Encouraging Stories & Poems are stories or poems by every day people like you and me to help inspire and encourage you through successful and difficult times.
When the evening light fades and the first particle of the moon nudges the distant stars and sprinkles it's dust on the earth, I ponder why I don't recall seeing this scene before. I've looked at the moon, I've seen the evening shade gently cover the sky, but this day, it took me by surprise. Should I be prepared for miracle moments like this or am I too busy trudging through life to notice?
God tells me: "Rest my child and take in all the wonders that I have created for you. You are on my earth for such a short time. Slow down and enjoy what time you have left. When I call you to come to me, I would hope you will have enjoyed, not endured, life. Take each day that you are given. It's my gift to you because I love you. I have a plan for you, but I cannot reveal what it is at this time, you are not prepared. Keep your spirits high and learn to recognize my miracles, there are many meant just for you."
"Be sure to keep in touch with me every day, for I will give you all that you ask for, when it's time. I have never let you down, but allowed you to make mistakes so that you can learn. A child that has everything done for him is a child that will not survive on his own. Please tell others about me. Let them know that I will give them everything their hearts desire, if they ask and when it's time."
"For by grace are ye saved through faith: and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast."
(Ephesians 2:8-9)
I shook my head in disbelief. This couldn't be the right place. After all, I couldn't possibly be welcome here. I had been given an invitation several times, by several different people, and had finally decided to
see what this place was all about. But, this just couldn't be the right place. Quickly, I glanced down at the invitation that I clutched in my hand. I scanned past the words, "Come as you are. No jacket required,"
and found the location.
Yes, I was at the right place. I peered through the window again and saw a room of people whose faces seemed to glow with joy. All were neatly dressed, adorned in fine garments and appeared strangely clean as they dined at this exquisite restaurant. Ashamed, I looked down at my own tattered and torn clothing, covered in stains. I was dirty, in fact, filthy. A foul smell seemed to consume me and I couldn't shake the grime
that clung to my body. As I turned around to leave, the words from the invitation seemed to leap out at me, "Come as you are. No jacket required."
I decided to give it a shot. Mustering up every bit of courage I could find, I opened the door to this restaurant and walked up to a man standing behind a podium. "Your name, sir?" he asked me with a smile.
"Jimmy D. Brown," I mumbled without looking up. I thrust my hands deep into my pockets, hoping to conceal their stains. He didn't seem to notice the filth that I was covered in and he continued, "Very good, sir. A
table is reserved in your name. Would you like to be seated?" I couldn't believe what I heard! A grin broke out on my face and I said, "Yes, of course!"
He lead me to a table and, sure enough, there was a placard with my name written on it in a deep, dark red. As I browsed over a menu, I saw many delightful items listed. There were things like, "peace," "joy,"
"blessings," "confidence," "assurance," "hope," "love," "faith," and "mercy." I realized that this was no ordinary restaurant! I flipped the menu back to the front in order to see where I was at. "God's Grace," was
the name of this place! The man returned and said, "I recommend the 'Special of the Day.' With it, you are entitled to heaping portions of everything on this menu." You've got to be kidding! I thought to myself.
You mean, I can have ALL of this! "What is the 'Special of the Day,' I asked with excitement ringing in my voice. "Salvation," was his reply. "I'll take it," I practically cried out.
Then, as quickly as I made that statement, the joy left my body. A sick, painful ache jerked through my stomach and tears filled my eyes. Between my sobs I said, "Mister, look at me. I'm dirty and nasty. I'm unclean and unworthy of such things. I'd love to have all of this, but, but, I just can't afford it."
Undaunted, the man smiled again. "Sir, your check has already been taken care of by that Gentleman over there," he said pointing to the front of the room. "His Name is Jesus." Turning, I saw a man whose very presence seemed to light the room. He was almost too much to look at. I found myself walking towards Him and in shaking voice I whispered, "Sir, I'll wash the dishes or sweep the floors or take out the trash. I'll do anything I can do to repay you for all of this." He opened His arms and said with a smile,
"Son, all of this is yours if you just come unto Me. Ask Me to clean you up and I will. Ask Me to take away the stains and it is done. Ask Me to allow you to feast at My table and you will eat. Remember, the table is reserved in your name. All you must do is accept this gift that I offer you."
Astonished, I fell at His feet and said, "Please, Jesus. Please clean up my life. Please change me and seat me at Your table and give me this new life." Immediately, I heard the words, "It is finished." I looked down and white robes adorned my squeaky clean body. Something strange and wonderful had happened. I felt new, like a weight had been lifted, and I found myself seated at His table. "The 'Special of the Day' has been
served," the Lord said to me. "Salvation is yours." We sat and talked for a great while and I so enjoyed the time that I spent with Him. He told me, me of all people, that He would like me to come back as often is I liked for another helping from God's Grace. He made it clear that He wanted me to spend as much time with Him as possible. As it drew near time for me to go back outside into the "real world," He whispered to me softly, "And Lo, I am with you always." And then, He said something to me that I will never forget. He said, "My child, do you see these empty tables throughout this room?"
