tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-283013412024-03-07T01:11:23.235-08:00dan's worlda blog for friends family and whoever wants a peak at my world.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.comBlogger182125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-31803369363672064592013-03-11T11:11:00.000-07:002013-03-11T11:11:26.992-07:00Jesus is?strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-22965566872141787692012-10-27T10:23:00.001-07:002012-10-27T10:23:23.171-07:00sticks and stonesMany times in our lives we get to say how or what we feel on a variety of issues. We were raised with the statement, "sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me!" This is a false statement. While I realize that names or words are used freely. We need to think before we speak! It is because names can hurt words can hurt. God gave us 2 ears one mouth so we need to listen more then speak. It is alright to speak your mind. I am not saying not to do that. But what I am saying is think before you say it. It is fine to joke around but even there be careful. You may not intend the joke or statement to offend but it may. For example a young lady is introduced to you and you think, "hmm she's ugly." You may even say "I don't like her because she is ugly." Word will probably get back to her. This kind of verbage eventually will cause her to doubt if she is pretty. When that happens she'll sink into a bit of depression. Grant it I realze that sometimes oppinions are asked for but choose your words carefully. The tongue is a powerful weapon. A weapon that is misused in many ways. Especially among believers. So my dear brothers and sisters in the Lord, think before you speak. When needed apologize if you hurt some's feelings. You may not have intended to but if you did make it right. Communication is key and helpful. If done properly it can cause big change. Sometimes it is best to be quiet on a given issue. Zip your lips then. Sometimes we as believers need to be seen more then heard. It has been said "I can't hear you because of what your actions" Let your walk match your talk and let the Lord help you and guide you. Some say I talk to much and maybe I do at times but am working on watching what I say. Compliments are awesome and helpful and may bring abouta changed outlook on ones life. So let us put away that old saying and not teach it to children from now on. God bless you my dear readers and check in again soon for more. Who knows what I will post about next! strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-84092480782784439092012-10-24T07:25:00.001-07:002012-10-24T07:25:16.777-07:00forgivenessWe live in a day when people hurt each other. This shouldn't be. Especially if you are a believer in Jesus Christ. It happens I realize and there isn't much I can do about it. However, how you respond to being hurt does make a difference. When someone has hurt you you are to forgive them! Forgive them because Jesus forgave you of your sins. Forgiving is not an option for a believer. Scripture tells us we are to forgive others. Scripture tells us that if we don't forgive others how can we expect the Lord to forgive us. He does! So we aught to forgive others. I realize it is difficult at times but needs to be done. if you hold on to the hurt you are hurting yourself. I say this because most likely the person who hurt you probably has forgotten the fact. you holding on to it just eats you up inside and can cause you other issues. I am not saying forgive and forget because some hurts are near impossible to forget but pray that the Lord will help you. you never know if you forgive someone and they are not a believer, you may have the chance to win them to Christ. So go forth and forgive those who hurt and watch and see the results. I am willing to bet you'll be amazed. strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-49000394275311806772012-10-19T12:28:00.001-07:002012-10-19T12:28:06.360-07:00giftsWe throughout our lives receive many gifts. Some tifgs are awesome, some not so awesome. Some gifts amazing and even some that cause us to wonder why? That having been said the Lord also bestows gifts to us. You may say "heydoesn't either!" I say yes he does! The biggest gift of course is our salvation. This is a free gift all we need to do accept it. many sad to say choose to reject that gift. Secondly, he bestows on us spiritual gifts. For some it may be the gift of speaking, or teaching or working with their hands. What ever your gift is the objective then is accept it and make good use of it. You may very well say "I don't know what my gift is?" I ask then "why not? Are you willing to discover it?" If yousay "Yes!" I am ready to find out then go and discover it. You may ask "how do i discover it?" I say two ways. first take a spiritual gift inventory. these are found a few different places online. you get results within minutes. secondly ask close friends, family what they feel your gift is. also pray that the Lord reveals it to you. The apostle Paul confirms this in 1 Corinthians 12-14. telling us that each person has been gifted differently. Once you know your gift then use it. How? by any means available. Don't pass up opportunity. pray for it. when you see opportunity don't pass it up. if you do then don't complain if you don't see another chance for a while. some gifts are are big and carry a huge responsebility. gifts such as "teaching" if this is your gift teach what the Bible says and use examples yes but don't teach in a way that is kind of scripture based base it totally on scripture and be able to varify it and back it up. when using your gift don't allow your head to get to big. because the Lord may have to prick your head in order for it fit throughthe door way. when you are thanked or complimented on the use of your gift, thank them but at the same time attribute it to the Lord's help. This accknowledges their compliment but also places praise where praise is due. God can use anyone anywhere and anytime, the fact he chooses to use you is his choice. use your gift as often as possible. if you never ever use your gift the Lord will probably ask why you didn't use it. there is no excuse for lack of use. while some will have an abundance of opportunity to use their gift that doesn't mean they are better. by no means. just be willing to be used and watch how God uses you. you'll get a major high when you use your gift. a major high or charge or something like that. when you pray for opportunity keep your eyes and ears open. and truly watch and listen. having said all that stand up, go forth and apply your gift for the Lord's service and watch what