The Worst Thing That Could Ever Happen. When Suffering Seems Unbearable, Part 6

Today's Bible Verse: John 16:33b Take heart! I have overcome the world.

What is the worst thing that could ever happen to you?

For most of us Westerners, anything related to suffering (disease, break-up, loss of job, finances, etc) seems to be our worst nightmare. In fact, some of us specialize in worrying about every possible scenario, even those that will likely never happen, where hurt and pain would literally terrorize us to the core.

Not so in countries where Christians are persecuted. Suffering is an everyday fact, so why worry about it? In fact, this is a Biblical concept: "Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matt 6:34 NIV). No, for these Christians the worst thing that could ever happen is for them to be disobedient to their Lord Jesus, the Christ!

Can you imagine the terrible loss if we were to ever turn our backs to our Saviour? Suffering is temporary and can lead us closer to our Master, but disobedience hurts our God to the core, and can even lead to eternal consequences!

I read somewhere about a missionary who worked with women in Ethiopia who had been kicked out of their homes because of their faith in Jesus. These ladies had already lost everything because of their decision to follow Jesus. They had lost their homes, their incomes, and even their families and friends! Their only livelihood was begging in the streets, and they were now living in slum conditions. The missionary couldn't resist asking them: "What does Jesus mean to you?"

Their answer amazed him: "Jesus means everything to us! He provides for all of our needs. He loves us and cares for us. He is our Father."

Is it possible that those of us who live in the Western world have been blinded to what really matters in our lives? Are all of our security blankets hindering us from truly trusting the One who provides?

Yes, we will go through some terrible suffering. We live in a world of sin and we can expect viscous trouble and pain. Even Jesus confirms this for us: "In this world you will have trouble." (John 16:33a NIV) However we often tend to forget what He said after these words: "But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33b NIV)

Jesus has overcome this world. Jesus has overcome our dire circumstances. No matter what happens to us, if we remain focussed on Jesus, we will end up where tears and suffering are non-existent, and we will forever be in His presence! Doesn't that fill us with adrenaline? Aren't we anticipating the day when we will see Jesus face to face? Aren't we looking forward to the time we will be able to participate in unrestrained worship with all of our hearts and souls, as well as with our perfectly healthy bodies?

May we learn from Jesus to always insist on glorifying God's name, no matter our circumstances! "Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? 'Father, save me from this hour'? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!" (John 12:27-28 NIV)

Tell me truly, what is the worst thing that could ever happen to you?

Rob Chaffart

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Pretzel Medicine

Today's Bible Verse: Prov 11:25 A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

The rumors had been swirling for months but it still came as a shock when the hospital board announced that our small community hospital would be closing on July 1st.

The hospital had served this working class poor neighborhood of Philadelphia for nearly 100 years but it would soon become another casualty of the health care crisis.

The day after the announcement co-workers walked around in a stunned state of disbelief. And if impending unemployment wasn't stressful enough, those looking for comfort in the form of their morning soft pretzel found out that pretzels had been eliminated from the cafeteria menu the same day the hospital announced its closure.

For those of you outside the Philadelphia area, let me explain... Soft pretzels are the lifeblood of this city. They are sold in schools, sports arenas, delicatessens and at hundreds of street vendors across town. They are a snack, a meal and a revered tradition. So losing access to soft pretzels is no small matter.

A week later, I decided to cheer up my co-workers by picking up some soft pretzels at a local store in Havertown called Pretzel Boys. I arrived just as it opened so I was the only customer. The tantalizing smells of warm dough, yeast and salt engulfed me. Rows and rows of freshly baked brown-crusted pretzels were packed into cardboard boxes, ready for the day. These are the sights and smells of nirvana for any Philadelphian.

A sign posted on the cash register read, "Ten dollar minimum for credit cards." Just then it dawned on me that I only had $5 cash in my wallet. So much for planning ahead!

I work inside a large office at the hospital and knew I'd need more than the half dozen pretzels my five dollars would buy. But did I really need 25 pretzels -- the only amount of pretzels I could get for $10. A man's voice interrupted my thoughts.

"Can I help you?"

Distracted and embarrassed by my hesitation, words tumbled out of my mouth, "Ah, yes. I only have $5 but I have a debit card. I'm not sure how many pretzels I need."

The man nodded like what I just said made sense and so I continued to babble.

"You see, I work at a hospital and it's closing and they stopped selling pretzels." As if this explained my previous rambling.

The man's smile disappeared. "What hospital?"

"Oh, um Northeastern Hospital."

The pretzel guy looked deeply shocked. "I used to sell medical supplies and that was one of my hospitals. What a shame. They are good people."

I started to respond but the pretzel guy held up his palm to stop me. Then he turned around and grabbed a box of 25 pretzels and slid them across the counter.

I was stunned by his generosity and started to reach for my wallet, "Oh I can pay. Please let me..." The pretzel guy pushed the box another six inches across the counter and smiled. "Just tell them Joe Sullivan said to do something nice for someone else."

And so that day everyone in medical records was treated to a soft pretzel. Word spread fast as people came up to my desk asking, "Is it really true? Did you bring in soft pretzels?" It was as if I'd carried in a box of gold.

With each pretzel, I shared the story of Pretzel Boys generosity. Without exception each employee was moved by Joe Sullivan's words and kind deed. It mattered to them that a stranger cared.

And with every bite of soft pretzel a little bit of healing took place.

Thank you Joe!

Teri Goggin-Roberts IndigoMuse63@aol.com

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The Secret to Answered Prayers. When Suffering Seems Unbearable, part 5

Today's Bible Verse: John 14:13-14 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.

As a teacher I have met many different kinds of people, each one with a unique personality that is worth discovering. I've never known any of them, however, to go to the school office with the following request: "In the name of my teacher Rob Chaffart, let me use the phone."

I can assure you, our secretaries would look quite sceptical. They would likely ask the following question: "Do you have permission from your teacher?" And more than likely, that student would not get to use the phone!

In the same way, similar prayers do not work. We can't just say, "In the name of Jesus, give me a million dollars!" It just doesn't work that way!

Why? Because these types of prayers don't bring glory to God!

