The Open Window

A Young Couple

2012-06-15T04:49:00.000-04:00

A young couple decided to wed. As the big day approached, they grew apprehensive. Each had a problem they had never before shared with anyone, not even each other.

The Groom-to-be, overcoming his fear, decided to ask his father for advice. "Father," he said, "I am deeply concerned about the success of my marriage. I love my fianc�e, very much, but you see, I have very smelly feet, and I'm afraid that my future wife will be put off by them."

"No problem," said dad, "all you have to do is wash your feet as often as possible, and always wear socks, even to bed." Well, to him this seemed a workable solution.

The bride-to-be, overcoming her fear, decided to take her problem up her mom. "Mom," she said, "When I wake up in the morning my breath is truly awful." "Honey," her mother consoled, "everyone has bad breath in the morning." "No, you don't understand. My morning breath is so bad, I'm afraid that my new husband will not want to sleep in the same room with me."

Her mother said simply, "Try this. In the morning, get straight out of bed, and head for the bathroom and brush your teeth. The key is, not to say a word until you've brushed your teeth. Not a word," her mother affirmed. Well, she thought it was certainly worth a try.

The loving couple was finally married in a beautiful ceremony. Not forgetting the advice each had received, he with his perpetual socks and she with her morning silence, they managed quite well. That is, until about six months later. Shortly before dawn, the husband wakes with a start to find that one of his socks had come off. Fearful of the consequences, he frantically searches the bed. This, of course, woke his bride and without thinking, she immediately asks, "What on earth are you doing?"

"Oh, no!" he gasped in shock, "You've swallowed my sock!"

The Sin of Lying

2012-06-15T04:39:00.000-04:00

A minister told his congregation, "Next week I plan to preach about the sin of lying. To help you understand my sermon, I want you all to read Mark 17."

The following Sunday, as he prepared to deliver his sermon, the minister asked for a show of hands. He wanted to know how many had read Mark 17. Every hand went up. The minister smiled and said, "Mark has only 16 chapters. I will now proceed with my sermon on the sin of lying."

Ten Things Not Found In Proverbs 31

2012-06-09T09:27:00.001-04:00

Ten Things Not Found In Proverbs 31

by Kelly Harbaugh

Have you ever tried so hard to make things great for your family that you ended up frustrated, bitter, and snapping at every one of them? You know, something like, "Go away and be quiet, can't you see that I'm trying to be a good mother?" Did you feel guilty because you could not be the person you were trying to be? Great news! The world of being a wife and mother is no different that the world of everything else we do before God. We feel guilty because we are guilty, and we need Jesus to fix that. There is no "special section" of God's word that does not require his grace to fulfill it in our lives. That includes Proverbs 31.

I have viewed many reader comments describing the various books published about the Proverbs 31 woman. Above all, my favorite is, "It read like a car repair manual." Let us not forget that our number one priority is to be a disciple of Christ. If we read these verses as a "how-to" manual, we will always fail. Always. God's ONLY repair instructions have always been to come into the fullness of his grace daily and let him perfect us.

The little bit of research I have done has indicated that Proverbs 31:10-31 was actually an acrostic poem that most Jewish women would memorize. It was a guide to Jewish men on finding a good wife. Well, what things in these verses could a man actually evaluate BEFORE he married the woman? I'm thinking he probably would not be looking at a woman who was already married with children, so he couldn't observe all of these specific daily tasks. He could however, pay attention to the beginning verse where she is titled a "wife of noble character." Could it be her character that is being described?

This passage describes a woman who "fears the Lord," who "speaks with wisdom" and has "faithful instruction" on her tongue. She is a generous woman with a strong work ethic who does not get anxious about the future. A woman cannot possess all of these characteristics together apart from a daily walk with God. A great listing of the works that flow out of this character are also listed in this passage. It is a beautiful picture of what a husband will see in his wife when she fears the Lord and how beautiful she will look to him. ("Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.")

Unfortunately, we tend to get this backwards most of the time. We say, "If you can do all of the things on this list, you will have become a wife of noble character." If that wasn't enough, we add a whole list of other requirements that we assume are included. After all, she is superwoman; if she works so hard, her house must be spotless and her family must be angelic. I have got an idea. Let's not try to add to God's word and make it better. I think he did a good job the first time.

The following is a list of the 10 verses NOT found in Proverbs 31:

1. Her coffee table never has dust on it.

2. Many have eaten off her kitchen floor.

3. Better Homes and Gardens just did a photo shoot in her living room.

4. She does all of the housework herself while the kids play Wii.

5. All of the words that flow from her children's mouths are blessed.

6. All of her children are straight A students, musical geniuses, and all-star athletes.

7. Her hair is always fixed perfectly and her make-up is artfully applied.

8. She does not touch make-up or hairspray because it is vain and the art of Satan.

9. She never makes a bad decision.

10. She is classroom mom, PTO President, the bearer of orange slices at soccer games, and the church committee queen.

It sounds ridiculous, doesn't it? But you know that you have added at least a few of these things on your list. Remember Martha and Mary? Which one do you think had a list like this in her pocket? Drop the scrub brush and grab a Bible. Sit at Jesus' feet and become a disciple. Let him give you his character, and you will have the one thing needed to carry out everything else.

As seen at http://www.godlywoman.co/2011/09/ten-things-not-found-in-proverbs-31.html

Ten Things Not Found In Proverbs 31

2012-06-09T09:27:00.000-04:00

Ten Things Not Found In Proverbs 31

by Kelly Harbaugh

The following is a list of the 10 verses NOT found in Proverbs 31:

1. Her coffee table never has dust on it.

2. Many have eaten off her kitchen floor.

3. Better Homes and Gardens just did a photo shoot in her living room.

4. She does all of the housework herself while the kids play Wii.

5. All of the words that flow from her children's mouths are blessed.

6. All of her children are straight A students, musical geniuses, and all-star athletes.

7. Her hair is always fixed perfectly and her make-up is artfully applied.

8. She does not touch make-up or hairspray because it is vain and the art of Satan.

9. She never makes a bad decision.

10. She is classroom mom, PTO President, the bearer of orange slices at soccer games, and the church committee queen.

As seen at http://www.godlywoman.co/2011/09/ten-things-not-found-in-proverbs-31.html

Immorality Defiles the Church

2012-04-14T10:01:00.000-04:00

It was reported in the Corinthian church (1 Cor. 5:1-8) that there was sexual immorality happening among them. Actually it was an incestuous relationship between a member of the church and his stepmother. This kind of relationship was completely forbidden by the Old Testament law (Lev. 18:8; Duet. 22:30) and also by Roman law. Paul used his phrase "his father's wife" instead of "his mother". The omission of discipline for the woman implies that she was not a believer. The church is responsible for disciplining only its members, not unbelievers.