happens. strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-19808535490899667962012-10-14T12:45:00.002-07:002012-10-14T12:45:26.926-07:00Where Do I GoThere is a song that came out several years ago by this very title. It basically asked: "Where do I go when I need some shelter? Where do I go when I need a friend? I go to my knees in prayer. I realize that many of you reading this are going through struggles of a variety of types. I also realize it may seem like no end to the struggle. But Where do you go? Some of you may go to the bottle, others drugs, others maybe sexual intimacy. While these may be pleasurable they can't help. I go to my knees in prayer when struggles come. I then seek out my pastor or close friend and seek help. These are better ways of handling the struggle. As I stated it may seem like there is no end in site. you may be weeping endlessly but joy will come. When you pray pray earnestly and don't quit. Give it all to the Lord and seek Him diligently. In doing so be ready for Him to answer. He will answer. It might not be the answer you were wanting but He will answer. So keep your eyes open to see it when it comes. Keep your ears open and be ready to listen. He may answer you Himself directly but He may use a pastor or close friend or family to answer. Sometimes it is yes, sometimes no and sometimes wait. if it is no then it is for a reason and feel like unaswered prayer. but I thank God for what seems like unaswered prayers. because things changed for me and worked out for the best. just stick with the task at hand pray until you see the answer and accept it no matter what it is. people come and go and flee at times of trouble from you. but Jesus promises "I will never leave you nor forsake you!" so you can count on Him to see you through. you may ask but I did... to get into this. I say confess what you've done if it was sin confess it and thank him for his forgiving spirit. and be ready. you may be surprised. in fact I am confident you will be. strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-59460779531841834062012-10-13T11:33:00.001-07:002012-10-13T11:33:33.950-07:00no greater loveScripture tells that "No greater has no man then this, the lays down his life for his friend" Jes was speaking of love an awesome. He was talking about himself in that he was going to be cru9icified for our sins. but we to shouyld be willing to diestrider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-2221092436705884182012-10-13T11:31:00.001-07:002012-10-13T11:31:08.324-07:00the storms of lifeAs we live our lives, we experience a various types of weather. Sometimes calm clear, sometimes cloudy and yet other times stormy. If you have come to Christ as your saviour He is always there with you and will see you through. If you don't know Him then accept Him today. Will that mean troubles go away? I say resondingly no! Christ didn't promise those who believe in Him a easy road. Many well meaning ministers of the Word of God try promising this in some way shape or form. But it isn't to be so. Storms will come. But God will calm the storms in His time. When Jesus was here on earth He was asleep in a boat during a storm. His disciples woke Him and paniced that they were going to sink. Jesus just rose up rebuked the storm and it was calm once more. He then rebuked the disciples for their lack of faith. It may seem like no end in site, but you can get through any and all storms no matter how bad it is or gets God will be there to see you through. the path to Heaven is narrow and narrow paths are difficult to walk and stay on. But it is possible. just keep your eyes focused on Jesus andpray like there is no tommarrow and my friend God will answer. once you pray open up your ears and listen. He does answer. we just need to listen. it may not be the answer desired but it is the right answer. If you don't know Jesus today I urge you take that step. You'll be glad you did. it doesn't matter where you are or what you've done you will be accepted. all you need to do is believe that Jesus died on the cross and rose again. confess to Him your a sinner. and ask Him to come into your heart. you can pray something like this "God I know I'm a sinner and have done things my way, I believe in you now and ask you to come into my heart. amen. then at that moment you are a child of God. you may say but I... doesn't matter. God knows allyou've done and will do. the thing is God loves you big time. the Bible says "god so loved the world he gave his only begotten son that whoever believes in him shal have ever lasting life. don't wait no time is better then right now. because if you don't and you die. you'll go to hell. and that is a place you don't want to go. no second chance. Heaven is the place to be. I am going there how about you?strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-63628539810439196012012-10-11T11:10:00.001-07:002012-10-11T11:10:46.902-07:00relationshipsIn our lives we have multiple relationships. Some romantic, some acquaintances, co-workers, and others kind of unique. As friends come into your life treasure them. Treat them with respect and do thing for them and with them. Friends will come and go. Some friends are meant to only be ones life tempoary. Others long term and others variying lengths. Don't question "why" God brings this person or that person into your life. Just accept them for who they are. Just to help people be aware: I am no longer engaged to be married. I broke this engagement and for very good reasons. However, I do now have a special lady in my life and who knows where this relationship will lead. it is certain it is off to a good start. Her name is Tara. She lives in Minnisota. yes a long distance relationship but it is possible. treasure your relationships. you are blessed if you have at least one friend. Stand by them through the good, bad and ugly and everything between. if thing come up that cause friction? then work them out and resolve the issues quickly. this goes even more so importantly for romantic relationships. Life is tempoary so don't worry pray often for your friends and family and relationships you have. if possible pray with your friends or significant other. Above all show them Christ's love and i'll bee willing to bet you'll see some amazing stuff happen. if you pray with your friends it can only do one thing, and that is make that relationship stronger. The bible tells us to pray for those who mistreat us and are "our enemies." it is a challenge but one a believer should take up and run with. weeping may last a night time but joy comes in the morning. Isay this all to remind you: treasure your relationships because you don't know