly to the locking lever long after the train had passed. They did not see him walking home more slowly than he had ever walked: to tell his wife how their son had brutally died.

Now if you comprehend the emotions which went through this man's heart, you can begin to understand the feelings of God in Heaven when He sacrificed His only Son Jesus to bridge the gap between us and eternal life. Can there be any wonder that He caused the earth to tremble and the skies to darken when His Son died naked on the cross? How does He feel when we speed along through life without giving a thought to what was done for us through Jesus Christ? How can you reject Jesus by simply saying I'm not ready, I'm not mature, my faith is different?

==>>CLICK HERE

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Heavenly Encounter

Heavenly Encounter
By: Sandy Turner

On this day, July 8, 1995, I needed very much to feel the love of the Lord and be close to Him. I was weary from trying to stand for my family and for direction in my life. The prayer meeting tonight was to be a special time of fellowship with the Father as it is each time we meet. Our leading minister, began even before praise and worship with scripture from (I Corinthians 13) and (II Corinthians 3), saying this is what God put on his heart on the way to the meeting, to help us understand how much the Father wanted to bless us and minister to us. But there was a spirit of distraction that would get in the way; we had to come against that and all come to the Father with repentance and a longing to be with Him.

We stood up in a circle holding hands and began singing songs of praise to the Lord, led by another minister of God. I noticed it became so peaceful and the praises were soothing to the mind, soul, and body. Our voices joined and raised to the Father; it was so beautiful, I felt the girl on my left, drop my hand, I looked to see her fall to the floor, face down and hands out in front of her. Moments later the girl on my right, dropped my hand and I looked to see her drop to the floor as the other girl did. The presence of glory was all around us - I couldn't stop speaking in my languages to the Father - I wanted so much to be closer. The singing was so beautiful, I was so caught up in the singing and the voices of praise that I was not sure where I was - I heard someone say, "O Glory to God!" I tried to open my eyes and saw the pastor down on his knees and face to the floor, praising God, and all of our voices and languages were raised to the Father.

I saw the clock in front of me that said 8:30pm. My eyes closed and I felt so light on my feet, like I was floating, I no longer could feel anything under my feet. I heard singing, the most beautiful singing I have ever heard. I thought, could this be us, is this how we sound? I looked around and I realized I was not where I thought I was. I saw our group there, with me standing there, but I was looking down. I kept praying and praising the Lord. Then, all around me was pitch black. As I was gliding through this blackness, I saw a light and I was headed right for it. It got brighter and larger until I was totally in it. I could not see anything at first, I did hear music, voices of such beauty singing; I could not fathom where I was, all I knew was that I was not in that room and it was not us I heard singing. As I looked around, I saw streets of gold. I was in Heaven for real and that beautiful sound I heard was the sound of angels singing. I then saw two angels very clearly for they were right next to me, the others were hidden by the brightness of the light but I could see different shapes and sizes of angels. The angel closest to me I remembered from a vision I had 3 weeks before I was attacked in Sept of 1986. He was the one destroying the evil beings, laying me down, pulling my covers up and then touching my head in a gentle manner. I wanted to know who he was. Then, this magnificent presence approached me. It was Christ. He was huge. He appeared as John described Him in Revelations. I could not see His whole being but I knew His face and His love; His hair was flowing and white, His eyes were like fire but the warmth, compassion, and love could be felt and it was such an exuberant feeling flowing all through my body. Jesus spoke, which reverberated all through my body, and said, "My Father and I are so pleased with your willingness to intercede for others."

The Holy Spirit was giving me interpretation of some of these things at that time and more now as I try to tell all that happened as I've been asked to do. You see, nothing was spoken in English - all beautiful languages - Jesus reached out his hand to take my hand and said, "I want to take you to the Father." I was elated and floating by Jesus' side. I was looking all around me as we moved toward an even brighter light. I saw a massive brightness and at times I could see a huge gold and jeweled throne, part of it exposed briefly for the brightness engulfed so much around it. Jesus pointed out the Book of Life, a gorgeous book covered in jewels, sparkling so magnificently, He showed me my name written in the Lambs' Book of Life. He said when we came to stand before Him; we will see our lives laid out before us.
I looked up where I saw the throne and out from there was a river flowing out of it, right under me. Jesus said this is the river of living water. On either side I saw trees and flowers and fruit. One tree was massive and it branched over the river to the other side, it had beautiful leaves on it and fruit; I could reach up with one hand and grab fruit and leaves from it and also with the other hand reach and touch it. Jesus said, "this; is the tree of life, the tree from which you shall eat." On either side of me as we continued toward the throne and the Father, I saw mansions, beautiful stone and gem studded mansions. The sparkling jewels in themselves were blinding but reflected by the brightness of the glory of Jesus and the Father; there was before me the most beautiful prism of light I have ever seen or could ever imagine. I don't think there are the words or colors in this world known to man to describe the beauty of what I saw. The prism, and all the splendor of heaven, was so breathtaking, that, I could never have imagined any of it. My feeble mind could never have conjured up any of this.