"Yes, Lord. I see them. What do they mean?" I replied. "These are reserved tables... but the individuals whose names are on each placard have not accepted their invitations to dine. Would you be so kind as to and out these invitations to those who have not joined us yet?" Jesus asked. "Of course," I said with excitement as I picked up the invitations. "Go ye therefore into all nations," He said as I turned to leave. I walked into God's Grace dirty and hungry. Stained in sin. My righteousness as filthy rags. And Jesus cleaned me up. I walked out a brand new man... robed in white, His righteousness. And so, I'll keep my promise to my Lord. I'll go. I'll spread the Word. I'll share the Gospel...I'll hand out the invitations. And I'll start with you. Have you been to God's Grace?
There's a table reserved in your name, and here's your invitation...Come as you are. No jacket required."
If I died tomorrow,
How would you remember me?
Would you remember all the happy memories we shared?
Would you tell your children about me?
Would you even remember me?
If I died tomorrow,
What would you say to me today?
Would you tell me you love me?
Would you tell me that I'll always have a place in your heart?
Would you tell me that I left many imprints in your life?
Or would you just tell me good-bye and good-luck with God?
If I died tomorrow,
Would you hold me close to you today,
Not letting go and telling me you love me dearly?
Would you take me out today and spend as much time with me as possible?
Or would you just call for a quick 5 minute chat with you hanging-up,
Leaving me to a dial tone?
We never know what can or will happen tomorrow,
So today we all must cherish and do what we can.
Whether it's telling our mom and dad we appreciate them for caring and raising us
Or cuddling with our boyfriends/girlfriends and enjoying the comfort of one another.
Whatever it is, do what you can today.
Remember yesterday and don't worry about tomorrow.
1. Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the ark.
2. Stay fit. When you're 600 years old, someone might ask you to do something REALLY big.
3. Don't listen to critics -- do what has to be done.
4. Build on high ground.
5. For safety's sake, travel in pairs.
6. Two heads are better than one.
7. Speed isn't always an advantage. The cheetahs were on board, but so were the snails.
8. If you can't fight or flee -- float!
9. Take care of your animals as if they were the last ones on earth.
10. Don't forget that we're all in the same boat.
11. When the doo-doo gets really deep, don't sit there and complain -- shovel!!!
12. Stay below deck during the storm.
13. Remember that the ark was built by amateurs and the Titanic was built by professionals.
14. If you have to start over, have a friend by your side.
15. Remember that the woodpeckers INSIDE are often a bigger threat than the storm outside.
16. Don't miss the boat.
17. No matter how bleak it looks, there's always a rainbow on the other side.
18. "Stop what you are doing, and do what God says!"
God, I want to live my life for you,
But I just don't know what to do.
I always fall flat on my face,
I'd never get up if it wasn't for your grace.
Every time I get back on my feet,
And I think I have the devil beat,
He knocks me right on my butt,
And then I'm in another rut.
God, I know I always fail,
Then you always pay my bail.
Well, at least you know I try,
I'm glad I won't fail after I die.
Look at me, God, through your Son,
Then you'll see a special some one.
You'll see your Son when you look at me,
That's who I want everyone to see.
God help me to give you all my best,
It has to be better than the rest.
I want to give you what belongs to you,
Yeah, that's what I want to do.
I know I'm always gonna fail,
But it is to you I hail.
With you I can do anything,
After all you are the King of Kings.
Just reach down your hand and touch my life,
Get rid of all my sin and strife.
God, I want to live for you,
This is what I long to do.
Serving you is what I choose.
God, help me become more like you.
Evan Edgett
When you've cried so long and your heart is in anguish...
God has counted your tears.
If you feel that your life is on hold and time has passed you by...
God is waiting with you.
When you're lonely and your friends are too busy even for a phone call...
God is by your side.
When you think you've tried everything and don't know where to turn...
God has a solution.
When nothing makes sense and you are confused or frustrated...
God has the answer.
If suddenly your outlook is brighter and you find traces of hope...
God has whispered to you.
When things are going well and you have much to be thankful for...
God has blessed you.
When something joyful happens and you are filled with awe...
God has smiled upon you.
When you have a purpose to fulfill and a dream to follow... God has
opened your eyes and called you by name.
Remember that wherever you are or
whatever you are facing... GOD KNOWS
Start for yourself
Face your greatest fears
And take the new step of faith
Because only who can see the invisible
Can do the impossible.
God opens a door before your eyes
It's up to you to find out
Help yourself and explore the things outside.
If only you could see the genuine smile
Through the eyes of an innocent child
That gives you different insight
Sometimes it's better to be like a child
They take the challenge of life
No matter what comes out
You will see them playing around.
If you want to cope-up with your grief,
You must help and start for yourself
Minimize your self-centeredness,
Maximize your faith and strength for living
Because, God, you are still alive!
There are more things to explore outside.
Even the air you breathed, the voice you've heard,
The things you've seen,
Are enough to analyze,
You are still fortunate to be alive!
You are blessed to take another day
To feel the sun's ray
Hey, didn't you know that you are natures's greatest miracle?
DOING THE RIGHT THING
Each day as you wake up, make the decision to strive to do what's right.
Approach your life as you would your game....
...when you make a mistake, learn from it, correct it, and get ready for the next point. Life moves too fast to sulk and dwell on the past.
...when you're down, fight harder to get back on top. Life is full of hardships. Fight hard against those feelings of despair.
