God's Developer

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

                       "And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also."  Romans  5:3

     It takes a telescopic faith to be able to say  "we glory in tribulations."  One must be able to look ahead and visualize the end purposes of trials and tribulations, and rest in the promise of Romans 8:28.  Every one of our trials and testings is known to God, is permitted by God, and has a purpose in the development of our Christian character.

     Many of you own a camera.  They are made so simple today that one needs to know nothing about photography to take good pictures.  Just snapping the picture is easy enough, but to develop the film takes a knowledge of photography.  A film is a piece of material covered with chemicals which are exceedingly sensitive to light.  When the light falls upon this film, there is no visible change, yet the picture is there.  It only needs to be developed.  It is taken into a darkroom and immersed in a liquid containing certain chemicals which dissolve parts of the coating of the film exposed to the light.  The negative is placed in this solution and the dish tilted from side to side, washing and rewashing the face of the plate or film until gradually the image is revealed.  This is called  "developing the plate."  The picture was there all the time but it needed to be developed.

     Trials and testings are God's  "developers"  of Christian character.  There are gifts and graces and virtues which are never developed except in the darkroom of God's school of affliction.  Some of you today are in God's darkroom, while He passes you through test after test of developing solution, while bringing out a beauty in you, which will be its own explanation and God's answer to the question,  "Why must I suffer so?" He wants to bring out in you the image of Him whose likeness you bear.

"Little furnaces are for little faith.  The greatest compliment God can pay us is to heat the furnace to the utmost."

"Bread For Each Day"

Micah 7:5-6

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31


Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a companion.  Keep the doors of they mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom.
For the son dishonoureth the father, the daughter riseth up against her mother, the daughter in law against her mother in law; a man's enemies are the men of his own house.

Micah 6:8

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31


He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy (loving kindness), and to walk humbly with thy God?

Needed: Diligent Laborers

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

                                                  "Not slothful in business."  Romans  12:11

     When I was young we lived  next door to a kindly old gentleman who worked with but average speed, yet with skillful precision and earnest diligence.  As a boy of twelve I stood watching him one day when he turned to me and said,  "Perhaps you, like some of the other neighbors, think I am spending a great deal of time on this particular project; but I have learned long ago that speed should always be secondary to quality workmanship.  Remember this, my boy:  years from now when I am gone and people view what I am building today, no one will ask,  'How long did it take him?'  but many will probably inquire,  'Who did it?'  It is well to recognize early in life the value of doing your best at all times!"  There is not much else I remember about this man, but I have never forgotten the lesson he taught.  Christians especially are to be diligent in their labors, performing all their duties as "unto the Lord."  There is never an excuse for any of us to be "slothful in business."  Men now may little mark our deeds, and often we may go unappreciated despite our most earnest and consecrated efforts, yet we must constantly keep in mind the thought that our real Master is Christ who ever demands our best.  He will certainly reward the diligent.

     Someone has said,  'There are those who patiently climb the hills of life doing their duty with only God knowing the heroic quality of their work, but God keeps a blessed 'Book of Remembrance' and will someday open it.  Then every faithful workman who labored conscientiously to obtain the praise of Heaven will receive a crown!"

     Even though you may not have accomplished great things, it is comforting to know that a life of simple consecration always leaves a trace of imperishable beauty and worth on everything it touches.

"Bread For Each Day"

A Perfect Way

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

                            "It is God that . . . maketh my way perfect."  Psalm  18:31

     There is a familiar story of a man who went into a famous tapestry establishment in Paris to watch the skilled laborers perform their work of art.  They had their hands filled with thread of almost every color, and were weaving them into what seemed to him a rather ugly fabric of patchwork.  When an opportune moment came he said to one of the directors of the project,  "I do not see any beauty in that piece of work at all." "No,"  said the other,  "it is not very attractive now, but return in a month and see it after it is finished; then you will change your mind."  At the time appointed the man went back to view the piece of tapestry, but once again he was sorely disappointed at the jumble of colors.  He shook his head and said,  "I am still unable to see any beauty in it."  The chief weaver took his arm and directed him to the other side of the room - how wonderful the beauty which now met his eye!  What skillful and artistic mingling of the colors - what an exquisite deign.  The visitor could find no words to express his admiration and delight.  He understood then that the tapestry is woven from the wrong side, and one who does not know what the weaver is doing sees only the tangled, snarled ends and oftentimes no meaningful symmetry or line.

