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Answer Upon - Blessings: Why You May Not Be Blessed
How much are you paying for long distance phone calls? What is the latest deal you received in the mailbox? It can get even better. Would you consider paying one cent a minute for long distance phone calls if there were no strings attached? It could get even better than that. Would you believe that you could call out to anyone of your friends with a computer through your computer rather than using the telephone?Did you know it can be done for FREE over the Internet? No kidding. No cost to you or the receiver. It is called Broadband and it is totally awesome. There are several programs available on the Internet to sign up on and it works just like a telephone call. The two computers involved in communication will need to have a microphone and speakers. It is also possible to teleconference while connected via broadband by the integration of a small camera that hooks up to the computer.Get on the bandwagon by looking into some of the different Broadband programs offered. Aside from the obvious question of how does one go about signing up, one might ask how fast is it? Does it take forever to get the vocal message back and forth between parties?Technology has come a long way my friend. The difference in transmissions relay between the telephone to telephone connections versus the computer to computer connection is miniscule.Companies find this particular use very handy because the amount they save in phone charges and traveling to attend meetings is astronomical. This way all of that money can be saved and perhaps even reinvested in the company to increase asset value. As well as serving as a convenience to your company, it just sounds prestigious to say that your company will teleconference via broadband for meetings.For the average Moe, technology can be a scary thing sometimes. Wires and numbers and signals Oh my! If you are too scared to attempt this journey on your own, utilize your resources. For little to nothing a professional from your local internet provider can explain to you step by step instructions to help you hook up onto the broadband service of your choosing but most likely all you would have to do is ask around at school, work, or family gatherings to see who has the technological know how. It is so painless!Just think of all the money you can save. The first step is for some reason always the hardest. Simply get started and once you start to
Psalm 11:3: "If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?"
God is more interested in our heart, which is the wellspring of life and life’s foundation (Proverbs 4:23). God is more interested in your redemption and transformation that your personal comfort. Therefore God leads us through the wilderness to test our hearts, to see what is in us (Deuteronomy 8:2).
Proverbs 4:23: "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."
Isaiah 1:19: "If you be willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land."
Obedience is not enough. You must also be willing and heartfelt. Otherwise your inner defiance and rebellion shall eventually surface, show your heart for what it is, and trip you up as you try to go forward in God.
In regard to your sin, confessing it is not enough. You must confess and forsake your sins (Proverbs 28:13), not revert back to them repeatedly. You must pray to God to strengthen you knowing that “the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41).
Matthew 26:41: "Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
Jesus said: “He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God” (John 8:47).
Therefore we must maintain tender hearts to be quick to hear and slow to speak (James 1:19)
If all you do is speak and never listen, your religion is in vain (James 1:26).
Proverbs 16:22 says: "Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly."
Humbly embrace understanding and grow in knowledge and grace. As you know love is patient. God is love. Endeavor to be more like God by showing patience for people, including your husband, parents and Pastor.
Do not think to speak to correct others unless you yourself are willing to allow the sword of the Spirit to go through your own life. The sword cuts both ways (Hebrews 4:12). As you embrace the word of the Lord and allow the Holy Spirit to do a work within your own heart, adjusting you within, and correcting and conforming you to image and stature of Christ, then you yourself will be more skillful and sympathetic in ministry when you speak the word to others (Joshua 5:2). God never comes with the butcher’s knife to people, He comes with the surgeon’s knife to gently and precisely deal with disease, infection, poisonous and cancers matters within that might contaminate and spread. Jesus is full of grace and truth (John 1:14)
"You must take up your cross and deny yourself (Matthew 16:23). As you seek first the kingdom of God and lay down your agenda (Matthew 6:33); God will graciously provide that which is needful to you and satisfy your wants. First things first however.
You must learn to seek God the Father’s heart not merely His hand. When you only concern yourself with things and become covetous, you always miss the blessing of God.
Exodus 20:17 says: "Thou s
Okay, let's just accept the fact that if you want to lose weight, be healthy, or both, you need to get some sort of exercise program going. This has been proven over and over again. Yes, you CAN lose some weight without exercise, but your health will not improve, and you may find you have created some new problems if all you do is alter your diet in order to lose weight. Also, trying to lose weight without changing the way you have lived your life will prove the old adage to be true:"Keep doing what you've been doing and you will keep getting what you have been getting."So, to set about changing what "you have been getting" out of life, at least in terms of health, fitness, and weight loss, you will need to get into some sort of exercise program.THE PROBLEMSThere are a few problems that people encounter when they start exercising...particularly if they have not been exercising for a while or even worse, are beginning an exercise program for the first time.1. They have trouble finding the time to exercise.2. They have difficulty making exercise a habit3. They are dissatisfied with the results of their exercise program.4. They injure themselves.SOME SOLUTIONS1. Many people find that until exercise becomes an integral part of their life, it is difficult to "find the time" to exercise. There are two points here.Engage In Opportunistic ExerciseThis is the sort of exercise that can be factored into each day's activities. While parking a few feet farther from the store can be a great way to introduce some physical activity into your daily life, one such event once in a while will not make a great difference. On the other hand, it IS a start, and one of the hardest hurdles to overcome is actually STARTING some sort of exercise program. Putting several of these events into your week, parking farther away, taking the stairs, carrying the groceries in from the car, standing up during phone calls, or walking in place while watching TV, for example can get you started on the road to feeling better, looking better, and better health.Make A Commitment To ExerciseThere is an old saying that work will expand to take up the resources committed to it. In other words, if a business is doing perfectly well with one phone and a combination fax/copier and then gets several multi-line phones and a high-speed cop
Ephesians 4:1: "I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that yououwalk worthy of the vocation wherewith you are called."
