Lady of Light

WHAT GOD SAYS ABOUT EVILDOERS

2011-12-06T11:00:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

In Psalm 37:1-4, it states the following:

"Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.
Trust in the Lord and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.Delight thyself also in the Lord and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart."

Often, we see what appears to be people prospering and they are doing evil or behaving dishonestly. We are not to be bothered by this because the Lord is in control and he will deal with all of this.

Also, if we trust him and delight in him, he will give us the desires of our heart. This is a wonderful promise.

As you go about today, release any concern you have about evildoers, trust the Lord and delight in Him.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Love Knowledge and Counsel

2011-12-01T09:12:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

Provebs 1:29 - 33 says:

"For they hated knoweledge and did not choose the fear of the Lord: They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof. Therefore, they will eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. For the turning away of the simple shall slay them, and the prosperity of fools shall destroy them. But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from the fear of evil"

This is a clear sign for us to take a look at our lives closely. "The truly wise person is one whose first allegiance is to God, and who then conducts his daily affairs in obedience to God."

It is so easy to "drift" from God and the knowledge of God if we are not careful, because their are many stimuli and influences in the world today. Simply keeping our allegiance to God first will influence all of our thoughts and behaviors. If you find that you are not keeping with this principle, turn and get back to it. Time in prayer, time with God and in his word is of paramount importance. He gives us everything we need to live our lives if we stick close by him.

Verse 33 is a wonderful promise of God. "Whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from the fear of evil."

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Judas' mistake

2011-11-26T10:40:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

In Mathew Chapter 27:3-5 States:

"Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of sliver to the chief priests and elders, Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? See though to that. And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple and departed and went and hanged himself."

This is indeed a tragic event, but we must realize, that sometimes we can commit sins and the consequences of our behavior can't be taken back. Yes, we are sorry, but we have in some negative way affected someone or something by our behavior. We must be careful and prayerful along the way, trusting God to order our steps and confessing our sins quickly, when they first manifest themselves in our thoughts.
Most of us, if we thought about it, could probably think of something we have regretted thinking or doing. To live a life of blessing, we must put our trust and faith completely in the Lord and know that he has given us this promise in 1 John 1:9, "if we confess our sins, He is just and faithful to forgive our sins, and to cleanse us from all righteousness." Thank God for this promise!

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Love

2011-11-08T08:27:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

In Romans, Chapter 13:8-10, It says:

"Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this Thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, thou shalt not bear false witness, thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law."

It is interesting that love is the primary precept in fulfilling the law. It all reverts back to God's love for us because in 1 John 4:19, it says, "We love him because he first loved us."

I thank God for His love and the love He has put in my heart for others. I ask God to help me to live in love in all of my thoughts and behaviors. It is easy to become disconcerted at times, for none of us are perfect and we come across people who do not follow this precept. Remember that we don't have control over what others say and do, only over our own selves.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Roots of the bible

2011-11-06T09:19:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

In the gospel of John, Chapter 1:1-6, it says the following:

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not."

It is wonderful to know that the Word existed before it was actually printed - right from the beginning! God made everything and is the giver of life and light. When we walk in the light of God's word, and in Christ Jesus, it transforms the darkness into light.

Meditate on these thoughts, and you will be blessed.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of light

God Preserves

2011-11-04T18:33:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

Proverbs 2:5 Tells us that "He keepeth the paths of judgment and preserveth the way of the saints."

This is a good promise of God for we all need to exercise good judgment and also to know that our way is being preserved by God.

Sometimes it is easy to forget what God says he will do for his children. This verse contains the reassurance and reminder that our God is a good God who is faithful and in control of all things.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Fellowcitizens

2011-11-03T10:04:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

To those who are Christians, Paul states in Ephesians 2:19-22,
"Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself the chief cornerstone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit."

The most important thing about these verses is to understand that Jesus Christ is the cornerstone. Our personal relationship with Jesus Christ opens the door for all of this. To be inhabited by God's spirit.

It is amazing when you reflect on these passages to see what God's plan and definition are for the believer.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Know wisdom and instruction

2011-11-01T18:54:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Proverbs, Chapter 1:1-7 it says:

"The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel; To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding; To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity; To give subtlety to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion. A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels; To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."

This indicates to me, that the reading of the Proverbs is a real tool of instruction for us today. As we have a right relationship with the Lord "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge" and increase learning, we will continue to grow spiritually. As you read these verses, meditate on their meaning and use them as a "jumping off" point to explore the Proverbs on a daily basis.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Avoid those who are contrary

2011-10-27T08:32:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Romans 16:17-18 Paul Says:

"Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which he have learned and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."

In today's world, there are false teachers and those who cause dissension in the church. We are to avoid these kinds of people - they are not true servants. We all need to be mindful of the fact that we can be deceived if we are not careful.
If you know people like this, I suggest you pray for them but avoid them as the scripture says. We are called to live in unity of the spirit and the bond of peace.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Accepted in the Beloved

2011-10-25T09:50:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Ephesians 1:3-6, Paul says:

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved."

These are wonderful verses, speaking of adoption and acceptance. Those of us who acknowledge the saving power of Jesus, can be in this satisfying state spiritually.
If you are in that state, these verses merely explain it to you, what God has done.
If you are not in that state, you need to consider praying a prayer to Jesus and accepting him as your Lord and Savior.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

False Beliefs

2011-10-24T10:05:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In the book of Galatians, Ch 3:1, Paul asks the question:

"O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?"

If the church of Galatia could be deceived, we must recognize the possibility that we too could be deceived - later in this chapter, Paul says that they began in the Spirit (of truth) and then tried to perfect themselves in the flesh.

In a world where many ideas are forthcoming, let us make sure that we "stick to the basics" of the truth of the word of God. I thank God that we have the bible as well as God's spirit to guide us and keep us in the truth.

As you read Chapter 3 of Galatians, meditate on what Paul warns about, because we have the same situations in the world today.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Charity

2011-10-23T22:11:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In I Corinthians 13:1-2, Paul tells us:

"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing."

It goes on to tell us that charity suffereth long, is kind, envieth not, vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, does not behave itself unseemingly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, is not easily provoked.

How many of us truly have charity? We often do charitable acts, but do we have the right inner attitudes? I believe, that in God's spirit, we can have all of this, if the old nature doesn't get the better of us. Let us meditate on what charity really is, so that we can pray for God to give us a right heart in these matters.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of light

The Gift of Grace

2011-10-22T07:48:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In First Corinthians 1:4-5, as Paul is greeting the church in this letter it says:

"I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; that in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance and it all knowledge".

It is wonderful to have a heart of gratitude to God for all He has done for us and all He has given us. As Paul pointed out, knowing God is an enriching experience and He gives us grace and knowledge.

As we open ourselves up to receive these gifts from God, it is an opportunity for us to become changed people. It is a way in which we can be different in our relationships with others.

May God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Moderation

2011-10-21T07:46:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Phillipians 4:4-5, it says:

"Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand."

Rejoicing speaks of the condition of the heart, moderation speaks of how we behave.
Often, I have heard people wonder about whether it is right or wrong to do certain things that are not expressly spoken about in the bible - where no specific instruction is given. I believe that moderation is the key to most of life's activities. If we live in moderation in all things, we will live a sensible life.
Think on this as you make decisions in various areas of your life and I believe you will be blessed.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Add to Your Faith

2011-10-19T07:21:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

2 Peter 1:2-7 says:

"Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord. According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance, and to temperance patience; and to patience Godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, charity."

The book of 2 Peter expresses Peter's concern for warning believers against false teachers.

I believe that the above verses give instruction as to what is true - know God, know Christ, acknowledge God's promises and add to your faith.

Many of us believe, but when I read these verses, I think about gaining more knowledge by studying the Word more, by expressing more patience, kindness, brotherly love and charity in my life. Praying for patience and temperance on a continual basis is necessary for me also.

As you meditate on these verses, pray and ask God to help you add to your faith in these ways continually.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

The Tongue

2011-10-18T16:52:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In James 3:6 states:

"And the tongue is a fire, a world of inquity: so is the tongue among our members that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell."

James is warning us about the fact that the tongue causes all kinds of evil. Think about how we can use our tongues. To eat (or overeat) to drink, and to speak. I am certain we have all had the experience of saying something that we wish we hadn't said.

Verse 3:8 tells us:

"But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison."

But when we pray and ask for God's spirit to take over our speech, we can sing beautiful praises to God and encourage one another.

Perhaps we all ought to think about how we use or misuse the tongue. Pray and ask God to control it. Granted, this way we will have an easier time of it when speaking with others.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Judge Nothing

2011-10-12T13:18:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In 1 Corinthians 4:5, it says:

"Therefore, judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God."

Sometimes, we have a tendency to judge things when we don't know - these judgments can be positive or negative and yet inaccurate. I believe this is why the apostle Paul wrote this verse to the church in Corinth because basically, God is the only one who is capable of judging accurately because He knows the hidden things and what is in each man's heart. That is not to say that we shouldn't discern certain things for our own good and to help us make good decisions but there is a difference between discernment and judgment.

The commandment to love is above all judgments we may make of others. Try to remember this in your dealings with others and you will find that it is easier to trust God and commit people to Him, and be free to love people.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Belonging to the Lord

2011-10-06T09:30:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Romans 7-9, it says:

"For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord: whether we live therefore or die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and the living."

It is good that we can know through reading the word that we belong to the Lord whether we are dead or alive. This is a true blessing. As we think of being a "child of God", we can enhance our relationship with him by going to him in prayer and reading his word.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Pure Words

2011-10-05T15:19:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Proverbs 30:5, it tells us:

"Every word of God is pure; he is a shield unto them that put their trust in Him."

This means that we should really take in each and every word in the bible and receive it as truth. When you listen to many human conversations, you know when thoughts and words are impure or imperfect. In contrast, we can receive everything that is good from the bible. This verse also tells us that God is a shield to them that trust him.
We can take comfort in this as we are protected from "the fiery darts of the evil one if we trust God.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Christ is RIsen

2011-10-01T07:36:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Luke, Chapter 24:1-6, it gives the account of the women returning to the grave of Jesus:

"Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared and certain others with them.
And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. And they entered in and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. And it came to pas, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: And as they were afraid, and bowed own their faces to the earth, they said unto them, why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee? Saying, "The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again."