This is rarely happening in the churches of today. Today you have almost anything going on, and no one gets disciplined. There could be several reasons for this..but one reason is that, ministers are wanting large churches, large crowds, a big name, and lots of tithes and offerings coming in.

Disciplining its members could cut out some big tithers, could cause some to quit the church and go elsewhere, or not go anywhere at all.

The reason immorality among members should be judged and disciplined is so that their soul may be saved..but in this day and age many pastors refuse to do this...and it just grows and grows in the church like a cancer.

The pastor and those in the church who know this is going on are going to be held accountable when their judgement day comes

..and I would hate to be in their shoes.

In 1 Cor. 5:9-12 it says that we are not even to keep company with sexually immoral people. Of course Paul did not mean the people of this world or unbelievers..he meant those you know are saying they are believers, they sing in the choir, they play instruments in the church, they usher, sometimes are associate pastors, or deacons, they could even hold the janitor job in the church. sometimes they could do nothing in the church except hold the pew down. If we know they are sexually immoral, even covetous believers, or extortioners, or idolater , a reviler, or a drunkard, we are not to keep company with them..and not to even eat with them.

Many will say we are not to judge anyone..they will use the words of Jesus.."judge not lest ye be judged." And Jesus is right we are not to judge those who are outside the church , but those who are on the inside of the Church we are to judge..Paul even says to put away from yourselves the evil person.

True revival cannot come to a church unless it has been cleansed.

Thou Shalt Offend Pharisees

2012-04-04T17:45:00.000-04:00

Thou Shalt Offend Pharisees

by Mark Batterson

How you handle offense has the potential to make you or break you as a leader.

You will offend.

The only question is: who will you offend?

And you will be offended.

The only question is: how will you respond to offense?

As God expands your sphere of influence, you'll offend more and more people. It's inevitable. But there is a right way to handle it and a wrong way to handle it.

First things first: who are you offending? Some leaders are so afraid of offending people that they offend God instead. Let me tell you who you should offend: thou shalt offend Pharisees! That is who Jesus offended. And he did so regularly and intentionally. He could have healed on any day of the week, right? I think he chose the Sabbath to confront the Pharisees who couldn't see the miracle through the theological trees!

So go ahead and offend Pharisees, but while you're at it, make sure you aren't one of them!

How do you know? Well, read the Gospels and see the distinctives of Pharisaicalism. Self-righteousness is chief among them. Pharisees are low on humility and high on criticism. That critical spirit results in a focus on the letter of the law with very little room for grace.

Pharisees use, or I should say misuse, the Bible as a weapon.

And they have an uncanny habit of focusing on what's wrong instead of celebrating what's right.

They bring division instead of unity. The sow discord instead of peace. They aren't advancing the kingdom of God. They are actually undermining it by backbiting and infighting. And instead of building up, they tear down. That's the tip of the iceberg, but I think a pretty good caricature.

Can I just come out and say it?

If we quit fighting with each other and converted all of our sideways energy into forward motion, I think we'd win the world to Christ. But we've got to love each other first. After all, they shall know us by our love!

Now let me flip the coin...

Thou shalt offend Pharisees, but don't be offended by them!

Proverbs 19:11 says: "It is to the glory of a man to overlook an offense." Circle that promise.

The more offenses you overlook, the more glory!

If you get offended by an offense, you quit playing offense and start playing defense. And when you get defensive, you stop leading and start reacting!

I made a decision a long time ago that I don't play defense.

I have an advocate. His name is Jesus. And that's who I'm accountable to. And of course, all of us need human accountability, but it'll be to the people we're in relationship with.

We need to submit to the righteous rebuke of a brother and the conviction of the Holy Spirit. No one is above or beyond rebuke or exhortation.

But you also need to consider the source. Is it coming from a genuine spirit of love? Or is there a critical spirit or mean spirit? Is the rebuke a love offering or tough love? Or does it derive from wrong motives?

Do you know the person, and do they know you? Now, no matter who is doing the rebuking or how they are doing, if the rebuke is accurate, then you need to repent. But if it's not, don't swallow the poison. You need to shake the dust off your feet.

And whatever you do, don't become defensive! Play offense!

You need the emotional tenacity of Nehemiah who said to a couple backbiters named Sanballat and Tobiah: "I am doing a great work so I can't come down." Don't let anyone or anything bring you down! Let it steel your resolve! Don't get sidetracked by sideways energy!

Press on with the mission.

Press into the presence of God.

Play offense.

Mark Batterson is the lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C., a multi-site church and a leading fellowship in the nation's capital. Meeting in movie theaters and Metro stops throughout the D.C. area, NCC is attended by more than 70 percent single twenty-somethings. Mark's weekly podcast is one of the fastest growing in America. His book, In A Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day: How to Survive and Thrive When Opportunity Roars peaked at #44 on Amazon.com's best-seller list. He has just released his newest book entitled, Wild Goose Chase: Reclaiming the Adventure of Pursuing God. He and his wife Lora live on Capitol Hill. They have three children. Visit Mark at www.evotional.com/

Thou Shalt Offend Pharisees

2012-04-04T17:44:00.001-04:00

Thou Shalt Offend Pharisees

by Mark Batterson

How you handle offense has the potential to make you or break you as a leader.

You will offend.

The only question is: who will you offend?

And you will be offended.

The only question is: how will you respond to offense?

