Trail Mix - 7.31.19

July 31, 2019 – “Who do we trust? Some folks trust their doctor. Others trust their attorney or someone else in their life. Some trust their spouse or their parents. Some trust in material things like stocks, bonds, CDs, etc. Who and what we trust makes a huge difference in our life. God invites us to trust HIM. Proverbs 3:4-5 says “Trust the Lord, and lean not thine own understanding…” Trusting God is a sure thing. It is never a gamble to trust Him!” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for you to “…lean on the everlasting arms.”

Job 13:15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him…KJV

“Someone once asked Jay Kesler, former president of Youth for Christ International, if he believed that God could make a fish big enough to swallow a man. As a college president and above average in intelligence, in a world in which we have learned to split the atom and go to the moon and send spaceships to Neptune, did Kesler really think that God can make a fish big enough to swallow a man? I mean really? Dr. Kesler’s reply is one of simple trust in a great God. He answered, "Let me tell you, I not only believe that he can make such a fish, but the God who made the sun and the moon and the stars, if he wanted to, could air-condition and carpet the fish!"

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today -Isaiah 39-42

Trail Mix - 7.30.19

July 30, 2019 – “One of our favorite hymns speaks of our constant need for Jesus, “I need thee, oh I need thee, every hour I need the…” Friend, do not be like those who only seek Him when they are in a crisis, but make it your goal to walk with Him daily whether through the valley or on the mountaintop. You will need Him in the furnace like the Hebrew children and you will need Him in times of fruitfulness to remind you not to be presumptuous. Seek Him early and often! S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for a heart filled with a desire to be in His presence, to sit at His feet like Mary of Bethany who chose the “better part!”

Psalms 9:10 And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee. KJV

“Tim Hansel in his book "When I Relax I feel Guilty," writes some insights of what most people want from God. "I would like to buy $3.00 worth of God, please. Not enough to explode my soul or disturb my sleep, but just enough to equal a cup of warm milk or a snooze in the sunshine. I don't want enough of Him to make me love a black man or pick beets with a migrant. I want ecstasy, not transformation; I want the warmth of the womb, not a new birth. I want a pound of the Eternal in a paper sack. I would like to buy $3.00 worth of God, please." If we would be totally honest, the idea of transformation really scares us. That is because we know that such a radical change would be quite uncomfortable. We realize that with transformation comes a major overhaul of our lives and priorities.”

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Isaiah 36-38

Trail Mix - 7.29.19

July 29, 2019 – “Many times we realize the preciousness of a loved one when we think of what it would be like without them. This is certainly true of the Lord Jesus for what and where would we be without Him who has promised, “…Never to leave nor forsake us…” Thoughts and meditations about Jesus and our great need of Him will only enhance His preciousness to us. “Jesus is the sweetest name I know, and He’s just the same as His lovely name…” Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is for a renewed sense of longing in your heart to see the Lord.

Psalms 63:6 When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.

7 Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice. KJV

“Three mischievous boys went to the zoo one day on a school outing. They decided to visit the elephant enclosure but within an hour, they were picked up by a police officer for causing a commotion. The officer hauled them off to security for questioning and the teacher in charge told them to give the police their names and say what they were doing at the elephant house. The first boy said: "My name is Gary, and I was just throwing peanuts into the elephant enclosure." The second said: "My name is Kevin, and all I was doing was throwing peanuts into the elephant enclosure." The third boy was a bit shaken up by the ordeal and said: "My name is Peter but my friends call me Peanuts."

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today -Isaiah 32-35

Trail Mix - 7.28.19

July 28, 2019  – “Because of the grace of God, each day’s troubles will also bring a corresponding measure of grace to sustain us. God’s promise to his servant Elijah meant that the barrel of meal and the cruse of oil would not fail and there would always be enough to meet his need. Even when the prophet fled from Jezebel’s threats, God sent the ravens to feed his servant. The songwriter asks the question, “How much more does He care for you?” He is touched with the feeling of our infirmities so He knows how you feel. Trust His heart even when you can’t feel His presence.” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for confidence in your Creator’s ability to provide your “daily bread.”