Can you imagine the surprise of the women, not only to see that Jesus' body was gone but to meet two messengers who remind them of Jesus' very words? He told them that he would be dead and rise again when he was speaking in Galilee. We can take comfort in the fact that although the crucifixion was in a way sad and somber, though necessary for our salvation, Jesus is now alive, risen and reigning in power and glory at the right hand of the Father. Usually, we think of this at Easter time, but it is good to be aware of this great miracle and truth every day. In a world where we see sin and destruction, we can take comfort in the power of the risen Lord in our life.

As you go about your day, ask God to help you to walk in the spirit in His power and strength.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Warning: False Prophets and False Teachers

2011-09-30T11:49:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In the Second Epistle of Peter, 2:1-2, it says:

"But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that brought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction."

This was not only true many years ago, but it is also true today. It is neccessary to pray and seek truth directly from the Word of God because there are those religions and preachers that do not preach the truth or the whole counsel of God. When I was a young child, I thought everything the minister said was true because he was a man of God and of the cloth. This does not exempt a man from false or inaccurate teaching. Many times, we become influenced by someone to the exclusion of truth seeking. Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to help you because the bible promises that "he will guide you into all truth."

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

CONTEND FOR THE FAITH

2011-09-29T09:20:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In the book of JUDE 1:2-3, it says:

"Mercy unto you, and peace and love be multiplied. Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith that was once delivered to the saints."

I like the wishes for mercy, peace and love to be multiplied, and I believe God does multiply these blessings, among others. The true message of the salvation of Jesus Christ has been given to us, and this letter reminds me of how people "forget" the accuracy of salvation on which we build our faith as well as sometimes change or add to what God has freely given us. Apparently, this problem occurred also in the days of Jude. We must contend for the faith with all we can because otherwise many people get NO message or a distorted one.

Share your faith with someone today or reiterate it to someone!

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Obedience

2011-09-26T22:58:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Ephesians, Chapter 6:1-3, it tells us:

"Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honour thy father and mother which is the first commandment with promise: That it may be well with thee and thou mayest live long on the earth."

At first glance, it may appear that these instructions are for children who are still under their parents' authority - minor children. But upon reflection, it seems that it applies to children of all ages who have or ever had parents. When we live according to to good things our parents taught us by example and in training - good values, good habits, good manners, being responsible etc. we are living in obedience. Also, how we present the memories of parents who are deceased, the kind of legacy we keep alive to our own children and grandchildren says much about honoring them. Of course, parents are human and not perfect, but when we live by the good, remember the good and honor them, we are promised a long life here on earth.

These verses can also be read to younger children to encourage them to do the right things.

Mainly to have the right heart attitude towards their parents.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Blessed with Abraham

2011-09-24T08:39:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Galatians, Chapter 3:5-9 tells us of the faith of Abraham and the blessings of his children and all nations:

"He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and doeth he it by the works of the law or by the hearing of faith? Even as Abaraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness; Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.
And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, in thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham."

When we are of faith, we receive God and His Spirit, and also the blessings of Abraham. Believing on faith is the only way we can please God. As you meditate on these verses, consider your faith and what it means for you and to God.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Walk In Love

2011-09-22T07:26:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Ephesians 5:1, Paul tells us:

"Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children, and walk in love as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour."

There are so many ways that we can express love and care for our fellow man. I live in a senior building, and I know that when someone opens a door for me or smiles and greets me, it makes a difference in my day. Let us not miss out on the acts of kindness that we can do. Often, we are hurried or preoccupied and it is good to remember that "walking in love" involves even our smallest actions. As you meditate on this verse, I pray you will be refreshed and renewed in your day.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

God's Promise to Help

2011-09-21T09:52:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

One thing I love about the bible is that it is "chocked full" of promises. In Isaiah 41:13, for example God promises Help:

"For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear, I will help you."

Isaiah 41:13

All of us have various problems and struggles in life - God never said that the Christian would be "problem Free" , but what he did say is that He will help us.
This is a great promise for us today and I hope it gives you strength as you read it.

God Bless You and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Walk Worthy

2011-09-19T07:32:00.003-04:00

Lady of Light

In Ephesians, Chapter Four, Verses One through Six, the apostle Paul reminds us to "walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called." (v.1). Just as we try to do a good job at our work, we also need to do certain things spiritually:

"Therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called. With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love: Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit and the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in you all." (v. 1-6).

These verses cover all attitudes leading to love, peace and unity. So often, there are divisions amongst people - families and churches as well. If we would all meditate on these verses, perhaps we could pray that God would heal any divisions or anything that doesn't express His love, peace and unity. I hope for all of these things in your life and church.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

God is with you

2011-09-16T10:21:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

"The Lord your God is with you. He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing."
Zephaniah 3:117

These words are precious to me. We all need to live in the presence and knowledge of God's presence and know that He will give us quiet in our spirits and souls. When I think of Him rejoicing with singing over me I just feel joyful.

May you experience good feelings after meditating on this verse.

God bless you and have a great day.

Lady of Light

God's Foundation

2011-09-10T14:23:00.003-04:00

Lady of Light

In 2 Timothy 2:19, Paul tells us:

"Nevertheless, the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And let everyone that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity."

Paul said these words, in spite of the fact that there were those in the church at that time who erred in the truth, overthrowing the faith of some. It is good news for us that God's foundation is sure and that he knows those who belong to him.
We can rest assured that God is in control, despite the evil workings of mankind.
We also must depart from evil ourselves. God will help us. "If we confess our sins, he is just and faithful to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9

As you hear the many different so-called truths that are preached (not all having their roots in the Word of God), and the many human rationalizations for departing from the truth, keep your faith and know that in spite of that, God's truth will stand.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Paul's Wish for Ephesus and Surrounding Churches

2011-09-08T07:29:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

Many scholars regard the book of Ephesians as a circular letter intended for all the churches in and around Ephesus. In his salutation in Chapter one, v. 16-18, Paul expresses prayerful wishes for the saints:

"Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, thee Father of glory may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened, that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints."

Following Paul's example, let us pray for one another and be thankful for those in our church and in the body of Christ. Paul had "an attitude of gratitude" and he knew how to request good things for God's people. What better gifts than wisdom and revelation of the knowledge of Christ? Do you understand the hope of his calling?
Are you truly aware of the riches of the glory of his inheritance?

These are certainly wonderful things for us to meditate on. As we go through our day,
let's take time to thank God for the people in our churches and lives, and to think on the wonderful blessing we have and wish for others.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Guidance and Deliverance for the Righteous

2011-08-30T12:56:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Proverbs, Chapter 11, we hear much about the wicked being destroyed, but how the righteous are guided and delivered out of trouble:

V. 3 - "The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them."

v. 5 - The righteousness of the perfect direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.

V. 8 - The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead."

This tells me that if we trust in the Lord and do right, we will receive God's guidance and deliverance from trouble. You may say, "But noone is perfect..."in which case we need to claim God's promise in 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, he is just and faithful to forgive our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

These verses show how we really need to turn to God, depend on God, and seek to ask him to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

The Proverbs provide much wisdom for us today. Suggest that you read the chapter of Proverbs that corresponds to each calendar day, and within one month, you will have read the whole book!

God Bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Gospel received by Revealation from Jesus Christ

2011-08-25T20:48:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In the book of Galatians, the apostle Paul is addressing the problem of false or perverted gospel. Apparently, this was a problem in the days of the church at Galatia.
First, in his introduction of his letter in Galatians 1:1-5, Paul reiterates the gospel and tells what exactly Christ did for us:

"Paul, an apostle (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead:) And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia: Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: To whom be glory for ever and ever: Amen."

He affirms that grace and peace come from above and that Christ died for our sins, according to God's will.

In verse 8, he says "But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you tnan that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed."

This is a strong indication that there was a problem with false teachers and preachers, as there is today.

In verses 11-12, Paul tells them: "But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ."

We must be aware, in today's world, that so-called bible teachings and Christian teachings can be "after man" and not of God and His Holy Spirit. Beware of any teaching or belief that is not clearly stated in the Word of God. Mostly, do not depart in any way from the true gospel of Jesus Christ, regardless of who is preaching or teaching it.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Faith Comes by Hearing

2011-08-18T10:04:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Paul's letter to Philemon, it is interesting to look at the first seven verses which are a prayer and an encouragement to brother Philemon:

"Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon, our dearly beloved and fellow-labourer. And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellow soldier and to the church in thy house." Philemon 1-2.

As we look at this introductory greeting, we can see that Paul acknowledges his and Timothy's love for these brothers in the lord and that there is a church in a house.

"Grace to you and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers." v. 3-4

Wishing grace and peace to our brothers and sisters in the Lord is a wonderful way to encourage them and being thankful for them and committing them to prayer is another special way of relating to those in the body of Christ.

"Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the Saints; That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus." v. 5-6

This shows that reputation of faith and love is an important by product of Christian faith and that HEARING of this is an encouragement to all - the faith is effective because of communication in which seeing God's goodness living in these people is a testimony and encouragement.

"For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother". v. 7.

Here, Paul encourages Philemon and acknowledges how he refreshes the saints. This makes me consider how important it is to be an encourager and a refresher. All of us can always use a kind word, a prayer, a shared insight from the Word. Even a cheerful greeting as you meet strangers while going through your day can make a difference.

To me, this is a challenge to commit more people to prayer, to appreciate and express more appreciation for the people in my life, for God's goodness and faith of others.

I hope this inspires you to have a strong appreciation and to act upon it in your life.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Abound in Love

2011-08-17T08:39:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In 1 Thessalonians 3:10-13, Paul is writing to them, letting them know he is praying for them, and what he is praying for. Perhaps this should be our prayer for ourselves and for others as well:

"Night and day, praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith. Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you:And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you. To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints."

We all need to have our faith perfected and to love more and to be unblamable in our hearts. Paul speaks here actually of prayers preparing our hearts for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Perhaps this is the most significant goal of our Christianity.
We tend to think about all of the things we can do to serve, but the preparation of our hearts is the key concern.

Today, I pray that God will continue to strengthen you in whatever areas in which you may lack faith, and to prepare your heart for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

The Inner Man

2011-08-16T07:44:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Ephesians, Chapter 3:10-12, Paul speaks of how the church can behold the manifold wisdom of God:

"To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him."