how long they last. if they depart let them go. if God wills they'll return in due time. strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-67893552626937173322012-10-11T06:41:00.001-07:002012-10-11T06:41:25.255-07:00victoryWe as believers need to start to walk in victory. We have victory in Jesus forever. Jesus came and died and rose again so that we can be saved and have the victory. You may say I don't have victory over... I say this may be so, but in the end when it is all said and done you will have victory. It is with God's help you can and will have victory. In my life I've been through many challenges some of which i didn't overcome, but others I have and only by God's strength. my dear saints start living in victory and claiming it. You may say I'm no saint! I say you are. Scripture proves this point. In acts where it it talks of Paul's trips he always visited the "saints" so if you are a believer then you are a saint that once and a while sins. When the Lord sees you he doesn't see the sin. Father God sees you through Jesus. because of whe he did on the cross. He paid for all your sins no matter what or will be. you are forgiven and therefore you can walk in victory. strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-9106155576881617372012-01-22T12:01:00.001-08:002012-01-22T12:01:13.524-08:00We can build walls or we can build bridges. It is all up to you what you are going to buld. Many of us put walls of varying types and thickness. Many times we keep adding to the wall with the hopes that no one will get through. We do this because of something someone either said, or did to us. Often times these walls are built out of hurt. Christ is the one who can ultimately heal those hurts. We aught to be more in the habbit of build bridges! These are path ways that others can come to us and us to them. Ways for us to be able to minister God's love to a lost and dying world. So let us begin taring down the walls. Not worry what brother or sister so and so says. We need to keep our eyes on the Lord Jesus and not take our eyes of Him. When we do it will only lead us to trouble. Forgive any and all things done to you. We are commanded in Scripture to love one another as Christ loves us and to love our neighbor as ourself. Christ also comands us to forgive many times. Gives us a warning that if we don't forgive others then we are not forgiven. The book of Matthew speaks of this very clearly. When building the bridge don't put anything the hinders one to take that bridge. It may take years to build a birdge and tare down the walls but get started. Ask the Lord Jesus Christ to aid you in this and I am willing to bet you'll be amazed. For Jesus promised us He would never leave us or forsake us. He promises His protection. So let us take God at His word and start showing love and helping others to know He forgives them and so do we. To many walls separate us between denominations. Walls put up because of rules that dictate that one shouldn't associate with someone of that faith. Let the walls come down and lets join togather win the world for Jesus and send old ugly Satan running for a change.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-6012322135493752592012-01-22T11:50:00.000-08:002012-10-11T11:14:31.224-07:00building bridges or wallsstrider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-78846257895410338862012-01-15T07:18:00.000-08:002012-01-15T07:31:45.320-08:00promisesWith the new year under way, many make new promises to each other and themselves. Often times, these promises are kept. But many times they are broken. This happens year round. People often promise they'll due this or that, only to break said promise. It is like they just promise to do... to get someone off their back. We should only promise if we are certain we can fullfill. If I were toask how many have had promises mad to them and found them broken. I am sure the majority of you wuld raise your hands. If I asked how many have had promises kept, only a handfull would probably raise their hands. I am here to tell you I know a man who always keeps His promise. He has never broken a single promise He has made. You may say "Who?" This person has always existed and will always be around. That man is God! He always fullfills his promises. You will say I'm sure "of course he does he's God He's perfect so He has to." Yes he is perfect. He promised to send His son to pay for the price of sin. He did. Jesus was born. Jesus did many awesome deeds while on earth. The most awesome was His death on the cross. Why was that so awesome? He didn't stay dead. He rose again as He promised He would. Thus paying our penality for sin. All we need to do then is accept His free gift He offers to us. Scripture tells us that the wages of sin is death, "eternal separation from God," but the giftof God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. It is totally free. All one has to do to accept it is ask God for it. Simplely by praying God please forgive me a sinner, I ask you to come into my heart and cleanse me. You can use your own words. it is as simple as that. No strings attached whatsoever. I promise life will still be a struggle. But with God on your side you can accomplish much. You just need to trust Him for your needs and do the work to accomplish said needs. Always pray and ask God for guidance study the Bible and find other like minded individuals who will help guide you and show you the way. When you promise from here on out, remember you did and do your best to keep it. I know things come up unforseen but you can't help that. but be sure that you can follow through with your promise befor you make it. God loves you big time and so do I.