Matthew 6:25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? KJV

“Vacationing in Arizona, a group of British tourists spots a cowboy by the side of the road, with his ear to the ground. "What’s going on?" they asked. "Two horses, one gray-one chestnut, are pulling a wagon carrying 2 men,” the cowboy says. "One man is wearing a red shirt and the other a black shirt." "They’re heading east." "Wow, You can tell all that just by listening to the ground?" says one of the tourists. "No" replies the cowboy. "They just ran over me."

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Isaiah 29-31

Trail Mix - 7.27.19

July 27, 2019 – “Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.” Matt. 22:29. The cause of error is plain; ignorance of the Scriptures and the power of God. The cure is equally plain: knowledge of the Scriptures and of the power of God. The first leads to the second: as we know the Scriptures we may know the power of God. God help us to “study to show ourselves approved…” so we can realize the power of God in our lives.” Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is that you would saturate yourself in the Word of God, memorize it and meditate on it, and God’s power is promised.

2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; KJV

 

“A collector of rare books ran into an acquaintance who told him he had just thrown away an old Bible that he found in a dusty, old box. He happened to mention that Guten-somebody-or-other had printed it. "Not Gutenberg?" gasped the collector. "Yes, that was it!" "You idiot! You've thrown away one of the first books ever pri   nted. A copy recently sold at auction for half a million dollars!" "Oh, I don't think this book would have been worth anything close to that much," replied the man. "It was scribbled all over in the margins by some guy named Martin Luther."

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Isaiah 26-28

Trail Mix - 7.26.19

July 26, 2019 – “Over the years we have seen folks get upset and leave the church and then later live to regret their decision. Often they become church “hoppers” moving their membership every time something is not to their liking. There are times when doctrinal or moral issues enter into the decision to leave but more often than not it is personality or something trivial. Friend, think twice before you uproot your family. You may live to regret your “hop.” Often we learn that the grass is greener on the other side of the fence only because it is covering a septic tank!” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for a Christian testimony that avoids “trivial pursuits.” 

James 1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: KJV

“The local high school has a policy that the parent's must call the school if the student is to be absent for the day. Kelly, deciding to skip and go to the mall with her friends waited till her parent's had left for work and called the school herself. This is the actual conversation of the telephone call. Kelly: "Hi, I'm calling to report that Kelly so-and-so is unable to make it to school today because she is ill. Secretary at high school: "Oh, I'm sorry to hear that. I'll note her absence. Who is this calling?" Kelly: "This is my mother."

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Isaiah 22-25

Trail Mix - 7.25.19

July 25, 2019 – “What happens to a church that has forgotten or left its “first love” and as a result its first works?” Ephesus had done that very thing, but they could not “remember,” so JESUS had to remind them. It is tough trying to show churches that they have fallen. Repentance and a return to first works are impossible if we do not remember! LORD, help us to be reminded of our “first love.” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for a warm heart and a willing head and a working hand, all because you love Jesus more than anything else in your life.

2 Timothy 4:10 For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. 11 Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry. KJV

                                                                

“A fellow was very much in love with a beautiful girl. One day she told him that the next day was her birthday. He told her he would send her a bouquet of roses... one for each year of her life.
That evening he called the local florist and ordered twenty-one roses with instructions that they be delivered first thing the next morning. As the florist was preparing the order, he decided that since the young man was such a good customer, he would put an extra dozen roses in the bouquet. The fellow never did find out what made the young girl so angry with him.”

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Isaiah 17-21

Trail Mix - 7.24.19

July 24, 2019 – “Got problems you can’t figure out? GOD wants us to reason with HIM, not based on our poor logic but on the basis of revelation. HE says, “…come now and let us reason together.” Our “reasoning” is foolishness but if we will let GOD reason with us HE will reveal HIS wisdom that comes from above by HIS Spirit. “While they…reasoned, JESUS himself drew near” Luke 24:15 Let HIM clear up your problems.” Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is for you to have a hope for your reason and a reason for your hope!