Colossians 1:10: "That you might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God."
1 Thessalonians 2:12: "That you would walk worthy of God, who has called you unto His kingdom and glory."
Even the great apostle Paul knew the necessity of walking worthy of the heavenly calling without which he too would not get the “fullness of the blessing of Christ” (Romans 15:19,29).
Romans 8:11-19,26-39:
11But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
12Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.
13For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
14For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
15For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
16The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
17And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
18For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
19For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.
26Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
27And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
28And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
29For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
30Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
31What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
32He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
33Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.
34Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
36As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
37Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
38For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
As you know Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, God most high, the Creator of heaven and earth, and governor over the affairs of men. His kingdom authority is accessible and available for “whosoever will.” Yet to have authority, you must first submit to authority. What you come under determines what you will go over in life. Who and what you submit your life to, will determine what spirit you walk in throughout your life. God will bless or judge you accordingly based on that decision (Hosea 4:9).
Many pray for God to consume their life and fill them with His fire, but forget God’s fire only consumes the sacrifice. If we do not surrender our lives and kneel at the altar, put our stuff on the altar, there will be no sacrifice for Almighty God to consume with His fire. Many whom we compare ourselves to and wonder why they have something in God and we do not is because they have made sacrifices we have not made. They have pursued God in ways we have not done so. Nevertheless God is no respecter of persons and if we also go after God wholeheartedly and submit to His ruler and Lordship in our life (Acts 10:34), we too can have the blessings they are experiencing.
In regard to God’s rule and Lordship, He works through delegated authority (Psalm 133), which flows from the head (Christ) down through His church. In the home your God-given authority is your husband (Ephesians 5). Therefore if you are not hearing God, perhaps it is because you are not hearing and hearkening to God in and through your Pastor and husband. Children receive from God often through their parents.
If you regard iniquity in your heart, the Lord will not hear you when you pray (Psalm 66:18). You say, what “iniquity” do I have? Your rebellion toward your husband and against your parents is stubbornness. If you question everything your Pastor says and does, you very likely are in rebellion to your spiritual authority.
Samuel 15:23: "For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has also rejected you...
When you reject the word of the Lord, be it from your Pastor, husband, or parents you forsake the very blessing, position, and promotion God has for you. When you defy and hate God's delegated authority in your own heart and oppose them inwardly, you in actuality oppose yourself. You may obey outwardly, but inwardly hate and devour people with your thoughts.
Often we have been obedient, but not willing. This is why the blessing of the Lord has not come abundantly to you because our heart is wrong. It’s all outward show without the full purity of heart. At times you express purity of heart, but often this is short lived as you revert back to your old ways, stubborn self, self-willed mindset, stiff-necked attitude, and inner rebellion.
Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither His ear heavy, that it cannot hear: but your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid His face from you, that He will not hear. For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness (Isaiah 59:1-3).
Don't be concerned with others. Take the mirror of the Word of God and look at yourself. Fix yourself where necessary and deal aggressively with your own flaws before being quick to point to other people.
Isaiah 58:8-10 (KJV):
8Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy reward.
9Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity;
10And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day:
We all want to hear from God, but sometimes these here in Isaiah 58 are some of the main reasons God does not speak to us.
1.Because you like to point fingers at others (v.9, KJV).
2.You compare yourself with others and speak vanity (v. 9, KJV)
3.You speak false and harshly (v. 9, Amplified below)
The Amplified Bible provides a better more detailed translation saying:
Then shall your light break forth like the morning, and your healing (your restoration and the power of a new life) shall spring forth speedily; your righteousness (your rightness, your justice, and your right relationship with God) shall go before you [conducting you to peace and prosperity], and the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and He will say, Here I am. If you take away from your midst yokes of oppression [wherever you find them], the finger pointed in scorn [toward the oppressed or the godly], and every form of false, harsh, unjust, and wicked speaking, and if you pour out that with which you sustain your own life for the hungry and satisfy the need of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in darkness, and your obscurity and gloom become like the noonday (Isaiah 58:8-10, Amplified Bible).