And in Verse 16, it states:

"That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man."

This indicates to me that it is not the outward man, but the inner man with which God is most concerned and it is the inner man that needs the strengthening. This promise that good will grant that strength according to the riches of his glory is one valuable gift from God. We all need to be strengthened in the inside.

In 1 John 1:9, it says "If we confess our sins, God is faithful to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Here, again, God's promise to cleanse the inner man is present. May you set your prayers and awareness on these two promises and experience a true blessing today.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Submission

2011-08-11T10:55:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In 1 Peter 2:11-16, Peter gives much advice to believers that we also need to heed today:

"Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God that with well doing, ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as servants of God."

I especially like the way Peter addresses the people as "dearly beloved". This reminds me that we are all beloved children of God and that we so need to live with self-control and truth.

When I first rededicated my life to Christ and learned from the bible that we are "citizens of heaven", I wanted to know, "Do we still have to pay taxes as citizens of earth"? These verses certainly explained about submitting to the "ordinances of men" and to earthly authorities!!

Please meditate on this section of scripture, and ask the Lord to help you to grow into these attitudes and practices for the glory of God and for your own good as beloved children of God.

God bless you and have a great day!!

Lady of Light

Identify True Wisdom

2011-07-21T07:49:00.003-04:00

Lady of Light

As we go through life and are confronted with decisions and choices we need to make,
we can take comfort in God's promise in James 1:5:

"If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not: and it shall be given him."

When we need to identify wisdom, we can be guided by God's description of it in James 3:17-18:

"But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."

As you face different choices and decisions in life, consider these wonderful words.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

How do we recognize wisdom?

2011-07-18T11:50:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

Often, we seek wisdom - we ask God for it and we pray for it as we try to handle difficult situations in life and as we try to understand what God is saying or what God wants us to do. How do we differentiate between our own mind, the influence of others and circumstances that can be confusing?

In James, Chapter 3:16-17, the bible says the following:

"For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy."

These are the signs that God is imparting wisdom. If it is pure and peaceful, gentle and full of mercy.

I hope that this portion of the word may help you to discern God's wisdom in your daily life.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

God Changes People

2011-07-09T09:46:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

The epistle of Philemon is a letter written by Paul to advocate for a slave named Onesimus who ran away from his master and went to Rome where Paul was. While he was there, he became converted and he was a changed man. Paul convinced him that the right thing to do was to return to his master and so Paul wrote his master a letter. In the letter - Philemon v. 10-11, Paul makes mention of Onesimus' transformed life:

"I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me"

Onesimus was converted and persuaded to go back to his master and Paul requested that his friend, Philemon, receive Onesimus as a brother.

There may be people that you know who have changed their lives over time - sometimes even family members who are away from the family for a while - receive them well when they return. I know that God changed me and he continually changes others.
It is just a good thing to remember, because sometimes, we dwell on people's mistakes and miss the good things that God has done in their life as time goes on.

God bless you and have a great day!
Lady of light

Advocate

2011-07-08T09:36:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In First John 2:1-3, We are told that Jesus is our advocate with the father:

"My little children, I write unto you that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments."

Many times do people get into situations where they need an advocate in this world - someone or organization that advocates for children, the handicapped or the elderly, for example. When we look at the above verses, we can realize we have the most important advocate in the person of Jesus Christ. In 1 John 1:9, it also tells us that if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

These verses are important for us and you can see that you can also see that we are referred to as "little children" because we are children of God. We need to confess our sins, seek cleansing and forgiveness and know that Jesus is not only our Savior, but our Advocate as well.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

God sends angels

2011-07-06T08:06:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

There are verses in the bible that say that "God's angels camp around us." To me this is an amazing concept. We are kept from troubles we don't even know about and strengthened in ways we don't realize.

In Luke 22:43, It says, And there appeared an angel unto him (Jesus) from heaven, strengthening him."

This was after Jesus had been praying to his Father, regarding his future plight. If God would do this for Jesus at His most trying time, he can also do the same for us.

Remember, as you go through difficulties that through prayer, God's supernatural power is available to you, sometimes in the form of an angel.

God Bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Thank you letter

2011-07-05T06:02:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

How many of us have written a "thank you" letter - perhaps for a Christmas or birthday gift, or for a visit at someone's home? A good example of a "thank you" letter is the book of Phillipians where the apostle Paul writes to the church at Phillipi to thank the church there for their support of him. In Phillipians 1:1-7, we have an example of how Paul shows gratitude for the believers there.

"Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ to all the saints in Christ Jesus whic are at Phillipi, with the bishops and deacons:
Grace be unto you, and peace, from God upon every rememberance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now: Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye are all partakers of my grace."

Paul lets the believers at Phillipi know that he keeps them in his heart and prayers and that he thanks God for them.

As you think of loved ones and friends who have been good to you, perhaps you can let them know that you are thankful by letting them know they are in your hearts and prayers. Paul sets a good example here as he shows appreciation for them.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Walk in Love

2011-06-25T09:28:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

"Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savor" (Ephesians 1-2)

These verses are relatively simple, but contain abundant information. The first is that we are God's dear children - this fact is awesome and Christ has given himself up for us. We can therefore, follow God and not only love (because He first loved us), but we can walk in love.

Sometimes we can get "out of shape" - we need to walk more or exercise more to become physically fit. As we "walk" in love more and more, we become spiritually fit and, if we follow God as his children on faith, it is possible to do this. Think of even small daily situations - waiting in line at the grocery store, for example. When I have a lot of items and someone comes behind me with only a few, I smile and let them go ahead of me. When I can share a smile, or a kind word as I encounter people throughout the day, I do. Starting in small ways has helped me with the privilege of learning to treat the people that God has brought in my life with more love and respect. Being a child of God has truly changed my attitude. Consider these things in your own life and "grow in grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ."

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Sing a New Song

2011-06-22T04:21:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

We hear all kinds of songs on CDs, the radio, TV, and in entertainment but in Psalm 59:16-17, David tells us what he will sing about:

"But I will sing of thy power; yea, I will sing aloud of thy mercy in the morning: for thou hast been my defense and refuge in the day of my trouble. Unto thee, O my strength, will I sing: for God is my defense and the God of my mercy."

Keep a hymn or song of praise in your heart today.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

"On Christ the solid rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand."

Well-pleasig in his Sight

2011-06-16T13:35:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In 13:20-23, the apostle Paul, in his closing remarks to the Hebrews says the following:

"Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant. Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. And I beseech you, bretheren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter to you in few words."

Paul wrote a series of letters to various churches and individuals to communicate that which he deemed important for the people of the day to know. He says that through the everlasting covenant of the blood of Jesus, his son, we can be made perfect and do that which is well pleasing in the sight of God. But, in order to do this, we must also suffer the word of exhortation - to be able to listen to godly instruction and correction as it is written. Sometimes it is difficult to take a look at ourselves and what we may be doing wrong or what we may not be doing that we should be doing, whether in attitude or deed. The word of God, in particular in this instance, Paul's words can give us a clue as to what we can become - which is doing God's will and what is well pleasing in his sight. How can we do this? Through the everlasting covenant of the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is all to easy to "settle for less than the best" but these verses tell us that we can do better than that. These verses offer a hope and expectation for how we live our lives. As you think about this, perhaps you will see something new that you have not seen before.

God Bless You and have a great day!!

Lady of Light

The Best Counsel

2011-06-15T07:35:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Ephesians 1:6-11, the Apostle Paul tells us the following as he writes to the church at Ephesus:

"Wherein he (Christ) hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth, even in him: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory who first trusted Christ."

It is a great comfort to know that Christ has been toward us, giving us wisdom and prudence and giving us knowledge and the purpose of gathering us together both on earth and in heaven. This is really great news - we live in a world where there are many divisions and here it speaks of oneness and fullness of times. To know that all things work out according to the counsel of his will, is the best counsel we can receive - to learn and understand the Lord's divine purposes. As I meditate on these verses it sets me in such a good direction - and praising and trusting Christ, I believe, is the way to keep going in that direction.

May God bless you and have a great day!!

Lady of Light

"

Some Good Promises

2011-06-07T09:22:00.003-04:00

Lady of Light

In the book of Hebrews 13:5-8, we have a few wonderful promises of God:

"Let your conversation be without covetousness and be content with such things as ye have; for he hath said "Never will I leave thee or forsake thee." (v. 5) This promise from God that he will never leave us or forsake us is a great gift and certainly, it should allow us to be content with what we have and to have wholesome conversation without covetousness or envy. It puts everything in a true perspective.

"So that we may boldly say "The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man may do to me." (v. 6) We have all had experiences where people have said or done things that were unkind or inappropriate, but we can rest in the fact that God helps us and takes away our fear of things that man may do. That is the second great promise.

"Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation." (v. 7)

The third, is that God has provided spiritual leaders and other Christians to speak faith into your life and share the truth of the word of God.

"Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today and forever." (v. 8)

This is the most wonderful promise, that we can rely on the Lord to ALWAYS be the same. In our world where people change and so many other things change, this is a true strength and comfort.

There are many more promises in the bible, but this section of Hebrews gives us a sample of the wonderful things of God.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

CONSIDER THE LILIES

2011-06-05T01:57:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Luke 12:27 - 34, Jesus speaks. Spring and summer are a time when we experience the beauty of nature in terms of blooming trees, grass and flowers. The verses say:

"Consider the lilies how they grow. They toil not, they spin not, and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If the God so clothes the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow in the oven; how much more will he clothe you, ye of little faith. And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.

But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

Sell that ye have, and give alms: provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." Luke 12:27-34

If we are not careful, we can get too caught up in the practicalities of our earthly life rather than living in the reality of God's kingdom and heaven which is to come.
The bottom line is, where is your heart? Is it with God and his kingdom or is it wrapped up in the temporary things of this world? Yes, it is true that goods and possessions can be used to honor God, but we must be careful not to doubt God's wonderful provision and to understand the true source of what we have.

As you meditate on what Jesus is saying here, think about what you may need to do to have a godly perspective. Our world can crowd us if we aren't careful.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Conformity v. being transformed

2011-06-03T16:05:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Romans 12:2, it says:

"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable and perfect, will of God."