Isaiah 1:18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. KJV

“Henry Lauder was a comedian, & during World War II his 2 sons were drafted into the army. Both of them died in combat. After the war was over Henry Lauder was near a nervous breakdown. He went to his doctor, who recommended complete rest & relaxation. So he went to the seashore & walked along the beach. He spent his time reading & meditating & relaxing. He made a few new friends, & one of them was a small boy. One night Henry Lauder & this small boy were walking along the beach as the sun was going down. They listened to the waves, & looked at the scenery around them. The boy noticed that there were little flags with stars on them hanging in the windows of some of the houses along the beach. He asked Mr. Lauder what that meant. Henry Lauder said, "It means that in every home where there is a flag that that family sent a son to war." "But," said the boy, "some of the stars are silver & some are gold. What does that mean?" Lauder said, "Where there is a silver star it means that the boy came home safely. Where there is a gold star it means that the boy died in combat." They walked a little further & night came upon them. The boy looked up at the first evening star, & he said, "There is a star in God’s sky - & it is a gold star! Does it mean that God sent His son to war?" Lauder stood for a moment, & with a catch in his voice said, "Yes, son. It means that God sent His son into war - the greatest war that has ever been fought. And yes, the star is gold because God’s son died in that combat."

            2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Isaiah 13-16

Trail Mix - 7.23.19

July 23, 2019 – “We had better not make people our main stay! Some that we love will die and be taken from us and still others will be separated from us for one reason or another. But when those we love cannot walk with us there is ONE who has said, “I will not leave thee nor forsake thee.” At the point of our greatest loneliness, when there is no one humanly speaking, then there is the LORD.” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for a special sense of His presence as you walk through this life.

Ephesians 6:6  Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; KJV

“We recently spent some time with my wife’s parents who are both in the 80”s and it reminded me of this story. Two young boys were staying the night at their grandparents' house. At bedtime they knelt beside their beds to say their prayers. The younger brother said in a really loud voice: "I pray for a new bike, a portable TV and a Nintendo!" The other brother said: "Why are you shouting your prayers? God isn't deaf. "No, but grandma is!"

                                                                                                           

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Isaiah 9-12

Trail Mix - 7.22.19

July 22, 2019 – “There are some types of food that no matter how much you eat you can’t be satisfied. This is also true of your soul for there is only one thing and one thing alone that can meet the needs of your soul. Dr. L. C. Johnson said, “You will always be hungry, unless you are feeding on the Bread of Heaven.” You can give your soul all the material things of this world and your soul will not be filled. Only Jesus can satisfy your soul!” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today that you would “…hunger and thirst for righteousness…”

Matthew 4:4  But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

“An elderly woman died last month. Having never married, she requested no male pallbearers. In her handwritten instructions for her memorial service, she wrote, 'They wouldn't take me out while I was alive, I don't want them to take me out when I'm dead.'”

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Psalms 32-37

Trail Mix - 7.21.19

July 21, 2019 – “The fast pace of this world with radio, telephone, television and the internet have made it very difficult for people to think reflectively. The worst thing you could do to some folks is to place them in “solitary confinement!” But the Bible says we must, “…stand still…” to see the salvation of God! We are living in commotion and don’t know how to break out of this hurried life that we live to spend a quiet moment alone with God. You never lose when you wait on the Lord!” Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is that you would have a deep settled peace that would calm any restlessness in your soul.

John 18:1 When Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into the which he entered, and his disciples. KJV

“Johnny's Mother looked out the window and noticed him "playing church" with their cat. He had the cat sitting quietly and he was preaching to it. She smiled and went about her work. A little while later she heard loud meowing and hissing and ran back to the open window to see Johnny baptizing the cat in a tub of water. She called out, "Johnny, stop that! The cat is afraid of water! "Johnny looked up at her and said, "He should have thought about that before he joined my church."

