So, start thinking . . . you know we will want to know your favorites at the end. Oh btw, if you have any great zoo photos send them to me and I will add them to Monday's post.

5. Giraffe - I have always believed that God must have a sense of humor when I look at some of the animals He created. At the very least I marvel at His imagination!! Giraffes are amazing!

4. Guinea Pig - Now you may not think of a guinea pig as a zoo animal, but our Children's Zoo has a great display. They were always a favorite to visit.

3. Polar Bear - Don't you just wish they were not WILD animals. They look so cuddly, like you could play with them. I know, I know . . . no emails; I know how dangerous they are.

2. Penguin - They absolutely crack me up!! I think they are so funny waddling around, and our zoo has a fabulous display which allows for tons of playfulness.

1. Panda Bear - I don't believe we even have pandas at our zoo, but look at that face. Is it not the cutest!!!

The miracle of God's critters. He has blessed us with so much variety, and I'll bet He is blessed when we take pleasure in them and praise Him. 

 And God said, "Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: livestock, creatures that move along the ground, and wild animals, each according to its kind." And it was so. God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:24-25

Now it's your turn!! Tell us your favorites, and don't forget to send a photo this way. I will post them on Monday. Enjoy a wonderful weekend filled with blessings!!

I would like to focus on Joshua 21:43-45: So the LORD gave Israel all the land he had sworn to give their forefathers, and they took possession of it and settled there. The LORD gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their forefathers. Not one of their enemies withstood them; the LORD handed all their enemies over to them. Not one of all the LORD's good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.

Look again at verse 45: Not one of all the LORD's promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.

I love that verse!! God is faithful to keep His promises! Each of His promises! All of His promises.

God is faithful! Always!

The word faithful is defined: steadfast, dedicated, dependable, and worthy of trust. -Holman Bible Dictionary.

I am able to have faith because God is faithful! Psalm 145:13b reads: The Lord is faithful to all His promises and loving toward all He has made.

Let's take a moment to look at three definitions of the word faith:

1. Belief - acceptance of facts supported by evidence. Belief is based on examination of the evidence. Our investigation of the evidence leads us to a rational decision to agree with the facts. Suppose someone says a certain airplane is safe, and the flight record of the plane (evidence) verifies the information. You would probably decide to believe the facts.

John 20:30-31 reads: Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.

2. Trust - confidence in the object of faith. Trust is based on personal confidence in the object of our belief. This act of our will says, "I believe in the facts that say the plane can carry me. Therefore I trust it." The evidence has proven the object of our faith to be valid, so we exercise personal confidence in it.

John 1:12 reads: Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become the children of God.

If I asked you to loan me $10, you might do it if you trusted me. This goes beyond the facts that I need the $10 or whether or not I will have the ability or occasion to pay you back in the future. You will loan me the money if you believe me to be trustworthy.

3. Action - personal involvement. This is the part of faith that makes a personal commitment. It means pinning our hopes, our present and future on something and then relaxing. In the airplane example, this would mean boarding the plane, sitting in the seat, and letting it carry us to our destination. (Youth Meetings for Lessonmaker.)

We read again and again in Scripture of God's faithfulness. The gift of faith is grounded in God's faithfulness. We believe, trust, and act on the basis of the evidence of what God has done, is doing, and will do in our lives; through God's grace given to us by the Holy Spirit.

I want to close today with 2 Corinthians 1:18-20: As surely as God is faithful, my word to you does not waver between “Yes” and “No.”  For Jesus Christ, the Son of God, does not waver between “Yes” and “No.” He is the one whom Silas, Timothy, and I preached to you, and as God’s ultimate “Yes,” He always does what He says. For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.(NLT)

Father, How can we ever begin to sufficiently thank You for Your love and faithfulness? You have been faithful to every promise You have ever made. Throughout Your Word we see evidence of Your kept promises. Throughout the New Testament we learn of Your faithfulness to complete Your promise of salvation through the life, death, and resurrection of Your Son and our Savior, Jesus. Lord God, we thank You for the gift of faith. You have proven Yourself to be trustworthy and true. May our response be a consistent Amen to Your Word, and faithfulness to Your will and way. Forgive us for the many times we doubt Your Word and fail to obey. Restore us again to Your truth, and bless our lives to glorify You alone. In the precious name of Jesus. Amen.

  Look at this definition of truth. Wow! Wouldn't it be nice if all we had to do was be certain of an individual's sincerity to know whether or not they were truthful. Sincerity is not a foundation for truth.

I apologize for yet another YouTube video, but I think this one really sums up contemporary thinking on the definition of truth . . . "absolute truth."

In reality, the definition of absolute truth would be as follows: Something that remains true at all times, in all places, and for all people. Absolute truth is cross-cultural and multi-generational.