When we arrived somewhat close to the Father, His Glory was so brilliant, I could not hold my head up. I could not see a form, only brilliant light. Jesus said, "when you've seen me; you have seen the Father." I was so overwhelmed I could hardly breathe, move or speak, even to myself. Then the Father spoke to me and said, "My precious daughter, I love you so much. I will give you material for books - I will give in detail as I choose. I want you to tell others what you've seen and heard. One key part of what I'm calling you to do is to take victory to the terminally ill and the crippled." He showed me, which appeared as though I was watching a video; bodies straightening up and out, arms growing back, legs growing back, veteran's being healed; arms and legs growing back, internal injuries being healed and restored, giving life back to those who are suffering. You will go where a lot of people fear to go, where fear is greatest, that's at death's doorstep. You are not only a survivor and an over comer but the woman of God I'm creating you to be. Your message is to take my love to each one I bring to you."

He said also, "I am ALL you need - to totally depend upon me, I am with you through it all and you must keep standing strong." Then I felt His embrace!! I don't know how long I stayed like that, but I didn't want to leave EVER!!

The Father said: "there is someone here that wants to see you." As Jesus turned me around to look behind me, I saw my dad. My spirit knew him and I could also tell by his eyes that somehow he was not in the body I remembered him in, but in a glorious body - all aglow. Dad said he had a message for me, but first he wanted to thank me for all the prayers and the scripture I gave him, for being obedient to Jesus and our Heavenly Father and for being a ministering angel to him when he needed it the most. Dad said it was glorious to be free of pain, to be with Jesus all the time. He told me to tell you how much he loves you, Mom, and how much more God loves you. He said to tell Gary thank you for loving and taking care of Linda and his precious babies. He also said to tell Linda how proud he is of all her accomplishments, that he loves her so, and that he loves Lyndsay, Kristen, Eric, Donna and Charles; most of all, tell them how much MORE GOD LOVES EACH of them. He said he looks forward to when we are all there with him.

I did not want to leave, but God said I needed to go and tell others what I've seen and heard. It seemed like seconds after that loving command from the Father that I heard other voices saying, "I believe she's back with us, she appears to be very unsteady, help her to the couch till she can come around". I remember sitting and as soon as I did, I laid my head back and I was filled with so much peace.

When I sat up I grabbed my pen and some paper and began to write down in a very shaky manner what I could recall with the help of the Holy Spirit. The pastor, and others began to say welcome back and asked if I would tell them all that happened. They said I was gone for 1 1/2 hours. I began to tell them bits and pieces of it and the pastor said not to worry, that I took in a lot and the Holy Spirit will help me to remember and interpret all I heard and saw, and so he has. The pastor said that he has seen this happen several other times - he says that God has a purpose for all of this in these end days. It is all so incredible! God said to tell, tell all who will listen - be led by HIS SPIRIT ONLY! GLORY to GOD! What a Loving Father!

I have been in much prayer especially since this experience. When asking the Lord what prompted this; that I know I deserve none of what I heard and saw; the Lord reminded me of a certain time in May of 1993, when I went to a Ladies' Advance. I was given this scripture and word –

(Jeremiah. 33:3) – “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and mighty things you do not know.” "My daughter, all power in heaven and earth is under my control. I am waiting for you, call, DO SO NOW, and I will answer in miraculous ways. This is the promise of God and your Lord and Savior, Jesus.”

As I reflected on this, the Holy Spirit quickened my spirit and said, the Father said, "you have been calling to me, so I answered precious daughter."

==>>CLICK HERE

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The Greatest Attorney Of All Seasons

After living what I felt was a "decent" life, my time on earth came to the end.

The first thing I remember is sitting on a bench in the waiting room of what I thought to be a court house.The doors opened and I was instructed to come in and have a seat by the defense table.

As I looked around I saw the "prosecutor." He was a villainous looking gent who snarled as he stared at me.He definitely was the most evil person I have ever seen.

I sat down and looked to my left and there sat My Attorney, a kind and gentle looking man whose appearance seemed so familiar to me, I felt I knew Him.

The corner door flew open and there appeared the Judge in full flowing robes.

He commanded an awesome presence as He moved across the room I couldn't take my eyes off of Him.

As He took His seat behind the bench, He said, "Let us begin."