...when you're doing everything right and still can't win, be patient. No matter how good we are or how hard we struggle to make the right decisions, life often makes us wait.
...when you are on top of your game, relax and enjoy it. Life is fully appreciated when we survive adversity and can relax in the sunlight of success.
Each sunrise brings a new opportunity. No matter how bad the day before was, today is brand new. When you wake up, seek the strength and courage to do the right thing.
ANGEL IN MY POCKET
I am a tiny angel
I'm smaller than your thumb:
I live in people pockets
That's where I have my fun.
I don't suppose you've seen me,
I'm too tiny to detect:
Though I'm with you all the time,
I doubt we've ever met.
Before I was an Angel...
I was a fairy in a flower:
God, Himself, hand-picked me,
And gave me Angel power.
Now God has many Angels
That He trains in Angel pools:
We become His eyes, and ears, and hands
We become His special tools.
And because God is so busy,
With way too much to do;
He said that my assignment
Is to keep close watch on you.
When He tucked me in your Pocket
He blessed you with Angel care;
Then told me to never leave you,
And I vowed always to be there.
Dear One,
You are my child and I love you. It's just that simple. No matter what you've done or what you haven't done. I love you! You have an eternal spirit
living within you, and I know your spirit intimately, and I love you.
You are on this earth, living your life, making your decisions, trying to find out what's the best thing to do and how to do it - how to live, how to
survive - and it's a struggle. I know this and I understand, for this is the struggle of life. But all of this can be made easier if you will just
connect -- to Me.
For though your life carries on and you age and then die, your SPIRIT never ages. It never dies. The real you, the you that now dwells within the confines of your body, will live forever.
This is why the things of the body, the material things of the world, are not the things to strive for because one day you must leave them behind. The
things that truly matter are those of the spirit: LOVE, KINDNESS, MERCY, UNDERSTANDING, GIVING. These are the things that make you rich-rich in spirit. These are the things that make you strong-strong in spirit.
When the day comes that you shed the garment of your flesh, the strength of your spirit will be all that counts. So do good. Show love. Give love. Love
your family Love your neighbors. Love those you meet. Show mercy, kindness and compassion. For by sharing these things- by showing love- you show ME to
others. For I, God AM Love, and I love you. I want to spend Eternity with you.
When you come to the door at the end of the road, at the end of your life, you will need the key to open the door, to enter into MY HOME where
everything is LOVE. But you don't have to work for that key-just hold out your hand right now and I will place it there. The Key is MY SON, JESUS, I
hold out this key to you now and say, "It can be yours, because I love you." It is as though I am offering you the key to My treasure vault, saying,
"This is yours, just because I love you." With this key you can open the vault and find it is full of treasure. So receive MY KEY- the KEY to living
with ME forever. Just say, yes, GOD, I want the Key to life. I want Your SON, JESUS, the Key to your vault. I receive it. I accept it. Then this Key
will be yours forever.
I love you. You are my child, and I give you the Key to my inheritance, the Key to my vault, the Key to Eternity! He is yours, if you will just receive
Him.
WITH LOVE EVERLASTING,
YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER.
When the way seems long
And the day is dark,
And we can't hear the song
Of the thrush or the lark,
And our hearts are heavy
With worry and care
And we are lost
in the depths of despair...
That is the time
when FAITH alone
Can lead us out of
"THE DARK UNKNOWN",
For FAITH TO BELIEVE
when the way is Rough
And FAITH to HANG ON
when the going is Tough
Will never fail
to pull us through
And bring us
STRENGTH and COMFORT, too.
For all we ever need
Is "FAITH AS A GRAIN
OF MUSTARD SEED"
For all God asks,
is, "Do you believe?"
For if you do,
"ye shall receive!"
Helen Steiner Rice
Through The Storms
I did not know His love before,
the way I know it now.
I could not see my need for Him,
my pride would not allow.
I had it all, without a care,
the "Self-sufficient" lie.
My path was smooth, my sea was still,
not a cloud was in my sky.
I thought I knew His love for me,
I thought I'd seen His grace,
I thought I did not need to grow,
I thought I'd found my place.
But then the way grew rough and dark,
the storm clouds quickly rolled;
The waves began to rock my ship,
my anchor would not hold.
The ship that I had built myself
was made of foolish pride.
It fell apart and left me bare,
with nowhere else to hide.
I had no strength or faith to face
the trials that lay ahead,
And so I simply prayed to Him
and bowed my weary head.
His loving arms enveloped me,
and then He helped me stand.
He said, "You still must face this storm,
but I will hold your hand."
So through the dark and lonely night
He guided me through the pain.
I could not see the light of day
or when the storm might wane.
Yet through the aches and endless tears,
my faith began to grow.
I could not see it at the time,
but my light began to glow.
I saw God's love in brand new light,
His grace and mercy, too.
For only when all self was gone
could Jesus' love shine through.
It was not easy in the storm,
I sometimes wondered, "Why?"
At times I thought, "I can't go on."
I'd hurt, and doubt, and cry.
But Jesus never left my side,
He guided me each day.
Through pain and strife,
through fire and flood,
He helped me all the way.
And now I see as never before
how great His love can be.
How in my weakness He is strong,
how Jesus cares for me!
He worked it all out for my good,
although the way was rough.
He only sent what I could bear,
and then He cried, "Enough!"