Be encouraged. Even Peter the apostle struggled with comparing himself with the apostle John. See below:
Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is going to betray you?"). When Peter saw him, he asked, "Lord, what about him?" Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." (John 21:20-22)
Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: but one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. (Luke 10:38-42)
Be not deceived as God “knows the thoughts and intents of the heart’ (Hebrews 4:12). God will not promote, nor exalt rebellion. Why should God bless and speak to you when you will not hear from your husband, which He has given you. How can you respect God who you cannot see, if you cannot respect your husband who you can see (1John 4:20)? The same goes for your Pastor and parents. If you cannot listen to them with an open heart, how do you expect to receive from God in heaven?
Sarah is the mother of faith. She so trusted Abraham that she even called him “lord” fully trusting and submitting to him.
For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. Likewise, you husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered (1 Peter 3:5-7, King James Version).
"If a man say, I love God, and hates his brother, he is a liar: for he that loves not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? (John 4:20)
Similarly if you cannot submit to God’s delegated authority who you can see, how than shall you submit and obey God in heaven you cannot see?
“Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8).
The beatitudes are precisely that - attitudes God wants us to have so we can be blessed and live happy lives.
You attitude determines your altitude. Sometimes God closes doors for a reason. One being to work on your heart and foundation within.
Psalm 11:3: "If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?"
God is more interested in our heart, which is the wellspring of life and life’s foundation (Proverbs 4:23). God is more interested in your redemption and transformation that your personal comfort. Therefore God leads us through the wilderness to test our hearts, to see what is in us (Deuteronomy 8:2).
Proverbs 4:23: "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."
Isaiah 1:19: "If you be willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land."
Obedience is not enough. You must also be willing and heartfelt. Otherwise your inner defiance and rebellion shall eventually surface, show your heart for what it is, and trip you up as you try to go forward in God.
In regard to your sin, confessing it is not enough. You must confess and forsake your sins (Proverbs 28:13), not revert back to them repeatedly. You must pray to God to strengthen you knowing that “the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41).
Matthew 26:41: "Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
Jesus said: “He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God” (John 8:47).
Therefore we must maintain tender hearts to be quick to hear and slow to speak (James 1:19)
If all you do is speak and never listen, your religion is in vain (James 1:26).
Proverbs 16:22 says: "Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly."
Humbly embrace understanding and grow in knowledge and grace. As you know love is patient. God is love. Endeavor to be more like God by showing patience for people, including your husband, parents and Pastor.
Do not think to speak to correct others unless you yourself are willing to allow the sword of the Spirit to go through your own life. The sword cuts both ways (Hebrews 4:12). As you embrace the word of the Lord and allow the Holy Spirit to do a work within your own heart, adjusting you within, and correcting and conforming you to image and stature of Christ, then you yourself will be more skillful and sympathetic in ministry when you speak the word to others (Joshua 5:2). God never comes with the butcher’s knife to people, He comes with the surgeon’s knife to gently and precisely deal with disease, infection, poisonous and cancers matters within that might contaminate and spread. Jesus is full of grace and truth (John 1:14)
"You must take up your cross and deny yourself (Matthew 16:23). As you seek first the kingdom of God and lay down your agenda (Matthew 6:33); God will graciously provide that which is needful to you and satisfy your wants. First things first however.
You must learn to seek God the Father’s heart not merely His hand. When you only concern yourself with things and become covetous, you always miss the blessing of God.
Exodus 20:17 says: "Thou sh
How many of you have heard, like I did when I was first started out, 'Man, you get into private practice and it is so hard, and it is so much competition, and you'll never make it'? We've all heard that one.There are many, many people, and some of yomay believe this, 'There are just too many people in my niche; there is just too many folks for me to make it.' OK, that's part of what the mindset is not.The other part of the mindset, interestingly enough, another part that it is not, is that in order to play large, you do not have to be famous, you do not have to be well known in your niche, in the relationship, you do not have to be a John Gray, or a John Gottman, or any of those folks, OK?It's not becoming a name, becoming well known, or a celebrity or something.So those are the three things that it's not: It's not limited thinking, it's not believing that there are too many people in your niche, it's not believing that you have to become a big name, it is just a mindset game, it is all about willingness.Willingness to play large can be considered, perhaps, a question that you've never considered before. You don't need to be born a certain way, in a certain place, with a certain name, to play large.Instead of the traditional one-to-one, one-to-one, one-to-one, day after day, take a one-to-many approach and how many folks can we reach with our message. That is part of playing large, being able to reach more and more people. And who knows, maybe somebody may become the next most known person.But you don't have to do that in order to play large. So we talked about what the mindset is not, we talked about what the mindset is. The next step is how to install the mindset.OK, how to install the mindset, I want you to begin how to ask this question, during the day, first thing when you get up in the morning, and when you are going to be at night. OK here is the question. In how many ways can I begin to think larger about myself, my practice, my message, and my ideal client? I'll giv you a couple seconds to write this down and I'll say it again. In how many ways can I begin to think larger about myself, my practice, my message, and my ideal client? And I dare say that's a question you have not asked yourself that question before. And that's a question formed specifically with specific purposes.Because it's not can I begin to play large, it
33Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.
34Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
36As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
37Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
38For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
As you know Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, God most high, the Creator of heaven and earth, and governor over the affairs of men. His kingdom authority is accessible and available for “whosoever will.” Yet to have authority, you must first submit to authority. What you come under determines what you will go over in life. Who and what you submit your life to, will determine what spirit you walk in throughout your life. God will bless or judge you accordingly based on that decision (Hosea 4:9).
Many pray for God to consume their life and fill them with His fire, but forget God’s fire only consumes the sacrifice. If we do not surrender our lives and kneel at the altar, put our stuff on the altar, there will be no sacrifice for Almighty God to consume with His fire. Many whom we compare ourselves to and wonder why they have something in God and we do not is because they have made sacrifices we have not made. They have pursued God in ways we have not done so. Nevertheless God is no respecter of persons and if we also go after God wholeheartedly and submit to His ruler and Lordship in our life (Acts 10:34), we too can have the blessings they are experiencing.
In regard to God’s rule and Lordship, He works through delegated authority (Psalm 133), which flows from the head (Christ) down through His church. In the home your God-given authority is your husband (Ephesians 5). Therefore if you are not hearing God, perhaps it is because you are not hearing and hearkening to God in and through your Pastor and husband. Children receive from God often through their parents.
If you regard iniquity in your heart, the Lord will not hear you when you pray (Psalm 66:18). You say, what “iniquity” do I have? Your rebellion toward your husband and against your parents is stubbornness. If you question everything your Pastor says and does, you very likely are in rebellion to your spiritual authority.
Samuel 15:23: "For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has also rejected you...
When you reject the word of the Lord, be it from your Pastor, husband, or parents you forsake the very blessing, position, and promotion God has for you. When you defy and hate God's delegated authority in your own heart and oppose them inwardly, you in actuality oppose yourself. You may obey outwardly, but inwardly hate and devour people with your thoughts.
Often we have been obedient, but not willing. This is why the blessing of the Lord has not come abundantly to you because our heart is wrong. It’s all outward show without the full purity of heart. At times you express purity of heart, but often this is short lived as you revert back to your old ways, stubborn self, self-willed mindset, stiff-necked attitude, and inner rebellion.
Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither His ear heavy, that it cannot hear: but your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid His face from you, that He will not hear. For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness (Isaiah 59:1-3).
Don't be concerned with others. Take the mirror of the Word of God and look at yourself. Fix yourself where necessary and deal aggressively with your own flaws before being quick to point to other people.
Isaiah 58:8-10 (KJV):
8Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy reward.
9Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity;
10And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day:
We all want to hear from God, but sometimes these here in Isaiah 58 are some of the main reasons God does not speak to us.
1.Because you like to point fingers at others (v.9, KJV).
2.You compare yourself with others and speak vanity (v. 9, KJV)
3.You speak false and harshly (v. 9, Amplified below)
The Amplified Bible provides a better more detailed translation saying:
Then shall your light break forth like the morning, and your healing (your restoration and the power of a new life) shall spring forth speedily; your righteousness (your rightness, your justice, and your right relationship with God) shall go before you [conducting you to peace and prosperity], and the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and He will say, Here I am. If you take away from your midst yokes of oppression [wherever you find them], the finger pointed in scorn [toward the oppressed or the godly], and every form of false, harsh, unjust, and wicked speaking, and if you pour out that with which you sustain your own life for the hungry and satisfy the need of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in darkness, and your obscurity and gloom become like the noonday (Isaiah 58:8-10, Amplified Bible).
Be encouraged. Even Peter the apostle struggled with comparing himself with the apostle John. See below:
Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is going to betray you?"). When Peter saw him, he asked, "Lord, what about him?" Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." (John 21:20-22)
Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: but one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. (Luke 10:38-42)
Be not deceived as God “knows the thoughts and intents of the heart’ (Hebrews 4:12). God will not promote, nor exalt rebellion. Why should God bless and speak to you when you will not hear from your husband, which He has given you. How can you respect God who you cannot see, if you cannot respect your husband who you can see (1John 4:20)? The same goes for your Pastor and parents. If you cannot listen to them with an open heart, how do you expect to receive from God in heaven?
Sarah is the mother of faith. She so trusted Abraham that she even called him “lord” fully trusting and submitting to him.
For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. Likewise, you husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered (1 Peter 3:5-7, King James Version).
"If a man say, I love God, and hates his brother, he is a liar: for he that loves not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? (John 4:20)
Similarly if you cannot submit to God’s delegated authority who you can see, how than shall you submit and obey God in heaven you cannot see?
“Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8).
The beatitudes are precisely that - attitudes God wants us to have so we can be blessed and live happy lives.