The prosecutor rose and said,"My name is Satan and I am here to show you why this man belongs in hell."He proceeded to tell of lies that I told, things that I stole, and In the past when I cheated others. Satan told of other horrible perversions that were once in my life and the more he spoke, the further down in my seat I sank.

I was so embarrassed that I couldn't look at anyone, even my own Attorney, as the Devil told of sins that even I had completely forgotten about.

As upset as I was at Satan for telling all these things about me, I was equally upset at My Attorney who sat there silently not offering any form of defense at all.

I know I had been guilty of those things, but I had done some good in my life - couldn't that at least equal out part of the harm I'd done?

Satan finished with a fury and said, "This man belongs in hell, he is guilty of all that I have charged and there is not a person who can prove otherwise."When it was His turn, My Attorney first asked if He might approach the bench.

The Judge allowed this over the strong objection of Satan, and beckoned Him to come forward.

As He got up and started walking, I was able to see Him in His full splendor and majesty.I realized why He seemed so familiar; this was Jesus representing me, my Lord and my Savior.

He stopped at the bench and softly said to the Judge, "Hi, Dad," and then He turned to address the court."Satan was correct in saying that this man had sinned, I won't deny any of these allegations.

And, yes, the wage of sin is death, and this man deserves to be punished."

Jesus took a deep breath and turned to His Father with outstretched arms and proclaimed, "However, I died on the cross so that this person might have eternal life and he has accepted Me as his Savior, so he is Mine."My Lord continued with, "His name is written in the book of life and no one can snatch him from Me.

Satan still does not understand yet. This man is not to be given justice, but rather mercy."As Jesus sat down,He quietly paused, looked at His Father and said, "There is nothing else that needs to be done.

I've done it all."The Judge lifted His mighty hand and slammed the gavel down. The following words bellowed from His lips. "This man is free." The penalty for him has already been paid in full. Case dismissed."

As my Lord led me away, I could hear Satan ranting and raving, "I won't give up, I will win the next one."

I asked Jesus as He gave me my instructions where to go next, "Have you ever lost a case?"

Christ lovingly smiled and said,"Everyone that has come to Me and asked Me to represent them has received the same verdict as you,~Paid In Full~"

"Stop telling God how big your storm is. Instead, tell the storm how big your God is!"

I Love This Site - http://www.JamesParmis.com

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A Memo From God

To: YOU

From: God

Subject: You

Date: Today

I am God. Today I will be handling all of your problems. Please remember that I do not need your help. If life happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, do not attempt to resolve it. Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) box.

All situations will be resolved, but in my time, not yours. Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold onto it by worrying about it. Instead, focus on all the wonderful things that are present in your life now.

- If you find yourself stuck in traffic; don’t despair. There are people in this world for which driving is an unheard of privilege.

- Should you have a bad day at work; think of the man who has been out of work for years.

- Should you despair over a relationship gone badly; Think of the person who has never known what it's like to love and be loved in return.

- Should you grieve the passing of another weekend; think of the woman in dire straits, working twelve hours a day, seven days a week to feed her children.

- Should your car break down, leaving you miles away from assistance; think of the paraplegic who would love the opportunity to take that walk.

- Should you notice a new gray hair in the mirror; think of the cancer patient in chemo who wishes she had hair to examine.

- Should you find yourself at a loss and pondering what is life all about, asking what my purpose is? Be thankful. There are those who didn't live long enough to get the opportunity.

- Should you find yourself the victim of other people's bitterness, ignorance, smallness or insecurities; Remember, things could be worse. You could be one of them!

- Should you decide to send this to a friend; Thank you, you may have touched their life in ways you will never know!

AHBO Millionaires 2010

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Who Is The Way?

Today's Scripture

“‘…how can we know the way?’ Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me’” (John 14:5-6).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Do you need direction in your life today? Not only is Jesus the way to life in eternity, but Jesus is the way to everything you need in this life here on earth. Do you need to know the way out of debt? Look to the Father through Jesus. Do you need to know the way to having better relationships…the way to overcome an addiction…to live in peace and joy? When you know Jesus, you know the Way.

No matter what you are facing today, no matter what challenges or obstacles are in your life, He will make a way for you even when you don’t see how. God loves you so much that He wants to strengthen and empower you to live in total victory. That’s why He sent His Son, Jesus, to this earth—to show you the way to live an abundant life! Open your heart today and receive all that God has given you through Jesus. As you do, you’ll see His hand lead you in the way of victory in every area of your life!

A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, to show me the way. I invite You into every area of my life. Keep me close to You always. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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I Still Date My Ex-Girlfriend

By: BO SANCHEZ

Call Me Crazy, But She Still Makes My Heart Go Pumpity-Pump

After ten years of marriage, I’m still crazy for this woman.

Being with her is my little piece of heaven on earth.