I found an interesting article at Exploring Christianity. If you click on the Truth link, you will be able to read the entire booklet. I would like to quote from the page entitled: What is truth and does it matter?

A recent Barna Research Group survey on what Americans believe asked the question, "Is there absolute Truth?" Sixty-six percent of adults responded that they believe that "there is no such thing as absolute truth; different people can define truth in conflicting ways and still be correct." Seventy-two percent of those aged 18 to 25 expressed this belief. In a recent series of more than twenty interviews conducted at random at a large university, people were asked if there was such a thing as absolute truth - truth that is true across all times and cultures for all people. All but one respondent answered along these lines:

"Truth is whatever you believe."

The author Rev. Dick Tripp goes on to say: Oddly enough, those who claim that there is no such thing as absolute truth make scores of decisions every day on the basis that they believe some things are true and some are false.

I am concerned that there is a belief being promoted that those who belief in absolute truth, especially absolute truth based on the Word of God - the Bible, are antiquated, narrow-minded, and possibly even a danger to society.

Let's look at the verse from last week again, and add to it the preceding verses. John 8:28-32: So Jesus said, "When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am the one I claim to be and that I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me. The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him." Even as he spoke, many put their faith in him. To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

Again and again in the Gospels Jesus proclaims, I tell you the truth.

In John 14:6 He said, "I am the way and the truth and the life."

There is freedom in the Truth. There is life in the Truth. Do you know the Truth? He is the One who stands at the door of your heart and knocks. Revelation 3:20.

How would you answer the questions?
Who is Jesus?
How does that opinion affect my life?

Are you prepared to give an answer?

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:13(NIV)

So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner . . . who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 2 Timothy 1:8-10 (NIV)

Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners . . . 1 Timothy 1:17 (NV)

He wants not only us but everyone saved, you know, everyone to get to know the truth we've learned: that there's one God and only one, and one Priest-Mediator between God and us—Jesus, who offered himself in exchange for everyone held captive by sin, to set them all free. Eventually the news is going to get out. This and this only has been my appointed work: getting this news to those who have never heard of God, and explaining how it works by simple faith and plain truth. 1 Timothy 2:4-7 (MSG)

Although, we may not personally be called to preach, teach, or evangelize . . . we have each been called to be prepared to testify to the truth within us . . . to give the reason for the hope we have. The answer to the question who is Jesus is not religion, it's faith.

 Thanks to Christianity Today for producing the above video and posting it on YouTube.

This is such a beautiful song! Please click the above link to see the video.

We are loved! We are understood! There is no need to ever give up, because the One who knows us best, loves us completely. He alone is able to provied all that we need today, tomorrow, and forever.

The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. Jeremiah 31:3

You who sit down in the High God's presence, spend the night in Shaddai's shadow,
   Say this: "God, you're my refuge.
  I trust in you and I'm safe!"
   That's right—he rescues you from hidden traps,
  shields you from deadly hazards.
   His huge outstretched arms protect you—
  under them you're perfectly safe;
  his arms fend off all harm.
   Fear nothing—not wild wolves in the night,
  not flying arrows in the day,
   Not disease that prowls through the darkness,
  not disaster that erupts at high noon.
   Even though others succumb all around,
  drop like flies right and left,
  no harm will even graze you.
   You'll stand untouched, watch it all from a distance,
  watch the wicked turn into corpses.
   Yes, because God's your refuge,
  the High God your very own home,
   Evil can't get close to you,
  harm can't get through the door.
   He ordered his angels
  to guard you wherever you go.
Psalm 91:1-12

Happy Birthday!!

I'm so thankful for another year, and I'm praying for many many more!!

I thank my God every time I remember you.
Philippians 1:3

Start thinking! You know you love your small appliances!

5. Crock Pot - I love my crock pot! I placed it 5th only because I probably could use the oven or a pot on the stove, but there is something about a meal cooking all day at slow even temperatures. Yum! Comfort food!

4. Microwave - I always thought I could live without a microwave; that is until I had one! No more lukewarm dinners or tepid coffee. No longer do we have to wait for the oven to heat up or the kettle to boil! Woo Hoo! Slow cookers and speedy cookers - I'm all about the contrasts. LOL

 

3. Blow Dryer & Curling Iron - It's a tie! I can't imagine my morning without these two items. I remember when I used to go to bed with a head covered with curlers, and wake up to damp hair. This is soooooo much better.

 

2. Electric Toothbrush - I love how clean my teeth feel after using an electric toothbrush. I also love that they have gotten so much less expensive.

1. Coffee Maker - We set our coffee maker up the night before, and stagger into the kitchen for that first taste of morning brew. I have been known to thank my Mr. Coffee for making my mornings better! I usually grab my coffee and I'm off to my office for my time with the Lord. What a wonderful way to start the day.