It is very easy, if we are not careful, to become "people pleasers" and instead of allowing God to transform us and renew our minds, to simply conform to the so-called
"Norms".

This indicates to me that we need to go directly to the source of that which has the power to renew us and transform us which is Jesus and the love of God, and the word of God which is God's gift to us - a "handbook for life". The bible will always renew and transform through God's spirit, but we must seek to have a right relationship with God through Jesus Christ, first. Admitting and confessing that we are sinners in need of a Savior, and accepting Jesus Christ as our personal Savior is the first, and most important step in that direction. Then Pray to God and ask him to change you and seek after him through his word. There is so much out there in the media that will not renew us, but simply try to make us conform to many limited ideas of men that do not find their root in God or in his word.

Take some time today to meditate on God's word and experience what a difference it makes!

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

THE SHEEP

2011-06-02T12:56:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In John 10:27 - 30, Jesus says the following:

"My sheep hear my voice and I know them, and they follow me:
And I give on to them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
My father, which gave them to me, is greater than all, and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand." I and my Father are one."

These are encouraging verses - that as a follower of Jesus, I can be still and hear his voice. I can know that even with all the different teachers and people in the world, no one can take me from the hand of God and Jesus. And here Jesus tells you that he and the father are one and that we have Eternal life.

If you are not one of Jesus' sheep, confess you sins to him: Pray "Lord, I confess to you that I am a sinner and I accept you as my Personal Savior who died for my sins and I ask you to be Lord of my life." If you prayed that prayer sincerely, you are "born again" and your new life in Christ begins. If you are already a Christian, you can experience the truth and joy of these wonderful verses.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

MEMORIAL DAY

2011-05-30T20:24:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

Happy Memorial Day - I hope that you all took some time out to remember our fallen soldiers and those who serve to protect our country and our freedom. I am going to post an original poem for today:

SOLDIERS

You leave your friends, your loved ones
And your families behind.
No one could possibly imagine
The things that go through your mind.
As you are continuously making sacrifices
To defend our country,
Constantly facing near-death experiences.
The courage God has gifted you with
Is a true blessing to those in our country
Back home, living safe and happy lives,
While you are out there in the front line
Hoping and praying that everything will be fine.
God will give you your reward some day,
In the meanwhile, I can pray for you,
Your families, and all whom you love,
Will be held forever in the everlasting arms of our great God above.

Take time to meditate and thank God for the soldiers who have fallen, and those who are still alive and those who have been wounded or disabled as well.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of light

The Angels and the Birth of Jesus

2011-05-29T08:53:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Luke:2:7-14, we find a description of the birth of Jesus and the visitation of the angel of the Lord upon them and then a multitude of the heavenly host:

"And she (Mary) brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country, shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly, there was with the angel, a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying:

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

There was no room at the comfortable inn for Joseph and Mary, but still she was able to "bring forth" her son, Jesus, wrapping him and laying him in a manger. Although they were frightened initially by the visitation of the angel, the angel reassured them not to be afraid. The angel identified the child as our Savior, Jesus Christ the Lord and indeed confirmed who that blessed child in swaddling clothes in the manger was! You can imagine the excitement and wonder that they must have experienced. They received a special sign from God through the angel. After that, there was praising and wishes for peace on earth and good will toward men.
As we go about each day, it is good to bring about peace in our lives and good will towards others and to always praise God for the miracle of the birth of Jesus. Think today, of ways to bring about God's peace and good will in your life and I know you will be blessed!

God Bless You and have a great day!

Lady of Light

GOD IS NO RESPECTOR OF PERSONS

2011-05-28T12:05:00.003-04:00

Lady of Light

In several places in the bible, it tells us that God is no respecter of persons.
In Romans 2:6 - 11, the Word tells us:

"(GOD) who will render to every man according to his deeds: to them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life:
But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: For there is no respect of persons with God."

Sometimes people get the idea that because they are of a certain descent or because they have a certain position in society or because their parents were good, that they shall escape God's wrath. But, as these verses tell us, it is the ones who patiently continue in well-doing, seeking for glory,and honor and eternal life who will experience the goodness of God.

But, without the forgiveness of sin through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, it is impossible to please God. In 1 John 1:9 it says, "if you confess your sins, God is faithful to forgive your sins and to cleanse you of all unrighteousness." Right relationship with Jesus and right living are what is important.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Council Against Christ

2011-05-27T07:23:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Mathew 27: 1-5 we learn the following:

"When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death.: And when they led him away, and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the Governor. Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders. Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they sai, What is that to us? see thou to that. And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple and departed, and went and hanged himself."

The thing that stands out to me is that they "took counsel against Christ". When we disobey Christ because we are influenced by others, we too, are "taking counsel against Christ" - when we listen to the "world" instead of the "word". When you take the "L" out of "world", you get "word". Let's say that the "L" in world stands for
"Lust (of the flesh and pride of life) - when removed, we are back to "The Word" which gives us life and sets us upon counsel in line with God - receiving God's counsel.

The second thing that stands out is that even Judas repented of the betrayal, but it was too late - he took his life because of what he did. We need to repent of our sins and as stated in i John 1:9, the promise that "if we confess our sins, he is faithful to forgive our sins and will cleanse us of all unrighteousness."

This is counsel for us, and so that we can be "for Christ", who reigns in Power and Glory at the right hand of the Father.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

What does a great king do?

2011-05-26T11:02:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In 2 Kings 18, the Word tells us that King Hezekiah was greater than any other king.
It is also amazing that he was only twenty-five years old when he began his reign and he reigned for twenty-nine years. Because of his trust, obedience, faith in the Lord, and fervent prayer, he was effective in ultimately protecting Judah and Jerusalem from the Assyrians who were very strong and powerful at that time.

Furthermore, when he was sick unto death (2 Kings 20), he prayed fervently and the Lord extended his life fifteen years.

King Hezekiah put "God's agenda" before his own agenda too. He made sure to destroy all idols that people were burning incense to and when he prayed for God to answer his prayers, it was "so that the people will know that you are the one true God."

Can we say the same thing in our own lives? If we would consistently follow the Lord and be faithful, trusting, prayerful and careful, we, too, can receive much from our God who rewards righteous behavior.

May God bless you, have a great day!

Lady of Light

A Cup of Cold Water -Mathew 10:40

2011-02-03T10:30:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

I am thinking about hospitality and receiving people. Jesus speaks of this in Mathew 10 40-42:

"He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me. He who receives a prophet in he name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward. And he who receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive rigteous man's reward. And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward."

This speaks to me about being gracious to people and receiving them and that even if you can only do a small act of kindness such as giving a cup of water to a thirsty child, this is important in God's sight. Sometimes it is the small kindnesses that make a real difference in life. The other day, my husband and I were walking to the store - we have a lot of snow and ice right now. A stranger - a woman who was on her way to church - stopped and helped my husband across the slippery parking lot. We were ever so grateful and it just made us feel that God is caring for us through other people.

In terms of receiving - this word is used frequently in this passage - when you receive Jesus Christ as your personal Savior - when you receive God's love and the many blessings He has for you, it makes it much easier to receive others in a gracious and loving manner. I will ask God to keep me open to the opportunities he has for me to receive others and do kindnesses and demonstrate His love - the love that I have received from him.

God Bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Wait Patiently for God

2011-02-01T13:43:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

One of my biggest problems is lack of patience - I want immediate answers and solutions to everything. Taking a cue from the Psalmist David, I finally realized that waiting is a spiritual exercise that we must adapt to. In Psalm 40, David says:

"I waited patiently for the Lord,
And He inclined to me,
And heard my cry,
He also brought me out of a horrible pit,
Out of the miry clay,
And set my feet upon a rock,
And established my steps.
He has put a new song in my mouth -
Praise to our God,
Many will see it and fear,
And will trust in the Lord."

This section of the Psalm is very encouraging in terms of what God does - he hears and delivers and puts a new song in David's mouth. He sets feet on a rock and establishes his steps. It makes me thing of the words to a song I know "On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand." When we cry out to God and wait for him, he does all of these things for us as well. No sinking sand - no quick sand. Solid ground.

The other lesson in all this is that, not only does David praise God, he recognizes that this is a testimony which will cause people to trust in God. Think, when we share the goodness of God and what he has done for us, it can cause others to trust him also. When others see changes in us, this is also testimony of what God can do.
Remember "All things are possible with God."

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of light

Fear - What does God Promise in Psalm 34?

2011-01-26T17:18:00.002-05:00

by Lady of Light

Whether we like to admit it or not, fear is a part of what we sometimes experience in life. I marveled at the decisions I made because of even some little fear and finally said, "What does God say about this?" I found myself reading Psalm 34:

"I will bless the Lord at all times,
His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
My soul shall make its boast in the Lord,
The humble shall hear of it and be glad.
Oh, magnify the Lord with me,
And let us exalt his name together.
I sought the Lord and he heard me,
And delivered me from all my fears."

It is possible that we experience fear and it can bring us to a point of seeking the Lord, and he then hears and delivers us from our fears as he did with David. Instead of shrinking away from God, David blessed the Lord and praised him continuously. He left a wonderful example for us to follow and testified of the Lord's personal deliverance from fear. What a wonderful miracle. Remember this when you find yourself in fear of anything.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Soldiers

2010-05-30T12:40:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

We are told in scripture to be "soldiers for Christ" but on this Memorial Day weekend,
we need to remember our earthly soldiers in the United States who gave their lives and fought for our country. The freedom we have to worship God, read the bible and to be Christians is definitely related to the determination of our founding fathers and all of the many soldiers who have protected our country.

I would like to share a poem I wrote:

SOLDIERS
You leave your friends, your loved ones
And your families behind,
No one could possibly imagine
The things that go through your mind.

As you are continuously making sacrifices
To defend your country
Folks back home, living safe and happy lives,
While you are out there, perhaps in the front line,
Hoping and praying that everything will be fine.

God will give you your reward some day,
In the meanwhile I can pray for you,
your families, and all whom you love,
will be held forever in the everlasting arms
Of our great God above.

Remember all the soldiers who have fought and died for our country.

God bless you and have a great day!
Lady of Light

Words

2010-05-13T10:43:00.001-04:00

Lady of Light

In Proverbs, Chapter 18:4, the bible tells us, "The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook."