Here’s my proof: So far, I’ve had 508 romantic dates with my wife. (Yes, my wife. What were you thinking? She’s my ex-girlfriend, right?) That’s once per week for almost 10 beautiful years.
And I’ve loved every single one of them.

Our date night is sacred.

Unless it’s an invitation from the President of the Republic, I say no to all invitations and meetings. Our marriage is what it is today because of those precious 508 dates.

Call me corny. Call me deluded. Call me in denial.

But I really love being with her.

By the way, did you know my wife has magical powers?

When I’m with her, she drains my stress away. When I’m going through a rough time, all I have to do is share my problems to her, and instantly, I feel so much better. With her, I’m at home. And I rest.

I believe couples need to connect with each other in a deep way, or they will drift apart and look for attachments elsewhere.

Aside from our weekly dates, I grab special times I call “spontaneous moments of connection”.
Spontaneous Moments Of Connection

Yesterday afternoon, I came home ready to dive into my work. The usual stuff I do: articles to write, talks to prepare, meetings to plan…

But when I came home, I saw this lovely woman sitting on the couch all by herself.
I thought to myself, “Work can wait,” and I grabbed this opportunity to sit beside the greatest girl on the galaxy. It wasn’t planned. But we were able to talk and connect our hearts. Even just for a few minutes.

Life offers us these fantastic times of bonding. I’ve learned not to miss them: Being stuck in traffic with her. Or waiting for the dentist. Or lining up in the grocery. These times don’t have to be boring if you hold hands and talk.

How To Have A Great Marriage

One day, a young husband came up to me and said, “Bo, I wish my marriage will be as great as yours ten years from now…”

I only had one word for him: “Don’t wish. Decide.”
In that one line, I gave my secret to success.
That’s what separates great marriages and not-so-great marriages.
That’s what separates successful people from unsuccessful people.
Unsuccessful people wish, want, hope, desire for their dreams.
That’s not enough.
Successful people decide to make their dreams happen. Period.
That means they’ll do whatever it takes.

Nothing will stop them.
Failure is not an option.
Let me ask you: Will you do whatever it takes?

For me as a husband, it means…
o practicing “mental” monogamy
o overlooking her faults
o going out of my way to express my love
o prioritizing our dates
o leading my family to God

Note: Just in case you’re in the delusion that I’m a perfect husband, let me make this record straight. I’m far from it. Just ask my wife!

But the important thing is that I’ve decided to become a great husband. And I make that decision everyday. (I struggle towards this dream everyday!)

I’ve realized that this power of decision works in every other area in life…

How To Be A Success In Anything

I’ve also decided to be a financial success.
No ifs, no buts, no excuses. I’ll do everything it takes.
For me, that means sticking to my core gifts, getting wise mentors, reinventing myself, creating a dream team around me, and focusing on loving my customers.
I’ve also decided to be a spiritual person.

That means opening myself to God’s love, walking with integrity, and pursuing my ultimate mission of loving others.

I’ve also decided to be a healthy person.
That means going to the gym daily, eating veggies and fruits, taking supplements, and living with balance.

Don’t Wish. Decide.
“But Bo, I’ve already decided to be a success! But I guess my decision wasn’t strong enough…”
Then that means you haven’t really decided yet.
You’ve just wished.
If you remain in the level of wish, nothing happens.
You must go to the level of decision.

I’m reminded of this Chinese General who invaded an island. Upon landing on the shore, he asked his soldiers to burn their own boats. Obviously, they were shocked. When asked why would they do this insane act of burning their own boats, he said, “We’ll leave this island either as Victors or as dead men. Escape is not an option.”
That’s a decision.
And that’s the kind of decision that will make you succeed in anything.

AHBO MILLIONAIRES 2010
www.AmazingHomeBusinessOnline.com

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Persevere Until You See The Promise

Today's Scripture

“You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised” -Hebrews 10:36

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

What are you believing God for today? Promotion? Healing? Stronger relationships? Deliverance? God has promised all these things to you in His Word because it’s His heart for you to live in blessing and wholeness all the days of your life. When you do the will of God by obeying His Word and precepts, it opens the door for His promises to be fulfilled in your life. You may be doing all the right things today—don’t give up!

Perseverance will carry you to the promise. Perseverance means that you are focused and believing in what God says about your situation. It’s looking away from distractions and any negative, defeating thoughts. Perseverance looks away from discouragement and looks to the Word of God. Perseverance has a voice, and it says things like, “No weapon formed against me shall prosper…if God is for me, who can be against me! I am more than a conqueror through Jesus!” Whatever you are believing for today, keep believing! Stand strong and fight the good fight of faith. Ask God to give you endurance, perseverance, and patience so that you can see His promises fulfilled in every area of your life!