     So, too, all of us are on the loom of life, but if we have given ourselves over into the hands of the Master Weaver, we may be sure that His pattern of grace will be marvelously contrived.  Here we may see only the tangled strands of trial and the knotted end of disappointment, seemingly arranged without proper skill or meaning.  However, when the weaving of our life has ended, we shall be allowed to view it from the Glory Side; then with eternal perspective we shall discover that the fabric of our existence was full of design and purpose.  Indeed, with the psalmist we will exclaim:  He "maketh my way perfect."

"Bread For Each Day"

Smooth Preaching

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

"I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the living and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom: Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.  For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears:  And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.  But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.  For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.  I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."   2 Timothy 4: 1-8

     The faithful preacher of the Gospel is never universally popular.  While some will love him for his faithfulness, great numbers will hate him for his unwillingness to compromise.  In the days of Isaiah, the Lord pronounced judgment because the people refused the warnings of doom, for they wanted the prophets to bring messages which would not condemn their sins.  They said,  ". . . speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits."

     People often believe that a good sermon should make folk feel comfortable and at ease.  On the contrary, however, a real good Bible sermon is one which first of all disturbs, irritates, awakens, causes dissatisfaction and unrest.  Before anyone can find comfort in Christ, he must first of all be made to feel his failures and shortcomings.  There are three steps in the process of conviction.  First the sinner becomes mad, then he becomes sad, and, finally, he becomes glad when he confesses his sin and turns to Christ.

     What kind of a sermon did your preacher give you last Sunday?  Was it one that made you feel satisfied with yourself?  If it did, you better hear someone else next Sunday.  But if the sermon, awakened in you a consciousness of your unworthiness, then thank God for him.

     A man described under three heads a certain sermon he had heard.  He said it was a moving, soothing, and satisfying message.  It was very moving for half the audience left before it was one-half over.  It was very soothing because most of those who remained fell fast asleep; and it was highly satisfying since everyone declared that they had had enough of that kind of preaching.  The Word of God is a sword (Hebrews  4:12); a knife  (Acts  5:33); a fire  (Jeremiah  23:29); a hammer  (Jeremiah  23:29);  and a lamp  (Psalm  119105).  The Word is a two-edged sword.  It wounds to heal, it kills to make alive.

"Bread For Each Day"

Psalm 27

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31


The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?  The Lord  the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat (devour) my flesh, they stumbled and fell.
Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.
One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty (delightfulness) of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple.
For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me: he shall set me up upon a rock.
And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy: I will sing,  yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord.
Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, Lord, will I seek.
Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will care for me.
Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.
Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.

Breaking Ground

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

                 " . . . Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among thorns."  Jeremiah  4:3

     My dictionary defines "fallow ground" as follows:  "ground which is plowed but not seeded; untilled and neglected."  The prophet likens Israel to a field freshly plowed and then left neglected and idle, not cultivated or tilled and consequently barren.  In Hosea 10:12 Jehovah says,  "Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy, break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the Lord."  We make the application to the Christian, who, after finding the Lord and being "plowed," goes no farther but allows the soil to grow up in weeds and thistles.  How long have you known the Lord?  How is the crop progressing?  Is there growth and promise of a harvest?  Or is your life at a standstill spiritually?  The Lord expects fruit from your life.  It may be that God is cutting deep into the soil of your soul but it is only because He wants fruit.  And so He sends tribulation, testing, and chastening to break up the neglected clods and chunks in your life.

     As the farmer breaks the hard clods in the spring, putting the points of the plow deep into the earth and then letting the sharp teeth of the harrow and the drag dig into the soil, the clay might well cry in pain and wonder at it all; but the farmer knows what he is doing, and so he keeps on digging and breaking.  The deeper the plow works and the oftener the sharp harrow is pulled across the face of the land, the more precious the crop of fruit will be when the harvest time comes.  God's plow goes deep, but only that the fruit may be more abundant, that in the end we may forget the plowing and rejoice in the blessing of bearing much fruit for Him.