It is true that Jesus tells us to ask for things in His name, but let's take a look at the context where he does so: "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." (John 14:13-14 NIV) Do all of our prayer requests bring glory to God, or is the glory mostly directed to ourselves?

Why did Jesus die on a cross? To save those who were willing to believe in Him?

Absolutely!

But didn't He also die on a cross to bring glory to God? "Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? 'Father, save me from this hour'? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!" (John 12:27-28 NIV)

"In Jesus' name" does not give us license to ask for every selfish whim, and then expect to receive them! "In Jesus' name" can only be done if it is according to Jesus' will, and His will is always to glorify God! "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us - whatever we ask - we know that we have what we asked of him. " (1 John 5:14-15 NIV)

Our hit and miss prayer approach simply doesn't work! We need to ask ourselves who we are putting out trust in: In ourselves, or in God?

If we pray to bring glory to God, we will do "greater things than these!" (John 14:12 NIV) However we can only pray that way if we let Jesus be at the helm of our lives, and we follow all of His directions! "If you love me, you will obey what I command." (John 14:15-16 NIV) The "I" does not always truly know what is best for it!

Some of us like to claim that if God heals us, it will be to God's glory and we will glorify His name. The desire is earnest, but reality is often quite different from what we foresee. Remember the 10 lepers? Only one came back to glorify God! "Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" (Luke 17:17-18 NIV) How fast we forget our Heavenly Father in our trek through this world! We are just too wishy-washy!

Are our prayer requests always uttered to the glory of God?

Rob Chaffart

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The Fine Print

Today's Bible Verse: Mark 11:25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.

"Have faith in God," Jesus answered. "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins." (Mark 11:22-25)

There it was, at the very bottom of the document, in noticeably smaller size print. The disclaimer. Have you ever noticed these sections at the end of a contract or agreement? I’m reminded of the saying, “Read the fine print before signing on the dotted line.”

That little part stuck on at the end might sometimes be called “the catch”. When things seem too good to be true, they usually are. We ask, “What’s the catch?”

There is an amazing promise in the bible that might sound too good to be true. About a week before Jesus was killed and came back to life, He was talking with His close friends. He said if you believe, you can have anything you ask for in prayer (Mark 11:24).

Could it be that easy? Perhaps the very next sentence is the fine print to the promise. Practically in the same breath, Jesus continues, essentially saying that we have to forgive anyone we hold a grudge against first. Could even be ourselves.

The fine print of forgiveness. It’s a decision, not a feeling, a key to unlocking and releasing God’s promises. That’s good news.

Sally Ireland Kennedy sallyikennedy@bellsouth.net ,© 2009 Irish Thursdays Weekly Devotionals, http://www.sallyikennedy.com

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Focusing on What Really Matters. When Suffering Seems Unbearable, Part 4

Today's Bible Verse: 1 John 4:4 The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

On the morning of my root canal I awoke refreshed and excited.

I have to admit, however, that the previous weeks had been filled with dread. This was due to the fact that this was not my first root canal, and the first experience left me expecting three hours of constant pain. But today would be different. God had already revealed I would experience Him in an unique way today.

As the procedure was scheduled for early afternoon, I kept myself busy answering emails and updating the online pages of this ministry. Mid-morning however, the dread again began to invade my soul. I was under attack!

I quickly conferred with my Heavenly Father and with His Word, and peace filled me once again. That peace lasted the rest of the day, even when the dentist's office called to say my procedure would be postponed by an hour. In fact, as I drove to the office, I found myself singing praises at the top of my lungs. Then, in mid song, I was reminded that I needed to pray for those in need. I did, immediately.

I arrived at the dentist's office, and my gums were immediately numbed. I had to wait for the dentist to appear, as he was busy with another client, and during that hour, I could hear the whirling and whizzing of his machinery as he relentlessly worked on some unsuspecting tooth. Nonetheless, even this didn't faze me.

Eventually my turn came and I was given my choice of music. I chose Christian music, and with Michael W. Smith and Newsboys keeping me company, the procedure began. Strangely, the longer I sat in the chair, the more my mind drifted to higher places in prayer. I could feel the presence of God's Spirit, and under His direction, I continued to bring up the prayer plights of those in need.

I have to say that I never felt a thing throughout the entire procedure. My thoughts were focussed solely on Jesus and on the needs of those who had prayer requests (See Heb 12:2, 3) and before I knew it, I heard the dentist state: "The procedure is finished."

"Already?" I thought. I had been to God's throne while in that dentist chair, and somehow I didn't want to leave!

The dental specialist made me aware that my tooth had been seriously infected. He gave me an antibiotic and some heavy pain medication. "Your jaw will probably swell and it will be painful for the next few days," he warned me. Very encouraging, but my inner peace was not disturbed.

I never did take that pain medicine, and my jaw never swelled. In fact, I suffered no negative consequences from the procedure whatsoever.

Throughout all of this, I was reminded that no situation is above God. We don't have to let our circumstances terrify us. Our Heavenly Daddy is above them all! "The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (1 John 4:4 NIV)

His peace can be a constant in our lives, if we let Him shine in our heart even when we are in trouble! "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33 NIV)

Moreover, once we reach the shores of heaven, we will wonder why we even let suffering get the best of us! "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." (Rom 8:18 NIV)

We can experience God wherever we are and in whatever circumstances we are facing. We just have to take the time to be with Him and let Him shine.

"Another root canal? Great! I can't wait to see God's provisions being bestowed in my heart! God will be sure to show up and I will be sure to watch for Him!"

P. S. Boy, I am sure glad I didn't take the anaesthetic!

Rob Chaffart

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When It’s Time

Today's Bible Verse: Psalm 31:14-15a I am trusting you, O LORD, saying, ‘You are my God!’ My future is in your hands. (New Living Translation)

One day, years ago, when the concrete slab was finally poured for our new house, I e-mailed that good news to family and friends who had been agonizing with us over the slow start on the house. During the two months that had elapsed since we’d broken ground, they’d often heard me bemoan the fact that days, sometimes weeks, passed with no activity on what a friend jokingly referred to as “The Ponderosa.” Along with the news that the slab was in place, I mentioned that the builder had said the lumber would be delivered the next day and that he’d begin the framing the day after. Walls—at last!