When you speak, or when you listen to people around you, do you experience the phenomena of a flowing brook? Too often, not, I am afraid. It is so important to pray and ask God and His spirit to guide our tongues so that wisdom flows. Although this verse doesn't mention it, I also believe that loving words are healing. We need to recognize the power of words - both our own and those of others and "allow wisdom to flow and love to flow." This means being patient and not being abrupt with people - even the cashier in the supermarket or someone in line. Think of the fact that a flowing brook is so smooth, refreshing and calm.

God Bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Obedience

2010-05-08T08:58:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

I came across this poem in one of my older notebooks. I do not know who the author is, but I think it is very well put and would like to share it:

I said, "Let me walk in the field."
He said, "No, walk in the town."
I said,l "There are no flowers there."
He said, "No flowers but a crown."

I said, "But the skies are black,
There is nothing but noise and din."
And He wept as he sent me back;
"There is more," he said,"There is sin."

I said "Butthe air is thick
And fogs are veiling the sun"
He said, "Yet souls are sick,
And souls in the dark undone."

I said, "I shall miss the light
And friends will miss me, they say."
He answered, "Choose tonight
If I am to miss you or they>"
I pleaded for time to be given,
He said, "Is it hard to decide?"
It will not seem hard in Heaven
To have followed the steps of your Guide."
I cast one look at the field,
Then set my face to the town;
He said, "My child do you yield?
Will you leave the flowers
for the crown?"

Then into His hand went mine;
And into my heart came He;
And I walk in a light divine,
The path I had feared to see.

Are we willing to make sacrifices to walk with Jesus? It is something we all need to think about. He sacrificed so much for us.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

National Day of Prayer

2010-05-06T09:49:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

Today is indeed a special day - it has been designated as the "National Day of Prayer".
It is awesome to think what a difference we can make as our nation calls out to God for change and for continued grace, mercy and wisdom for our leaders.

In Proverbs Chapter 18:10, it says, "The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into and and is safe." We need, especially on this day to acknowledge the truth of these words and to call on the name of the Lord on behalf of our country.

The words of the late John Fitzgerald Kennedy come to mind, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." In the context of National Prayer Day, each one of us can take time out today to pray and may God bless this nation.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Persecution

2010-05-05T11:19:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Acts 22:7-8, Paul (who was then named Saul) made a journey and came to Damascus
and suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice (the voice of Jesus) saying "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou
me?" And he answered, Who art though, Lord? And he said unto him, "I am Jesus of Nazareth whom thou persecutist."

Saul had been a Jew and he was persecuting Christians as part of his religion, and was ignorant of what he was doing. He was doing what he had been taught to do in his faith.

It makes me wonder, how many "learned" behaviors, thoughts and feelings we may have and be unaware of, that, in effect, persecute Jesus. There are many Christians who do things that are not in the bible or that are not proper, and yet, don't realize that, like Paul, they are persecuting the Lord.

Take the time to pray and examine your life, even in the little things and ask God to show you if there is error in your thinking or in your ways. The Lord is good, and he is merciful to us, but sometimes we need to change.

May God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Honor Your Parents

2010-05-04T07:45:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Ephesians Chapter 6:2-3, the bible tells us to "honor thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; tht it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth."

For young people today, it is important that they learn this lesson. But for those of us who are older, with children, and even grandchildren, it is important that we honor our parents even if they are no longer with us. In terms of positive memories, acknowledging the good things that we learned from them or by their example, so that we glorify God and are an example to our own children and grandchildren. This is not to say that our parents were perfect, but it is to say that if we are prayerful, we can truly thank God for our parents and think on the good that they did and the sacrifices they made for us.

This must have been an issue, even back in bible times because Paul speaks of it to the church at Ephesus. It is also interesting that this was the first commandment of "Promise" - that it would be well with you and you would live long on the earth."

I pray that the "wounds" would heal, if there are any, and that you would be able to meditate on the positives and appreciate the blessing that God intended parents to be, and to try to be a blessing to your children and grandchildren as well..

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Stewardship

2010-05-03T09:49:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In 1 Corinthians 4:1-4, Paul speaks of us being a steward of the mysteries of God.
To understand what he meant by this, it is necessary to understand that in those days, servants had no position, but stewards did. A steward was a slave who administered all the affairs of his master's household, though he himself owned nothing. As a point of interest, Joseph held such a position in the house of Potiphar. (Genesis 39:2-19).

As stewards, we as believers manage the message and ministry that God has entrusted to us just as the Christians did in Paul's day.

In order to be good stewards of God's message, we need, not only to be prayerful, but to spend time in God's word so that we are prepared "in season and out of season" to communicate and so live God's truth.

Consider the fact that truth endures, and it permeates everything we think, say and do. Meditate on God's word today and pray that he will guide you in sharing and doing that which has been entrusted to you.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Walking Worthily

2010-05-02T11:49:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Ephesians 4:1-6, the apostle Paul reminds us "Walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love: Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

I lived in a city where there were 85 churches - large and small, all competing with each other. This was certainly not in agreement with keeping the unity of the Spirit.
Often, if we are not careful, we do not experience the unity of Christ and the peace that He offers because we differ with people because they go to different churches etc.]

But Paul continues to remind us that there is One Lord, One Faith, One baptism and One God and Father of all, who is above all and through all, and in you all." (v. 5-7)

This realization should help us to "walk worthy" and to forbear one another in love.
We all serve the same God. He is over ALL of us.

Recognize that we have been called to a vocation. This is true spiritually, as well as in other areas of our lives - some of us are professionals, parents, wives, husbands - called to walk worthy in all areas of our lives.

Try today, to thank God for all of the "vocations" to which you have been called and to ask him to give you the right attitude - forbearance and may you be blessed in all that you do.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Non-conformity

2010-05-01T10:31:00.001-04:00

Lady of Light

In Romans 12:2, it tells us "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

There are so many things that can pollute the mind - we don't have to look far to find them. But what renews our mind? It is the spirit of God that renews us, but what we eat, read, watch on TV, listen to on the radio, look at in the world around us, our conversations --everything effects this renewal process. But, most importantly, reading the word of God has renewing power. Meditating and praying has renewing power.
Ingesting the air God gave us and excersise makes the mind more alert.

I, for one, love the view out my front window - it is sky and beautiful tree tops - when I reflect on the miracle of creation and nature - particularly the trees - I experience renewal.

Find special ways to experience renewal today and do away with some of the "pollution".

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of light

Do Good at all times

2010-04-30T09:10:00.001-04:00

Lady of Light

In Luke Chapter 6:1-9 we learn that the disciples picked and ate corn from the cornfields and that Jesus healed a man, restoring his hand. The Pharisees challenged him and he answered: "I will ask you one thing: Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? To save life, or to destroy it?"

God knows our hearts and the heart of each man as to whether he is out to do good or evil at any time, and it is the motive of the heart that is important. Sometimes, if we are not careful, we can become "legalistic" or "judgemental" of others according to what we believe and yet, if a person does good as unto the Lord, the Lord sees this.

Remember that, if your heart is in the right place, God will guide you as to what to do and when to do it!

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

God Carries Us to our Destination

2010-04-28T07:43:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

As I watch the news, I see all kind of traffic watches - yesterday an area on a highway that is going to be blocked off for a while so the rusted pipe and pot hole can be properly repaired. There are reports of all kinds of obstacles occurring on the roads that people are traveling. Miraculously, a 93 year old lady was brought home safely after being detained in Europe due to air problems. God knows what our destination is, and he sees that we are carried there.

In the book of Acts, Chapter 21, v. 1-5, Paul tells us that

"Finding a ship saling over to Phenicia, we went aboard and set forth. Now, when we had discovered Cyprus, we leftit on the left hand and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden. And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days; who said to Paul through the Spirit that he should not go up to Jerusalem.
And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore and prayed."

God was leading and directing the travels of Paul - as you can see, when they got off the ship, they found disciples there. They even told Paul in the Spirit where not to travel. After they accomplished what they set out to do, God brought them out of the city and they all prayed.

I know that when I travel, or I know someone who is traveling, I pray for God's traveling mercies. Not only does He answer those prayers, but keeps us safe and guides us, providing us a way to our destination.

For this, we can take comfort and be grateful - God is everpresent on our journey through life and just as he guided Paul and the disciples, he guides us when we look to him.

Wishing you all a great day and safety on your journey

God Bless You!

Lady of Light

Behavior for the Older Folks

2010-01-31T04:13:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

I am a senior citizen and I imagine there are others of you out there too who will appreciate these verses from Titus 2:1-5:

"But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate,sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given ti much wine, teachers of good things; that they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children. To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed."

The best teacher is example so these goals are worthy for both young and old. I guess that even back in bible times, Christians must have needed these instructions as they were included in the letter to Titus.

It is important to realize that in our behavior, we not only give a testimony, but set an example for others. This can be a challenge at times, but "all things are possible with God." As you go about, remember that your example is an important contribution to the well-being of others.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Good Conscience

2010-01-27T07:53:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

In the book of Acts, the apostle Paul was set before the chief priests and all their council to appear. In Chapter 23:1, his reaction is capsulized:

"And Paul, earnestly beholding the council said, "Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day."

This, apparently, was of primary importance and was the key to his defense. We need to think about this. When we have situations and circumstances in our life where we have to give accountability, can we honestly say we have lived in good conscience before God?

One way to keep a clear conscience is to be sensitive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, who convicts us of sin and then to confess our sins, according to God's
promise in 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, he is just and faithful to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." This is an ongoing process in our life that keeps us close to God. Confessing and receiving God's forgiveness and cleansing is one of the greatest gifts God gives us - the gift of prayer. When we read His word, He will guide us in our behavior, thoughts and decisions. This is important because you can see from reading the gospels and the epistles of the New Testament, for example that much was written to guide individuals and the churches in how to live a Godly life.

Let us follow the apostle Paul's example and make a clear conscience before God a priority in our life.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Touch

2010-01-21T20:38:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

Of all the senses, touch is one of the most interesting. We always say to people "keep in touch." When I look in the scriptures about the healing value of touch I see in Mathew 9:21 and Mathew 14:36 how touch is used in a good way:

"For a women said within herself, if I may but touch his garment I shall be whole.And Jesus said, "Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole."