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Psalms 23-31

Trail Mix - 7.20.19

July 20, 2019 – The Bible says, “The friendship of this world is enmity with God.” Vance Havner said, “Not mild disagreement but utter hostility.” What has happened to principles like, “Come out from among them and be ye separate,” and “Be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers?” The best illustration that I have found is, “It is not a problem for a boat to float in the water; the problem comes when the water gets in the boat!” “Love not the world, nor the things in the world,” is the admonition my friend! S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for a discerning spirit to know the difference between knowledge and wisdom!

1 John 2:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. KJV

A Sunday school teacher was discussing the Ten Commandments with her five and six year olds. After explaining the commandment to 'Honor thy father and thy mother,' she asked, 'Is there a commandment that teaches us how to treat our brothers and sisters? 'Without missing a beat, one little boy answered, 'Thou shall not kill...”

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Psalms 18-22

Trail Mix - 7.19.19

July 19. 2019 – Charles Spurgeon prayed for men (and women) with “grit!” God give us such men, who when they know a thing to be right, will not bend or bow to a lesser thing no matter what the world or the Devil may offer. God give us men of principle not pragmatism, who will persevere all the more because there are difficulties and dangers to be faced. Give us men like Daniel who wouldn't give in to the pressures of the potentate or his peers. Give us men who will “set their face like a flint,” to do right!

My prayer for you today is for the courage to make a difference for God and for good, no matter what the cost.

Proverbs 14:26 In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge. KJV

While driving in Pennsylvania, a family caught up to an Amish carriage. The owner of the carriage obviously had a sense of humor, because attached to the back of the carriage was a hand printed sign.... "Energy efficient vehicle: Runs on oats and grass. Caution: Do not step in exhaust."

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Psalms 10-17

Trail Mix - 7.18.19

July 18, 2019 – Generally speaking anything that is dividing the body of Christ is not of God whether it be music, or gifts, or personalities! Remember, God is not the author of confusion, so when we see disorder in the church we should not have to look very far to find the source. The Accuser is not too far off and his fingerprints are unmistakable. God, give us discerning spirits that we may know the difference! Envy, strife, confusion, jealousy and pride are all going to be present when He (Satan) is prominent! The answer is simple but powerful. Resist the Devil with the Word of God and he will flee from you! S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for peace with God, the peace of God and peace on earth, good will toward men.

1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: KJV

A minister waited in line to have his car filled with gas just before a long holiday weekend. The attendant worked quickly, but there were many cars ahead of him. Finally, the attendant motioned him toward a vacant pump. "Reverend," said the young man, "I'm so sorry about the delay. It seems as if everyone waits until the last minute to get ready for a long trip." The minister chuckled, "I know what you mean. It's the same in my business."

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Psalms 1-9

Trail Mix - 7.17.19

July 17, 2019 – “You can only give out what you have taken in, is a truism that we all can learn from. No teacher or pastor can give the people what they need until they have taken in what they need themselves! Jesus spent much time in prayer in order to challenge His disciples to pray. Paul was a student of the Word so he could inspire his followers to “…study, to show themselves approved unto God.” Don’t starve your soul for if you do you cannot feed the souls of others.” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for you to be both and “inlet” and an “outlet” of spiritual blessings!

Deuteronomy 6:6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:

7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. 8 And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. 9 And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates. KJV

 

“If you think about it, Adam had more trouble than any of the rest of us buying his Father a gift for Father’s Day. I mean, what do you get somebody who has everything?”

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Job 38-42

Trail Mix - 7.16.19

July 16, 2019 – “It is a weakness in our nature to want to have a “Mt. Carmel” experience all the time. There aren’t many of those in our lives but there are many “Mt. Horeb” experiences where God speaks in “a still small voice.” God can and does work in any way that He chooses but more often than not it is in our daily growth in the knowledge of Jesus that God speaks. The key for us is to be listening for His voice no matter how He chooses to communicate with us.” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you on this day is for you to hear and heed the voice of God no matter how He chooses to speak!