A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, thank You for Your good promises to me. I ask that You give me a heart that is steadfast and fixed on You today. Fill me with Your peace and perseverance so I can live in victory all the days of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

I Love This Website! - http://www.JamesParmis.com

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When You Divorce Me, Carry Me Our In Your Arms Again :-)

WHEN YOU DIVORCE ME, CARRY ME OUT IN YOUR ARMS AGAIN
http://www.Goodnews.visit.ws

On my wedding day, I carried my wife in my arms. The bridal car stopped in front of our one-room flat. My buddies insisted that I carry her out of the car in my arms. So I carried her into our home. She was then plump and shy. I was a strong and happy bridegroom.

This was the scene of ten years ago.

The following days were as simple as a cup of pure water: we had a kid, I went into business and tried to make more money. When the assets were steadily increasing, the affections between us seemed to ebb. She was a civil servant. Every morning we left home together and got home almost at the same time. Our kid was studying in a boarding school.

Our marriage life seemed to be enviably happy. But the calm life was more likely to be affected by unpredictable changes.

Dew came into my life.

It was a sunny day. I stood on a spacious balcony. Dew hugged me from behind. My heart once again was immersed in her stream of love. This was the apartment I bought for her.

Dew said, "You are the kind of man who best draws girls' eyeballs. Her words suddenly reminded me of my wife. When we just married, my wife said, "Men like you, once successful, will be very attractive to girls." Thinking of this, I became somewhat hesitant. I knew I had betrayed my wife. But I couldn't help doing so.

I moved Dew's hands aside and said," You go to select some furniture, O.K.? I've got something to do in the company." Obviously she was unhappy, because I had promised her to go and see with her. At the moment, the idea of divorce became clearer in my mind although it used to be something impossible to me.

However, I found it rather difficult to tell my wife about it. No matter how mildly I mentioned it to her, she would be deeply hurt. Honestly, she was a good wife. Every evening she was busy preparing dinner. I was sitting in front of the TV. The dinner was ready soon. Then we watched TV together. Or, I was lounging before the computer, visualizing Dew's body. This was the means of my entertainment.

One day I said to her in a slight joking way, "suppose we divorce, what will you do?" She stared at me for a few seconds without a word. Apparently she believed that 'divorce' was something too far away from her. I couldn't imagine how she would react once she got to know I was serious.

When my wife went to my office, Dew had just stepped out. Almost all the staff looked at my wife with a sympathetic eye and tried to hide something while talking with her. She seemed to have got some hint. She gently smiled at my subordinates. But I read some hurt in her eyes.

Once again, Dew said to me, "He Ning, divorce her, O.K.? Then we live together." I nodded. I knew I could not hesitate any more.

When my wife served the last dish, I held her hand. "I've got something to tell you," I said.

She sat down and ate quietly. Again I observed the hurt in her eyes. Suddenly I didn't know how to open my mouth. But I had to let her know what I was thinking. "I want to divorce." I raised a serious topic calmly.

She didn't seem to be much annoyed by my words, instead she asked me softly, "why?". "I'm serious." I avoided her question. This so-called answer turned her angry . She threw away the chopsticks and shouted at me, "you are not a man!".

At that night, we didn't talk to each other. She was weeping. I knew she wanted to find out what had happened to our marriage. But I could hardly give her a satisfactory answer, because my heart had gone to Dew.

With a deep sense of guilt, I drafted a divorce agreement which stated that she could own our house, our car, and 30% stake of my company. She glanced at it and then tore it into pieces. I felt a pain in my heart. The woman who had been living ten years with me would become a stranger one day. But I could not take back what I had said.

Finally she cried loudly in front of me, which was what I had expected to see. To me her cry was actually a kind of release. The idea of divorce which had obsessed me for several weeks seemed to be firmer and clearer.

A late night, I came back home after entertaining my clients. I saw her writing something at the table. I fell asleep fast. When I woke up, I found she was still there. I turned over and was asleep again.

She brought up her divorce conditions: she didn't want anything from me, but I was supposed to give her one month's time before divorce, and in the month's time we must live as normal life as possible. Her reason was simple: our son would finish his summer vacation a month later and she didn't want him to see our marriage was broken.

She passed me the agreement she drafted, and then asked me, "He Ning, do you still remember how I entered our bridal room on the wedding day?" This question suddenly brought back all those wonderful memories to me. I nodded and said, "I remember". "You carried me in your arms", she continued, "so, I have a requirement, that is, you carry me out in your arms on the day when we divorce. From now to the end of this month, you must carry me out from the bedroom to the door every morning."

I accepted with a smile. I knew she missed those sweet days and wished to end her marriage with a romantic form.