You attitude determines your altitude. Sometimes God closes doors for a reason. One being to work on your heart and foundation within.
Psalm 11:3: "If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?"
God is more interested in our heart, which is the wellspring of life and life’s foundation (Proverbs 4:23). God is more interested in your redemption and transformation that your personal comfort. Therefore God leads us through the wilderness to test our hearts, to see what is in us (Deuteronomy 8:2).
Proverbs 4:23: "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."
Isaiah 1:19: "If you be willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land."
Obedience is not enough. You must also be willing and heartfelt. Otherwise your inner defiance and rebellion shall eventually surface, show your heart for what it is, and trip you up as you try to go forward in God.
In regard to your sin, confessing it is not enough. You must confess and forsake your sins (Proverbs 28:13), not revert back to them repeatedly. You must pray to God to strengthen you knowing that “the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41).
Matthew 26:41: "Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
Jesus said: “He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God” (John 8:47).
Therefore we must maintain tender hearts to be quick to hear and slow to speak (James 1:19)
If all you do is speak and never listen, your religion is in vain (James 1:26).
Proverbs 16:22 says: "Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly."
Humbly embrace understanding and grow in knowledge and grace. As you know love is patient. God is love. Endeavor to be more like God by showing patience for people, including your husband, parents and Pastor.
Do not think to speak to correct others unless you yourself are willing to allow the sword of the Spirit to go through your own life. The sword cuts both ways (Hebrews 4:12). As you embrace the word of the Lord and allow the Holy Spirit to do a work within your own heart, adjusting you within, and correcting and conforming you to image and stature of Christ, then you yourself will be more skillful and sympathetic in ministry when you speak the word to others (Joshua 5:2). God never comes with the butcher’s knife to people, He comes with the surgeon’s knife to gently and precisely deal with disease, infection, poisonous and cancers matters within that might contaminate and spread. Jesus is full of grace and truth (John 1:14)
"You must take up your cross and deny yourself (Matthew 16:23). As you seek first the kingdom of God and lay down your agenda (Matthew 6:33); God will graciously provide that which is needful to you and satisfy your wants. First things first however.
You must learn to seek God the Father’s heart not merely His hand. When you only concern yourself with things and become covetous, you always miss the blessing of God.
Exodus 20:17 says: "Thou s
FORWARDThe 188 stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (see URL below) are based on this 188+ stage template.Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].THERE IS ONLY ONE STORYTHE 188 STAGE HERO'S JOURNEY:a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).d) Tells you what to write. For example, at a certain stage of the story, the focus should be on the Call to Adventure and the micro elements within.ABRIDGED TIPS, EXCERPTS AND EXAMPLES:(simply go to www.clickok.co.uk for full details)*****Trivial Task*****During the Period of Desolation, where the Hero is not committed to the Journey and Transformation, a Trivial Task sets the Hero on the right course. In Bonnie and Clyde (1967), they steal another car.*****Final Conflict: Increased Antagonism*****Post the Crossing of the Return Threshold and before the Master of Two Worlds and Selves, a hell of a lot happens that is rarely given mention. The Final Conflict (a metaphor for this stage) follows a distinct process. It is post the initial catharses and the returning confidence of allies, that the antagonist's threat increases. This is often the point of a hand-to-hand battle. In Straw Dogs (1971), Tom tries, for the first time, to shoot the door down.*****Symbolism*****Symbolism is an underrated aspect of storytelling. The degree of symbolism used in the most successful stories and screenplays is enormous. In Brokeback Mountain (2005), the passing of the train symbolises J
When you reject the word of the Lord, be it from your Pastor, husband, or parents you forsake the very blessing, position, and promotion God has for you. When you defy and hate God's delegated authority in your own heart and oppose them inwardly, you in actuality oppose yourself. You may obey outwardly, but inwardly hate and devour people with your thoughts.
Often we have been obedient, but not willing. This is why the blessing of the Lord has not come abundantly to you because our heart is wrong. It’s all outward show without the full purity of heart. At times you express purity of heart, but often this is short lived as you revert back to your old ways, stubborn self, self-willed mindset, stiff-necked attitude, and inner rebellion.
Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither His ear heavy, that it cannot hear: but your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid His face from you, that He will not hear. For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness (Isaiah 59:1-3).
Don't be concerned with others. Take the mirror of the Word of God and look at yourself. Fix yourself where necessary and deal aggressively with your own flaws before being quick to point to other people.
Isaiah 58:8-10 (KJV):
8Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy reward.
9Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity;
10And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day:
We all want to hear from God, but sometimes these here in Isaiah 58 are some of the main reasons God does not speak to us.
1.Because you like to point fingers at others (v.9, KJV).