1 Kings 19:11 And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake: 12 And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. KJV

 

“A minister parked his car in a no-parking zone in a large city because he was short of time and couldn't find a space with a meter. Then he put a note under the windshield wiper that read: "I have circled the block 10 times. If I don't park here, I'll miss my appointment. Forgive us our trespasses." When he returned, he found a citation from a police officer along with this note "I've circled this block for 10 years. If I don't give you a ticket I'll lose my job. Lead us not into temptation."

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Job 34-37

Trail Mix - 7.15.19

July 15, 2019 – Vance Havner said, “Jesus discouraged publicity, left the crowd for the solitudes and never played up to the multitudes.” Doesn’t sound much like modern church work does it? Those early believers followed the great “Fisher of Men,” and went out doing the same. The work of the early church was characterized by humility and grace. If each one of us would serve Christ with a humble and submissive spirit we could reach a lost world and the growth of the kingdom would be phenomenal! S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for a heart filled with a desire to fulfill the great commission!

Proverbs 29:23 A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit. KJV

“A Jewish father was concerned about his son. He had not truly raised him to be grounded in the faith of Judaism… So, hoping to remedy this he sent his son to Israel so the boy could experience his heritage. A year later the young man returned home. He said, "Father, thank you for sending me to the land of our Fathers. It was wonderful and enlightening. However, I must confess that while in Israel I converted to Christianity." "Oh (groan) what have I done?" the father thought. So in the tradition of the patriarchs he went to his best friend and sought his advice and solace. "It is amazing that you should come to me," stated his friend, "I too sent my son to Israel and he returned a Christian." So in the traditions of the Patriarchs they went to the Rabbi. "It is amazing that you should come to me," stated the Rabbi, "I too sent my son to Israel and he returned a Christian. What is happening to our sons? “Brothers, we must take this to the Lord," said the Rabbi. They fell to their knees and began to wail and pour out their hearts to the Almighty. As they prayed, the clouds above opened and a mighty voice stated, "Amazing that you should come to Me. I, too, sent My Son to Israel..."

            2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Job 29-33

Trail Mix - 7.14.19

July 14, 2019 – “There is tremendous amount of pressure on Christians today to be “tolerant.” This has become one of the “pet” words in our culture and we see efforts on every level of our society to conform to this position. But make no mistake dear friend; there can be not “tolerance” for sin, no matter who it might be. The Bible makes it clear. We are to “…abhor that which is evil, and cleave to that which is good.” When we call evil, good and good, evil we offend a holy God and stand at risk of His judgment.” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for a clear concept of the sinfulness of sin and our need for His grace.

Isaiah 5:20  Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! KJV

“A blonde was weed-a-whacking her yard and accidentally cut off the tail of her cat, who was hiding in the grass. She rushed her cat, along with the tail, over to WAL-MART! Why WAL-MART? HELLOOOOOOOOO! WALMART is the largest re-tailer in the world!”

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Job 22-28

Trail Mix - 7.13.19

July 13, 2019 – Charles Spurgeon said, “The world’s one and only remedy for sin is the cross.” No matter how deeply you have fallen into sin, Jesus can save you to the “uttermost.” He saves the lost, the least and the last who call upon Him in simple childlike faith. Jesus knew no sin but took our sins upon him that we might be “…made the righteousness of God…” We need no other remedy, His blood avails for us!” S. E. Trail

My prayer today is for you to “know” the crucified One who “…taketh away the sin of the world.” My friend, do you know Him today with any degree of certainty?

Hebrews 7:27 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself. KJV

“A four-year-old boy was eating an apple in the back seat of the car, when he asked, "Daddy, why is my apple turning brown?" "Because," his dad explained, "after you ate the skin off, the meat of the apple came into contact with the air, which caused it to oxidize, thus changing the molecular structure and turning it into a different color." There was a long silence. Then the son asked softly, "Daddy, are you talking to me?"