The following day, my husband and I were awakened by the sound of torrential rain that continued for hours. By the end of the day, we’d received over 2 inches of liquid precipitation. Thus, my e-mail that evening read, “Needless to say, we did not get the expected delivery of the lumber. It may be next week before it comes—unless they ‘ship’ it in by boat! Oh well, what’s a few more days? I guess building a house is as someone said about birthing babies and dying, ‘When it’s time, it’s time.’ No amount of fretting over the construction will change the completion date. I might as well sit back and take it as it comes. Right?”

A friend replied, “I’m glad you’re so resigned to things as they are; I expected you to be chomping at the bit.”

Part of me was very ready to be rid of the frustrating hindrances! Another part of me realized it was foolish to “stew” over delays that were beyond my control.

Those months of slow construction forced me to choose between feeling extremely irritated and frustrated or feeling a calm acceptance of each day’s progress—or lack thereof. The value of choosing the latter had been pointed out to me as I’d read about a man who was so anxious following his open-heart surgery that he refused to go to sleep, fearing that if he slept he might not wake up. No amount of reassurance helped him relax until someone said, “Death comes like the birth of a baby. When it’s time, it’s time.”

How true! Unborn babies don’t plan their arrival based on due dates, work schedules, the readiness of the nursery, the time of day or night, the mother’s discomfort, or anything else. They’re born “when it’s time.”

Likewise, death comes for each of us “when it’s time.” For example, some die even when surrounded by highly trained medical staff and the very best life saving equipment. Some die suddenly; others linger a long time while awaiting death. During tornadoes, some families survive; others perish.

I’m learning, as a result of life’s experiences in birthing, dying, and building a house, to agree with David. Although he was dealing with numerous problems and frustrations, he said, “I am trusting you, O LORD, saying, ‘You are my God!’ My future is in your hands.” (Psalm 31:14-15a, New Living Translation)

To David’s words I would add, “You, O God, bring all things to pass—in Your time. Therefore, I refuse to be fearful about the future or to be frustrated when things don’t happen according to my time schedule.”

© 2009 by Johnnie Ann Burgess Gaskill

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The Problem With Pain. When Suffering Seems Unbearable, Part 3

Today's Bible Verse: 1 Peter 5:2b-3: Not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.

The Problem With Pain. When Suffering Seems Unbearable, Part 3

As I sit in the York University auditorium, waiting for the public speaking contest to begin, I look at my youngest son with compassion. Chosen by his School Board to represent them for the provincial French speak-off, I can just imagine his mixed feelings as both dread and excitement course through his veins. This kind of torture has components of dreadful pain, because he will either end up in victory or in defeat. But even defeat can be received with grace as an opportunity to learn from one's mistakes …

The same is true with life. Praise be to God, I obtained victory over my terrible toothache. I had been warned, however, that further pain would be forthcoming, and it sure was!

Months later, a different tooth began throbbing. I tried to ignore it at first. In fact I started to eat on the other side of my mouth in order to avoid aggravating the pain! After a couple of months of suffering, however, I had no choice but to have it checked out.

It didn't help that my dentist couldn't locate the offending tooth. He referred me to a specialist. Boy did I felt special!

The specialist had no problems locating the agonizing tooth, and he was equally as quick to declare that I would need a root canal, and soon.

I was about as excited as a rodent encountering a vicious and sadistic feline.

Hurr … nayyy! Help!!!!!

The root canal specialist was kind enough to offer me the choice of having anaesthesia during the surgery. Oh how I longed to have the privilege of taking him up on his offer, but I had no one to drive me home. He wasn't exactly located in my immediate neighbourhood, and Timbuktu was closer than this place!

Three days before the event, my dear mother-in-law offered to drive me to and from my appointment. I couldn't resist, and I went to bed happy. I could have my anaesthesia! I wasn't at peace, however. Something stirred in my mind, telling me I wasn't doing the right thing! I decided to ignore it, though, and I soon fell asleep.

In the middle of the night I woke up with a feeling of dread. I couldn't shake the thought of my ordeal that would take place in just two days. I took my Bible and conferred with God, and I was led to 1 Peter 5:2b-3: "Not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." NIV

I was immediately convinced that I should not take the anaesthesia. But was it possible that I misunderstood God's message? I hoped so, and I asked for confirmation. Next I was led to Matt 13:22: "The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful." NIV

Again I was convicted that I should not take the anaesthesia. I would miss a God moment if I didn't follow His advice!

But why???

I pleaded for a third confirmation, and I was led to Luke 18:8b: "When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?" NIV Who was I to argue with God! I decided that I would call the dental office in the morning, and I went back to bed.

Only after my call did inner peace fill my soul. Instead of dread, I was now anticipating an encounter with my Heavenly Father in one of the most unusual places in the world: the dentist chair! That night I slept soundly and woke up refreshed and filled with energy.

Pain can sometimes be avoided, but is this always in our best interest?

I will have to ask my son that question after the public speaking contest!

Rob Chaffart

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Starting Over

Today's Bible Verse: Ezek 34:29 I will provide for them a land renowned for its crops, and they will no longer be victims of famine in the land or bear the scorn of the nations.

This past year has become a testing ground beyond any other thus far. We always believed in God's care and leading....we just never believed WE would be led out into the desert. For years we have successfully owned a small family restaurant (Italian, of course); no matter where we moved, we prospered and took care of our family. We were never rich, but our needs were always covered, even in difficult circumstances from time to time. We ate well, we had shelter, our kids were well cared for, and we shared our blessings with others.

The hurricanes of 2004 sent us back to the stone age with damage to our home and business. It seemed only practical, when the bank offered, that we use our home as collateral to re-group. The livelihood of our children and employees depended on us too, we felt.

Business never quite came back as strongly, but we managed to survive in a new location 2005-2006. We were not prepared for the economical decline that started in 2007, although I had received several dreams beforehand, quite unlike dreams of the regular kind. The Lord seemed to be warning us of depending on the arm of man, but I didn't quite know what to make of things. We felt it was an answer to prayer when two young men with good financial backing (one had been trained with my husband for 7 years) offered to buy us out. We used the down-payment to pay off all possible debts, help our children, and assist in the immigration expenses for our son-in-law. There were no vacations, nor new vehicles or other extravagancies. In fact, we sold our boat, truck and any other items we felt we didn't need in our lives.