As God expands your sphere of influence, you'll offend more and more people. It's inevitable. But there is a right way to handle it and a wrong way to handle it.

So go ahead and offend Pharisees, but while you're at it, make sure you aren't one of them!

Pharisees use, or I should say misuse, the Bible as a weapon.

And they have an uncanny habit of focusing on what's wrong instead of celebrating what's right.

Can I just come out and say it?

Now let me flip the coin...

Thou shalt offend Pharisees, but don't be offended by them!

Proverbs 19:11 says: "It is to the glory of a man to overlook an offense." Circle that promise.

The more offenses you overlook, the more glory!

If you get offended by an offense, you quit playing offense and start playing defense. And when you get defensive, you stop leading and start reacting!

I made a decision a long time ago that I don't play defense.

I have an advocate. His name is Jesus. And that's who I'm accountable to. And of course, all of us need human accountability, but it'll be to the people we're in relationship with.

We need to submit to the righteous rebuke of a brother and the conviction of the Holy Spirit. No one is above or beyond rebuke or exhortation.

And whatever you do, don't become defensive! Play offense!

Press on with the mission.

Press into the presence of God.

Play offense.

Mark Batterson is the lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C., a multi-site church and a leading fellowship in the nation's capital. Meeting in movie theaters and Metro stops throughout the D.C. area, NCC is attended by more than 70 percent single twenty-somethings. Mark's weekly podcast is one of the fastest growing in America. His book, In A Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day: How to Survive and Thrive When Opportunity Roars peaked at #44 on Amazon.com's best-seller list. He has just released his newest book entitled, Wild Goose Chase: Reclaiming the Adventure of Pursuing God. He and his wife Lora live on Capitol Hill. They have three children. Visit Mark at www.evotional.com/

Thou Shalt Offend Pharisees

2012-04-04T17:44:00.000-04:00

Thou Shalt Offend Pharisees

by Mark Batterson

How you handle offense has the potential to make you or break you as a leader.

You will offend.

The only question is: who will you offend?

And you will be offended.

The only question is: how will you respond to offense?

As God expands your sphere of influence, you'll offend more and more people. It's inevitable. But there is a right way to handle it and a wrong way to handle it.

So go ahead and offend Pharisees, but while you're at it, make sure you aren't one of them!

Pharisees use, or I should say misuse, the Bible as a weapon.

And they have an uncanny habit of focusing on what's wrong instead of celebrating what's right.

Can I just come out and say it?

Now let me flip the coin...

Thou shalt offend Pharisees, but don't be offended by them!

Proverbs 19:11 says: "It is to the glory of a man to overlook an offense." Circle that promise.

The more offenses you overlook, the more glory!

If you get offended by an offense, you quit playing offense and start playing defense. And when you get defensive, you stop leading and start reacting!

I made a decision a long time ago that I don't play defense.

I have an advocate. His name is Jesus. And that's who I'm accountable to. And of course, all of us need human accountability, but it'll be to the people we're in relationship with.

We need to submit to the righteous rebuke of a brother and the conviction of the Holy Spirit. No one is above or beyond rebuke or exhortation.

And whatever you do, don't become defensive! Play offense!

Press on with the mission.

Press into the presence of God.

Play offense.

Mark Batterson is the lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C., a multi-site church and a leading fellowship in the nation's capital. Meeting in movie theaters and Metro stops throughout the D.C. area, NCC is attended by more than 70 percent single twenty-somethings. Mark's weekly podcast is one of the fastest growing in America. His book, In A Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day: How to Survive and Thrive When Opportunity Roars peaked at #44 on Amazon.com's best-seller list. He has just released his newest book entitled, Wild Goose Chase: Reclaiming the Adventure of Pursuing God. He and his wife Lora live on Capitol Hill. They have three children. Visit Mark at www.evotional.com/

Praying God's Word

2012-04-02T14:56:00.000-04:00

Praying God's Word

Would you like your prayers to be more powerful? Pray the Scriptures. Hebrews 4:12 says that God's Word is alive and powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword. When we speak and pray the Scriptures, we are coming into agreement with God, and His power is released to answer our prayers.

Maybe you feel like God doesn't hear your prayers? Or maybe you don't know what to pray for in certain situations. On the Prayer Promises page, I have gathered Bible Scriptures such as 1John 5:14, which tells us we can have confidence in God. Not only does He hear our prayers, but He also promises to answer them when we pray in line with His will. He hastens to perform His Word

Benefits of Praying the Scriptures

Praying the Scriptures will increase your spiritual growth. You actually learn what God says about certain situations, and by praying His Word you will see His results. Many people have testified that just by praying the healing scriptures they have been healed, physically as well as mentally.

You can live a stress free life if you will only just pray because when you pray, you are turning the situation over to God. You're taking the situation out of your hands, and putting it in His hands. You're releasing it to God. These Scripture Prayers are very easy to read, and if you'll read them every day, even within a week, you will have memorized Scripture and won't even realize it until a situation arises, or until someone asks you to pray for them.

Commitment to Pray the Scriptures

Most people when they hear the word commitment, their first response is, "I don't have time for another commitment." But if you want your circumstances in your life to change you need to make a commitment to pray the Scriptures out loud everyday. Then you will see how praying with the powerful force of God's Word will cause you to be praying in victory. You will have victory in your life, in your home, and be able to handle situations as easily as Jesus would have handled them.

It doesn't take long to read these prayers, and you can print them out and take them with you, and read them whenever you want. But it is important for you to pray the prayers outloud, even if it is in a whisper, the spoken Word, makes things happen! Why pray your prayers out loud? Read How to Pray the Scriptures--http://www.prayingscriptures.com/how-to-use-book.shtml

How to Pray the Scriptures - Praying God's Word

www.prayingscriptures.com

How to use scriptures to pray for spiritual direction, spiritual healing by praying God's Word, how to pray to God, how to pray the scriptures. Here's how you get victory from prayer

"We Are Not That Smart"

2012-01-31T16:31:00.000-05:00

Coffee Break

"We Are Not That Smart"

"In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:6

In our opening scripture we are told to acknowledge the Lord in all our ways. Now, I don't know about you, but when I read the word "all", I take it literally- that means that I believe it really means "all". I have had people tell me that you don't have to acknowledge God in everything (all). You don't have to ask Him about small things. They contend that He gave us a brain to think for ourselves so that is what we should do-- think for ourselves. Seems to me that "thinking for ourselves" is what got the human race in trouble in the first place. Adam was a perfect man, filled with knowledge beyond our wildest imagine-- after all, he named all the animals-- but when he leaned to his own understanding about the tree that the Lord forbid them to eat from, his "intellect" proved to not be very smart.