I told Dew about my wife's divorce conditions. She laughed loudly and thought it was absurd. "No matter what tricks she does, she has to face the result of divorce," she said scornfully. Her words more or less made me feel uncomfortable.

My wife and I hadn't had any body contact since my divorce intention was explicitly expressed. We even treated each other as a stranger. So when I carried her out for the first day, we both appeared clumsy. Our son clapped behind us, "daddy is holding mummy in his arms." His words brought me a sense of pain. From the bedroom to the sitting room, then to the door, I walked over ten meters with her in my arms. She closed her eyes and said softly, "Let us start from to day, don't tell our son." I nodded, feeling somewhat upset. I put her down outside the door. She went to wait for bus, I drove to office.

On the second day, both of us acted much more easily. She leaned on my chest. We were so close that I could smell the fragrance of her blouse. I realized that I hadn't looked at this intimate woman carefully for a long time. I found she was not young any more. There were some fine wrinkles on her face.

On the third day, she whispered to me, "The outside garden is being demolished. Be careful when you pass there."

On the fourth day, when I lifted her up, I seemed to feel tha t we were still an intimate couple and I was holding my sweetheart in my arms. The visualization of Dew became vaguer.

On the fifth and sixth day, she kept reminding me something, such as, where she put the ironed shirts, I should be careful while cooking, etc. I nodded. The sense of intimacy was even stronger.

I didn't tell Dew about this.

I felt it was easier to carry her. Perhaps the everyday workout made me stronger. I said to her, "It seems not difficult to carry you now."

She was picking her dresses. I was waiting to carry her out. She tried quite a few but could not find a suitable one. Then she sighed, "All my dresses have grown fatter." I smiled. But I suddenly realized that it was because she was thinner that I could carry her more easily, not because I was stronger. I knew she had buried all the bitterness in her heart. Again, I felt a sense of pain. Subconsciously I reached out a hand to touch her head.

Our son came in at the moment. "Dad, it's time to carry mum out." He said. To him, seeing his father carrying his mother out had been an essential part of his life. She gestured our son to come closer and hugged him tightly. I turned my face because I was afraid I would change my mind at the last minute. I held her in my arms, walking from the bedroom, through the sitting room, to the hallway. Her hand surrounded my neck softly and naturally. I held her body tightly, as if we came back to our wedding day. But her much lighter weight made me sad.

On the last day, when I held her in my arms I could hardly move a step. Our son had gone to school. She said, "Actually I hope you will hold me in your arms until we are old."

I held her tightly and said, "Both you and I didn't notice that our life was lack of such intimacy."

I jumped out of the car swiftly without locking the door. I was afraid any delay would make me change my decision. I walked upstairs. Dew opened the door. I said to her, "Sorry, Dew, I won't divorce. I'm serious."

She looked at me, astonished. The she touched my forehead. "You got no fever." She said. I moved her hand off my head. "Sorry, Dew," I said, "I can only say sorry to you, I won't divorce. My marriage life was boring probably because she and I didn't value the details of life, not because we didn't love each other any more. Now I understand that since I carried her into the home, she gave birth to our child, I am supposed to hold her until I am old. So I have to say sorry to you."

Dew seemed to suddenly wake up. She gave me a loud slap and then slammed the door and burst into cry. I walked downstairs and drove to the office.

When I passed the floral shop on the way, I ordered a bouquet for my wife which was her favorite. The salesgirl asked me to write the greeting words on the card. I smiled and wrote, "I'll carry you out every morning until we are old.

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What's In Your Hand

Today's Scripture

“Then the LORD said to him, "What is that in your hand?" (Exodus 4:2).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Do you ever feel inadequate for what you are called to do? You’re not the first one! So often, when we think of Moses, we remember him as the great spiritual giant who led the Israelites out of captivity. But did you know that Moses doubted himself, too? He didn’t feel equipped. In fact, he was even self-conscious because he had a stuttering problem! God simply said to him, “What do you have in your hand?”

In the next few moments, God showed Moses that it didn’t matter what equipment he thought he needed. The God of the universe can take what you have and turn it into whatever it needs to be in order for you to accomplish what you’ve been called to. So what’s in your hand today? It may not seem like much, but God wants to use it. He wants to take you to places you never dreamed. He wants to pour out His blessing and favor so you can live the abundant life He has in store for you!

A Prayer for Today

Heavenly Father, today I release to You all that I am and all that I have. I invite You to flood every part of my being and use me for Your glory. Thank You for using what is in my hand. In Jesus Name. Amen.

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God Delivers You From All

Today's Scripture

“Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the LORD delivers him out of them all” (Psalm 34:19).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Aren’t you glad we serve a Deliverer today? An affliction is defined as the cause of persistent pain or distress. You might feel afflicted today, but God is working to bring you out of that difficult situation. It may not be in the way you thought, but you have to trust that God has your best interest at heart. I know that afflictions can take on many forms—a sickness or hardship, a temptation, a coworker or family member.