Within a mere 8 months, our joy over the sale turned into horror. The people we sold to started not showing for work, nor paying invoices, taxes---and there were rumors of drug dealing. This nearly killed my husband who had worked so many years to build a good name. They stopped paying us as well. We acquired an attorney, but by this point, we could not afford a battle at $250 per hour. The party we were in litigation with boasted over $60million and a team of attorneys. We were asked how many years we could afford to fight, and with what money? After anguished prayer and months of depression, we walked away. By this time, our house was in foreclosure, and at the point of no return. While we had paid off most of our other bills, the property payments still loomed over us. Even the bank advised us, at our age, it would be better to walk away and try to start over.

Several months before, after the dreams, we had prayed, "Oh Lord, everything is yours....take what You want and lead us where You will....." We never actually expected that God would test that out. Next step was bankruptcy--months before we had balked at that... SURELY God did not want such a path for us???? Christians were supposed to pay their bills, and WHAT WOULD PEOPLE SAY???? We were in our 60's, losing our home, out of money, out of work for the first time in our lives. Where could we turn? It is easy to say you will praise the Lord--when you have a bank account, a home, vehicles, a boat and all you can eat.

I cried to the Lord...what IS this that You are doing with us? I walked in the woods, I cried, I waved my arms I shouted... day after day. It seemed one day, I heard God chuckle.... maybe the voice was not audible.... but it WAS THERE!

"We're losing everything!"

"You said it was Mine."

"But where will we go? How can we live with no house?"

"You said you wanted Me to lead you."

"Yes, but where?"

"Well, that is where the faith and trust come in. You said you wanted Me to increase that too."

"What will we live on?"

"Remember that thing I said, about "living not by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God?" Live on My bread."

"But our credit is ruined."

"You said you didn't WANT credit-cards anymore, so why do you care?--your credit with me is always paid by My Son."

"What will people say about us? They'll say all kinds of bad things and that we will look like losers."

"Worse than they said about My Son?"

"Who will hire us at our ages?"

"I though you said you wanted to work for Me? Let Me handle that."

I started feeling a strange peace, and was able to share this with my husband. Someone my daughter knew, rented a small flat to us. My husband found a temporary job. I would like to think of myself as a "fine artist", but people aren't buying many canvases in this economy. I got a job painting a billboard and some parking lot signs in a town an hour away. I guessed any art was "fine" as long as I was getting paid. Here I was, almost 60, complaining with arthritis, working up on a scaffold in 30 degree weather by a country road. I grumbled a bit. Here came The Voice again.

"It's cold out here."

"You specifically said you would like to work outdoors. Freedom from an office, fresh air and all. You said you wanted "anything but Walmart." Something artistic..." "Yes, but I didn't think you would actually put me out here."

"It is good for you. Builds character. And you are praying and singing a lot more."

"Yes, but I'm old and my hip hurts."

"Cast all you cares upon Me. That's what I'm here for."

Day after day, people saw me painting. I now have a few other art jobs. Just the other day, I was praying, Lord, I know you hear, but coffers are getting empty... please could you respond soon?. I had spent the morning in prayer for all the people I knew who needed to hear His voice in one form or another. 10 minutes later, the phone rang. An idea I was working on, doing personalized art on funeral urns took off.... a small company for funeral urns is working to build a line featuring my art. One day after prayer, I felt, crazy as it sounded, impressed to call them ( a name out of the phone book) and ask if they would be interested in a line of personalized urns. They didn't hang up.

"What will other people say, who knew me as a canvas artist?"

"Does it matter?"

"Well, my work.... You said that was Mine too! You said that, since I gave you the talent, I could use it for whatever I willed."

"They will think it is weird....the work I am doing."

"It only matters about the Work I Am doing, and that others see My handiwork in your life."

Each day is like that. My husband's job will end soon, and he is 63. We own no home, have a rusty old van. We hold no credit cards, or bank accounts, or savings, or stocks, or life insurance, or even health insurance for that matter. We should be terrified. Yet, over the past few months, we have grown. We pray more, we read more, we praise more. We take time to go out and look up at the stars and thank God for the beauty He has created for us. We rejoice over the smallest things that happen....maybe we wouldn't have noticed when we had so much.

As strange as it sounds, it is almost like--the things we were blessed with before, started to take more and more time. We didn't pray as much as we should, we had to take care of the property and the business. After a while... it became a stumbling block--a burden. We wondered why we did not seem to "hear from God" quite as much. We believe he will provide new work for my husband. While the job where he is at now (the same small town where I was painting my billboard) will end soon, he was able to witness to many--one man who was ready to commit suicide after losing his wife. My husband gave him a copy of The Shack. There are others as well.

All this to say, The Illustrator, and those who contribute, have helped us through so much of this journey. While I only casually looked at the site before, I began to eagerly look for the new e-mails and rejoice in God's promises. You are on my prayer list. Please pray for us, as well.

Sunia To be continued as life unfolds itself before the eyes of the Lord.

Announcements:

Answers2Prayer ministries is offering a series of non-denominational bible studies called "Getting to Know Him". These consist of three in-depths studies:

1. Can you believe the New Testament?

Discover how reliable the New Testament books are. The verdict will be yours to make!

2. Jesus, a Fraud, a Lunatic or the Messiah?

Who was Jesus Christ? Were His claims true? Was He really who He said he was? Is there anyway to verify who He truly was? Who do YOU think Jesus really was? Was He a liar, pretending to be someone that He truly was not? Was He a lunatic, truly believing He was someone that He was not and deserving to be locked up in an institute? Or was He the one He proclaimed Himself to be?

3. Basking in God's Unfailing Love, An Open Invitation to Experience God Personally

To a world gone mad, trying to get to know Jesus may seem foolish. However if you give Him a try, you will desire to get to know Him more and more at the deepest level possible. His relationship with you will be more precious compared to any other human relationships out there. Enjoy getting to know Him.

These Bible studies are available on the Net at http://answers2prayer.org/studies.html . Subscription is free.