     If you have not already done so, please take the time to read Isaiah 28:24-29.  Be a fruitful field and your reward is sure!

"Bread For Each Day"

Prove Anything By Scripture?

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

          " . . . no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation."  2 Peter 1:20

     "You can prove anything by the Bible," is an expression we hear all too often.  It is not true - it is a lie! You cannot prove just anything by the Bible if you take the Bible as a whole and remember that no part of it can contradict any other part.  There are several hundred so-called Christian sects, denominations, and organizations in America, all claiming to be based on the Bible and able to quote texts to prove it.  But we cannot build a doctrine or system of faith on an isolated passage of the Bible.  It must be viewed and interpreted in harmony with all the rest of Scripture.  Yes, you can "prove" anything by an isolated text taken out of its context.  For instance the Bible says,  "There is no God."  That statement is found in Psalm 14.  But the rest of the verse is:  "The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God."  That make quite a difference.

     If you are confused by the many different sects, churches, and denominations, study the whole Bible.  If a church builds its theology on isolated verse and pet doctrines instead of on the Book as a whole, beware of it.

     A man asked his friend this riddle:  "There was a donkey tied to a rope only four feet long.  Eight feet away was a bale of hay which the donkey wanted because he was hungry.  How did he get it?"  His friend said,  "I've heard that one before.  You want me to say,  'I give up - and you'll say, that's what the other jackass did too.'"  "Not at all,"  said the man.  "It's really quite simple.  You see the donkey just walked over to the hay and ate it."  The friend, now confused, replied,  "But you said the rope was only four feet long." "Very true,"  was the reply,  "but the rope wasn't tied to anything.  You mustn't jump at conclusions before you have all the facts."

     Only as you study the Bible can you get all the facts and get the true message.  Study for yourself!

"Bread For Each Day"

Testing In Deep Waters

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

                    "Save me, O God; for the waters are come in unto my soul."  Psalm  69:1

     A flood of "overflowing waters" was a familiar Hebrew figure for the calamities of life which often threaten to drown the soul in misery and despair.  David in Psalm 69 expresses the frantic cry of one who is so beset by trial that he immediately recognizes that only God can possibly help and deliver him.  Many of us can echo David's petition of distress, for we too have experienced "sorrows like sea billows" that have ominously threatened to engulf our soul.  Yet when He who is love dwells within, we may be confident that the waters of distress will never completely overflow us.  Indeed, we are assured in His Word that "Many waters cannot quench (His) love, neither can the floods drown it"  (Song of Solomon  8:7).

     A jeweler gives as one of his surest tests for diamonds, the so-called "trial by water" experiment.  He says,  "An imitation diamond is never so brilliant as a genuine stone.  If your eye is not experienced enough to detect the difference, a simple test is to place the jewel in question under water.  The light of an imitation stone when submerged will be practically extinguished, while a genuine diamond will sparkle and remain distinctly visible.  The contrast is so marked that none can mistake the counterfeit."  So, too, many seem joyful and confident as long as they have no trials in this life; but as soon as the waters of sorrow begin to flow about them, their faith loses its brilliancy.  Those, however, who have been fortified in advance by laying up in their heart the precious promises of the Word, and who have appropriated more fully the sanctifying grace of the Holy Spirit, will shine forth in the "deep water test" as genuine jewels of the King!

"Bread For Each Day"

Psalm 91:4 - 6

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31


He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust (take refuge): his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Thou shalt not be afraid of the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day.
Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that lays waste at noon day.

Psalm 90:12

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31


So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Patient Endurance

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."   Ephesians  4:31

              "And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise."  Hebrews 6:15

     Trials can be turned into triumphs if we patiently endure them!  There was once a mission station in Japan, we are told, which built a meeting place with the stones that were thrown at the Christians who had witnessed there in years gone by.  When more peaceful times came the believers had picked up these rocks and bricks and worked them into the foundation of a new church.  So too, our trials, if they are borne patiently, bring blessing and lay the foundation for future reward.  In Hebrews 6:15 the example of Abraham is cited in regard to such faithful endurance.