"And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto him all that we diseased: And besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole." Mt. 14:35-36

Think of how it feels when someone hugs you or touches you in a positive way. Think of how it feels when God "touches" your heart when you pray. In our church, we lay hands on each other for prayer and healing.

Touch is just a beautiful blessing from God. Being able to feel the bark of a tree or the softness of a flower petal, being enhanced in life, this is wonderful.

I thank God for both His touch and the gift of touch and how my life has touched others and the lives of others have touched me.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Graven Images

2010-01-20T07:55:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

In Exodus, 20:4-6, God commands us not to make graven images and he tells what happens to those who worship graven images and to the generations that follow after:

""Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments."

This makes me wonder about the images of Christ and the saints that are in heaven - the altars and photos that we have. It makes me wonder about those who decorate their space with large posters of celebrities such as Elvis, and those who have busts of Elvis and others displayed in their homes. Also those who hold idols in their minds - even though invisible, they can be very real. Basically, anything that we hold more important that God and our relationship with him - our money, our possessions, our jobs, our careers, other people etc.

We need to take a look at the physical and mental environment we have created for ourselves and guard against such sins. Sometimes, they can be subtle, kind of sneaking up on us. Even ungodly music in place of worship music needs to be kept in check.

In the new year, you may have resolutions such as getting rid of clutter - think about getting rid of the physical and mental clutter that distracts you from prayer and worshiping the Almighty. Take real stock of how you are spending your time.
I know that I, myself, need to be more structured with my daily bible study and long range plans of study. All of us could us improvement. I hope you think about this and pray about it to enrich your spiritual life in 2010.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Non-Conformity

2010-01-19T12:01:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

I believe that we are all conformists to some extent - even if this is in invisible ways such as our values or our thinking or our faith, but in Romans, Chapter 12, Paul speaks of a certain kind of non-conformity and what follows:

"And be ye not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God."

That certainly says that as believers, we are transformed, and must live accordingly.
Our minds must be renewed by prayer, and reading the word of God and having fellowship one to another. In this way, we are guided to good things, the goodness of God and the will of God.

I don't know about you, but without even trying, I get all kinds of stimuli from TV, news, people and circumstances coming my way each day. I have to take time out for quiet time, prayer, bible reading and meditation in order to refresh and renew my mind.

Life is full of distractions, and we have to choose carefully, where able,
what we are going to allow into our lives. I have limited TV time, endless phone chatter, and too much worldly reading. This has helped me to be more attuned to the spiritual and spend more time in God's presence - consciously. I am not saying that some things aren't good on TV - we watch Dr. Charles Stanley and Joel Osteen every Sunday morning. Being informed about the news helps us to pray more intelligently, but as long as these things are done sensibly and in moderation, that is okay.

Consider, are you taking the quiet time you need to renew your mind? Are you being conformed to the world or transformed by the spirit?

Taking a good look at ourselves, how we spend our time, and what we think about is beneficial according to these scriptures.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

The Unsearchable Riches of Christ

2010-01-18T15:22:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

In Ephesians 3:8-11, Paul explains how he was given the grace to preach the Gospel and the unsearchable riches of Christ to the Gentiles:

"Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given untop me by the effectual working of hid power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ:

And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Christ Jesus."

As we know, Paul was a murderer before he had his encounter with Christ on the Damascus road. Perhaps this is why he refers to himself as "the least of the saints."
All of us have made mistakes and committed various sins in our live, and yet we can know Christ and the mystery of "Christ which was from the beginning of the world in God.

It is easy for us to get busy with our lives, jobs, and families. There is nothing wrong with that as long as we don't lose the perspective of the importance of the mystery of Christ and His riches. The true riches of God. Paul thought this was important enough to remind the church in Ephesus of and it was recorded in this letter.

Whatever we have in this world or don't have in this world, we do have the riches of Christ. Let us be mindful of this and of the true value of what God has given us.
Meditating on these verses helps me to put things in perspective. I hope it does the same for you.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of LIght

Life and Godliness

2010-01-17T11:54:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

In the Second Epistle of Peter, Chapter 1:1-7, Peter gives us an idea of how God supplies the strength of believers so that they can become all things that pertain to Godliness and life:

"Grace and peace be multiplied unto yu through the knowledge of God and Jesus Christ our Lord, according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue;

Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

And besides this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance and to temperance, patience; and to patience, Godliness: And to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity."

This describes all of the ways you can live a Godly life, if you have knowledge of God and Jesus Christ because He gives you the power to do these things.

Take a look at your life and see if there are some areas where you need to pray and perhaps improve yourself. God will help you. I know He has helped me and I still feel that it is an ongoing process requiring prayer and diligence.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Meditate on the word of God

2010-01-16T22:08:00.003-05:00

Lady of Light

We sometimes make the mistake of dwelling on our sins and mistakes of the past. God really doesn't intend for us to do this. God has a good plan for our future and in Hebrews 10:16 He said:

"This is the covenant that I will mske with them after those days, saith the Lord. I will put my law into their hearts, and in their minds I will write them. And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more."

We need not only to have God's law in our minds, but also in our hearts. This is pretty much what he was saying to the Hebrews.

We can keep the law in our minds and hearts by praying and meditating and reading the word. This is an ongoing activity that activates the Spirit in us.

Instead of thinking of wrongs, mistakes, and sins, meditate on the word of God.

In Psalm 1:1 it says:

"Blessed is the man who walketh not in the way of the ungodly nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful, but his delight is in the law of the Lord and in His law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree, planted by the rivers that bringeth forth fruit in His season. His leaf also shall not wither, and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."

So to be prosperous, meditate on the word. It will do your heart and mind good.

God bless you and have a great day.

Lady of Light

Overcoming the World

2010-01-14T18:09:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

Sometimes it is difficult to meet all of the challenges that life has to offer.
We feel overwhelmed with all that is going on in the world. But in 1 John, Chapter 5, it tells us:

"For whatsoever is born of God over cometh the world: and this is the victory that over cometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that over cometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ: not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth." 1 John 5:5-6

So, if you have a relationship with Jesus Christ and believe that Jesus is the Son of God, you have overcome the world. In verse 7, it says:

"For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word an the Holy Ghost and these three are one."

Therefore, we can take comfort in the fact that although life can have many
challenges, we have overcome. How do we know this? Because the bible tells us that this is our given condition if we believe in Jesus. This reminder is a help to me when I get overwhelmed every now and then. I hope it is an encouragement to you as well.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Dedicating Your Children to God

2010-01-13T06:34:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

In some churches, dedication ceremonies take place when a new child is born. This consists of the parents (and sometimes other relatives) going forward in the sanctuary to have the child prayed over and dedicated to God in the presence of God and the congregation. In other instances, parents just pray faithfully in giving their children to God and for God's guidance to encourage them spiritually.

In 1 Samuel, we have the wonderful example of Hannah, who gave her son to the Lord and he lived with the priest. In gratitude to the Lord for giving her a child, Hannah committed her son to God. In v. 26-28 she spoke the following:

"And she said, Oh my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the Lord, and the Lord hath given me the petition which I asked of him. Therefore also I have lent him to the Lord: as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the Lord. And He worshiped the Lord there."

When we think of our children or grandchildren as belonging to God, it encourages us to seek the Lord's guidance in our relationship with them, and to pray for them.

If you are a grandparent as I am, who is no longer raising the children or grandchildren, I believe it is your primary job to pray for them. That, and being a good example, are the best gifts you can give them and, of course, most importantly, loving them and accepting them.

My the Lord bless you in all of your familial relationships - especially with the children.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Psalm 18 - God Protects Us from our Enemies

2010-01-12T09:26:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

Unfortunately, we all may have people who dislike us, hate us, or even desire to do harm towards us in some way, or maybe you have some people like this in your past.
In Psalm 18, it tells us that King David experienced much distress because of his enemies. In verse 17 David says:

"He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for they were
too strong for me. They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the Lord was my stay. He brought me forth also into a large place; he delivered me because he delighted in me."

This certainly indicates that the Lord has the power to save us from the enemies and that he does intervene in our lives. David explains it in the following way in v. 20-24:

"The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me. For I have kept the ways of the Lord, and have not wickedly departed from my God. for all his judgements were before me, and I did not put away his statutes from me. I was also upright before him, and I kept myself from mine iniquity. Therefore hath the Lord recompensed me according to my rightousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his eyesight."

In v. 30, more simply put: "As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him."

Often times, people think of retribution or getting even with those who have gone against them. But, according to these scriptures, all one needs to do is put their trust in the Lord and he will take care of these situations in his time and in his way. "Vengeance is mine, thus saith the Lord." It is helpful to realize that this is what God has told us so when we get upset about something that someone has done in our life, we need to pray, let go and let God.

This Psalm is a comfort to me and helps me to let go of any negativity in my life and especially in my thought life. I feel that I am free because I have let go of the old.

It is my hope that you too, will have this feeling as you let go of fears and grudges against those who have hurt you in some way.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

True Blessings

2010-01-09T07:52:00.003-05:00

Lady of Light

Where do true blessings come from? According to Ephesians, Chapter 1:3-6 the apostle Paul says:

"Blessed be the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. To the praise of the glory off his grace, wherein he hat made us accepted in the beloved."

When we think of our blessings, we often think of many good things God has done for us that are visible, but the first basic and most important blessing is the one stated in Ephesians that says he chose us and made us his children. It is from that heavenly blessing that all other blessings follow.

As you count your blessings today, consider who God really is - the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Consider how he planned this special relationship that you have with him before the world even began! And, most of all, be thankful that we are accepted in the beloved.

This can also be a clue as to planning - if he planned this BEFORE the world began, think about how important it is to pray and plan BEFORE we begin something. It is the prayer, preparation and planning that makes for a true success and not leaving God out of our plans.

May God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

The Appointment

2010-01-07T09:28:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

Many times as we go through life, we pray for a touch from God for ourselves or others.
In the book of Acts 226-10, we read of how the Lord did "touch" and reach the apostle Paul, changing his life forever. Not only that, but he was given an "appointment" of the things which God wanted him to do. This is clear evidence that God wants to be involved in our lives, giving us life-changing power and direction. The account is as follows:

"And it came to pass, that, as I (Paul) made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me. And I fell unto the ground , and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persectest thou me? And I answered, Who are thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, who thou persecutest. And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me. And what shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do."