Come and discover the wonderful purposes Jesus has for you. Enjoy!

It Sure Hurts! Help!!! When Suffering Seems Unbearable, Part 2

Today's Bible Verse: John 16:33 In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

What do you do when you have a tooth that hurts? There is no way around it. You have to call your dentist, and boy, he sure has a knack in locating the source of the pain!

"Is this the one that is hurting?"

How can anyone respond, when you are squirming in the dentist chair and almost passing out from pain?

"I am waiting for your answer!"

Easily said than done. How can you respond with fingers in your mouth?

"Ahhhhohhhihhh."

"I knew it! You need a root canal! I sure don't like doing these. They can be so painful that most of my clients start to hate me during these procedures."

Words like these make you wish you never had teeth in the first place!

"If for some reason the pain subsides, which I really doubt, call my office to cancel the procedure."

You can sure count on that!

As someone who is allergic to pain (Who isn't?), I decided right there and then that prayer was a necessity to my survival! Knowing how much God loves each one of His children, I came with confidence before His throne and presented my petty petition, for oh, how it pales in comparison to the many woes of this world!

But I know that I am important to Him and He cares about my pain. I received the following message: "Trust me! I will heal it; however your sorrows won't be over."

A week later, though I still couldn't chew on that side, it seemed the pain had subsided a bit. I decided to walk by faith. I called the dentist' office to cancel my appointment.

Boy, those dental secretaries can sure be tenacious! They did everything they could to persuade me to keep my appointment in the torture chamber! I stood firm however, and although I was still in pain, I cancelled my appointment.

A week later, the throbbing subsided completely. I had escaped the horrors of the dentist's dungeon. Hurray!

Two months later the dental hygienist had her routine opportunity to clean my teeth, and the subject veered towards my tooth that had somehow managed to escape execution.

"And it doesn't hurt anymore?" She asked, utterly surprised.

"No ma'am. Try it. Bang on it if you would like to. The pain is completely gone."

"But that's not possible. What did you do?"

"I know it's not possible, ma'am," I responded. "All I did was pray."

"You prayed???"

"Yes ma'am. God does indeed hear our prayers!"

"Maybe I should start praying more often," she said, a bit wistfully.

And so it was that my experiences with my tooth gave me the opportunity to talk about the Lover of my soul. I was able to be an instrument of God's grace in that hygienist's chair, and I was able to use this situation to help someone grow closer to Jesus.

God not only uses our circumstances to our best interest, in view of eternity, but also to His glory. "We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him." (Rom. 8:28 NIV)

Healing isn't always God's will, however, and when it isn't, there is always a reason. After this healing of my tooth, I happened to remember God's original message to me: "Trust me! I will heal it; however your sorrows won't be over." I realized that I would have to wait for my next episode with the Lord to discover what this meant!

It's all about growing closer to the Lover of our soul. It's all about discovering that life is truly enhanced by His presence! "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John 10:10 NIV)

We can expect suffering and tribulation. It's part of the life we live in this world so filled with self-interest and unhealthful passions. Didn't Jesus say: "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33 NIV); and "If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also." (John 15:20 NIV)? (See also Matt 6:34; Acts 9:16; Phil 1:29 and 1 Peter 1:6-8)

Should we worry about our suffering? Not at all!

"Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened." (1 Peter 3:14 NIV)

Why?

Because the Lover of our soul has "overcome the world" and is with us for eternity! "Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matt 28:20 NIV)

We must remember that as long as we have accepted Jesus' gift of salvation, no matter what happens to us, we are in the best hands possible, guaranteed to be led right to the pearly gates, where eventually all of us will be in perfect health!

"My toe really hurts!"

God will come through for you in ways you can't imagine!

Rob Chaffart

Announcements:

Do you have a prayer request? Do you know someone who needs to be prayed for? Prayer works! The Bible confirms this in James 5:16 “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” NIV Send your prayer request to prayerrequest@answers2prayer.org and let us pray in agreement with you! Matt 18:20 “For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.” NIV Hallelujah!

Now I See

Today's Bible Verse: John 14:27 My peace I give to you . . . Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Due to complications of an illness, without warning I’d been struck blind. As I lay awake in the lonely darkness, I prayed harder than I’d ever prayed before. I was living a nightmare. I felt alone and afraid.

The searing pain stabbed at my eyes as if fire were consuming them. But it wasn’t pain that caused my sleeplessness. It was the terrifying darkness and the agonizing over the "what if’s." What if I would never regain my sight? What if I would never enjoy reading a book, driving my car, watching a sunset, or gazing into the eyes of my beautiful grandbaby? During the long, sleepless nights, I cried in despair, questioning God.

Because of the torturous pain, I’d become very protective of my eyes and skittish about anything coming near them. I trembled with fear at the thought of the doctor examining them; so when the surgeon announced that he must cut my cornea, lift it, and clean under it, my reaction was, "I’d rather have my legs amputated!"

Christians in my church, across the country, and even around the globe were praying for me. I too prayed fervently. I begged God, not only for healing of my eyes, but for strength to endure whatever happened. I learned that courage truly is fear that has said its prayers.

While lying awake each night, I listened to an all-night radio station play gentle music as a man read soothing Bible passages. The Scriptures and serene music comforted and calmed me. Like a fountain of fresh water, God’s Word rinsed away my anxieties, replacing them with peace. I remembered the words of Jesus: "My peace I give to you . . . Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27) At last, I was able to give up fear and say, "Do whatever you want, God."

I determined to believe in His goodness and love, no matter what happened. I knew He wouldn’t forsake me and He wanted only what was best, so why should I fear? If He chose not to restore my sight, I would trust that He had a reason. No matter what, with His help, I could go on with my life and use it for Him.

The surgery went well; in time my eyes healed and the darkness became brighter. It was a long road to recovery, but I defied all odds. Eventually, my doctor confided that he hadn’t believed I would ever see again.

"Your healing is a miracle," he said; but I already knew that.

Actually, God gave me two miracles. He restored my sight when it was hopeless. And, like a plant bursting forth from a dead seed, hope and trust had blossomed from my fear. Perhaps that was an even greater miracle.

Prayer may not change things for you, but it changes you for things.

Don’t be blind to your greatest need, which is Jesus.