He raised His hand and said, "Be still!"
He made the storm clouds cease.
He opened up the gates of joy
and flooded me with peace.
I saw His face now clearer still,
I felt His presence strong,
I found anew His faithfulness,
He never did me wrong.
Now I know more storms will come,
but only for my good,
For pain and tears have helped me grow
as naught else ever could.
I still have so much more to learn
as Jesus works in me;
If in the storm I'll love Him more,
that's where I want to be!
So often we go through life, just trudging through one day after another Feeling as if there is no meaning to life. One day is the same as the next.
Not really understanding "Why am I here?" or What difference can I make?"
The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood.
John 1:5
One starts to think "I have no idea where I have been or... where I am going!"
The man who walks in the dark does not know where he is going.
John 12:35
he does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded him.
1 John 2:11
There is hope for those who live in darkness and the drudgery of life.
The people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the shadow of death a light has dawned. Matthew 4:16
There is One Who can bring light and meaning into your life When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said" I am the light of the world.
Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."
John 8:12
Jesus gives the ability to have your darkness changed to light.
I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light,
and from the power of Satan to God,
so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.
Acts 26:18
God, the Father, has made it possible for us to receive the saving knowledge of His Son, Jesus Christ.
For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness,"
made. His Light shine in our hearts
to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.
2 Cor. 4:6
Always remember, God loves you!
Believe in Yourself
Sometimes people come into your life and you know right away that they were meant to be there. To serve some sort of purpose, teach you a lesson or
help figure out who you are or who you want to become.
You never know who these people may be but when you lock eyes with them, you know that very moment that they will affect your life in some profound way.
And sometimes things happen to you at the time that may seem horrible, painful and unfair, but in reflection you realize that without overcoming
those obstacles you would have never realized your potential, strength, will power or heart.
Everything happens for a reason. Nothing happens by chance or by means of good luck. Illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness and sheer
stupidity all occur to test the limits of your soul. Without these small tests, life would be like a smoothly paved, straight, flat road to nowhere.
Safe and comfortable but dull and utterly pointless.
The people you meet affect your life. The successes and downfalls that you experience can create who you are, and the bad experiences can be learned
from. In fact, they are probably the most poignant and important ones.
If someone hurts you, betrays you or breaks your heart, forgive them because they have helped you learn about trust and the importance of being cautious to whom you open your heart.
If someone loves you, love them back unconditionally, not only because they
love you, but because they are teaching you to love and to open your heart and eyes to little things. Make every day count.
Appreciate every moment and take from it everything that you possibly can, for you may never be able to experience it again.
Talk to people you have never talked to before, and actually listen. Let yourself fall in love, break free and set your sights high.
Hold your head up because you have every right to. Tell yourself you are a great individual and believe in yourself, for if you don't believe in yourself, no one else will believe in you. Create your own life and then go out and live it.
"If you take your eyes off your goals, all you see are obstacles
YOU ARE UNIQUE
Think what a remarkable, unduplicatable, and miraculous thing it is to be you! Of all the people who have come and gone on the earth, since the beginning of time, not ONE of them is like YOU!
No one who has ever lived or is to come has had your combination of abilities, talents, , friends, acquaintances, burdens, sorrows and opportunities.
No, one's hair grows exactly the way yours does. No one's finger prints are like yours. No one has the same combination of secret inside jokes and family expressions that you know.
The few people who laugh at all the same things you do, don't sneeze the way you do. No one prays about exactly the same concerns as you do. No one is loved by the same combination of people that love you - NO ONE!
No one before, no one to come.
YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY UNIQUE!
Enjoy that uniqueness. You do not have to pretend in order to seem more like someone else. You weren't meant to be like someone else. You do not have to lie to conceal the of you that are not like what you see in anyone else.
You were meant to be different. Nowhere ever in all of history will the same things be going in anyone's mind, soul and spirit as are going on in yours right now.
If you did not exist, there would be a hole in creation, a gap in history, something missing from the plan for humankind.
Treasure your uniqueness. It is a gift given only to you. Enjoy it and share it!
No one can reach out to others in the same way that you can. No one can speak your words. No one can convey your meanings. No one can comfort with your kind of comfort. No one can bring your kind of understanding to another person.
No one can be cheerful and lighthearted and joyous in your way. No one can smile your smile. No one else can bring the whole unique impact of you to another human being.
Share your uniqueness. Let it be free to flow out among your family and friends and people you meet in the rush and clutter of living wherever you are. That gift of yourself was given you to enjoy and share. Give yourself away!
See it! Receive it! Let it tickle you! Let it inform you and nudge you and inspire you!
YOU ARE UNIQUE!
Your Victory Lies Ahead
Friend, as I stand gazing out my window I could see the raindrops falling from Heaven. They reminded me of the day the Lord anointed me in His special way. As I was looking over into the horizon I could see the sun starting to rise. It reminded me of the day when I would look upon my Master's face and see the smile that I put there the day I gave my life to Him.
As I started to kneel down to pray, I was reminded of the burdens that Jesus took away. As the tears fell from my eyes, I heard a gentle voice speak to me, "Child, do not cry. I'll give you courage to climb each mountain that lies before you."