It is interesting that it was noon when the light came. On a sunny day, you know that the sun shines brightest at noon and yet, there was no doubt that this was a light from heaven - he fell to the ground. Also, it is interesting that no one else heard the voice of God, speaking to him. When God speaks to you, you are the only one who hears him, or when you receive a prompting from the spirit, you are the one who experiences it.

I believe that these verses are a great encouragement because if God can transform the life of Paul who was doing evil killing and imprisoning Christians, he can do a mighty work in our lives today. Also, the fact that God was interested in giving him instructions of what to do is an indicator that we don't have to simply wander through this world without clear direction.

So, as you pray for yourself for change and guidance as well as for others, be strong in your belief that God will hear and answer as he did in the life of the apostle Paul.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Running Away

2010-01-06T12:39:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

I believe at times, that we all look for an escape or a way to run away from the unpleasantries of life. At the very least we try to avoid certain people, places and circumstances. This was true in the account of the runaway slave, Onesimus in the book of Philemon. In this case, he ran away from his master but found his way to the apostle Paul in Rome where he was converted. After his conversion, Paul convinced him to return to his master. Not only that, but Paul wrote a letter to Philemon, Onesimus' master, and advocated for him. In V. 18 Paul says:

"If he hath wronged thee or oweth thee or oweth thee aught, put that on mine account."

The good thing about this is that Onesimus found faith through his relationship with Paul and it caused him to do the right thing and to have the strength to face his problems. Mainly, his master. Not only that, but he had an advocate. When you run from something and seek God, your faith and the love and care of God's people will help you to deal with the unpleasantries and problems and conflicts of life.
Remember that if you draw near to God, he will guide you to the right people, places and things and restore broken relationships or improve relationships that you already have.

This is good news - we can count on God to renew our faith and to do a restoring work in us and in the world around us.

May you consider as you read this what things you may be avoiding where you need to lean on God and his strength to change those things.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Walk in the newness of Life

2009-12-06T09:40:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

In Romans Chapter 6:1, Paul asks the question:
"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?"

Even though we know that as Christians, Christ died for our sins and we are forgiven, but that doesn't mean that we should just "keep on the same old way"

Paul says: "God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore, we are buried with him by baptism not death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." (v. 2-4).

During this holiday season, let's think of "new" ways to respond to people as we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Let's think of "new" ways to show kindness,
to give, to share, to comfort, to love, to celebrate.

Let's just "walk in the newness of the life free from sin that Jesus has given to us and thank and praise Him for it."

God Bless You and Have a Great Day!

Lady of light

The Comfort of Christ's Coming

2009-11-28T09:17:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

Here's hoping you all had a great Thanksgiving. Perhaps, with the holidays beginning, you have sadness over those loved ones who are no longer with us. The apostle Paul
was aware of this, because in his first letter to the Thessalonians, he states:

"But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep." 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-15.

It is Paul's intention to give the believer hope, not only for the future,
but for the outcome of what will take place for those who have already
gone to be with the Lord. This is going to be a very definitive and dramatic event.

"For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God, And the dead in Christ will rise first.
Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord." (V. 16-17)

Paul, speaking as a messenger and prophet of God, wanted believers to know
what lies ahead for them because he desired for them to have hope. In his final words on the subject in this chapter, he said:

"Therefore, comfort one another with these words." (V. 18)

As you read this passage, draw comfort from it and share it with others.
There are many promises that God makes in the scriptures that we can only
know if we read them. This most important promise is the good news that
Christ is coming back for us. This is a promise for eternity and, living in today's world with all of its complexities, we need to cling to the word of God and to these facts that are presented.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Make a Joyful Noise

2009-11-26T04:12:00.004-05:00

Lady of Light

My favorite Psalm for Thanksgiving is Psalm 100. I liked it so much that I used to have a music ministry called "Make a Joyful Noise".

"Make a joyful noise unto the Lord; Serve the Lord with gladness. Come before His presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord is God. It is He who hath made us and not we, ourselves. We are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.
Enter into His gates with Thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful unto Him and bless His name...."

It is early Thanksgiving morning. I have made my preparation and now it is time to give praise and thanks to God for all the wonderful blessings He has given
me. The greatest thing I am thankful for is the Lord, Himself and that He died on the cross for me, a sinner, that I might have eternal life. As pleasant as it is to
celebrate and feast with family and friends, I am aware that this world is only a temporary dwelling place, and that our eternal dwelling place is in Heaven with
the Lord.
Still, I am thankful for the Lord's power and provision here on earth and for the gift of love - family, friends and fellow man. Every day there is a myriad of miracles for which we can praise and thank God.
Whatever your circumstances, I guarantee that if you really think about it, you will find things to be thankful for.
Norman Vincent Peale once said, "Attitude is everything." It is so true so let us go forth on this Thanksgiving day with an "attitude of gratitude."
I pray especially for the soldiers and those who can't be with their families that they would have special comfort from God on this day.
Happy Thanksgiving!

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Build on the Rock

2009-11-17T07:14:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

Several weeks ago my husband and I visited the Jersey shore - we didn't go to the beach but had a nice time milling around the town. This past week, however, there was a Northeaster storm in South Jersey and 6 counties are in a state of emergency. The films on the news showed that sand had washed up on the boardwalks and all over the place. It made me think of the wisdom of Jesus in Mathew7:24 where He said:

"Therefore, whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock."
"But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like the foolish man who built his house on the sand.
"And the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall."
"And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching. for He taught them as one having authority, not as the scribes." (Vs. 24-29)

There are several things to consider here. When we build our spiritual foundation on the "rock" of salvation and God's truth, we will not fall. There is a hymn that has the first verse, "On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand."

Also, we must consider that the people were astonished at the authority of Jesus and of the authority with which he spoke - not like the other teachers. There are many teachers in the world, but Jesus is the only one who speaks with the authority of God and the scriptures.

If we don't do what he says, we will not have wisdom and we are much more apt to fall. The good news is that "when we are weak, He is strong." Put your faith in Christ and abide in Him so that you can have the abundant life that God wants you to have.

Build your house upon the rock and with a good foundation.

When I was a child, one of my favorite stories was the "Three Little Pigs" - if you remember, the house made of brick could not be blown down by the big bad wolf.
This nursery rhyme may have taken its truth from the account Jesus gave in Mathew 7:24. I really don't know about this, but I certainly can see similarities.

Consider these words, and pray for heavenly wisdom.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Walk in the Truth

2009-11-05T01:05:00.002-05:00

Lady of Light

The Third Epistle of John was written to Gaius, an influential person in the church because Diotrophes, presumably an influential person in a church somewhere refused to welcome itinerant preachers (perhaps like Demetrius, who was recommend by John) John was trying to get Gaius and the other Christians to show hospitality which Diotrophies refused.

It is interesting that in this letter, in Chapter One, Verse Four, John states:

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in the truth."

How do we "walk in the truth"? In Chapter One, Verse 11, John gives the following advice:

"Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God."

In the book of Ephesians Chapter 4, Verse14-15, it alludes to "speaking the truth in love":

"That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive. But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ."

I gather then, that speaking the truth in love is part of walking in the truth.
When we desire to "walk in the truth", we need to pray, speak the truth and also
know the truth by reading the Word of God. That is where we find the truth and discover how to apply it to our lives.

This may seem like a giant task, but over a period of time, it becomes easier and easier as you go. In your journey, be like the children John was writing to who were "walking in the truth".

I pray that you will have light and guidance from God's spirit that you may be able to discover more truth as in Jesus who said: "I am the way, the truth, and the life - noone cometh unto the Father but by me."

In drawing near to God and getting to develop a stronger personal relationship we Jesus, we can all "grow in grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ."

May God bless you. Have a great day.

Lady of Light

Gifts from God

2009-10-24T11:36:00.003-04:00

Lady of Light

In Ephesians, Chapter 4, v. 11-15, Paul tells us that:

"And he (Christ) gave some apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive: but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ..."

God has a purpose for the gifts he gives us. It is good to discover what your gifts are and to use them accordingly. Paul states that we are to have "unity of the faith" which comes from the spirit and not to be carried about by every wave of doctrine. We need to study the word of God so as not to be deceived by things that men say.

When we speak, we are to "speak the truth in love" with the goal of growing up in Christ who is the head.

These are some "tall" orders, but with prayer, study and meditation and God's help, we can all improve in our Christian walk. Think on these things and see what plans God has for you to grow and change. Life is exciting when we walk with Christ and allow him to mold and shape us.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Fellowship with God and one another

2009-10-10T09:20:00.003-04:00

Lady of Light

The book of 1 John is interesting because in the first chapter and the first 4 verses illustrate that John was speaking about things that he actually saw and heard and handled of the Word of life:

"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;
(For the life was manifested and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal like, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us.) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father and his Son Jesus Christ."

John continues to say in V. 6-7:

If we say that we have fellowship with hi, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another and the blood of Jesus Chris his Son cleanse us from all sin."

This is a wonderful promise, to be cleansed of all sin, but we must confess our sins and "walk in the light".

Fellowship with God is a gift from God to us and the same is true of fellowship with one another.

Follow this teaching, and you will find your relationship with God and others to be so much more meaningful.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Elders

2009-10-08T08:59:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In 1 Peter, Paul speaks to the Elders and exorts them to behave in a certain way with the right heart motives:

"The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferigs of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind: Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being examples to the flock."

This is one sure way to know whether the elders or leaders of your church are on the right track. If they are interested in money and power, you must question their motives.

If their life is an example, they have a good willingg attitude and a ready mind - that is, they are prepared to feed the flock from God's word, you can believe that they are fulfilling their calling in the manner that God called them.

This is also true of individuals who are not elders. It is important for our life to be a good example, for us to be ready in our minds to share the word and to witness to others, and to have a heartfelt willingness to do so.

Pray for opportunities in your own life to "spiritually feed" others and to receive the blessing from church leaders and elders that you come in contact with in church or in fellowship, on the radio or TV.

Make the most of your spiritual life by heeding Paul's words, and by using his words to discern whether those who influence you are truly worthy in their service.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Excellence from God

2009-10-07T19:54:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Daniel, Chapter 6:1-3, it describes the government under the rule of King Darius of Babylon:

"It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom an hundred and twenty princes which should be over the whole kingdom; And over these three presidents; of whom Daniel was first: that the princes might give accounts unto them, and the king should have no damage. Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes because of an excellent spirit was in him and the king thought to set him over the whole realm."