2.You compare yourself with others and speak vanity (v. 9, KJV)
3.You speak false and harshly (v. 9, Amplified below)
The Amplified Bible provides a better more detailed translation saying:
Then shall your light break forth like the morning, and your healing (your restoration and the power of a new life) shall spring forth speedily; your righteousness (your rightness, your justice, and your right relationship with God) shall go before you [conducting you to peace and prosperity], and the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and He will say, Here I am. If you take away from your midst yokes of oppression [wherever you find them], the finger pointed in scorn [toward the oppressed or the godly], and every form of false, harsh, unjust, and wicked speaking, and if you pour out that with which you sustain your own life for the hungry and satisfy the need of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in darkness, and your obscurity and gloom become like the noonday (Isaiah 58:8-10, Amplified Bible).
Be encouraged. Even Peter the apostle struggled with comparing himself with the apostle John. See below:
Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is going to betray you?"). When Peter saw him, he asked, "Lord, what about him?" Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." (John 21:20-22)
Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: but one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. (Luke 10:38-42)
Be not deceived as God “knows the thoughts and intents of the heart’ (Hebrews 4:12). God will not promote, nor exalt rebellion. Why should God bless and speak to you when you will not hear from your husband, which He has given you. How can you respect God who you cannot see, if you cannot respect your husband who you can see (1John 4:20)? The same goes for your Pastor and parents. If you cannot listen to them with an open heart, how do you expect to receive from God in heaven?
Sarah is the mother of faith. She so trusted Abraham that she even called him “lord” fully trusting and submitting to him.
For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. Likewise, you husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered (1 Peter 3:5-7, King James Version).
"If a man say, I love God, and hates his brother, he is a liar: for he that loves not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? (John 4:20)
Similarly if you cannot submit to God’s delegated authority who you can see, how than shall you submit and obey God in heaven you cannot see?
“Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8).
The beatitudes are precisely that - attitudes God wants us to have so we can be blessed and live happy lives.
You attitude determines your altitude. Sometimes God closes doors for a reason. One being to work on your heart and foundation within.
Psalm 11:3: "If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?"
God is more interested in our heart, which is the wellspring of life and life’s foundation (Proverbs 4:23). God is more interested in your redemption and transformation that your personal comfort. Therefore God leads us through the wilderness to test our hearts, to see what is in us (Deuteronomy 8:2).
Proverbs 4:23: "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."
Isaiah 1:19: "If you be willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land."
Obedience is not enough. You must also be willing and heartfelt. Otherwise your inner defiance and rebellion shall eventually surface, show your heart for what it is, and trip you up as you try to go forward in God.
In regard to your sin, confessing it is not enough. You must confess and forsake your sins (Proverbs 28:13), not revert back to them repeatedly. You must pray to God to strengthen you knowing that “the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41).
Matthew 26:41: "Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
Jesus said: “He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God” (John 8:47).
Therefore we must maintain tender hearts to be quick to hear and slow to speak (James 1:19)
If all you do is speak and never listen, your religion is in vain (James 1:26).
Proverbs 16:22 says: "Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly."
Humbly embrace understanding and grow in knowledge and grace. As you know love is patient. God is love. Endeavor to be more like God by showing patience for people, including your husband, parents and Pastor.
Do not think to speak to correct others unless you yourself are willing to allow the sword of the Spirit to go through your own life. The sword cuts both ways (Hebrews 4:12). As you embrace the word of the Lord and allow the Holy Spirit to do a work within your own heart, adjusting you within, and correcting and conforming you to image and stature of Christ, then you yourself will be more skillful and sympathetic in ministry when you speak the word to others (Joshua 5:2). God never comes with the butcher’s knife to people, He comes with the surgeon’s knife to gently and precisely deal with disease, infection, poisonous and cancers matters within that might contaminate and spread. Jesus is full of grace and truth (John 1:14)
"You must take up your cross and deny yourself (Matthew 16:23). As you seek first the kingdom of God and lay down your agenda (Matthew 6:33); God will graciously provide that which is needful to you and satisfy your wants. First things first however.
You must learn to seek God the Father’s heart not merely His hand. When you only concern yourself with things and become covetous, you always miss the blessing of God.