Marsha Jordan jordans@newnorth.net Hugs, Hope, and Peanut Butter www.hugsandhope.org/sale.htm

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Beauty in Ashes. When Suffering Seems Unbearable, Part 1

Today's Bible Verse: 2 Cor 7:10 For God sometimes uses sorrow in our lives to help us turn away from sin and seek eternal life. We should never regret his sending it. (TLB)

I used to be (and still am at times) too full of myself, and as a result, there was never enough room for God in my life. Oh, I loved Jesus, but on my own terms. I had accepted Him as my Saviour, but not as my Lord.

Then the strangest thing happened to me. I stopped being able to sleep through the night. Tossing and turning, legs jumping right and left (My poor wife!), waking up at night filled with anxiety at the multitude of tasks at hand, and staying awake for hours at end, it wasn't long before I reached the end of my rope. My brain was busily taking wild goose chases, and I could do nothing to turn it off.

"Lord heal me!" Became my fervent prayer. But healing did not happen.

You may wonder why I wasn't healed right on the spot. I sure did! But I learned some powerful lessons through this experience, lessons that I will share with you now.

As a result of getting almost no sleep, I was constantly tired. In fact, I reached the point where I could barely function. That's when I discovered God's grace shining through my dire circumstances. When my prayer changed from, "Lord, let me sleep!" To "Lord, give me the strength I need for this day!" I discovered that He would do just that! Amazingly, I was more patient than ever before, and I even did my job more efficiently. Though I had nothing to do with it, I began experiencing a lot more success at the workplace!

In human terms this didn't make sense, but it did to me. I discovered when I depend on God 100% of the time, I could face any mountain, no matter how high!

During a Kingdom Bound festival, I accepted Jesus as my Master in all things of my life and since then I have never been the same. My perspective of life has changed. Utter inner peace fills my soul, and joy beams constantly from my heart. I have someone I can rely on at all times, One who never gets it wrong!

Like John the Baptist, I discovered: "He must increase, but I must decrease." (John 3:30 NKJV) This is not a wish, it is a necessity for helping me reach my full potential in the Kingdom of God!

I discovered that I truly had nothing to worry about. Someone else would take care of my worries, and that someone was Jesus. I could live worry-free! Hallelujah! "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Matt 11:28-30 NIV)

I eventually underwent medical testing for my insomnia, and it was discovered that I am an avid dancer in my sleep (Strange! I never even took any dancing lessons!). I woke up more than thirty times every hour of the night, and I never reached the necessary "deep sleep". I was also diagnosed with "Sleep Apnea".

I still am blessed with this condition, and yes, I call it a blessing and not a curse. It is a blessing because it keeps me on my toes as a constant reminder to always let Jesus shine in my life, no matter what the circumstances. I have discovered the huge blessings that come from letting Jesus be my Lord and Savior on a daily basis. I have discovered that I can enjoy a truly restful night if I put my worry list aside and let Jesus be in charge of my life.

God can indeed use suffering (although He is not the One causing it!) To draw us closer to Him and prepare us for eternity: "For God sometimes uses sorrow in our lives to help us turn away from sin and seek eternal life. We should never regret his sending it." (2 Cor 7:10 TLB). He also uses sorrow in our lives to help those around us discover that they also need a Saviour!

Quite frankly, our current suffering is nothing compared to the blessings He has in store for us! If we keep our eyes of faith wide open, we will be filled with joy and we will praise His name!

"So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold-though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world." (1 Peter 1:6-7 NLT)

You know, I used to like being in the lime light, but now I much more prefer to boast in my weaknesses, because as a result of my weaknesses Jesus can truly start shining in my life! "I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." (2 Cor 12:9 NIV); and "For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Cor 12:10 NIV)

There is grace in suffering that leads us straight to God's throne!

Are you going through suffering?

Praise God and ask Him to help you open your eyes to discover His healing grace. There is truly beauty in ashes!

Foundation For Our Soul

Today's Bible Verse: Matthew 7:24-25 Jesus said, "Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.

My first congregation as a student minister in rural Ontario had connected with it a very modest manse -- think more of a cosy, three-bedroom cottage than a house -- no garage, no basement, and little storage. I asked a very wise Christian friend, who owned a Canadian Tire store, to donate a metal siding garden shed for storage purposes. He readily agreed, under one caveat: that our congregation first build a strong foundation on which the shed was to be built. It was decided that a thick concrete base, reinforced with steel rods, would make the strongest and longest-lasting foundation. It was almost 20 years ago that the garden shed was built on that most solid of bases.

Now, I'm sure many of you are familiar with this type of backyard shed and have seen older ones that have become the victims of their years. Perhaps the sides are bulging out, the roof partially collapsed and leaking, or the floorboards rotten and difficult to walk across. Typically, the foundation is not much more than a smoothed-over lawn.

Some time ago, I revisited this old manse with its garden shed. While the manse looks a little tired and weathered, the modest garden shed stands firm and strong on its foundation. The roof resists record Ontario snowfalls; the walls are straight and sturdy; the floor is flat and unyielding; and its contents are always dry.

It has been my experience in life that those whose personal foundations are most secure are those who lead the strongest, most satisfying, and richest of lives. Jesus' teachings are foundational for meaningful lives, lives rich in peace, humility, forgiveness, and grace, with a love of neighbour and self. Many people are drawn to other ways of life, ways that one might argue have a strong foundation, but Christ's way cannot be improved upon.

Prayer: Lord, our lives are solid when You are our rock, our foundation. Help us not only to hear Your words, but also to put them into practice in our everyday lives. Help us to become a reflection of Your generous and accepting love. Amen.

Rick Potter rpotte@hotmail.com Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada

Thanks to http://daily.presbycan.ca

Announcements:

Do you have a prayer request? Do you know someone who needs to be prayed for? Prayer works! The Bible confirms this in James 5:16 “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” NIV Send your prayer request to prayerrequest@answers2prayer.org and let us pray in agreement with you! Matt 18:20 “For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.” NIV Hallelujah!

