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The Free Gift of God!
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Tag Archives: Religion
Pray without Ceasing!
A few years ago a glorious event happened while I was shopping at Walmart. Now I dislike marketing with a passion — it takes a lot of breath prayers to get me moving through the isles.
Finally ready to checkout, I placed my items on the belt when suddenly I was blindsided by the presence of God and it was Holy Ghost strong. I thought, “Wow, this little checker’s got it going on.”
As I wrote out my check, I didn’t grumble once at the amount — God’s presence was too powerful. Departing joyfully, I praised God all the way home.
Late that night, I awoke and wondered about the Godly encounter, so I finally asked the Lord, “Why did I feel your presence so strongly at WALMART?”
The Lord said, “Troy was praying for you.” Reverend Troy was struggling with heart disease at the time, but continued to pray faithfully for his flock.
God listens to those who will pray, so earnestly seek His face and pray constantly!
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thes 5
Majestic Glory!
. . . behold a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.” Mt 17:5
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens. Psalm 8:1
The Old Route 66 Bridge
I cross this old, majestic bridge on my way to church every week. It’s the most direct route and without it I would have to travel many miles to get there. This brings me to the question, Why do I go to a church so far outside of town?
It all started years ago when Steve had pneumonia and needed oxygen. A kind man delivered the necessary equipment and invited us to his church. Steve knew and respected Darrell greatly and said, “Yes.”
At the time, I was looking for a church to attend. And from the first day I set foot into the New Life Sanctuary, I felt at home. God hooked me with their music!
Recently, Darrell’s wife passed away. This dear sweat lady had been the bookkeeper for the church for many long years. Soon after, the pastor took me aside and said, “I need a secretary treasurer, and God has laid you on my heart.” Then went on to apologize because, due to illness, the books needed special attention. The pastor felt like she was dumping a load on me, but Little did she know, it was right up my alley.
It didn’t take me long to jump face first into books and get to work. I admit, I did feel a little like an awkward elephant in a china case crunching around the office until the Lord said, “Claim it.” I did and things got much better.
Even then, I occasionally want to throw the books on the ground and stomp some sense into them, but before I can even have a tizzy, the Lord says, “Move along.” Of course, He’s right. I couldn’t possibly fix a missing trail, so why hang myself on the inconsequential things.
It’s amazing how God intervenes and sets you on a path or, in my case, crossing an ancient bridge for His purpose. Not to mention, it’s a glorious link to a church full of wonderful people who have taught me the beauty of Jesus Christ.
Catch the Train
Are you standing on the platform watching the train to Heaven race past you? Here is your boarding pass: Accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Yes, it’s that easy.
Now, once on board, it’s important that you stay in the railroad car, while seeking a personal relationship with God. I can assure you the rewards will far outweigh any hindrances you might feel. Now the requirements for a successful ride will vary greatly on which of the three compartments you choose.
The Coasters: These are the people that are lounging in, on, or around the caboose. Some are downright dangling from the windows and others are grasping tightly to the end of the train flapping in the wind. The coasters do not want to do anything outside of the basic requirements. In the end, they just want to coast through the Heavenly gates.
The Carriers: These are the good people, riding in the middle compartments, who are willing to roll up their sleeves: pray to God, go to church, tend functions, comfort the sick, and help the needy. The carriers don’t want to get muddled up with the gifts of God or stand around the spiritual fire for fear of getting hot. They want a safe, well traveled train ride to Heaven.
The Steam Seekers: These are the people who hunger to be in the engine room where the spiritual temps are way up. Occasionally, they’re called the “The Jesus Freaks” because they no longer fit into the world as we know it. The steam seekers want the Fire, the Holy Ghost, the Power, the Gifts, and the final Crown. When the seekers reach the gates of Heaven, they want to hear God say, “Well done, my child.”
And Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. John 14:6