It's your turn. Let's hear about those small household appliances that make your life easier, and that you hope you never have to do without!

Have a fun-filled blessed weekend!!

But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. Psalm 59:16

I find it interesting that so many people think of God as being portrayed as an angry judge in the Old Testament. Scripture tells us in Hebrew 13:8 that: He (Jesus Christ) is the same yesterday, today, and forever. John 1:1 reads: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And John 1:14; The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

One of the greatest blessings of reading through all of Scripture was the realizing the amount of mercy and grace God extended to His children throughout the Old Testament. We also want to remember that it was God Himself at the moment of the Fall who put the plan of salvation into motion. Joshua chapter 20 gives us a glimpse of our consistently merciful God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

In this chapter we learn of the six cities of refuge. What in the world is a city of refuge, and why would God provide them for His children. Remember we have just read through the apportioning of land to the twelve tribes. This was a tribal society - there was no legal system, no form of criminal justice. Justice was administered through family members who lived in each tribe. Therefore it was based on the principle that the punishment should be equal to the crime. A life for a life, person for person, or animal for animal.

It was the responsibility of a family member, also known as the "kinsman redeemer," to avenge a death and to protect and defend the widow and children of the deceased. God established the cities of refuge to provide a place of shelter and protection for those who were guilty of manslaughter. In other words, if a person was killed accidentally the individual responsible could flee to a city of refuge, plea their case to the tribal leaders at the city gate, and if it was determined that the death was truly accidental asylum would be afforded to the offender, and they would be protected from those seeking revenge. If you would like to learn more about the cities of refuge turn to Numbers 35.

These cities were designed to typify the relief which the gospel provides for penitent sinners, and their protection from the curse of the law and the wrath of God, in our Lord Jesus, to whom believers flee for refuge. The Matthew Henry Commentary.

God did this so that we would be encouraged. God cannot lie when He takes an oath or makes a promise. These two things can never be changed. Those of us who have taken refuge in Him (Jesus) hold on to the confidence we have been given. Hebrews 6:18

Look at the consistency of God's message of redemption. Matthew Henry goes on to make the comparison:

These cities, as those also on the other side Jordan, stood so that a man might in half a day reach one of them from any part of the country. God is ever a Refuge at hand.

Some observe a significance in the names of these cities with application to Christ our Refuge. Kedesh signifies holy, and our Refuge is the holy Jesus. Shechem, a shoulder, and the government is upon his shoulder. Hebron, fellowship, and believers are called into the fellowship of Christ Jesus our Lord. Bezer, a fortification, for he is a strong hold to all those that trust in him. Ramoth, high or exalted, for Him hath God exalted with his own right hand. Golan, joy or exultation, for in Him all the saints are justified, and shall glory.

God the same yesterday, today, and forever used the blessing of cities of refuge not only to provide a way of escape for His children of the Old Testament, but to foreshadow His provision of the way of escape for us today. Jesus, our Refuge and Strength, our ever-present help in times of trouble.

Let's look at a few other references to Jesus, our Redeemer:

I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me! Job 19:25-27

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. Titus 2:11-14

The LORD redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in Him. Psalm 34:22

Are you up against "times of trouble?" Do you find yourself longing for refuge and strength? God is faithful and true. He is immutable. He is our Redeemer!

Father God, how do we begin to thank You for Your mercy and grace? Your love overwhelms us. It is hard to understand a love so pure that we can do nothing to earn it, nor anything to destroy it. Love defines You. Yet Your Word tells us that You are a just God, that You hate sin and we are sinners. We have such a difficult time separating sin from the sinner be it is our own sin or someone else's, but nothing is too difficult for You. You look at us and see Your Son, who paid the price to redeem us. We were lost and condemned, and Jesus made it possible for us to enter into a holy relationship with You. May we proclaim what You have done for us. May we worship and adore our Lord and Savior, Jesus. May we live our lives in responsive gratitude to Your love. Amen

Telling the truth has always been very important to me. I have always felt that it is easier to make wise decisions if the basis for them is truth. It took me a very long time to understand that many people today look at truth as relative rather than absolute.

If truth is relative, is it really truth at all? I believe that we have begun to call perception - truth. If that is the case then it is possible for my truth to be different from your truth; that is if truth is solely based on perception. However, shouldn't we call it what it is? Given this blending of the words truth and perception we have opened the door for massive amounts of untruth to be believed as fact.

YourDictionary.com gives the following definitions for: truth (tro̵̅o̅t̸h)

Time flies when you're havin' fun!

Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting.
 Let all the people say, "Amen!" Praise the LORD.

Psalm 106:48