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-9941511511361715342011-10-19T09:13:00.001-07:002011-10-19T09:31:27.866-07:00to dreamI know I've written about this subject a few times in the past. But it needs to be revisited. I read a quote by eger alan poe "one who dreams by day is father then one who dreams at night only." You may ask: How could this be? The one who dreams at night sleeps and as the night visions go about his head he arises in the morning and thinks no more of it. The one who dreams by day this is a person who has a purpose he wants to pursue. We all have a dream unique to us. it isn't anyone elses dream but ours alone. Some say "I dream of owning a new car" they really mean "I want a better used car." Some may say "My dreams is for my children to succeed." this is a dream of sorts but it is for your children not for you directly. <br /><br />You need to wake up and dream! Define your dream. What is it you really have in your heart you want to go after. Write it down. Then look for ways to pursue. It may take days weeks or even years to obtain but keep on it. eventually you'll achieve your dream. Look at that paper when you rise and when you go to sleep. This will help reinforce it in your mind and keep you focus. Spend time in prayer asking the Lord for direction in pursuing your dream. Just because youstart to have difficulty does not mean it isn't for you. Take the journey to pursue your dream. It is said that the journey of a thousand miles starts with one step. Take the steps in the direction of your dream and don't turn back till you reach it. Now is the Lord says "NO!" then don't but be sure and varifye the message and if it is no the Lord will make it obviously clear. Wives! if your husband decides to pursue his dream encourage him push him a little. Husbands the same thing concerning your wives. if the two of you have the same dream all the better. Ignore the doubters and shouters. Surround yourselves with people who are like minded and encourage you. The most important thing pray! if your dream is to take a vaction in europe and experience all there is. Watch movies filmed in that area. Look at brotchures and view pictures that will help reinforce the dream. Your dream may truly be for a new car. Go to car lots where those cars are you are dreaming of. Sit in them test drive them experience them. Build models of cars you wish you had. I am totally blind and you may say how can a blind man do it. Well i would gather models of the veicle I wish I had and do the same thing. Movies? yes I would watch movies filmed where I wish to visit. It is all in your mind and when you've decided your going to take that step to pursue it. Go for it! No matter how bad it gets or how bad it is you say to yourself say I'm going to make it. There are so many other things one can do to pursoe their dream. the key is pursue it and don't turn back. A dream not pursued is of no good. We all have dreams Proverbs tells us "without a vision " or "dream" the people perish. So wake! Up! lets go and I hope to see each one of you at the top.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-8082433431416175192011-09-11T18:27:00.001-07:002011-09-11T18:34:52.849-07:00remembering whenI have many fond memories. I remember where I was when 9-11 happened. I remember when I heard that Reagan had died. I remember when faith! meant something! It meant sharing the gosple with boldness and without fear. It meant standing up for Jesus and not stepping down. It meant pray pray and pray till something happens. However now faith seems to be fading some what. fewer and fewer believers are taking stands for what is right. they say "christians shouldn't get involved with..." christians now are slimming in mumbers when prayer is needed. unless it is personal then it is issue. this causes me to wonder why? and where did it all take place. I realize that laws are tougher now then they were then but why in this time of darkness are christians so quiet. there some who are bold but the majority seem to be quiet. and forget it asking some christians to share their testimony of what God is doing. they shy from it and say it is not my calling. my dear readers as a believer it is our duty to share our testimony of what God has done and is continuing to do in our lives. what am i saying here? WAKE UP CHURCH!!!! the enemy is doing what he can to silence us but lets not take it sitting down by the way side. lets Speak! up!! I pray that true revival comes to this nation.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-79862062269922362512011-08-31T07:35:00.000-07:002011-08-31T07:53:42.324-07:00where do I go?There was a song that came out years ago that asked this very question. It asked: "where do I go when I need some loving, where do I go when i need a friend where do I go?" The answer is then given back on my knees in prayer. It has coe to my understanding I think that any believers are not using unless absolutely have to prayer. They are quick to promise to pray about a given situation but often empty promise. They walk away and probably don't give the matter a second thaught. This my friend shouldn't be. We need to pray continously. Scripture tells us to pray with out ceasing. This means always be in prayer. I ask you what is prayer? Some of you will probably answer talking to God about stuff. I respond NO! It is talking with God. You may ask talking with God he doesn't say anything. My friend you are wrong there to. His Holy Spirit speaks to us but we often tune him out because we're not liking what he is telling us. so we look to other sources for the answer. My pastor gave a principle that has stuck with me. it is the push principle. Pray Until Something Happens. Just because you don't see immediate results doesn't mean stop or he isn't hearing. God hears all our prayers and answers them all. not always in the manner we expect but His way is best so he answers accordingly. I will admit myself there have been times when I haven't taken prayer seriously. but over the past few years or so I have since changed my mind set. Prayer is a mighty weapon and it is one that if used more then it is now we could see some big time results. so my dear reader don't promise to pray about a given issue unless you intend to follow through. then watch for the results. if needs be get back with the person whom you promised to pray for and check how the issue is going. when you are going on you may say I want to help this person but I can't I have nothing available. my friend you always have something available to do. you got it pray pray pray. God answers prayer sometimes yes sometimes no and sometimes simplely wait. But he answers. Keep praying earnestly about it and watch for the results. Prayer in my oppinion is our mightiest weapon we have to use that followed up with the Word of God. God does speak to us it is up to us to open our ears and listen and truly listen. when you pray though mean it. don't just do it just because. have a purpose in your prayer and stick with it. so e a christian who knows scripture forwards and backwards but doesn't pray and I'll show you a believer who struggles. Scriptures tells us to pray so what good is it to know scripture if you don't do what it teaches. you may say i don't know how to pray. there is no formal way to pray. just share what is on your mind and heart no need to us formalities. come as you are to the throne and leg the Lord take of it. you can pray standing up, sitting in a chair, laying in bed on your knees while driving. just pray until something happens then find something else to pray for but keep praying.