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Job 16-21

Trail Mix - 7.12.19

July 12, 2019 – “We live in a world seeking release and escape from its headaches and heartaches! Many millions hope to find distraction and diversion through drugs, sex and alcohol. Christ offers to satisfy our innermost longings with something that has no “morning after hangover.” Early believers were accused of being “punch drunk” but they were filled with a stimulant far superior that leaves no ugly aftertaste!” Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is life of “joy in the Holy Spirit,” a supernatural high!

Ephesians 5:18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; 20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; KJV

 

“A woman went to her local doctor for a checkup. After about 15 minutes with one of the new doctors, she went screaming down the hall.  Another doctor stopped and asked her what the problem was and she explained. The second doctor went back to the first and said, "What's the matter with you? Mrs. Terry is 63 years old. She has four grown children and seven grandchildren and you told her she was pregnant?" The new doctor simply smiled and said, "Cured her hiccups though, didn't it?"

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Job 11-15

Trail Mix - 7.11.19

July 11, 2019 – “Do you feel sorry for yourself when things go badly? If ever a man could have had a pity party it would have been Paul, who prayed three times for relief from the "thorns" but found none. Instead he gloried in his "infirmities" and we know why! In his own words he declares, "…that the power of Christ may rest upon me." Enough said! Christian friend, what would you give to know that the power of Christ rested upon you? What would you sacrifice to have the supernatural “it” factor in your life and ministry?” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is that you will look past the infirmities of life to the infinite One!

Romans 8:38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. KJV

                                                  

“Two elderly spinsters, Rhoda and Jean, were curious about the latest arrival in their apartment block. He was a quiet, distinguished gentleman who seemed to believe in keeping himself to himself. One day Rhoda said: "Jean, you know how shy I am and you're so much more confident in these matters. Why don't you ambush him at the pool and find out a little more about him? He looks so lonely." So Jean went over to talk to the man as he sat by the pool. "My friend and I were wondering why you look so lonely," she said. "Of course I'm lonely," he snapped. "I've spent the last 30 years in prison." "Oh, why?" "I strangled my third wife" he replied. "Oh. What happened to your second wife?" "We had a fight and she fell off a high building." My goodness! What happened to your first wife? “She died when the brakes failed on our car.” "Oh, my!" Then Jean turned to her friend on the other side of the pool and called out: "Yahoo, Rhoda! It's OK. He's single!"

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Job 6-10

Trail Mix - 7.10.19

July 10, 2019 – “Life is very short; the Bible describes it as a “vapor." Because it is so brief it is important that we use our time wisely. Prioritizing your life will insure that you do not waste the time you have or have left. GOD must come FIRST and all else in its proper place. It is then and only then that we can find significance in living.” S. E. Trail

                                                    

My prayer for you today is an awareness of the value of time and the virtue to use it for God’s glory.

 

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. KJV

“Dr. John Gamble told this story when he preached at FWBBC.  He said that this preacher preached on and on, on and on.  One member grew weary. He wrote a little note, pinned it on his shirt sleeve, and then put his arm along the back of his pew.  The note said this: “Now I lay me down to sleep; the sermon's long, the subject's deep, If he should quit before I awake, please give my arm a gentle shake.” Dr. L. C. Johnson

 

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Job 1-5

Trail Mix - 7.9.19

July 9, 2019 – “One of the best signs that you have been saved is that you will come under attack from the Devil; He will throw double hand full’s of “fiery darts” at you when He recognizes that you are making spiritual progress. He will assault you body, mind and spirit. Never fear friend for, “Greater is He that is in you, than He that is in the world!” You have an advocate, comforter, mediator and intercessor who has promised to “Never leave nor forsake you.” Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is for a full measure of “blessed assurance!”

Malachi 3:6 For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.