I learned a long time ago that God says what He means and means what He says. There was a reason why He said, "all", instead of "some" of your ways or "most" of your ways. Acknowledging Him in all our ways may seem foolish, but if we would do it, it would save us a lot of heartache, grief, unnecessary pain, we would make better choices and decisions, and we would find that things would go a whole lot better for us in the long run.

We are told that there is a way that seems right to a man, but the end leads to death. In other words, in our human understanding of certain situations, it may seem right, but it could kill you! Not wanting to acknowledge the Lord in all our ways boils down to being a pride issue.

We don't know better what to do than He does-- even in the smallest problem. We need His help. We need Him to direct our paths. We need Him to show us what to do. Have you ever been around little children who "know everything". Everything you try to tell them--- "I know". Or when you try to help them--- "I can do it". You know they don't know and you know they can't do it. I think we act like that toward our heavenly Father as well. We think we know everything, can do everything and have everything under control when we really don't. And He knows we don't, but He waits patiently for us to decide that we can't do it and then turn to Him. And once we do, He is right there ready to help us.

Have a great day. We might as well admit that we don't know as much as we think we do and that God does!

For further reading:

Proverbs 16:25; 14:12

Psalms 37:23

Jeremiah 10:23

<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><

Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell

and is sent to you free of charge for the asking from

About the Master's Business Ministry, Inc.

Please feel free to

call (601) 833-5278 or

Email: mastersbusiness@bellsouth.net

Visit us on the web: www.mastersbusiness.org

You are welcomed to make copies and distribute them free of charge.

You may also forward them via e-mail or post them to your website - leaving the whole message in tact unless permission is granted to do otherwise. Please remember to give credit to About the Master's Business Ministry.

"Complaining"

2011-12-05T14:43:00.000-05:00

MONDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2011

"Complaining"

"Wherefore doth a living man complain.....? Lamentations 3:39a

Recently, it seems like everywhere I go I wind up in the company of complaining people... and many of them are professing Christians. The complaints that I hear are not confined to one area, but every area. I hear complaints about everything from the weather to what someone else is doing. People tend to complain about everything that doesn't go their way. We want what we want, when we want it and the way we want it. If it is not to our liking-- we complain about it.

The problem with complaining is that it shows a lack of gratitude. When you complain about your food, it shows that you aren't grateful for the fact that you have something to eat and are not going hungry. When you complain about your spouse, it shows that you aren't thankful for that person. And whether you realize it or not, the primary focus and object of your complaint is God. You are saying that what He has done for you is not good enough. This was the problem with the Israelites in the wilderness. You would have thought that they would have been so thankful to be out from under Egyptian bondage that there would never be a complaint in their mouths ever again--- wrong. They complained about everything, even the blessings the Lord was sending them.

Another problem is that complaining is contagious. When you are around someone and they start complaining, it is easy to get pulled into that complaining spirit yourself. (If you ever talk to any one about politics you'll see this happen real quick.)

The Bible tells us that godliness with contentment is great gain. (1 Timothy 6:6) As I said earlier, complaining comes as a result of things not going the way we want them to go. The truth of the matter is, as long as we live in this world, things will not always go the way we want them to go-- they will go the opposite more times then not. There are plenty of reasons to complain all around us. But we need to learn how to be content with such as we have so we won't be guilty of complaining. If we will have an attitude of gratitude- regardless of the fact that all we have is "manna" and "no meat", then we will not be complaining people. Because when you get down to it, the blessings and good things that we have are far more than we should have.

Have a great day. Let your gratitude outweigh your complaining.

For further reading:
Psalm 144:13-15
Exodus 16:8
John 6:43
1 Corinthians 10:10

<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><
Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell
and is sent to you free of charge for the asking from
About the Master's Business Ministry, Inc.
Please feel free to
call (601) 833-5278 or
Email: mastersbusiness@bellsouth.net
Visit us on the web: www.mastersbusiness.org

You are welcomed to make copies and distribute them free of charge.
You may also forward them via e-mail or post them to your website - leaving the whole message in tact unless permission is granted to do otherwise. Please remember to give credit to About the Master's Business Ministry.

God Is In Your Corner

2011-11-09T04:33:00.000-05:00

God Is In Your Corner

The LORD himself will go before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forget you. Deuteronomy 31:8

When I was seven years old, I ran away from home. I'd had enough of my father's rules and decided I could make it on my own, thank you very much.

With my clothes in a paper bag, I stormed out the back gate and marched down the alley. [But] I didn't go far. I got to the end of the alley and remembered I was hungry, so I went back home.

Though the rebellion was brief, it was rebellion nonetheless. And had you stopped me on that prodigal path . . . I just might have told you how I felt. I just might have said, I don't need a father. I'm too big for the rules of my family.

I didn't hear the rooster crow like Peter did. I didn't feel the fish belch like Jonah did. I didn't get a robe and a ring and sandals like the prodigal did.

But I learned from my father on earth what those three learned from their Father in heaven. Our God is no fair-weather Father. He's not into this love-'em-and-leave-'em stuff.

I can count on him to be in my corner no matter how I perform. You can, too !

Written by Max Lucado
The Great House of God

"The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26

YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW

2011-11-01T08:18:00.000-04:00

YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW

Good morning said a woman as she walked up to the man sitting on ground.

The man slowly looked up.

This was a woman clearly accustomed to the finer things of life. Her coat was new.. She looked like she had never missed a meal in her life.

His first thought was that she wanted to make fun of him, like so many others had done before.. "Leave me alone," he growled....

To his amazement, the woman continued standing.