Exodus 20:17 says: "Thou s
Vitamins for women are something that every health conscious woman should strongly consider. Many health experts nowadays recommend that people at least take a multivitamin supplement, but, in our opinion, there are many other more sophisticated supplements on that market jammed pack with nutrients that go far beyond what you can get in your typical multivitamin supplement.However, the basic vitamins and minerals are a good place to start to ensuring optimal health. Women in particular should pay attention to getting enough of the minerals calcium and magnesium. This is because as women get older they tend to suffer from fragile bones more readily than men. At its worst, middle aged women and beyond suffer higher rates of osteoporosis. Other important minerals include: zinc, copper, and selenium.Vitamins for WomenWhen it comes to vitamins for women, look to add Vitamin C, E, folic acid (especially for women who are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant), and a broad spectrum of the B Vitamins. Be careful not to take too much of the fat soluble vitamins like E and A because too much of a good thing is a bad thing....and the accumulating of these vitamins can lead to toxicity.Other NutrientsWomen who are transitioning through menopause may want to look into herbal extracts that are not only used to promote good health but have been shown to help balance female hormones. Some of these herbs include black Cohosh, dong quai, and wild yam.AntioxidantsAny good anti aging program should go beyond just vitamins for women. This is because vitamins in themselves (although necessary) are weak antioxidants.As you may know, antioxidants are what neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals, if left unchecked, can wreak havoc in the body, leading to cellular damage.This damage has been postulated as a primary cause of major diseases, such as heart disease and cancer. Free radical damage has even been implicated in the aging process itself! Some powerful anti aging supplements to consider using are L-Carnosine, alpha lipoic acid, resveratrol, Co-Enzyme Q10 and many others.These have powerful health effects on the body in numerous ways and are much more potent antioxidants than vitamins are.The older women get, the more these nutrients may benefit them because they tend to deplete in the
Be encouraged. Even Peter the apostle struggled with comparing himself with the apostle John. See below:
Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is going to betray you?"). When Peter saw him, he asked, "Lord, what about him?" Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." (John 21:20-22)
Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: but one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. (Luke 10:38-42)
Be not deceived as God “knows the thoughts and intents of the heart’ (Hebrews 4:12). God will not promote, nor exalt rebellion. Why should God bless and speak to you when you will not hear from your husband, which He has given you. How can you respect God who you cannot see, if you cannot respect your husband who you can see (1John 4:20)? The same goes for your Pastor and parents. If you cannot listen to them with an open heart, how do you expect to receive from God in heaven?
Sarah is the mother of faith. She so trusted Abraham that she even called him “lord” fully trusting and submitting to him.
For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. Likewise, you husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered (1 Peter 3:5-7, King James Version).
"If a man say, I love God, and hates his brother, he is a liar: for he that loves not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? (John 4:20)
Similarly if you cannot submit to God’s delegated authority who you can see, how than shall you submit and obey God in heaven you cannot see?
“Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8).
The beatitudes are precisely that - attitudes God wants us to have so we can be blessed and live happy lives.
You attitude determines your altitude. Sometimes God closes doors for a reason. One being to work on your heart and foundation within.
Psalm 11:3: "If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?"
God is more interested in our heart, which is the wellspring of life and life’s foundation (Proverbs 4:23). God is more interested in your redemption and transformation that your personal comfort. Therefore God leads us through the wilderness to test our hearts, to see what is in us (Deuteronomy 8:2).
Proverbs 4:23: "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."
Isaiah 1:19: "If you be willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land."
Obedience is not enough. You must also be willing and heartfelt. Otherwise your inner defiance and rebellion shall eventually surface, show your heart for what it is, and trip you up as you try to go forward in God.
In regard to your sin, confessing it is not enough. You must confess and forsake your sins (Proverbs 28:13), not revert back to them repeatedly. You must pray to God to strengthen you knowing that “the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41).
Matthew 26:41: "Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
Jesus said: “He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God” (John 8:47).
Therefore we must maintain tender hearts to be quick to hear and slow to speak (James 1:19)
If all you do is speak and never listen, your religion is in vain (James 1:26).
Proverbs 16:22 says: "Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly."
Humbly embrace understanding and grow in knowledge and grace. As you know love is patient. God is love. Endeavor to be more like God by showing patience for people, including your husband, parents and Pastor.
Do not think to speak to correct others unless you yourself are willing to allow the sword of the Spirit to go through your own life. The sword cuts both ways (Hebrews 4:12). As you embrace the word of the Lord and allow the Holy Spirit to do a work within your own heart, adjusting you within, and correcting and conforming you to image and stature of Christ, then you yourself will be more skillful and sympathetic in ministry when you speak the word to others (Joshua 5:2). God never comes with the butcher’s knife to people, He comes with the surgeon’s knife to gently and precisely deal with disease, infection, poisonous and cancers matters within that might contaminate and spread. Jesus is full of grace and truth (John 1:14)
"You must take up your cross and deny yourself (Matthew 16:23). As you seek first the kingdom of God and lay down your agenda (Matthew 6:33); God will graciously provide that which is needful to you and satisfy your wants. First things first however.
You must learn to seek God the Father’s heart not merely His hand. When you only concern yourself with things and become covetous, you always miss the blessing of God.