As I was praising, I could hear the angels singing, "Children lay all your cares at the Master's feet. Friends lift your hands toward Heaven and shout, "I know the love of my Heavenly Father will carry us through."
As I was sitting, reading God's Holy Word the Lord spoke to my spirit, "Children, submit yourselves unto Me and draw nigh into My presence and I will draw nigh unto you. Resist the Devil and he will flee from you." Friend, as I was walking along life's pathway I felt a hand touch my shoulder and a gentle voice spoke to me. "Children, get your eyes off the road and look up. Your victory lies just around the bend!"
Praise the Lord!
Do you realize that the only time in our lives when we like to get old is when we're kids? If you're less than 10 years old, you're so excited about aging that you think in fractions.
"How old are you?" "I'm four and a half!" You're never thirty-six and a half. You're four and a half, going on five! That's the key
You get into your teens, now they can't hold you back. You jump to the next number, or even a few ahead.
"How old are you?" "I'm gonna be 16!" You could be 13, but hey, you're gonna be 16! And then the greatest day of your life . . you become 21. Even the words sound like a ceremony. YOU BECOME 21. YESSSS!!!
But then you turn 30. Oooohh, what happened there? Makes you sound like bad milk! He TURNED; we had to throw him out. There's no fun now, you're just a sour-dumpling. What's wrong? What's changed?
You BECOME 21, you TURN 30, then you're PUSHING 40. Whoa! Put on the brakes, it's all slipping away. Before you know it, you REACH 50 and your dreams are gone.
But wait!!! You MAKE it to 60. You didn't think you would!
S o you BECOME 21, TURN 30, PUSH 40, REACH 50 and MAKE it to 60 .
You've built up so much speed that you HIT 70! After that it's a day-by-day thing; you HIT Wednesday!
You get into your 80's and every day is a complete cycle; you HIT lunch; you TURN 4:30 ; you REACH bedtime. And it doesn't end there. Into the 90s, you start going backwards; "I Was JUST 92"
Then a strange thing happens. If you make it over 100, you become a little kid again. "I'm 100 and a half!"
May you all make it to a healthy 100 and a half!!
HOW TO STAY YOUNG
1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors w orry about them. That is why you pay "them."
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.
3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, music, art, stock, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. "An idle mind is the devil's workshop." And the devil's name is Alzheimer's.
4. Enjoy the simple things.
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.
6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.
7. Surround yourself with what you love, whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county; to a foreign country but NOT to where the guilt is.
10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
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A woman named Vicki once knew a young person at church named Susan. Susan always seemed effervescent and happy, although Vicki knew she had faced struggles in her life. Her long-awaited marriage had quickly ended in divorce. She had struggled to get a grip on her single life. She hadn't chosen it, but she decided she would live it with utmost enjoyment and satisfaction. Susan was active in Sunday school, in the choir, as a leader of the junior high girls' group, and in the church renewal movement. Vicki enjoyed knowing Susan. Susan's whole face seemed to smile.
One day Vicki asked Susan, "How is it that you are always so happy, you have so much energy, and you never seem to get down?" With her eyes smiling, Susan said, "I know the Secret!"
"What secret is that, what are you talking about?" Vicki asked. Susan replied, "I'll tell you all about it, but you have to promise to share the Secret with others."
Vicki agreed, "Okay, now what is it?"
The Secret is this:
"I have learned there is little I can do in my life that will make me truly happy. I must depend on God to make me happy and meet my needs. When a need arises in my life, I have to trust God to supply according to HIS riches. I have learned most of the time I don't need half of what I think I do. HE has never let me down."
Since I learned that Secret I am happy.
Vicki's first thought was, that's too simple! But upon reflecting over her own life she recalled how she thought a bigger house would make her happy -but it didn't! She thought a better-paying job would make her happy -but it hadn't. When did she realize her greatest happiness? Sitting on the floor with her grandchildren, playing games, eating pizza or reading a story, a simple gift from God. Susan knew the secret, Vicki learned the secret, and now you know it too!
We can't depend on people to make us happy. Only GOD in His wisdom can do that. Trust HIM! And now I pass the Secret on to you!
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Not Yet
Sometimes I ask the question,
"My Lord, is this your will?"
It's then I hear you answer me,
"My Precious Child... be still."
Sometimes I feel frustrated,
cause I think I know what's best.
It's then I hear you say to me,
"My Busy Child... just rest"
Sometimes I feel so lonely
and I think I'd like a mate.
Your still small voice gets oh so clear
and says, "My Child...please wait"
"I know the plans I have for you,
the wondrous things you'll see;
If you can just be patient, Child,
and put your trust in me.
I've plans to draw you closer.
I've plans to help you grow.
There's much I do you cannot see
and much you do not know.
But know this, Child...I LOVE YOU.
You are Precious unto Me.
Before I formed you in the womb,
I planned your destiny.
I've something very special
I hope for you to learn.
The gifts I wish to give to you
are gifts you cannot earn.
They come without a price tag,
but not without a cost;
at Calvary, I gave My Son,
so You would not be lost.
Rest Child, and do not weary
of doing what is good.
I promise I'll come back for you
just like I said I would.
Your name is written on my palm,
I never could forget;
Therefore, do not be discouraged when
my answer is..."Not Yet"
I had been drifting far too long
Upon the sea of wretched strife....
It was time to drop my anchor
And re-evaluate my life.