There are so many things that can come against us, but God promises in His Word that no weapon formed against us shall prosper! Those afflictions are only temporary. Stand in faith believing that God is on your side. Remember, you and God are a majority. It doesn’t matter what your circumstances look like, get up every morning and say, “This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.” As you stand and trust the Lord, He will deliver you out of all your afflictions, and you’ll see His hand of blessing in every area of your life.

A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, thank You for making me righteous through the blood of Jesus. I trust that You have a good plan for me, and that You will deliver me out of all affliction. Thank You for Your strength and peace in my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

I Love This Site! - http://www.JamesParmis.com

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Why I Look Like Tom Cruise

Why I Look Like Tom Cruise
By: Bo Sanchez

I get interviewed a lot.
Perhaps once a week, I get interviewed (No joke).
My problem is that I get asked the same questions over and over again.
So just to break the monotony, I give them the silliest answers.
Let me share with you one interview today.
Despite the jokes, I’m sure you’ll pick up something for your own personal growth. Here it is…

Q: Brother Bo, we’re going to ask you some very basic questions.
Bo: No problem. You wouldn’t know if my answers would be correct anyway, right?

Q: (Laughs) When and where were you born?
Bo: July 11, 1966 in Caloocan City. Or was that 1976? Let me show you my baby photo. (See below.) At least, that’s what my mother said when she gave me this photo. But because the creature in the photo looks like a miniaturized sumo wrestler, I’m wondering if it was really me. What do you think?

Q: Who are your parents?
Bo: Eugenio and Pilar Sanchez. The most fantastic human beings on the planet.

Q: We read somewhere that they have a great love story. How did they meet?
Bo: Mom was a pretty 19 year old girl when she met Dad. She was applying for work in his office. Dad, 6 years older than her, liked what he saw and, take note, secretly gave her the answers to the entrance exam—just so that she would pass! He then hired her on the spot and asked for his first date. This may scandalize you, but three months later, Mom and Dad got married. Obviously, they never told me this shocking piece of information until I was 31 years old—when I was far and safe from the impulsiveness of teenage romance.

Q: What was their religious background?
Bo: Catholic. Do you know what was their first date?

Q: What?
Bo: Morning Mass. And from that day on, they never stopped going to daily Mass for the rest of their lives. Before Dad died last year, they celebrated 63 years of wedded bliss.

Q: Where did you go to School?
Bo: I switched schools like I switched shirts. I started in Stella Maris, jumped to San Carlos Boys, hopped to St. Josephs, switched to Claret High School, and finally landed in the Ateneo. Yes, I never got a Loyalty Award.

Q: What was your course in college?
Bo: AB Philosophy.

Q: Did you take up Masters?
Bo: I took up my Masters in Theology but never did my thesis. I was just too busy with my ministry. My purpose wasn’t to get a degree. I just wanted to learn more.

Q: Where did you work?
Bo: In a normal job and normal company? Never. I’m now 41 and I’ve never had a Boss in my entire life. Ever since high school, I was already serving in ministry. And when I was in college, I was already working “full-time” in the ministry of the Lord. I founded 4 non-profit organizations and I’ve always been the leader. I guess I’m just lazy and I don’t want to work for anyone.

Q. Why did you become a preacher?
Bo: I had a spiritual conversion at age 12. I experienced God’s love in such a real and intimate way. And I wanted to do two things. First, the force of that love overwhelmed me and I wanted to love Him back. Second, I wanted to live a life of significance. I wanted my life to have eternal meaning. And so I had this desire to serve God by preaching. Would you believe, as a 13-year-old kid, I would imagine myself standing before 30,000 people in Araneta Coliseum, holding a bible and a microphone, preaching God’s Word.

Q. Did that happen?
Bo: I gave my first talk in the Araneta Coliseum at age 16. That was a miracle. Let me prove it to you: Here’s my passport photo when I was 16. Would you have listened to that… uh, alien?

Q. Was there a particular event in your life that caused you to become a preacher?
Bo: At age 13, Aida, our prayer group leader prophesied that I would receive the gift of wisdom and that I would preach. So she asked me to give a talk that following Friday prayer meeting. So at age 13, I preached my first talk and never stopped ever since. I owe my ministry to that woman, Aida. She believed in me. She saw something in me that others—even I—didn’t see in me. And all through the years, I’ve been trying to be an Aida in other people’s lives. I raise people up and release them to the world. It’s been fun.