     Someone has written,  "Abraham was long tried, but he was richly rewarded.  The Lord tried him by delaying to fulfill His promise; satan tried him by temptation; men tried him by jealousy, distrust, and opposition; Sarah tried him by her peevishness; but he patiently endured.  He did not question God's veracity, or limit His power, nor doubt His faithfulness, nor grieve His love; but he bowed to divine sovereignty, submitted to infinite wisdom, and was silent under delays, waiting the Lord's time.  And so, having patiently endured, he obtained the promise.  God's promises can never fail of their accomplishment. Patient waiters cannot be disappointed.  Believing expectation shall be realized.  Beloved, Abraham's conduct condemns a hasty spirit, reproves a murmuring one, commends a patient one, and encourages quiet submission to God's will and way.  Remember, Abraham was tried; he patiently waited; he received the promise, and was satisfied."

     Let us imitate Abraham's example of patient endurance and share the same blessing!

"Bread For Each Day"

Still Waters

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

                               " . . . he leadeth me beside the still waters."   Psalm 23:2

     Palestine is a semi-arid country and water is therefore scarce and precious.  The picture that is drawn here in the Twenty-third Psalm is an interesting one.  The streams during the rainy season are swift and treacherous so that it is not safe for a sheep to approach their raging current.  Should they do so, they would probably be carried away and drowned.  The sheep, however, in this rather dry and thirsty land are very eager for the sparkling refreshment when they see it pouring in an inviting torrent, but the shepherd, recognizing their danger, keeps them back until he has dug a ditch leading off from the main stream.  Only when the water has collected in this special pool and distilled to a crystal clearness does he allow his sheep to satisfy their thirst.  By these still waters they find their necessary refreshment without the dangers associated with the swiftly flowing streams of the rainy season.  No wonder the sheep love the shepherd, for through his tender care and provision they can enjoy cooling mouthfuls of water in tranquility, and slake their thirst without fear.

     So too, the boisterous streams of the world, although they appear inviting, can never satisfy the Lord's sheep.  The allurements of sin promise much, but their subtle threat to life and limb is apparent to the Good Shepherd.  He knows our need and graciously supplies the sweet water of the Word and heavenly refreshment.  The quiet beauty and crystal purity of the water of salvation ever invites His obedient sheep to peaceful repose and true contentment.  Only as these "waters of stillness" (as the phrase may be literally translated) are imbibed can our souls be restored and our thirst for God be satisfied.  How precious and delightful are His "still waters."  "O taste and see that the Lord is good."  He ever leads aright!

"Bread For Each Day"

Drawing Near To God

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

                               " . . . it is good for me to draw near to God."   Psalm  73:28

     In justification God first stoops down to us and draws us with cords of love and the power of His irresistible grace; but in sanctification we must make the initial move and seek to have intimate fellowship with Him.  Asaph in Psalm 73 had experienced the joy and true happiness that results from such nearness to God. James, in his epistle, tells us that if we want to feel God's presence we must first "draw nigh" to Him  (James 4:8).  Too many Christians wait passively for God to fill them with joy, victory, and spiritual zeal they fail to recognize that such intimate blessings are impossible unless they - by Bible study, prayer, witnessing, and fellowship with other Christians - advance into the light and warmth of the Lord's most intimate presence. Because we as Christians often are so blind to this fact, God sometimes has to encourage us to come closer to Him through pressing trial and encumbering need.  How much better if true gratitude and love inspires our hearts to seek His warming embrace!  But whatever the reasons for our drawing near - our slightest movement Godward delights His heart and brings an instantaneous response and increased fellowship.

     You perhaps may recall the story of the little fellow who through fear was prompted to nestle very close to his father as they were riding along on a strange and dark road.  The indulgent father, thinking the child was about to ask for some favor, inquired,  "Out with it, what do you want?"  "Nothing, Father, I just want to be near you,"  said the child with a soulful look.  The father's heart was gladdened, and the fellowship between the two was made more precious.  So, too, the Father in Heaven rejoices when, because of our love, we seek to embrace Him in a warmer fellowship.  Indeed, "The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him . . . in truth"  (Psalm  145:18).

"Bread For Each Day"

Psalm 51: 16-17

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31


For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it; thou delightest not in burnt offering.
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.

Psalm 51:6-13

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31


Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts; and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right (steadfast) spirit within me.
Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free(generous) spirit.
Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.