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-72431154571156492282011-08-28T12:24:00.000-07:002011-08-28T12:40:27.917-07:00sticks and stonesThere is a saying that is often taught to children that is so full of lies it amazes me it is taught with any confidence. SSticks and stones may break my bones but your names will never hurt me! This is wrong! Names can hurt. In fact often times they cut deep and leave mental scars. The Bible tells us that we should be selective of our words. We are not speak in manner that hurts. I realize we teach this saying to help kids have a come back that will hopefully stop the teasing and harmful words. But covering it over with a banade only will bring more hurt to others later. Because after a while a person is fed up with being picked on and eventually they will start picking back and often in more hurtfull ways then they received. If we could only see the effect of our words on people I bet we'd change the way we word things and be selective to the utmost with what we say. The way we sometimes talk about others is just as bad. We are quick to gossip or tell stories about someone else just because we enjoy talking. This doesn't belong in the mouth of a believer. A believer has no business gossipping even a little. it is sin. even if we talk of someone and it is true we shouldn't be talking about someone because usually when it is done it only leads to hurtful speaking and causes trouble. So be careful of what you say and of how you say what you say. I've often said it isn't what you say it is how you say it that gets results. You may not of intended to cause anger with your statement but think about how you said it. the hearer probably was angered. i am sure it wasn't intended but think befor you speak. We have two ears and one mouth we should listen more then we speak. We often tell kids not to speak bad of this person or that but we often times do what we tell them not do. So think befor you speak and when you speak be sure you realy it in a manner that conveys your intent. In closing stop teaching that statement and start teach kids just to suck it up and roll with it. There are times someone may say something to me that isn't appealing I have learned to respond with "thank you I didn't realize you thaught of me so highly." it is said in scarism to a degree but often curtails it and i can move forward. Words can hurt and they can heal. it is in your power. I hope you to use healing words more. as a believer you owe it to yourself to reflect Christ in word and action. let them match up. don't let gossip be named about you. may it be said of you "they were a man or woman of God they spoke truth freely and were a pleasure.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-51899285821517814802011-08-27T07:05:00.000-07:002011-08-27T07:23:51.526-07:00whose hands is it inIt is said in an emial that I received a while back, that a basketball in my hands is worht nothing. A basketball in the hands of someone like Michael Jordan that ball is worth millions. A paint brush in my hands is worthless, but a brush in the hands of the like like Pacaso is worht millions. My life in my hands is worthless to a degree but if I put my lyfe in the hands of Jesus Christ it is worth a great deal. So I am asking you my dear readers where have you placed your life. You may say "I am a christian." While i won't deny that, I still whose hands is your life in. Haveyou placed in His hands and let Him take control. I have and there have been times where I've taken it back in my hands only to mess up yet again. I'm mindful of the song by t Underwood "Jesus take the wheel. Me driving my life I get lost. I make wrong turns and head in ditches and end up in a dead end road. I need to Let Jesus take the wheel. He knows whats best. I'm also mindful of the disciple Peter. Had he not taken his eyes off of Jesus he would have walked right to him and not sunk. But he took his eyes off and began to sink. Jesus saved him of course. If we keep our eyes on the storm and not on Christ we will feel like we are sinking and going to be remembered no more. I am not saying that by placing your life in hands that all will be good right away. But things will improve and get betterr. Scripture tells us in Romans 8 28 "all things workt togather for good to those love God and are called according to His purpose. We will still face trials and temptations but we have been given power through Jesus to weather the storm. 1 John tells us greater is he that is in us then he who is in the world. Satan walk likes a roaring lion seeking who get. I am not by any means saying I am perfect. He's still working on me to make me what He wants me to be. But I know I need to lean on the ever lasting arms of Jesus. He will protect me and guide me. but bottom line is for me to trust Him. Proverbs 3 5-6 tells us "trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path." Put your entire being in His hands and trust him and watch and see what will happen. Give it time and you will begin to see results. God is not slack with fullfilling His promises. He loves you far to much to. For those of you who may be reading this and don't know Him. Accept Him today and you'll not regret it. When you've accept him just pray something like "Jesus I know I am a sinner and am in need of you please forgive me and come in my heart. He will do it right away. Then get hooked up with a church and fellowship with other believers and continue in reading the Bible and prayer. So I will close by saying: "Let go and Let God take control. He will fullfill His promise and will never leave your side. No matter what you do or have done. Just ask Him to guide you and willfully give up your life control and Let Jesus take the wheel.