We know from reading the book of Daniel that Daniel had a special relationship with God. As you can see from these verses, Daniel was favored because of the excellent spirit which was in him which was a gift of God. All of us who are Christians have the Holy spirit of God and can do excellent things in whatever realm he places us.
Like Daniel, you can be preferred because people are aware of the spirit in you and how you perform your duties and come across to people. God places us in many different positions and circumstances and like Daniel, we should strive for excellence in whatever we do and we will be blessed.

We have all met people who have a bad attitude or a spiritual difficulty. It is easy to sense a difference when you are around these kinds of people. These people need to be prayed for and we need to be thankful for the spirit in us which causes us to "pursue peace" and excellence.

Do your best in whatever position or circumstance you are in and you will be blessed like Daniel.

Have a great day!

Lady of Light

Be Established

2009-10-04T15:08:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

How do we truly "establish" ourselves and the things we are doing to fulfill our purpose in life? In Proverbs 12:1-4 we get a clue about this:

"Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.
A good man obtaineth favour of the Lord: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn.
A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved."

So the answer is that we need to do good - to find favor with God - and live with the root of righteousness in our life. We can do this by accepting Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, reading God's word and praying. The bible also speaks of overcoming evil with good.

In the Psalms, David often complains that it seems as if the wicked are successful or gaining victory at times. It may appear that way, but God condemns the wicked according to these verses in Proverbs.

Pray and ask God to establish you in all the good you do for his honor and glory and you will find that your life will take on new direction and meaning.

God Bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

God's Peace

2009-09-29T06:19:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

Think of what it is like when you make a promise to yourself or to another. You make every effort to keep it. Sometimes you are successful and sometimes you fail. The good news is that when God makes a promise, He NEVER fails. Many of us are not aware of the many good promises that God has made that are contained in the bible, His word.

For example, in Phillipians, 6-7, it states:

"Be careful (anxious) for nothing but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

As you can see, God does not want us to be anxious about things and about life.
There is a condition, however, as we pray we need to have a heart of gratitude and thanksgiving for all God has given us - especially the gift of salvation.

God promises that if we come to him with the right heart attitude, he will guard or hearts and minds in Christ and he will hear and answer our prayers.

If you are having a struggle with having the right heart attitude, claim another promise that is in the word, (1 John 1:9) says:

"If you confess your sins, He is just to forgive your sins and to cleanse you of all unrighteousness."

Go to God "just as you are" or like the famous hymn "Just As I Am Without One Plea.."

God is always there, with his love, his goodness and his mercy and a listening ear.

God Bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Prayer for Deliverance

2009-09-19T09:13:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

We often think of praying for salvation, deliverance from sin, but in Psalm 59:1 - 3, David had something different in mind:

"Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God: defend me from them that rise up against me. Deliver me from the workers of iniquity, and save me from bloody men. For lo, they lie in wait for my soul: the mighty are gathered against me; not for my transgression, nor for my sin, O Lord."

Here, David alludes to having enemies, not do to his own wrongdoing. How many of us have come in contact with people "who just didn't like us" or "who were against us when we did nothing wrong." First, we need to "check out" our own attitudes and be sure that we aren't thinking the wrong thoughts, saying or doing the wrong things against anyone. Then, we have to pray and commit to the Lord, for deliverance from
anyone who is against us for unjust reasons, and to keep us from violent people, or people who unjustly harm others, verbally or physically.

God is able to protect us and deliver us from all evil. Remember, that in the Lord's prayer, we asked to be delivered from evil. It wouldn't be in there, if it wasn't something that we need.

As you go about your day, remember that God will deliver you from your enemies and from evil if you pray like David did.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Fall Season - "The Grass shall wither"...

2009-09-16T23:36:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In Isaiah,Chapter 40:8, it says:

"The grass witherith, the flower fades, but the word of the Lord shall stand forever."

As we go into the fall season, we see the flowers fading, the leaves turning and falling off the trees. It is a time of change: God never changes and his word abideth forever. This is a comforting piece of information which under girds us in the Spirit while we experience the changes of the season. Today, I am going to share a poem about fall.

Bye and Bye

Summer sun has risen in the sky,
The trees are changing by and by,
Clothed in reds, oranges, golds and
Brown.
Before the winter, dancing down,
Floating on the ground.
Autumn, you are all around.
The beautiful, grateful, peaceful sound,
Of soft winds and leaves,
Falling to the ground.
There is colorful beauty all around.
Autumn, you sing the song of growth and change,
Of the seasons which only God can arrange.
Fit between the other seasons, Autumn,
You ring out the joy of summer's end,
And winter soon to begin,
What a wonderful season to be in -
AUTUMN!

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

The Greatness of God

2009-09-15T09:22:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

I believe that there is nothing so soothing as meditating on the goodness and greatness of God. In Psalm 145:8-12, David is filled with praise:

"The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works. All thy works shall praise thee, O Lord; and thy saints shall bless thee. They shall speak of the glory of thy kingdom, and talk of thy power; To make known to the sons of men his mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of his kingdom."

If we are looking for comfort, or looking to live with the qualities of goodness that God has shown towards us, these are good verses to pay attention to. Grace, compassion, patience and mercy are qualities that we all need to cultivate towards others.

As the verses express, all of the saints will make known to others the mighty acts of God and the glory of his kingdom. Be sure to look for opportunities in word and deed to share the goodness and greatness of God with others and you will be blessed.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

Love Your Church

2009-09-13T10:04:00.000-04:00

Lady of Light

Is there, at times, a tendency to take our church for granted? We go on Sundays and listen to the service and see all the people but do we LOVE our church? I realized last Sunday that I am really blessed to be in God's house on Sundays. I think of the soldiers abroad and others who do not have that same privilege.

In Psalm 26:8-12, David appeals to God and he begins by speaking of his love for the church:

"Lord, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honor dwelleth. Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men: In whose hands is mischief and their right hand is full of bribes. But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me. My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the Lord."

We need to "stick to the basics" like David did. To chose and discern the people that we spend our time with - he was a King, so it is possible, like those in politics today, that he may have been tempted with bribes. He made the decision to walk in his integrity and he does it in the Lord's strength as he prays for the Lord to "redeem me, and be merciful to me."

I am going to share another recipe with you today - it is very basic but very delicious. I made this potato soup on Saturday. It is from Michel's, the Inn that is still preserved in Virginia near Thomas Jefferson's estate, Monticello. Enjoy!

Potato Soup

9 Medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
4 medium onions, diced
1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
2 cups milk
3 cups water
2 Tbsp. butter or margarine
1 Tbsp. parsley flakes
2 tsp. celery salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp. salt (I added 1/2 tsp. garlic salt)

Biol the potatoes and onions in the water until tender. Remove the potatoes and mash. Add all of the spices and mushrooms to the broth; boil for 15 minutes. Return the mashed potatoes to the broth, adding the milk and butter. Simmer over low heat for 1/2 hour; serve.

Yield: 6-9 servings
Note: Additional milk may be used depending on the desired amount of soup.
This was made in the colonial times around the 1700's. Enjoy!

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

"

A New Season - A New Purpose

2009-09-08T08:33:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

In the USA, we have just celebrated Labor Day which traditionally is the "last barbeque of the summer." Fall, the new season is upon us.

In Ecclesiastes 3:1, Solomon observes:

"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the sun."

As we think of the new season of fall, we can pray about what purposes God may have for us during this time. I love fall. It is a beautiful season in New Jersey where I live because the trees have beautiful leaves that change colors that cannot be matched even with the palate and brush of the artist, although some do a good job. God's creation is beautiful. Just as the seasons change, so do the seasons of our life.

Just as we appreciate certain things about the seasons, we need also to appreciate each season or time in our life and see what God wants us to learn and do.

I am celebrating fall today by making some homemade soup. Interestingly, I found an old cookbook from the 1700's that someone was disgarding - it was chocked full of
Colonial recipes - lentil soup was one of them. Let me share this recipe with you so that you may enjoy it too:

Lentil Soup

1 lb. lentil beans
1 ham bone
7 slices bacon, diced
3 lg. carrots, diced
3 med. onions, diced
3 stalks of celery, thinly sliced
1 6 or 8 oz. can stewed tomatoes
1 tbsp. parsley flakes
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/2 tsp. thyme
1/4 tsp. garlic salt
3 - 31/2 qts. of water

Soak the lentils in water for 1 1/2 hours; drain. Biol the water; add the ham bone and the lentils.

In a frying pan, saute the bacon, carrots, onions and celery; add the sauteed mixture to the broth; cook until the soup thickens. Add the stewed tomatoes and seasonings. Allow the soup to simmer for 1 hour. Remove the ham bone. Serve.

Yield: 6-8 servings.

From: Historic Michie Tavern Museum
A Famous Tavern of the 1700's
"Cooking Treasures of the Past"
This is one of the oldest homesteads remaining in Virginia. The Inn now stands well-preserved on a mountain in Charlottsville, near Thomas Jeffersons beloved M
"Monticello".

Enjoy this colonial recipe.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light

The Inspired Word of God

2009-09-05T10:15:00.002-04:00

Lady of Light

Have you ever met someone who says that the bible is an interesting book but that it isn't really "true" but is just a historical or literary work? As Christians, we need to be able to share the fact that the bible is none other than God's inspired word.
There are people who pick and choose what they are going to believe in the bible as if they were at a smorgasbord - "If I like it, I'll try it."

When we go to 2 Timothy 2:16, it states:

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."

You notice that it says ALL scripture. This verse is one that you should know about if you don't already, and if you do know about it, share it with others. Doctrines must be based on the whole counsel of the Word as well as any guidance or correction that we may receive. We are not to take things out of context and come to our own conclusions about doctrine or teaching. If you have a concordance in your bible or have access to a separate concordance, you can usually find what the bible has to say about a particular subject. There are also commentaries that are helpful.

I write this because I want to see you, and everyone you come in contact with receiving the right guidance, teaching and information.

As you study the word, meditate on this verse in Timothy so you will be totally opened to God and what he has to say to you.

May I wish you all a good Labor Day weekend and I hope that the weather holds up wherever you are so that you may enjoy it.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light