Psalm 51:1-3

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, clamour, and evil speaking be put away from me, with all malice."   Ephesians  4:31


Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy loving-kindness; according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
For I acknowledge my transgressions; and my sin is ever before me.

The Power Of The Word

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

             "Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you."  John  15:3

     The Word of God is compared to water for three distinct purposes.  When the Bible speaks of water for drinking purposes it refers to regeneration through the Spirit (John 3:5).  When used as a figure of floods and torrents, it signifies the judgments of God (2 Peter 3:6).  Water used for cleansing and washing points to the sanctifying power of the Word of God.

     Jesus prayed,  "Sanctify them through thy truth:  thy word is truth"  (John 17:17).  The Church is cleansed by the "washing of water by the Word."  No believer can be clean without daily "bathing" in the Word of God.  Just reverently reading the Bible daily will be a sanctifying experience, even though you may not even remember much of what you have read.  Some people have very poor memories.  A man once complained:  "I might as well stop reading the Bible for I get so little out of it and remember so little afterwards."  Is this your trouble?  Then liten to the little story of a simple Hindu convert.  A missionary diligently tried to teach her the Word of God daily, and become greatly discouraged because her new convert was so slow in remembering what she had been taught.  One day she complained,  "I guess it's no use trying to teach you the Word, you seem to forget all I tell you about the Bible.  Your mind seems like a sieve.  As fast I pour the water in, it runs out again."  The reply of the poor woman reveals a great truth.  Said she,  "Yes, I realize my mind is like a sieve.  I do forget so much, but when you pour water through a sieve it makes the sieve clean, even though it seems to retain none of it.  I am sorry I forget so much, but please don't stop pouring the Word into me.  It makes my heart and mind feel so clean afterwards.  The water is not wasted."

     It is not how much Scripture you can memorize, but rather how "much" it does to you.

                                                                  Who would not love the Bible,
                                                                       So beautiful and wise?
                                                                   It cleanses and refreshes,
                                                                        And points us to the skies.
                                                                                                    - E. Hood

"The vigor of our spiritual life will be in proportion to the place held by the Word in our life and thoughts."
                                                                                                                                        - G. Mueller

"Bread For Each Day"

Psalm 71:6

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

COME TO ME...

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."   Ephesians  4:31

COME TO ME, Come to Me, Come to Me.  This is my continual invitation to you, proclaimed in holy whispers.  When your heart and mind are quiet, you can hear Me inviting you to draw near.  Coming close to Me requires no great effort on your part; it is more like ceasing to resist the magnetic pull of My Love.  Open yourself to My loving Presence, so that I may fill you with My fullness.  I want you to experience how wide and long and high and deep is My Love for you, so that you can know My Love that surpasses knowledge.  This vast ocean of Love cannot be measured or explained, but it can be experienced.

"Jesus Calling - Enjoying Peace In His Presence"

Geriatrics

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

                  "With us are both the gray-headed and very aged men . . . "  Job  15:10

     Geriatrics is the science or study of "old age."  Today we have in medical practice a specialized branch of research which make a study of the infirmities and peculiar maladies of the elderly, and seeks remedies for them.  As the functions of the body slow down, science in its never-ending search for the "fountain of youth" seeks to stave off "aging" by stimulants, hormones, pep pills, and applied psychology.  But in spite of it all - people still grow old.

     Much better than rebelling against growing old is to adjust one's self to it - and then "act your age."

     Since we cannot turn back the clock of time, we are to use the opportunities which age afford to the best advantage.  For the trusting Christian, sunset should be a time of quietness and peace.  There is nothing quite so depressing as a bitter old man or woman who has become sour with age instead of sweeter.  There is nothing so refreshing, comforting, and reassuring as an aging Christian who becomes sweeter and more mellow as the days go by.

     Dr. Wm. Pettingill said to me shortly before he went to be with the Lord at the age of 84,  "I shall never grow old - only older, and I hope the Lord will let me die with my boots on."  He did - and all who were acquainted with this aged saint of God knew the stimulus of his radiant sparkling testimony to the very end.