She was smiling -- her even white teeth displayed in dazzling rows. "Are you hungry?" she asked.

"No," he answered sarcastically. "I've just come from dining with the president. Now go away."

The woman's smile became even broader. Suddenly the man felt a gentle hand under his arm.

"What are you doing, lady?" the man asked angrily. "I said to leave me alone.

Just then a policeman came up. "Is there any problem, ma'am?" he asked..

"No problem here, officer," the woman answered. "I'm just trying to get this man to his feet. Will you help me?"

The officer scratched his head. "That's old Jack. He's been a fixture around here for a couple of years. What do you want with him?"

"See that cafeteria over there?" she asked. "I'm going to get him something to eat and get him out of the cold for awhile."

"Are you crazy, lady?" the homeless man resisted. "I don't want to go in there!" Then he felt strong hands grab his other arm and lift him up. "Let me go, officer. I didn't do anything."

"This is a good deal for you, Jack" the officer answered. "Don't blow it.."

Finally, and with some difficulty, the woman and the police officer got Jack into the cafeteria and sat him at a table in a remote corner. It was the middle of the morning, so most of the breakfast crowd had already left and the lunch bunch had not yet arrived...

The manager strode across the cafeteria and stood by his table. "What's going on here, officer?" he asked. "What is all this, is this man in trouble?"

"This lady brought this man in here to be fed," the policeman answered.

"Not in here!" the manager replied angrily. "Having a person like that here is bad for business.."

Old Jack smiled a toothless grin. "See, lady. I told you so. Now if you'll let me go. I didn't want to come here in the first place."

The woman turned to the cafeteria manager and smiled....... "Sir, are you familiar with Eddy and Associates, the banking firm down the street?"

"Of course I am," the manager answered impatiently. "They hold their weekly meetings in one of my banquet rooms."

"And do you make a godly amount of money providing food at these weekly meetings?"

"What business is that of yours?"

I, sir, am Penelope Eddy, president and CEO of the company."

"Oh."

The woman smiled again. "I thought that might make a difference." She glanced at the cop who was busy stifling a giggle. "Would you like to join us in a cup of coffee and a meal, officer?"

"No thanks, ma'am," the officer replied. "I'm on duty."

"Then, perhaps, a cup of coffee to go?"

"Yes, maam. That would be very nice."

The cafeteria manager turned on his heel, "I'll get your coffee for you right away, officer."

The officer watched him walk away. "You certainly put him in his place," he said.

"That was not my intent. Believe it or not, I have a reason for all this."

She sat down at the table across from her amazed dinner guest. She stared at him intently.. "Jack, do you remember me?"

Old Jack searched her face with his old, rheumy eyes. "I think so -- I mean you do look familiar."

"I'm a little older perhaps," she said. "Maybe I've even filled out more than in my younger days when you worked here, and I came through that very door, cold and hungry."

"Ma'am?" the officer said questioningly. He couldn't believe that such a magnificently turned out woman could ever have been hungry.

"I was just out of college," the woman began. "I had come to the city looking for a job, but I couldn't find anything. Finally I was down to my last few cents and had been kicked out of my apartment. I walked the streets for days. It was February and I was cold and nearly starving. I saw this place and walked in on the off chance that I could get something to eat."

Jack lit up with a smile. "Now I remember," he said.. "I was behind the serving counter. You came up and asked me if you could work for something to eat. I said that it was against company policy."

"I know," the woman continued. "Then you made me the biggest roast beef sandwich that I had ever seen, gave me a cup of coffee, and told me to go over to a corner table and enjoy it. I was afraid that you would get into trouble... Then, when I looked over and saw you put the price of my food in the cash register, I knew then that everything would be all right."

"So you started your own business?" Old Jack said.

"I got a job that very afternoon. I worked my way up. Eventually I started my own business that, with the help of God, prospered." She opened her purse and pulled out a business card.. "When you are finished here, I want you to pay a visit to a Mr. Lyons...He's the personnel director of my company. I'll go talk to him now and I'm certain he'll find something for you to do around the office." She smiled. "I think he might even find the funds to give you a little advance so that you can buy some clothes and get a place to live until you get on your feet... If you ever need anything, my door is always opened to you."

There were tears in the old man's eyes. "How can I ever thank you?" he said.

"Don't thank me," the woman answered. "To God goes the glory. Thank Jesus...... He led me to you."

Outside the cafeteria, the officer and the woman paused at the entrance before going their separate ways....

"Thank you for all your help, officer," she said.

"On the contrary, Ms. Eddy," he answered. "Thank you. I saw a miracle today, something that I will never forget. And.. And thank you for the coffee."

God is going to shift things around for you today and let things work in your favor.

If you believe, send it.

If you don't believe, delete it.

God closes doors no man can open & God opens doors no man can close..

If you need God to open some doors for you...send this on.

Have a blessed day and remember to be a blessing...

LIVE WELL, LOVE MUCH, LAUGH OFTEN

NEVER GROW A WISHBONE

WHERE A BACKBONE OUGHT TO BE

He Will Wipe Every Tear

2011-10-29T05:52:00.000-04:00

"His Word Is Enough"

2011-10-29T05:48:00.000-04:00

Coffee Break

"His Word Is Enough"

"Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again." Luke 24:7

Jesus told His disciples that He was going to be crucified but that He would rise again. They saw Him being arrested. They saw Him beaten. They saw Him die on the cross. They saw all their hopes and dreams and all they had believed vanish before them. All they had was Jesus' word- "I will rise again on the third day".

"And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side." (Mark 4:35) While they were in the boat all the disciples could see was a violent storm, the seas roaring and the wind blowing. They could see the water in the boat. They could see the helplessness of the situation. It did not look good for them at all. All they had was Jesus' word- "Let us pass over to the other side".

In both cases the disciples saw nothing encouraging, nothing hopeful, nothing but darkness and death. All they had was Jesus' word to hold on to, but that was enough.

When you face the storms and trials of life, when you go through difficulties, when all looks hopeless, when there is nothing around you but despair, and all you have is God's word about the situation, then that is enough.