It all began with a storm
That found me ill prepared,
Not anchored in the "Rock Of Hope"
'Twas engulfed by waves of despair.
Far from the shore the harbor light
I could no longer see-
Completely helpless like a child
I was drowning in misery.
With fear and dread I closed my eyes
Knowing the end was near,
I asked the Father for the strength
To endure what I had to bear.
A voice rolled like thunder
As the heavens opened wide,
"Fear not my child, I am with you
And I will never leave your side.
Just trust Me to guide you ashore...
Look up! See My Son's light?
Keep your eyes only on Him
And you will be all right."
I did as the Lord directed
And soon I was ashore....
The storm passed, the clouds blew away,
And my peace was fully restored.
With my anchor firmly in place
Upon solid rock I now stand,
Never again to drift aimlessly
Like the blowing, shifting sand.
By Cheryll Mayberry Smith
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God wants you to know there is hope in your situation,
He is that hope, He is that love you seek.
He is right there with you as you draw each breath,
He is wanting you to come to Him as you would go
to your parent here in this life,
He is your parent.
He has given you life with all the power needed to face each day.
He has given you that power to speak those things that are not
as you thought they were.
He has given you the power to refuse all that this world would
give you to try to bring you down.
He has given you the power to keep your mind on Him
for that perfect peace.
He has given you the power to face each problem and speak them
be removed into the sea, that sea being all that is to be forgotten.
We are instructed to think only on the pure and the good in life,
We are instructed to do this very thing because that is
where healing comes from.
We are to be happy, to be joyful in his Holy Spirit, to
reflect on all that is positive, all that is of good report.
Our minds are a powerful tool.
We can determine our own destiny,
We can determine what we will accept and what we will not accept.
Our father did not leave us powerless, he left us with all the power
that raised Jesus from that grave.
Our Father loves us beyond any love that even our own earthly
parents could possibly ever give us now in this lifetime.
He loves us beyond our own understanding.
He wants you to know right now that He is waiting for you to reach
out your hand to Him and take that miracle that He is offering you.
Begin to speak out loud that the mountain of trouble
and complications in your life be removed into the sea.
Speak that you will not accept what mankind has issued to you.
Speak that you are a child of a Mighty King, and you will
receive all that is promised to you.
God is our Father and He is right there within you
along with all His heavenly Kingdom.
He is never too busy to know what you are thinking, saying,
and doing every second of your life.
He created you, He is wanting you to allow Him
to walk this earth again through you.
You are that temple made without hands,
You are the child for whom He gave His Son's life.
He wants you to be healed, He wants you to hear His voice
in your first thoughts.
He wants to lead you.
He wants you to listen only to Him, not to man.
He also wants you to know that when the time comes that He will
take you home that it will be so glorious for you, no words can
possibly describe all the glory that you will know at that time.
To be free, to be lifted up by his power, to be in His presence
without the man made earthly struggles of this earth
that some allow to harm them, is to be free indeed.
He wants you to know, loving child that you are not alone,
no, not for one second,
He is there, He is taking your hand.
He wants you to let go of your fears.
He can not reside in a house where there is fear,
He wants you to let go and let Him do your very breathing today.
He wants to do your thinking, He wants to do your speaking.
You are weakened, I can tell, You are so afraid that your fears
have dulled His voice in your thoughts.
Stop now and take that deep breath and close your eyes and ask
to see His face, never doubting at all that He will not show you
the next step to take today, the next thought to think.
God is there,
God is with you, reach out, and put your hand into His.
God's Love is the power and comfort you need right now,
so accept it..
He loves you so very much.
By Sheryl E. Black
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The child whispered,
"God, speak to me"
And a bird sang.
But the child did not hear.
So the child yelled,
"God, speak to me!"
And the thunder rolled across the sky
But the child did not listen.
The child looked around and said,
"God let me see you"
And a star shone brightly
But the child did not notice.
And the child shouted,
"God show me a miracle!"
And a life was born
But the child did not know.
So the child cried out in despair,
"Touch me God,
and let me know you are here!"
Whereupon God reached down
And touched the child.
But the child brushed the butterfly away
And walked away unknowingly.
Take time to listen.
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A rich landowner named Carl often rode around his vast estate so he could congratulate himself on his great wealth. One day, while riding around his estate on his favorite horse, he saw Hans, an old tenant farmer. Hans was sitting under a tree when Carl rode by. Hans said, "I was just thanking God for my food." Carl protested, "If that is all I had to eat I wouldn't feel like giving thanks." Hans replied, "God has given me everything I need, and I am thankful for it."
The old farmer added, "It is strange you should come by today because I had a dream last night. In my dream a voice told me, 'The richest man in the valley will die tonight.' I don't know what it means, but I thought I ought
to tell you." Carl snorted, "Dreams are nonsense," and galloped away, but he could not forget Hans' words: "The richest man in the valley will die tonight."
He was obviously the richest man in the valley, so he invited his doctor to his house that evening. Carl told the doctor what Hans had said. After a thorough examination, the doctor told the wealthy landowner, "Carl, you are as strong and healthy as a horse. There is no way you are going to die tonight."
Nevertheless, for assurance, the doctor stayed with Carl, and they played cards through the night. The doctor left the next morning and Carl apologized for becoming so upset over the old man's dream.