Exodus 20:17 says: "Thou s
Are you thinking of entering the fast-paced world of day trading? Arm yourselves with the information from this fact sheet on day trading.What is day trading?Day trading is an investment tactic that does online daily stock trading with a relatively short investment. Those who do day trading usually buy and sell securities during the same market day and, as a general rule, do not hold stocks overnight. Many day traders make dozens of trades every market day hoping to capture profits that arise from small intraday price fluctuations.How is day trading different from swing trading?Day trading relatively holds the stock for only the day. After the stock market closes, a day trader has no stock in his hands. Swing trading holds a stock for at least a few days, waiting out for the best price before dumping it back to the market. Day trading is much more stressful and requires guts and a keen business sense. Once you get good at day trading, you can earn up to $50,000 from your initial investment.How much capital would you need for day trading?You need an investment equivalent to buy 1000 stocks. That is roughly around $20,000. Because the chances are small that you will find a marketable stock with a price of under $20, this is enough to get your day trading underway. However, you must remember that this is a 100% risk capital so do not worry too much if you lose this amount very early.What are the general rules for day trading? Always trade with the trend.Cut losses shortNever get emotionally involved in your trades. What are the most suitable stocks to trade for day trading?It is advisable to trade high volume stocks. Go with the trend with the popular stocks available. It'll be easier for you to sell those stocks at the end of the day trading.How does a usual day trading transaction occur?For example, at 10:00 AM a day trader might buy 1000 shares of stock XYZ just as the price begins to rise on good news, then sell it at 10:04 AM when it's up by 1/2 ($0.50). The day trader makes $500, minus commission. With today's cheap commissions of $29.95 or less per trade, that's a quick $440.10 or better, excluding taxes.Most people who deal with day trading spend all of their time in front of the computer, watching the slightest change in the stock price. As the prices go up and
Psalm 11:3: "If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?"
God is more interested in our heart, which is the wellspring of life and life’s foundation (Proverbs 4:23). God is more interested in your redemption and transformation that your personal comfort. Therefore God leads us through the wilderness to test our hearts, to see what is in us (Deuteronomy 8:2).
Proverbs 4:23: "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."
Isaiah 1:19: "If you be willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land."
Obedience is not enough. You must also be willing and heartfelt. Otherwise your inner defiance and rebellion shall eventually surface, show your heart for what it is, and trip you up as you try to go forward in God.
In regard to your sin, confessing it is not enough. You must confess and forsake your sins (Proverbs 28:13), not revert back to them repeatedly. You must pray to God to strengthen you knowing that “the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41).
Matthew 26:41: "Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
Jesus said: “He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God” (John 8:47).
Therefore we must maintain tender hearts to be quick to hear and slow to speak (James 1:19)
If all you do is speak and never listen, your religion is in vain (James 1:26).
Proverbs 16:22 says: "Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly."
Humbly embrace understanding and grow in knowledge and grace. As you know love is patient. God is love. Endeavor to be more like God by showing patience for people, including your husband, parents and Pastor.
Do not think to speak to correct others unless you yourself are willing to allow the sword of the Spirit to go through your own life. The sword cuts both ways (Hebrews 4:12). As you embrace the word of the Lord and allow the Holy Spirit to do a work within your own heart, adjusting you within, and correcting and conforming you to image and stature of Christ, then you yourself will be more skillful and sympathetic in ministry when you speak the word to others (Joshua 5:2). God never comes with the butcher’s knife to people, He comes with the surgeon’s knife to gently and precisely deal with disease, infection, poisonous and cancers matters within that might contaminate and spread. Jesus is full of grace and truth (John 1:14)
"You must take up your cross and deny yourself (Matthew 16:23). As you seek first the kingdom of God and lay down your agenda (Matthew 6:33); God will graciously provide that which is needful to you and satisfy your wants. First things first however.
You must learn to seek God the Father’s heart not merely His hand. When you only concern yourself with things and become covetous, you always miss the blessing of God.
Exodus 20:17 says: "Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's."
Luke 12:15 says: "And He said unto them, 'Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.'"
1 Timothy 6:5-7 (King James Version) says:
5Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
6But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
Luke 16:15 says: "And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God."
Fall on the rock of Jesus and humbly ask the Lord to change you. Otherwise life’s circumstances shall continue to come unto you as the Lord endeavors to break you and accomplish His will in your life.
Matthew 21:43-44 (King James Version) says:
43Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.
44And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.
Psalm 34:18 says: "The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit."
Psalm 51:17 says: "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise."
Humble yourself and God will lift you up in due time as you embrace the process of change.
James 4:6-8 (King James Version)
6But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
7Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
Malachi 3:6: "For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed."
Psalm 55:19: "God shall hear, and afflict them, even he that abideth of old. Selah. Because they have no changes, therefore they fear not God."
It is either change or chains!
Hebrews 12:7-9 (King James Version):
7If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
8But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
9Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?
Isaiah 53:5: "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed."
Love rejoices in the truth. Even in the discipline of your heavenly Father there is love. God loves you unconditionally. Yet He loves you enough to not leave you as you are. The blessings of God are conditional upon your obedience and being willing. Only you can develop obedience and willingness in your own heart.
Isaiah 1:19: "If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land."
The choice is yours. You can submit to God, embrace the cross, deny yourself, yield to the Holy Spirit, cultivate a willingness and obedient lifestyle and be exceedingly blessed.
OR
You can remain bitter, arrogant, self-centered, live for yourself, be cursed and miserable the rest of your life.
Deuteronomy 30:19: "I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live."
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