All the disciples saw was death, but Jesus said they would see Him raised from the dead--- and they did! All the disciples saw was a storm that was about to destroy them, but Jesus said they were going to the other side--- and they did!

Things may not look good, but we don't walk by sight, we walk by faith-- faith in what Jesus has said. It is not about what we see, but about what we hear. It doesn't matter how dark it may look, if Jesus said the light is coming, then it is. It may look like you are going to drown, but if Jesus said you are going to survive, you will. If whatever you face is saying one thing, but Jesus is saying another-- then what Jesus said is what you can count on.

Have a great day. If all you have is God's word about the situation- no matter how it looks- His word is enough.

For Further reading:

Mark 4:35-41

Romans 1:17

Hebrews 11:1

2 Corinthians 5:7

<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><

Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell

and is sent to you free of charge for the asking from

About the Master's Business Ministry, Inc.

Please feel free to

call (601) 833-5278 or

Email: mastersbusiness@bellsouth.net

Visit us on the web: www.mastersbusiness.org

You are welcomed to make copies and distribute them free of charge.

"I'll Be Back"

2011-10-29T05:40:00.000-04:00

Coffee Break

"I'll Be Back"

"And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3

Jesus had spent the last three years with His disciples- day in and day out- and now He tells them that He will be going away. Jesus knew this would be troubling news to them so He begins by telling them not to let what He is about to say trouble their hearts. Then He tells them- "I will come again." He was saying, "You haven't seen the last of Me. I may be absent for a little while, it may look like I am gone for good, but I am not, I will be back." ("Yet a little while." John 14:19a)

There are times when we feel as if we have seen the last of Jesus. You were walking with Him so closely- hearing His words guiding you, feeling His arms of love around you, knowing every move you made He was making it with you. But all of a sudden it appears as if He has left you. You can't feel His presence. It doesn't look like He is anywhere in sight. You can't hear His sweet voice directing you in which way to go. You seek for Him, but He must be hiding because you can't seem to find Him.

Are you feeling like that? During the period of time that He "left" the disciples He had not forgotten them. He was working on their behalf to fulfill the plan of their redemption. He was making preparation for their eternity. He was, as a high priest, presenting His blood on the mercy seat in heaven. They were still on His mind. Though it may seem as if He has "left" you, He has not. He is still making intercession on your behalf. He is still going before the Father on your behalf. Take heart! You haven't seen the last of Him. He has not left you. His eyes are still on you. He is still there.

So this morning, "Let not your heart be troubled. I will come again." You will sense His presence again. You will feel the warm of His presence. You will hear His voice again. You will see His hand working on your behalf. You have not seen the last of Him.

Have a great day. While it seems as if He has left you, He hasn't, He is working on your behalf.

For further reading:

John 14:1-3

Hebrews 8:1; 9:24; 7:25

<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><

Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell

and is sent to you free of charge for the asking from

About the Master's Business Ministry, Inc.

Please feel free to

call (601) 833-5278 or

Email: mastersbusiness@bellsouth.net

Visit us on the web: www.mastersbusiness.org

You are welcomed to make copies and distribute them free of charge.

"He Won't Put Up With It"

2011-10-29T05:36:00.000-04:00

Coffee Break

"He Won't Put Up With It"

"And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?" Luke 6:46

What do you think would happen if on your job you decided to set your own hours- you would come in and leave when you wanted to? What if you decided that you wouldn't go to work at all this week- just because you didn't feel like it? What if when you got to work you only did the job that you wanted to do? What do you think your employer would say about that? Do you think he would continue to allow you to work there? If you were an employer with an employee like that, would you allow him to remain or would you fire him?

What if when you got married you told your husband- I will wear your ring and take on your name, but I will continue to see my old boy friends. I will be at home during the week but on the weekends I am going out with the girls. Suppose you told your husband that you were not going to cook his meals or wash his clothes- except when you felt like it. Wives, suppose your husband told you that he was not going to work and make a living, you would have to take care of everything that needed doing, and he would not be home but one night a week because he plans on spending the other nights with his buddies or seeing a girl friend. If that was you, how would you feel? What would you do about it? Would you put up with that type of "relationship"?

In both examples neither would put up with it. Your employer would fire you. Your spouse would never agree to such an arrangement. So, let me ask you a question-- why do we think that Jesus will put up with it? Why do we say we are saved and not act like it? Why do we continue to do the things we want to do and think that it is all right with Him? Why is it that we think He will overlook the fact that we never go to His house, we never read His word, we never talk to Him (except when we are in trouble) and think that He'll "understand". We don't get by with it in our earthly relationships with other people, yet, we think we will get by with it where Jesus is concerned.

An employer wants an employee that he can count on, that is faithful to his position and that will actually work for his pay check. A husband/wife wants their spouse to love them, spend time with them, choose them above others and be there with and for them. What do you think Jesus wants? He wants someone to love Him- not with "lip service" but with lifestyle. He wants someone who desires to be with Him, who will follow Him and will listen to His voice. We give that respect to others, why is He any different?

Your employer would not put up with your lack of commitment. Your spouse would not put up with your lack of love and respect. And contrary to popular opinion, Jesus won't put up with your taking Him for granted. One day He will tell you, "Depart, I never knew you."

Have a great day. If our boss and spouse won't put up with our lack of commitment, why do we think Jesus will put up with it?

For further reading:

Matthew 7:21,23; 16:24; 22:37

<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><

Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell

and is sent to you free of charge for the asking from

About the Master's Business Ministry, Inc.

Please feel free to

call (601) 833-5278 or

Email: mastersbusiness@bellsouth.net

Visit us on the web: www.mastersbusiness.org

You are welcomed to make copies and distribute them free of charge.

"The Outdated Bible"

2011-10-29T05:34:00.000-04:00

Coffee Break

"The Outdated Bible"

"And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock." Matthew 7:25

"And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew." The scripture said that the storms came. It didn't say, "If the storms come". Storms are a given in life-- they come. So what do we do when they come?

Some seek the advice of others. Some try to solve the problems themselves. Some think they can throw enough money at it and it will calm down. Others think that they can ignore it and it will go away. There is only one sure solution- the Word of God.