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-90080021491257288462011-03-28T06:13:00.000-07:002011-03-28T06:28:23.557-07:00do as i say not as i doWe've all heard it said before and unless I miss my guess we've all said it ourselves. "Do as I say and not as I do." While it is not usually said right up front, it does eventually come out. For example we might say to our kids or friend "you shouldn't be drinking so much or smoke its bad for your health." But wait are you doing just drink excessively or smoking? chances are you probably are doing the opposite you are asking them to do. they may not know you do but you'll eventually get caught. The person won't say anything at first. but the next time you tell them not to... they are mostly likely to say "but you do it!" your kids will say that or if mom catches them, "but daddy does it." Daddy will often times then retort "do as I say and not as I do." my friends this shouldn't be. we should do exactly what we are asking others to do. This way your walk matches your talk. it's one thing to expect your children or family or friends to act a given way. but it is entirely a different thing for you to follow through with what you are requesting. you may say "I don't want them to fall into the same trap as I have!" this is no excuse. scripture tells us first to cast out the plank in our eye then we can see clearly to clear the speck out of another's eye. So the next time you are tempted to tell your child or friend not to... think of yourself and ask yourself "am i doing what i don't want to see them do?" if the answer is that you are not doing it then go ahead. if you are then stop doing it. that way they can see your example and follow it willingly and not out of fear. above all be careful as to how you tell this. I've always said "it is not what you say it is how you say what you say that is going to convey the message." tone is key. if you use a tone that is relaxed and laid back then you won't be taken serious. if you use an extreme tone one that boarders on anger then you'll strike fear and that isn't always. but if you use a tone that is gentle but serious and a little stern then the reaction in that situation denotes you do mean it and really want to see thing change. always always think before you speak. listen more then you speak and you'll be surprised what might happen. till next time my friends know i love you and am praying for you and if i can help don't hesitate to call on me.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-20962869848664004612011-03-22T18:44:00.000-07:002011-03-22T19:09:04.956-07:00memory laneLet's take a trip down memory lane shall we? Come along with me you won't regret it. I have many fascinating memories I could share but am going to write about two of them now and maybe more later.<br /><br />I remember while I was growing up my mom bab sitting. The memory I treasure most about that time took place when I was about a softmore or junior in high school. Mom bab sat many kids of varying ages. Each of us had a special child that seemed to attach themselves to us more then others. I am mindful of a young boy names Joey. I don't remember his last name. Anyway he was cool. I would play with him and if I was home and he knew it he only wanted me to put him to bed for his nap and get him from said nap. In the mornings while I waited for my bus he helped me watch for my bus. The first time caught me off guard. Mom shouted, "he's trying to telling you your bus is here" I thanked him gave a quick hug and was off. When I got home if he was up from his nap he would come running to me. During the summer prior to him doing this I went to the Michigan School for the Blind for their summer enrichment program. It was a two week program. We had gym, home economics, art and a few other classes. In my art class I made a small teddy bar. Wasn't anything fansy. He was dropped off one morning and I made sure I was up to see him come in. I gave him the bear. He hugged it big time and wouldn't let it go. Mom tells me that he wouldn't go to bed for his nap unless he had his special bear. In fact one afternoon when he got picked up to go home he took off running down the hill in to the field next to our house. He would come back up. Mom tried and his mom tried. the next thing I know mom comes in and requests me to come out and explains to me what happened. I walked down the hill. knelt down and called for him. he came right to me and ask me "what?" I picked him up in my arms and said your mommy needs you its time to go home. it was amazing. not sure what i did any different then his mom or my mom did. I just know he came right to me no problem.<br /><br />Now for my next memory. it concerns me and loosing my sight. I was born withgloucoma. had my first eye surgery shortly after birht. had many surgeries over the first 10 years of my life. when I was 7 and in the second grade that is when things when down hill. no longer was it possible for me to attend my home school. had to go where i could get the help i needed. while i wasn't totally blind yet it was certain to happen. prior to that I had surgery. to help lessen the pressure in my eye. well after surgery when it was about time to go home the nurse was insisting i get up and use the rest room. I was insistant i didn't need to go. they got me out of bed and was about half way to the rest room when i was sick to my stomach. blood vessles broke in the eye that was operated on. when i returned home during the night they broke again and i couldn't see anything at all for 6 weeks. was homebound for school. things started looking better. was transfered to a new school. well some how some way vessles broke again nd it was all down hill from there. when i was in the fourth grade lost my sight totally. i remember experiencing a range of emotions. which is to be expected. but thankfully my family has never ever allowed me to use my lack of eye sight as an excuse to not do something. in fact i have tried and was given a kick in the pants many times. for this am thankful but then didn't understand. i moved on since then and have achieved a variety of successes and received honors and awards. have always been a leader and seems destin to always to be the first blind person to... but it is my lot in life and I just ask the Lord for strength to bare it and move on forward. till next time. be blessed and stay tuned for more stuff.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-2081410292543933302011-03-22T08:12:00.000-07:002011-03-22T08:33:09.093-07:00my relationship!As many of you my dear readers know or have figured out from an earlier post. I am in a relationship. I am involved with a wonderful lady who is genuine, sweet, totally awesome. She treats me with respect and helps me out and is not trying to change me to her image. Yes we've had some rough spots. But who of you can say that you've never ever have had some with any relationship either past or current. it is part of life. we are getting to know each other and it is awesome. my single days are definetly numbered. i know this for certain. my parents have met her and RuthAnn has met her and all like her. She has 3 kids 2 girls and one boy and i've met them and it appears we are off to a good start. I know this for sure I have not been this happy in a long time. TYes I've been happy here and there but nothing like this. We met via a local telephone dating service. chatted back and forth and then decided to meet. when i met her it was an instant connect. and we chat on a regular basis keeping lines of communication open and remembering to keep it in prayer. she asks me about things concerning me so she can know how she can help and is willing to be patient. to me she is a God sent. she's an angel in my eyes. i keep telling her that heaven is real sad. i know sadness doesn't exist in heaven but it is sad because of of their sweetest and most beautiful angels is missing. praise God I have a lady in my life that I can love and treat like a queen. i do my utmost best. sometimes i admit i mess up but she forgives me and loves me for me.