The Call. Nairobi, Here I Come: Conclusion

Today's Bible Verse: Matt 18:3-4 I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

My son's missionary outreach in Kenya has made it possible for me to get to know a few Kenyan people, and I have come to the following conclusion:

1. There is a real hunger for God in Kenya.

While the mission team was in Nairobi, I received an urgent message from a town named Kitale, also in Kenya. It was a plea for help: "We kindly request you also to plan for willing preachers to come and preach the gospel of Christ in our town Kitale. Which is also in Kenya. We also request you to organize if possible for the establishment of a small orphanage here."

My heart was broken and I tried to rise up some willing candidates to answer this call, but I came up empty. I do know, however, that our God will answer this call! You may be the one through whom He will bless the people of Kitale!

"The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." (Luke 10:2 NIV)

2. Kenyan people have an amazing childlike faith.

One current prayer request from a Kenyan was a call for healing: "I have recently developed a bump on my right hand near the wrist. It started last week Monday and is growing by the day. I went to the hospital and was told they have to remove the growth."

A few days later, we received an answer to prayer: "Praise God! Praise God! I am so happy and glad. We surely serve a faithful God. The bump started receding and is now almost not there! I never even went to another doctor for any second opinion, I had faith Jesus would heal me and He has! Oh, Praise God!"

Testimonies like these are numerous throughout the continent of Africa. God is on the move and He has a passion for people to get to know Him!

"I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." (Matt 18:3-4 NIV)

Faith is a necessary ingredient for beginning to experience Him in our lives. Is it possible that miracles like these are limited in our Western world just because of our lack of faith in God? I wonder … "According to your faith will it be done to you" (Matt 9:29 NIV)

3. The people of Kenya that I know don't let circumstances overwhelm them. Instead they use them to glorify the Lord!

Since my son's arrival back home, we have had the privilege of welcoming two prayer warriors from Nairobi, and they sure are full of fire! Although they never met my son, they felt the calling from God to join Answers2Prayer. One of them prayed for the person mentioned above with the bump, and witnessed with her own eyes the miracle in the making!

"I was given a prayer request for a colleague in my work place, and she had a hump on her wrist. Though I was praying, it was hard for me, I could not follow up since she knows me, and I felt she could feel uncomfortable. But glory to God! She came after sometime and told me that she sent a prayer request after I encouraged her to subscribe. She wrote about a hump on her wrist and now she can see a great change, the hump has reduced a great deal."

And it did disappear completely without any surgery!

The fiancé of a Kenyan friend of mine broke up with her. Instead of falling into depression and self-pity, she stood firm and glorified God instead. Oh, it had been a terrible shock to her, but she knows her Heavenly Daddy will never stop loving her, and that is more important to her than anything else in this world!

Winnie, one of our prayer warriors from Kenya shared with me a dream she had received from God, just after she graduated from high school: "Something was brought forth like a great camera show; it was a great multitude of worshippers of God, white, black and all colors. Covering the greatest sphere of the earth, somebody called my name to watch, he told me to watch carefully, my eyes were elevated. I could see the far corners of the earth, as far as my eyes were able to see, I could see great multitude of people seriously submitting requests to God.

God' great presence was in their midst, I walked with the person who called me to watch, whom later I guessed was the Holy Spirit since he was different from all the rest, amazingly, I also saw myself in the group submitting the requests.

Now the theme; he showed me that people who prioritized to pray for others were given much more strength and were growing strong. While the people who were only praying for themselves were dropping down and become exhausted. The secret was pick the needs of others first."

Touched by this message, I had the opportunity the next day to put it to test. I was facing a very painful procedure called a root canal. Anyone hearing that word squirms just at the thought of this generally painful experience. During the procedure I decided that instead of concentrating on my own needs, I would pray on behalf of those God brought to my mind. You won't believe this, but I did not feel a thing: no pain, no discomfort, no panic! Instead I felt God's presence, and I enjoyed my entire stay in what some call "the torture chair".

Praying on behalf of those in need sure makes a difference, not only to those we pray for, but also to the person who takes the time to pray for others!

In fact, James encourages us to: "Make this your common practice: Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you can live together whole and healed. The prayer of a person living right with God is something powerful to be reckoned with." (James 5:16 The Message)

I fell in love with the attitude of the Kenyan people. They are open and willing to experience God in their lives, and they can expect huge miracles in their midst. My question is: Are we westerners as eager for God?

I long for the day when I can visit Kenya as well, and meet my Kenyan friends face to face!

"Another root canal! Great! I can't wait to spend that time with God!"

Rob Chaffart

Announcements:

God is looking for faithful workers. "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." (Luke 10:2 NIV) Will you answer His call?

A Heavenly Voice

Today's Bible Verse: 1 John 3:21-22 Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive from him anything we ask, because we obey his commands and do what pleases him.

Last week at work, a dear friend of my boss dropped by and related this story. His company had been toiling and negotiating on an offer for months. It had become the obsession of his office. They finally had a realistic proposal and he was sitting across from his customer.

"Thanks, Dave," he said, "but we'll have to pass this year."

He was devastated. How could he face his employees? The loss of this million dollar deal would result in layoffs. His stomach initially tied in knots over presenting the bid, was now wrenched tighter. He simply could not understand how the client could afford to refuse their offer. He dreaded returning to the office.

Pulling into a truck stop he ordered coffee before returning to the office. His waitress was friendly, although slightly distracted.

As she poured the coffee and he nonchalantly said hello and asked how she was. He fully expected the traditional Southern response, "Fine and you?"

"Oh, I've been better," she began. "My husband abandoned me and the kids after Katrina. Left us stranded here and this is the only job I could find. It ain't too bad mind you. The boss lets me work around my kids so they ain't at home alone. But yesterday someone stole my purse. It had everything in it, birth certificates, shot records, social security cards, everything I had evacuated with. And every penny we had, $300 was in there. Now I don't so much mind they took the money, it's just money, but all those important papers. I need those for the kids and their schooling. I don't even know if I can get new papers with New Orleans being in such a mess."

He bobbed his head with feigning interest in her conversation.

He wanted to interrupt her and point out that she had only lost $300.

He had just lost millions. Before he could reply, she turned to another table.

Sipping the warmth, he thought about their dilemmas. Both of them had been dealt a raw deal, but self-pity made him feel that somehow his loss was greater. Proportionally though, their losses were probably equal.