Q. We have noticed that you talk about a broad range of topics. Do you have favorite topics now?
Bo: After almost 30 years of preaching, my favorite topics now are about building people’s self-esteem, teaching people to see themselves the way God sees them, and helping them to dream again. For me to do that, I have to change their distorted images of God and of themselves. Another favorite topic right now is helping people raise their financial literacy and teaching them the right theology and psychology towards money. Can I plug?

Q. Yes, please!
Bo: I don’t know if there are still empty seats available, but I’ll announce this anyway. I’ll be giving my life-changing How To Be Truly Rich Seminar this April 5, 2008, from 8:30am to 12noon. I love giving this seminar because it really changes the financial lives of people. How? By changing their psychology and theology towards money. I’ve always believed that money problems are mind problems. So by changing their mind towards money, their money life will change as well. To find out if there are still empty seats available, they can email beaconlightevents@gmail.com right away. (Note from Bo: You can also read my P.S. at the bottom of this blog.)

Q. Why do you use various media? You seem to use everything. You use television and radio and books and magazines and the internet…
Bo: Media is powerful. It multiplies my reach. I think if Jesus were alive today, He’d use the internet too. Can I make another shameless plug? In the internet, I’ve created an international, borderless, non-physical community of people who want to grow in their personal life. I supply them with a mountain load of spiritual nourishment—like daily Bible reflections, monthly magazines, etc… All they have to do is log on at www.kerygmafamily.com. It’s FREE.

Q. You’re both a Preacher of God and also a Motivational or Inspirational Speaker. Is there a conflict?
Bo: Truth is universal. So I give one message. But yes, I’m a preacher in our prayer meetings because I can more openly talk about my sources—the Bible and our faith tradition. And I’m an inspirational speaker in my corporate seminars where I source my message from history, secular authors, social sciences, etc. But the message remains the same because the simplest truth that changes lives is universal.

Q. Why do you think thousands of people admire you?
Bo: Because I look like Tom Cruise. You don’t believe me? Our intestines, kidneys, and spleen really look alike. Okay seriously now. Gee, I’ll be guessing here. Three things. First, perhaps because I try to be honest with my failures and weaknesses. I don’t hide them. People know my sins. So perhaps they see themselves in me. Second, perhaps because I try to speak their language. I speak simply. I don’t try to impress people with my knowledge. Finally, perhaps because I speak what matters to them, their most pressing needs. Because I want to help them where they hurt the most. Aside from those three things, I really think it’s the Tom Cruise thing.

Q. How do you attain your own goals?
Bo: I start small. How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. Second, I bring together a dream team around me. I don’t go into a project without a fantastic group of people who will assist me in that project. Third, I keep at it. I keep positive. I keep faith. I keep focused. I believe that when a man is focused on his dreams with passion, he becomes a blessing-magnet. He doesn’t even have to look for them. Every blessing that he needs to fulfill his dreams will come to him. He will find blessings rolling down at his feet, begging that he receives them.

Q. We heard that you don’t send your kids to school. Instead, you homeschool them. Why such a radical decision?
Bo: It was a difficult decision. But after 4 years of homeschooling our kids, we see the fruits. We’ve been able to form the values in our kids. We enjoy a very strong relationship with them. To get my complete answer, log on at www.catholicfilipinoacademy.com In that site, you’ll also know the 16 reasons why we homeschool our kids.

Q. How is your relationship with God?
Bo: Alive. Intimate. Happy. Fun. Real. Honest. Worldly. I experience Him in the most secular moments of my life.

Q. You seem to be a very different kind of Preacher. You don’t only preach. You want to help the poor. You want to change the world. Why?
Bo: I began to understand that essence of Christianity. It is love. I’ll say something that will shock the daylights out of you. I believe that Salvation isn’t about going to Heaven. I believe Salvation is about bringing Heaven down on earth, especially to those who are suffering the most—the poor, the sick, the abandoned, and the spiritually lost. My faith is meaningless—my prayer meetings, my liturgical rituals, my bible reading, my religious beliefs—if I do not love my neighbor.

Q. What are you plans for the future?
Bo: I’ll continue to preach about God’s love. I’ll continue to teach people to believe in the God that believes in them. I’ll continue to share very practical ways of living the Christian life—in their families, in their jobs… I’ll use media more extensively to share this message. As a community, we will give half of our funds for evangelism and the other half for our work for the poor. Specifically, we will do developmental work for the poorest of the poor, establishing micro-credit and livelihood facilities. We will work with other groups to eradicate world poverty.

Q. Thank you very much. You have inspired us again.
Bo: Thank you too. You gave me great questions.

Friends, I hope you enjoyed this interview as much as I enjoyed answering it.

May your dreams come true,

Bo Sanchez

AHBO Millionaires
www.AmazingHomeBusinessOnline.com

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