At about nine o'clock, a messenger arrived at Carl's door. "What is it?" Carl demanded. The messenger explained, "It's about old Hans. He died last night in his sleep."
Like Hans, believers are the richest people on earth. Paul understood that when he wrote, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessing in heavenly places in Christ." (Eph. 1:3) Be sure to give God thanks for the wealth He has given us- for you are the richest person in the valley.
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Jack took a long look at his speedometer before slowing down: 73 in a 55 zone. Fourth time in as many months. How could a guy get caught so often? When his car had slowed to 10 miles an hour, Jack pulled over, but only partially. Let the cop worry about the potential traffic hazard. Maybe some other car will tweak his backside with a mirror.
The cop was stepping out of his car, the big pad in hand. Bob? Bob from Church? Jack sunk farther into his seat. This was worse than the coming ticket. A Christian cop catching a guy from his own church. A guy who happened to be a little eager to get home after a long day at the office. A guy he was about to play golf with tomorrow.
Jumping out of the car, he approached a man he saw every Sunday, a man he'd never seen in uniform. "Hi, Bob. Fancy meeting you like this." "Hello, Jack." No smile. "Guess you caught me red-handed in a rush to
see my wife and kids." "Yeah, I guess." Bob seemed uncertain. Good. "I've seen some long days at the office lately. I'm afraid I bent the rules a bit-just this once." Jack toed at a pebble on the pavement.
"Diane said something about roast beef and potatoes tonight. Know what I mean?" "I know what you mean. I also know that you have a reputation in our precinct." Ouch.
This was not going in the right direction. Time to change tactics. "What'd you clock me at? "Seventy. Would you sit back in your car please?" "Now wait a minute here, Bob. I checked as soon as I saw you. I was barely
nudging 65." The lie seemed to come easier with every ticket. "Please, Jack, in the car." Flustered, Jack hunched himself through the still-open door. Slamming it shut, he stared at the dash board. He was in no rush
to open the window. The minutes ticked by. Bob scribbled away on the pad. Why hadn't he asked for a driver's license? Whatever the reason, it would be a month of Sundays before Jack ever sat near this cop again.
A tap on the door jerked his head to the left. There was Bob, a folded paper in hand. Jack rolled down the window a mere two inches, just enough room for Bob to pass him the slip. "Thanks." Jack could not quite keep the sneer out of his voice. Bob returned to his police car without a word. Jack watched his retreat in the mirror. Jack unfolded the sheet of paper. How much was this one going to cost? Wait a minute. What was this? Some kind of joke? Certainly not a ticket. Jack began to read:
"Dear Jack, Once upon a time I had a daughter. She was six when killed by a car. You guessed it-a speeding driver. A fine and three months in jail, and the man was free. Free to hug his daughters. All three of them. I only had one, and I'm going to have to wait until Heaven before I can ever hug her again. A thousand times I've tried to forgive that man. A thousand times I thought I had. Maybe I did, but I need to do it again. Even now. Pray for me. And be careful. My son is all I have left. Bob"
Jack turned around in time to see Bob's car pull away and head down the road. Jack watched until it disappeared. A full 15 minutes later, he, too, pulled away and drove slowly home, praying for forgiveness and hugging a surprised wife and kids when he arrived. Life is precious. Handle with care.
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Just because no one has been fortunate enough to realize what a gold mine you are, doesn't mean you shine any less.
Just because no one has been smart enough to figure out that you can't be topped, doesn't stop you from being the best.
Just because no one has come along to share your life, doesn't mean that day isn't coming.
Just because no one has made this race worth while, doesn't give you permission to stop running.
Just because no one has realized how much of a woman you are, doesn't mean they can affect your femininity.
Just because no one has come to take the loneliness away, doesn't mean you have to settle for a lower quality.
Just because no one has shown up who can love you on your level, doesn't mean you have to sink to theirs.
Just because you deserve the very best there is, doesn't mean that life is always fair.
Just because God is still preparing your king, doesn't mean that you're not already a Queen.
Just because your situation doesn't seem to be progressing right now, doesn't mean you need to change a thing.
Keep shining, Keep running, Keep hoping, Keep praying, Keep being exactly what you are already:....
COMPLETE!
I refuse to be discouraged, To be sad, or to cry;
I refuse to be downhearted, and here's the reason why.
I have a God who's mighty, who's sovereign and supreme; I have a God who loves me, and I am on His team.
He is all wise and powerful,Jesus is His name;
Though everything is changeable, My God remains the same.
My God knows all that's happening; Beginning to the end, His presence is my comfort, He is my dearest friend.
When sickness comes, I call upon my mighty God, and He turns my weakness into strengths.
When circumstances threaten to rob me from my peace;
He draws me close unto Him and all my strivings cease.
And when my heart melts within me, and weakness takes control; He gathers me into His arms, and soothes my heart and soul.
The great "I AM" is with me, My life is in His hand,
The "Son of the Lord" is my hope, It's in His strength I stand.
I refuse to be defeated, My eyes are on my God;
He has promised to be with me, as through this life I trod.
I'm looking past all my circumstances, to Heaven's throne above; My prayers will be reached when He knows I am ready for them. The heart of my God,
I am resting in His love.