     What makes the difference in people growing old - either bitter or sweet?  It is a matter of perspective!  It is all in the direction you look - back - or ahead.  To mope over past joys, hurts, fading youth, will not change the picture - but to look ahead and see the glory - this is victory.  (Read 2 Corinthians 4: 16-18).  Remember the Bible says,  "They shall bring forth fruit in old age.  They shall be fat and flowing."  Take liberal, daily doses of the Word and you won't need any "Geritol."

"Bread For Each Day"

Psalm 95:7,8

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31


For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand.  To day if ye will hear his voice,
Harden not your heart...

Psalm 94:22

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31


But the Lord is my defence; and my God is the rock of my refuge.

Psalm 94:19

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31


In the multitude of my anxious thoughts thy comforts delight my soul.

Psalm 94:18

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31


When I said, My foot slippeth; thy mercy, O Lord, held me up.

Psalm 94:12-13

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31


Blessed is the man whom thou chastenest, O Lord, and teachest him out of thy law; 
That thou mayest give him rest (relief) from the days of adversity, and until the pit be digged for the wicked.

Psalm 139

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me.
Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou undestandest my thought afar off.
Thou compassest (comprehendeth) my path and my lying down, and art acquaited with all my ways.
For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether.
Thou hast beset (enclosed) me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.
Whither shall (can) I go from thy spirit?  or whither shall (can) I flee from thy presence?
If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.
If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;
Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.
If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me.
Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee.
For thou hast formed my inner parts; thou hast weaved me in my mother's womb.
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
My bones were not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unformed, and in thy book all my members were written, the days fashioned before me, when as yet there was none of them.
How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God!  how great is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.
Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: depart from me therefore, ye bloodthirsty men.
For they speak against thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy name in vain.
Do not I hate them, O Lord, that hate thee?  and am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee?
I hate them with complete hatred: I count them mine enemies.
SEARCH ME, O GOD, AND KNOW MY HEART: TRY ME, AND KNOW MY THOUGHTS.
AND SEE IF THERE BE ANY WICKED WAY IN ME, AND LEAD ME IN THE WAY EVERLASTING.

King James Version

A baby 8 weeks inside its mother.

HOLD MY HAND...

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

HOLD MY HAND, and walk joyously with Me through this day.  Together we will savor the pleasures and endure the difficulties it brings.  Be on the lookout for everything I have prepared for you: stunning scenery, bracing winds of adventure, cozy nooks for resting when you are weary, and much more.  I am your Guide, as well as your constant Companion.  I know every step of the journey ahead of you, all the way to heaven.

You don't have to choose between staying close to Me and staying on course.  Since I am the Way, staying close to Me is staying on course.  As you focus your thoughts on Me, I will guide you carefully along today's journey.  Don't worry about what is around the next bend.  Just concentrate on enjoying My Presence and staying in step with Me.

"Jesus Calling - Enjoying Peace In His Presence"

God's Promised Direction

Come, sit, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the comfort of the Lord:  "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice."  Ephesians  4:31

                                         " . . . I will direct all his ways . . . "  Isaiah  45:13

     When we acknowledge the Lord in all our ways, He perfectly and wisely directs our paths.

     The story is told of a lone survivor of a shipwreck who was thrown upon an uninhabited island.  After a while he built for himself a rude shelter in which he placed the few precious possessions he had managed to save from the ship.  Being a Christian he prayed most earnestly for deliverance, and anxiously scanned the horizon to hail any ship that might come in that direction.  One day, upon returning from a hunt for food, he was horrified to find his campsite in flames.  All that he had salvaged was disappearing in the smoke! Disaster had struck, or so it appeared.  However, that which seemed to have transpired for the worst was in reality for his gain.  While to his limited vision such a cruel blow was inexplicable, to God's infinite wisdom his loss was for the best, and actually resulted in the very thing for which he had been praying most earnestly - for the very next day a ship arrived!  "We saw your smoke signal,"  the captain said!  The Christian recognized then that even his seeming calamity had been God-directed.

     Remember, Christian, there are no accidents with the Lord.  Look with the dicerning eyes of faith for His wise leading, and trace with sanctified understanding His hand of love even in your deepest trial.  Be assured that "God's way is the best way," though at present the blessing of His direction may be hidden from your tear-dimmed eyes!

"Bread For Each Day"