Sadly, we aren't taught how to hold fast to and stand upon God's word much any more. Instead we are taught that God's word is outdated and old fashioned- it was all right for men in the old days but not for today. We live in a modern society- the Word of God is "old school". Then we are taught that the Word of God is a crutch for the weak minded, uneducated and poor. We have "evolved" our thinking past what the Bible says- we are living in the "Age of Enlightenment". The Bible was good for the "dark ages" but not for today.

Let me go on record as saying that the Bible never has been and never will be outdated!! You can believe what you want to believe about it. You can believe that it does not apply to your life or situation. You can believe that there are more effective ways of dealing with your problems/storms. You can believe that it has run its course and is no longer relevant. But just because you believe it doesn't mean that your belief is right.

I choose to believe what God says. He says His Word is eternal- heaven and earth will pass away but His Word will remain forever. In the beginning was the Word and at the end the Word will still be there. His Word is the only true source of strength, healing, light and life. I choose to believe what Jesus said, "Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock." (Matthew 7:24) Truly wise people build their lives on God's Word.

Jesus also said something else, "And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand." (verse 26) We may think we are so smart and have outgrown the Word of God, but Jesus Himself said that you are "foolish" to think that without His Word you can make it through this life. There is a verse that sums up pretty well those who think that the Word of God is irrelevant, outdated and not necessary-- "Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools." (Romans 1:22)

Have a great day. Wise men believe that the Word of God is relevant and necessary. Foolish men believe that God's Word is outdated and unnecessary.

For further reading:

John 1:1

Matthew 24:35

Psalm 119:105

James 1:22

2 Timothy 1:13; 3:15-17; 4:2-4

<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><

Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell

and is sent to you free of charge for the asking from

About the Master's Business Ministry, Inc.

Please feel free to

call (601) 833-5278 or

Email: mastersbusiness@bellsouth.net

Visit us on the web: www.mastersbusiness.org

You are welcomed to make copies and distribute them free of charge.

"Lifestyle Adjustment"

2011-10-29T05:30:00.000-04:00

Coffee Break

"Lifestyle Adjustment"

"By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season." Hebrews 1:24,25

When Moses was a baby, he was not only rescued from death but he was raised in the palace as the grandson of Pharaoh. He could have lived the rest of his life in comfort and ease. He had everything that a person could ever hope for- position, power, education, wealth, servants at his disposal, pleasures, etc. He would never have to work to make a living. He would never have to struggle. Everything would come to him on a "silver platter". He had it made by our estimation. His life was a true "rags to riches" story. Yet Moses gave it all up.

He refused to associate with those who were enjoying this lifestyle. He chose a life of suffering instead. He turned away from worldly pleasure, ease and comfort. It seems foolish. There are those who would say he was crazy. Why would he do that? He had everything that others so desperately desire and work to achieve?

The answer is found in the next verse- "Considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he was looking to the reward." (NAS) Moses knew that to be identified with Christ was greater than to be identified with Pharaoh. He knew who the real King was- kings/Pharaohs come and go with the passing of time. He also knew that kingdoms rise and fall, but Christ is the Eternal King who has an eternal kingdom. He knew the riches of Pharaoh's palace were only temporary- moths and rust would destroy them, and thieves could steal them- but the riches of Christ are eternal. As far as Moses was concerned, there was no comparison of the earthly riches and the heavenly ones. He knew that there is a reward that can never be taken away, that will never fade away, that will last forever. He was looking for the crown of life which was so much more valuable than some sort of gold crown fashioned by the hands of man. He knew that a relationship with the Heavenly King was far greater and more wonderful.

What about you? Are you choosing the riches of this world above eternal riches? Are you choosing the temporary pleasures of this world above the eternal rewards that await those who choose to be identified with Christ? There is no comparison and Moses knew this, therefore, he adjusted his life accordingly. And in the end, there was no doubt he made the better choice. Are you adjusting your life accordingly? In eternity, you will be so glad that you chose Christ instead of all this world has to offer.

Have a great day. Our belief in Jesus will often cause an adjustment to be made in our lifestyles, but it will be worth it all in eternity when it really counts.

For further reading:

Mark 10:28-30

Matthew 6:19,20

Romans 8:18

2 Timothy 4:8

James 1:12

<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><

Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell

and is sent to you free of charge for the asking from

About the Master's Business Ministry, Inc.

Please feel free to

call (601) 833-5278 or

Email: mastersbusiness@bellsouth.net

Visit us on the web: www.mastersbusiness.org

You are welcomed to make copies and distribute them free of charge.

No Google

2011-10-21T19:09:00.000-04:00

Keeping Divine Appointments

2011-10-21T08:53:00.000-04:00

Keeping Divine Appointments

October 21, 2011

By Ken Horn

I stood on a Pacific Ocean pier, fishing rod in hand, watching the waves lap
gently at the pylons. Gulls were catching wind currents as terns nose-dived
into the surf for small fish.

I was in my own world. I had intentionally chosen a portion of the pier
devoid of other anglers. I wanted time alone.

And then I saw him coming. How could you miss the red-checked sports jacket
and patent leather shoes?

"I hope he keeps walking," I thought.

And then I had another thought, one that wasn't mine: "Witness to him."

I selfishly resisted, and the walking fashion disaster moved on.

Alone again, I thought.

Several minutes later, as I leaned on the railing, I caught a glimpse of red
out of the corner of my eye. I turned, and there he stood, patent leather
shoes glistening in the sunlight.

"Having any luck?" he asked.

"Not much," I replied, my mind racing through conviction, repentance and
prayer for direction. When I was selfishly disobedient, God didn't let me
off the hook. I knew this was a divine appointment. When I obeyed, I found a
broken man who desperately needed someone to tell him there was hope.

And so I did. Before he left we exchanged addresses, and I put my hand on
his shoulder and prayed with him.

He was wiping away tears as he walked away, then turned back and said,
"Thank you."

I learned several lessons that day three decades ago:

? The most important fishing is fishing for people.