As he drank my coffee he flipped his cell phone and attempted to scan emails. No reception. Shutting it, he sank into the comfort of the red plastic padded dining booth and stared aimlessly. His daze was interpreted by the newly familiar voice.

"They found it!" She squealed with delight. "They found my purse! All our important papers were still there. We're gonna be all right!"

Everyone in the truck stop applauded.

She came to refresh his coffee. He declined the offer and congratulated her good fortune. She was gracious and told him to have a nice day as he took his ticket and headed for the cash register.

"She's still out $300," the heavenly Voice whispered.

"Okay," he acknowledged. "I'll leave a $20. That's a 1000% tip."

"She's still out $300," came the Voice again.

"All right," he moaned, "I've got $50 in my wallet. I'll leave that."

"She lost $300," repeated the Voice.

"Look, God," he began. "I just lost a million dollar deal.

Have a little sympathy for me!"

"She lost $300," the Voice insisted.

"All right, all right," he grudgingly relented. Taking out his American Express he paid for the coffee and wrote in a $300 tip.

Walking through the parking lot to his car, he tried his cell phone again, still no tower. He got in his car and headed for the office trying to think of a diplomatic way to break the bad news.

Opening the door to his office, his secretary practically leapt from her desk to greet him.

"Mr. Smith," she bubbled, "You'll ever guess who just called!"

"Do I have to?" He asked.

"Oh no sir, I was just so excited I couldn't help myself," she beamed. "Mr. Jones called right after you left. He tried getting you on your cell, but he said he couldn't reach you. Must have been in a dead zone, right sir?"

She inhaled and continued at lightening speed, "Anyway he said he went over the figures you gave him with his sales and production staff after your meeting. They decided to double the order. Can you believe it! Doubled the order! Our price was just too good to pass.

They have faxed over the signed contracts! Isn't that fantastic?

The contracts are on you desk."

Stunned, he looked at his secretary in utter disbelief, "He said what?"

She slowly repeated the telephone conversation. He could not believe it. He walked into the office to examine the faxed contracts for himself.

He noted the time on the fax and the American Express receipt.

They were the same.

Lissa M. Lee

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When Focus Matters. Nairobi, Here I Come, Part 18

Today's Bible Verse: Heb 12:2-3 Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed — that exhilarating finish in and with God — he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls! (The Message)

In a couple of hours I will be at my most vulnerable spot: the dentist chair! Keeping one’s mouth open while one is being tortured isn’t easy, especially when it’s a root canal! But hey, you can’t really complain about it, especially since you can’t utter a word anyway, with all those hands in your mouth!

Giraffes are vulnerable as well. Although they have excellent eyesight and can view the surroundings for miles on end, thanks to their height, they have two predators that seem to like the giraffe’s hard flesh: lions and leopards.

These animals are generally no match for giraffes however, as a kick from a giraffe’s leg can literally kill a lion, and a giraffe can run 31-37 mph! Besides, due to their height, they are difficult to bring down!

There is one spot, however, where they become vulnerable, and it isn’t the dentist chair. Their teeth are healthier than most of ours! And this is a place where giraffes have no choice but to frequent often: The water-hole!

As giraffes have to struggle to spread their front legs wide and lower their heads to drink, their focus can no longer be on their surroundings and their numerous dangers. Giraffes are so conscious of their vulnerability that they will scan their surroundings carefully, but not all dangers are noticeable, especially if a predator is hiding! But once their heads are down and their front legs spread wide, a lion or leopard can attack them and bring them down with hardly a fight.

No kicking or running is possible, as the wide-spread position locks the giraffe’s front legs into place. Moreover, putting its head up very quickly will make the giraffe dizzy and fill it with confusion!

How true this is for all of us if we stop focusing on what really matters, we become easy prey for the evil one, and before we know it we are spiritually devoured!

This is why the apostle Paul urges us to: “Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed — that exhilarating finish in and with God — he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!” (Heb 12:2-3 The Message)

Focus seems to matter in this life! On whom will you focus?

Rob Chaffart

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The Magnifier

Today's Bible Verse: Psalm 34:3 Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. (KJV)

The Magnifier

My new computer holds a magnifier, but I hadn't bothered figuring out how to use it. However, the Lord knew that I would need it someday. That day is now! I am struggling to see what I am doing. Writing with just the vision of one eye is difficult, to say the least, but I am coming to accept the fact that I now need the magnifier. My only problem is finding just where the curser (the little pointed arrow) went to, for there, at its point, are my magnified words.

Given this affliction that takes away half my sight, I have a lot of time on my hands for prayer, meditation, and just thinking, and so, I am wondering about the word "magnify". I looked it up in the concordance and found Psalm 34:3 inviting us to "magnify" the Lord together. How does one do that? Other translations call us to "glorify" the Lord together. But now that I can see the meaning of the word "magnify" is to make larger or clearer, how do I make the Lord Jesus larger and clearer? What is there in me that makes the Lord clearer for others to view, or is that possible?

Mary, the mother of our Lord, had it right, I think. She said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior." (Luke 1:46 NKJV) So, it is my soul that magnifies the Lord. Why didn't I see that years ago? It is my soul that looks upon the Lord and sees Him clearly, and then my spirit is happy and content, releasing my heart to thank the Lord for the vision I have left. Now, I thank the Lord for my right eye every day!

Today, my soul is looking upon Jesus through the light of the resurrection, and what a wonderful sight! My struggle to adapt is enabling my soul to "see Christ more clearly, love Him more dearly, and follow Him more nearly". I can now better identify with the Apostle Paul's concern:

Ephesians 3:18-20 - May you know how wide and long and high and deep [Christ's love] is. And may you know his love, even though it can't be known completely. Then you will be filled with everything God has for you. God is able to do far more than we could ever ask for or imagine. He does everything by his power that is working in us. (NIRV)

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us Your love, even as we struggle with life's frailties. We trust You now to lead us through the confusion and darkness of this life to Yourself. Today, as we look upon You, may our souls magnify Your name far and wide, for what we see is great love and total forgiveness through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Iris Ford iris_ford@telus.net Parksville, British Columbia, Canada

Thanks to http://daily.presbycan.ca

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