I give God thanks in everything, My eyes are on His face; The battle's His, the victory is mine; He'll help me win the race.
A weary mother returned from the store,
Lugging groceries through the kitchen door.
Awaiting her arrival was her 8-year-old son,
Anxious to relate what his younger brother had done.
"While I was out playing and Dad was on a call,
T.J. took his crayons and wrote on the wall!
It's on the new paper you just hung in the den.
I told him you'd be mad at having to do it again."
She let out a moan and furrowed her brow,
"Where is your little brother right now?"
She emptied her arms and with a purposeful stride,
She marched to his closet where he had gone to hide.
She called his full name as she entered his room.
He trembled with fear--he knew that meant doom!
For the next ten minutes, she ranted and raved
About the expensive wallpaper and how she had saved.
Lamenting all the work it would take to repair,
She condemned his actions and total lack of care.
The more she scolded, the madder she got,
Then stomped from his room, totally distraught!
She headed for the den to confirm her fears.
When she saw the wall, her eyes flooded with tears.
The message she read pierced her soul with a dart.
It said, "I love Mommy," surrounded by a heart.
Well, the wallpaper remained, just as she found it,
With an empty picture frame hung to surround it.
A reminder to her, and indeed to all,
Take time to read the handwriting on the wall.
Tell the devil today, he is a liar!; He will not take your joy, your peace or disturb your spirit.
Tell him he cannot sleep in your bed - there's not enough cover.
Tell him he cannot sit in your chair - you will not give him a cushion of comfort.
Tell him he can't touch your body - it's covered with the blood.
Tell him he cannot audit your finances - you've changed accountants.
Tell him he cannot enter your home - the locks have been changed.
Tell him to leave your workplace - he's not on your list of things to do for today.
Tell him to take his hands off your children - because you've had hands laid on them.
Tell him you have no time for his nonsense, criticism or fears - you are on a mission, and you walk by faith.
Tell him no more tears, heartaches, or headaches - because there's another, He, that restoreth your soul.
Tell him; Tell him; Tell him; Tell him.
Tell him, today, you have a gentle, powerful inner peace within that consumes you and leaves no room for confusion.
Tell him, today you will - respond soothingly to a crying child, a tense spouse, or an impatient friend.
Tell him, today, you will find no fault with a relative, friend, or colleague.
Tell him to leave your tongue alone - for today you will not talk of anyone, before placing God at the beginning of your thought.
Tell him, wherever you are, that God Is.
Tell him, God said, "My people will abide in a peaceful habitation...and in quiet resting places." [Isaiah 32:18]
Today, Tell him he is a liar!!!, Amen
Today as I was riding on a bus, I saw a lovely maid with golden hair. I envied her as she seemed so
happy and at that moment wished I were as fair.
When suddenly she got up to leave and at that moment I saw the braces on her legs as she began to walk down the aisle ans as she passed she smiled.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine.
I have two straight feet. The world is mine!
One day I stopped to buy some sweets, the boy who sold them had such charm. I talked with him for a moment. He said to me, "It's nice to talk with folks like you. You see," he said, "I am blind and few people talk to me this way."
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine.
I have two eyes. The world is mine!
Then walking down the street, I saw a child with eyes of blue. He stood and watched the others play.
It seemed he knew not what to do.
I stopped a moment, then I said, "Why don't you join the others, dear?"
He looked ahead without a word
and then I knew.... He could not hear.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine.
I have two ears. The world is mine!
With feet to take me where I'd go, and eyes to see the sunset's glow. With ears to hear what I would know.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine.
I'm blessed indeed. The world is mine!
Appreciate What You Have For You Are Blessed
Last week, I took my children to a restaurant.
My six-year-old son asked if he could say grace.
As we bowed our heads he said, "God is good,
God is great. Thank you for the food, and I would even thank you more if Mom gets us ice cream for dessert. And Liberty and justice for all! Amen!"
Along with the laughter from the other customers nearby, I heard a woman remark, "That's what's wrong with this country. Kids today don't even know how to pray. Asking God for ice cream! Why, I never!"
Hearing this, my son burst into tears and asked me, "Did I do it wrong? Is God mad at me?"
As I held him and assured him that he had done a terrific job, and God was certainly not mad at him, an elderly gentleman approached the table.
He winked at my son and said, "I happen to know that God thought that was a great prayer."
"Really?" my son asked.
"Cross my heart," the man replied.
Then, in a theatrical whisper, he added (indicating the woman whose remark had started this whole thing), "Too bad she never asks God for ice cream. A little ice cream is good for the soul sometimes."
Naturally, I bought my kids ice cream at the end of the meal. My son stared at his for a moment, and then did something I will remember the rest of my life.
He picked up his sundae and, without a word, walked over and placed it in front of the woman. With a big smile he told her, "Here, this is for you. Ice cream is good for the soul sometimes; and my soul is good already."
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Sometimes I ask the question,
"My Lord, is this your will?"
It's then I hear you answer me,
"My Precious Child...be still."
Sometimes I feel frustrated,
cause I think I know what's best.
It's then I hear you say to me,
"My Busy Child...just rest!"
Sometimes I feel so lonely and
I think I'd like a mate.
Your still small voice gets oh
so clear and says,
"My Child...please wait!"
"I know the plans I have for you,
the wondrous thing