? Our problems never outweigh the needs of the spiritually lost.

? The Holy Spirit directs believers. We must obey.

? Our spirits must always be ready to respond.

The most effective way I know to witness is this: Know the plan of
salvation; be Spirit-filled, prayed up and ready to witness; look for open
doors.

Do this, and the Holy Spirit will bring divine appointments your way.

< Ken Horn is editor of the Pentecostal Evangel and blogs at Snapshots
(khorn.agblogger.org).

------------------------------------------------------------
Vision for a City: Ministry-minded twin brothers Dean and David Curry help
the troubled in Tacoma. Get the whole story in the October 23 Pentecostal
Evangel.

Be sure to read this week�s PE staff blogs at pe.agblogger.org.
------------------------------------------------------------

Have a comment about this devotional?
E-mail your comments to pe@ag.org. Some comments may be printed on the
letters page of the Pentecostal Evangel. (Be sure to identify the devotional
you are commenting on.)

The Evangel is only a click away.
Check out the magazine's latest issue, audio files and blog entries at
http://www.pe.ag.org.

Copyright � 2011 Gospel Publishing House

"A Word Painting"

2011-10-14T19:40:00.000-04:00

"A Word Painting"

"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver. " Proverbs 25:11

This is an interesting word picture to describe our words when they are spoken at the right time. They are compared to "apples of gold in pictures of silver".

Let's break it down this morning to grasp the meaning.

There is an old saying- "An apple a day keeps the doctor away". A word spoken correctly will bring "health" to the hearer. Our words either build up or tear down. So we want to speak words that bring health and healing to the hearts and minds of others.

Gold is one of the precious metals. It is highly valued and has an expensive price. It represents the divine nature of God. His words are always precious and should be valued. When we use our words wisely, we are reflecting His nature.

Pictures has the translation of more than just an object hanging on a wall to look at. It is also an image, a show piece, figure, even an idol. When we speak to others, we are leaving an "image" with them. (Our words truly do paint pictures.) It is either an image of defeat and discouragement, or its an image that builds faith, hope and encouragement. When we speak to others, we want to leave them with a "show piece"- something they can go back to and "look" at over and over again, and each time be encouraged.

Silver is another precious metal- right up there at the top. It symbolizes redemption. Our words have a redeeming power about them- if they are used correctly. They can deliver someone who is feeling weak, unloved, worthless, no good, forgotten. How amazing, just one word can completely change a person's life. A word is all it takes sometimes for someone to change- a word of kindness, a word of compassion, a word of mercy, a word of grace, a word of encouragement or even a word of correction that is spoken in love.

Did you "get the picture"? Seeing the beautiful picture that our words can paint should cause us to consider what we say, how we say it and when it say it.

Have a great day. Our words are painting a picture. The question is, "What kind of picture are they painting?"

For further reading:

Psalm 19:14

James 3:5

Proverbs 18:21; 15:4

1 Timothy 6:3,4

<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><

Coffee Break is a morning devotional written by Lorraine Ezell

and is sent to you free of charge for the asking from

About the Master's Business Ministry, Inc.

Please feel free to

call (601) 833-5278 or

Email: mastersbusiness@bellsouth.net

Visit us on the web: www.mastersbusiness.org

You are welcomed to make copies and distribute them free of charge.

What Did He Pray For?

2011-10-04T07:13:00.000-04:00

What did He Pray For

A voyaging ship was wrecked during a storm at sea and only two of the men on it were able to swim to a small, desert like island.
The two survivors, not knowing what else to do, agreed that they had no other recourse but to pray to God. However, to find out whose prayer was more powerful, they agreed to divide the territory between them and stay on opposite sides of the island.

The first thing they prayed for was food.
The next morning, the first man saw a fruit-bearing tree on his side of the land, and he was able to eat its fruit. The other man's parcel of land remained barren.

After a week, the first man was lonely and he decided to pray for a wife.
The next day, another ship was wrecked, and the only survivor was a woman who swam to his side of the land. On the other side of the island, there was nothing.

Soon the first man prayed for a house, clothes, more food.
The next day, like magic, all of these were given to him.
However, the second man still had nothing.

Finally, the first man prayed for a ship, so that he and his wife could leave the island.
In the morning, he found a ship docked at his side of the island.
The first man boarded the ship with his wife and decided to leave the second man on the island. He considered the other man unworthy to receive God's blessings, since none of his prayers had been answered.

As the ship was about to leave, the first man heard a voice from heaven booming,
Why are you leaving your companion on the island?
"My blessings are mine alone, since I was the one who prayed for them, the first man answered. "His prayers were all unanswered and so he does not deserve anything.

You are mistaken! the voice rebuked him.
He had only one prayer, which I answered.
If not for that, you would not have received any of my blessings.

Tell me, the first man asked the voice,
What did he pray for that I should owe him anything?

He prayed that all your prayers be answered.

For all we know, our blessings are not the fruits of our prayers alone,
but those of another praying for us.

Author Unknown

The Great Writer

2011-09-29T21:11:00.000-04:00

The Great Writer

There was once a young man who, in his youth, professed his desire to become a great writer.

When asked to define "great" he said, "I want to write stuff that the whole world will read, stuff that people will react to on a truly emotional level, stuff that will make them scream, cry, howl in pain and anger!"

He now works for Microsoft, writing error messages.

Surrendering All

2011-09-29T20:57:00.000-04:00

Surrendering All

by Andy Stanley

Discovering the will of your parents or a friend or a coworker is one thing. But discovering God's will is completely different. First of all, God is not in the advice business. He's in the Lordship business. So if you really want to get personal and get God's take on your situation, you'll discover that He requires something up front first: control. More than He wants people who make good decisions, God wants hearts that are surrendered to Him.

God has an uncanny way of knowing where we stand on this issue. And often, He will withhold information about His will until He detects a willingness on our part to follow through on what He says regardless.

So do you really want to know God's will? Are you truly ready for what He'll say? Or are you just looking for another angle on your situation, another opinion to consider before you make up your mind? Your answer may determine how well you hear His.

Excerpted from "Discovering God's Will" by Andy Stanley