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-91847788441715325922011-03-21T18:01:00.000-07:002011-03-21T18:11:26.536-07:00approvalWe live in a day and age where approval is consistently saught. We seek approval for many things: things like, our clotheing, loans, where we live, food, what we say and or do. While some of these things are necessary not are really absolutely necessary. Esspecially when it pertains to chasing ones dream or the ministry they desire to do. While pertaining to ministry one sometimes needs approval from the board at church if it is going to be done at the church. That is understandable. But this should stop one from going forth. When the rubber meets the road only one approval is truly needed and His approval is best. If the Lord approves of what you desire to do, then do it. If He has given you a calling or has prompted you via the Holy Spirit to do something, don't worry about what anyone else thinks. It is nice to have approval of friends and family, however, it can be a stiffle in us moving ahead. You may say but... I am not equipt to do... What if brother so and so doesn't like it? If he doesn't then oh well who cares. If the Lord has placed on your heart then do it. because He and He alone will provide what is neccary to get it done. Sometimes we need to step out in faith and go. I am mindful of Abraham. He left his family and headed for a land he didn't know and a people he didn't know.He left on faith because God said to. and looked what happend. He was prosperous and a huge success. So the next time you are about to step out in faith. Don't worry about approval. if it comes great. if not then move forward. above all else pray pray pray about it and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. When you do you can't go wrong.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-72899559948783596212011-03-17T12:42:00.000-07:002011-03-17T12:56:41.807-07:00coming togatherWe as Christians really need to come togather and unite as one. Far to often I hear and see Christians each other over stuff that needs not be argued. In fact, it is safe to say Christians today spend more time fighting each other then time in prayer or in the word of God. We meet someone who is a different denomination then us and we do our best to cover that lable and put our lable on them. If we just spend more time in prayer and in the word, we might just send old ugly running. These arguments need to stop. Arguments over things like dress, translations, spiritual gifts, when to worship. just to name a few. All that matters in my book is that one believes in Jesus Christ as their Lord and savior. Believe He is the only to God the Father. Believe that He came, died on the cross and rose again. Other then that when you get down to it the rest is minor and really is mute. Granit there are things in Scripture that are 100% clear as to if they are right or wrong. Yet there are others that are more difficult. We are commanded in Scripture to love one another as Christ loves. We are to love others the same way. So instead of trying to change someone, how about just loving them and praying with them. How about showing Christs love and let Him take care of the details and opening their eyes to the truth if needs be. Gossip has no business in the church and it is rampit. Back biting shouldn't be a part of a believers life in anyway shape or form. If someone comes to you and says "did you hear about brother or sister so and so?" we should nip it there. We should say "I have not nor do i need to hear." If i need to hear it I am sure they'll let me know. I have no problem sharing prayer requests on someones behalf or updating prayer requests. but one should be careful to stick to the facts and not imbelish. Nor should one give their commentary. As i've wrote in previous posts we should always keep in mind "what would Jesus do?" and move according. I know no one is perfect but I do know people often speak before they think and act before as well and this is not excusable. so lets come togather and unite as the family of God and start taring down strong holds of the enemy and send him running for a change.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-53677425316981684302011-02-24T11:42:00.000-08:002011-02-24T12:07:09.327-08:00getting back to basicsWe need to really get ourselves back to the basics of life. you may ask "what are they?" the basics of life are a heart that is pure and a love that is right and a faith firmly grounded in Christ. These truly the basics. <br />A faith firmly ground in Christ. How? the way this is achieved is by being consistant in studying the word of God. not just on Sundays or Wednesdays. making sure you have a daily personal time in Scripture and sticking up with it. what shoud I study? Scripture and choose passages you wish. a good idea would be to use a devotional of some type. there are many out there each focuses on a given area. also spend much time in prayer. prayer is talking with Jesus and asking for him to guide you and show you what He wants to see from Scripture. doing this consistantly will give you a firm foundation.<br />A love that is right. What is a right kind of love? a right kind of love is simplely put love others as God loves them. Don't think for a moment that you cant for... because they are unlovable! there is no such person. God loves all people and we should do like wise. Sure some people may be difficult to love some may even be more difficult then others but do it anyway. This can be done a number of ways. some ways don't even cost a cent. the only cost for many things is your effert and willingness to do it. <br />Heart that is pure. they one obtains this is by keeping their mind focused on Christ and their mind on scripture. by not allowing their thaughts to sawy into filth. Take ever thaught captive and make it subject to Christ. easier said then done I realize this. it is a practice I do my best to do. I really think if we as believers in Christ return to the basics and stop the finger pointing name calling arguing about this point or that. if we stop this behavior i'll bet you a dollar to a dog biscuit we would see a revival happen in our country. we also need to stop worrying about what this or that person will think of what we say. if the Lord puts on your to speak a given word do it. don't say then apologize for saying it. I admit some things are best left unsaid and sometimes better to be seen then heard. but some people have a sick adiction to being offended. we ourselves need to be gentle but also need to be able take what people say and not be easily offened and become bitter. bottom line "Let go and leg God! afterall if God is on our side how can we loose?strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-69985206922784522122011-02-21T10:39:00.000-08:002011-02-21T10:52:51.755-08:00wwjdThere was a common saying that was popularized during the early to mid 90's. What would Jesus do? wwjd That has since kind of died out. but we as believers should have that question at the forfront of our minds anytime we are faced with temptation or choices of any type. we should ask ourselves what would Jesus do? if the answer no then our answer should be no. the way one knows this is how? by staying in the word of God on a regular basis. the more you are in the word the more you'll be able to know what to do. I realize that there are some issues that are not mentioned exact in scripture. however a good rule of thumb if it evens has a slight hint of being wrong, don't do it. I realize that some choices are simple and really don't need to ask that question. but many choices are not. to many times i've observe fellow christians ignor all warning lights signals and prompting from the Holy Spirit and plunged into sin without a second thaught then come up with excuses as to why they did it. ridiculious excuses and excuses sad to say are baught hook line and sinker. example of decision "should I go out whering a short skirt and a blouse leaving nothing to guess" or "should i where super tight jeans excenuating my attrigbutes and head for the bar? of course not you may say i go there to witness. let me tell you you aren't going to win souls dressed like that. the men who see you dress like that are only thinking of one thing and it is not Jesus. nor are the ladies thinking Jesus guys when you where tight jeans. so your dress should be modest and not showy. keep all that revealing clothing for at home when you are with your mate. sorry for being blunt here but lets get basics of life. living a life that is pure and demostrating a love that is right. i am not perfect and i sometimes even stumble and ignor warnings i admit it. but we all need to stay on target. they say good things come to those that wait. while the waiting is often long and not fun it is worth it I guarentee it. as a man or women thinks in they're heart so they are. it may seem good at first but gets boring and leads to worse. so stay in the word all the time if possible memorize scripture so that when stuff comes you can resist it if needs be. we are already forgiven for all sins past present and future that doesn't give us license to sin just because. forgiveness is always given and is abundantly destowed on us with out conditions. but lets keep that old phrase in mind and use as a guide to our behavior. wwjdstrider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28301341.post-79430943558451034522011-02-19T13:06:00.000-08:002011-02-19T13:24:10.864-08:00amist the stormWhen is it easiest for us to praise God? When no struggles are happening? When we are on top of the mountain? Yes! that is when it is easiest to praise Him. It is often when we are in the valley and storms are raging around us we panic and freeze up. We get side tracked by the issues and loose focus on Jesus. It is in this time we should sing aloud praises to our Lord! I can prove this from Scripture. Paul and Silas when they were in jail what did they do? They prayed and sang praises to the Lord. What happened? The earth shook chains came off doors were opened and they obtained freedom. What could they hvae done? They could of cried and winced in pain because of their beatings they had received. They could have played the pity poor me game. Did they? No! they did not! They kept on task and prayed and counted it glorious to suffer for Christ. We as believers today should follow their example. Storms will come and some will be intense. Stay focused on Jesus. He will bring peace amist the storm. In fact when He was here on earth He caused peace amist storms. The disciples quaked and were afraid they were going to drown. They awoke Jesus and he rebuked the winds and waves and peace came. So the next time storms rage around and it seems no way out look to Jesus. Ask him to grant you peace during the torm and give you direction. Will he? Yes he will. Remember Peter, he started walking on the water during a storm and was making good head way. But he took his off Jesus and focused on circumstances and began to sink. He cried out to Jesus to rescue him and Jesus did. There to keep your eyes locked on Jesus. If you take focus off Him you may start to sink. In fact some of you reading this now I know are going through storms and it feels like your sinking fast. Kind of like your in quick sand. Call out to Jesus and he will rescue you give you peace and protection. Does this mean then storms will then be forever gone? I am afraid to say it, no! They assuredly will come again. maybe not as fierce everytime but rest assure they will come. But know this Jesus is with in your boat and with Jesus on board you'll make through any and all storms no matter how fierce. it is easy to loose sight. I know that I have often and have often times felt like there was no hope and no way out. But as soon as I made the correction in focus that is when things began to start to look clearer. So always be praising the Lord Jesus on the mountain while going down and especially in the valley. That is the most important. If Satan hates anything he hates when a blood baught saint of God praises God for their circumstances. you may not have a lot of money at the moment and wonder how things will get better. They will. you may be in need of food and don't know how or where. God will provide and from an unexpected source for sure. Satan will try as he might to steel your joy and cause you to play the pity poor me. Trust God count every and all blessings. He blesses us everyday sometimes with huge blessings and some blessings are small. But count every blessing and be thankful. you may say "Ihave nothing to be thankful for" I say yes you do. Some blessings we take for granit. So when you go through your next storm Praise! God! and watch what happens.strider1971http://www.blogger.com/profile/13119963430223339952noreply@blogger.com0