Hebrews 13:8  Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. KJV

“The newly married pair quarreled seriously, so that the wife in a passion finally declared:
"I'm going home to my mother!" The husband maintained his calm in the face of this calamity, and drew out his pocketbook. "Here," he said, counting out some bills, "is the money for your railroad fare." The wife took it, and counted it in her turn. Then she faced her husband scornfully: "But that isn't enough for a return ticket."

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Esther 8-10

Trail Mix - 7.8.19

July 8, 2019– “In our day people chase preachers who are more entertainers than expounders! What is the reason for this pursuit of the popular? Men have itching ears instead of burning hearts! Real Bible preaching is “foolishness” to the world but God choose this foolishness to save men! Vance Havner said, “We need an outbreak of holy heartburn, when hearers shall be doers…” God give us burning hearts instead of itching ears!” Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is for a hunger for the Word of God that will not settle for some sugar coated sentiment but for real spiritual meat!

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. KJV

“Kevin was writing a letter in class while his friend Greg watched him. "What are you doing?" Greg asked. "Writing a letter to my girlfriend" "But why are you writing so slowly?" Greg asked. "She can’t read very fast."

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Esther 4- 7

Trail Mix - 7.7.19

July 7, 2019 – “Sometimes God wants us to wait and sometimes He wants us to walk. Both are profitable to us when we are in His will. When we wait on Him we “…renew our strength,” and when we walk with Him, He calls us His friend. For most of us the more difficult of the two is the former. Waiting is not our strength but in God’s economy it enables us to be “…strong in the Lord” Waiting and walking, Lord help us to know when to stop and when to go!” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for the wisdom to know when to wait and when to walk!

Psalms 25:5 Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. KJV

Lovebirds!

Ethel and Earl were walking hand in hand, when they ran into some friends from their Sunday school class. One of the ladies mentioned how sweet they look holding hands walking around the mall like young lovebirds. Earl piped up and said, “If I happen to let go, she goes shopping!!!!!”      

            2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Esther 1-3         

Trail Mix - 7.6.19

July 6, 2019 – “The Devil is a predator and we are His prey! He "walketh about seeking whom He may devour." Peter tells us we are to "...resist Him in the faith." This refers to the body of truth residing in the Christian faith, the Word of God! The only sure way to shield ourselves from the fiery darts is to put on the whole armor of God with a special emphasis on "girding ourselves about with truth..." Saturate your life with God's Word and you can stand against Satan.” Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is for you to surround yourself with a “hedge” of truth from God’s Word!

Ephesians 6:16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. KJV

People from the South

“A group of Alabama friends went deer hunting and paired off in twos for the day. That night, one of the hunters returned alone, staggering under the weight of an eight-point buck. "Where's Henry?" the others asked. "Henry had a stroke o' some kind. He's a couple of miles back up the trail," the successful hunter replied . "You left Henry layin' out there and carried the deer back?" they inquired. "A tough call," nodded the hunter. "But I figured no one's gonna steal Henry!"

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - 6 Nehemiah 11-13

Trail Mix - 7.5.19

July 5, 2019 – “Have you ever come to the end of yourself? One of the surprises of grace is that the end of self is the beginning of salvation, sanctification and service for the Savior! Isaiah came to the end of himself in chapter 6 “…in the year that King Uzziah died.” He came to a crisis and cried “…woe is me…”and from then on He saw the glory of God, received cleansing, and volunteered for service, all because he came to the end of self. Have you been there my friend?” S. E. Trail

My prayer today would be for you to come to your, “end” and find a “new beginning!”

Philippians 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, KJV

People from the South

“A man in North Carolina had a flat tire, pulled off on the side of the road, and proceeded to put a bouquet of flowers in front of the car and one behind it. Then he got back in the car to wait. A passerby studied the scene as he drove by, and was so curious he turned around and went back. He asked the fellow what the problem was. The man replied, "I got a flat tahr." The passerby asked, "But what's with the flowers?" The man responded, "When you break down they tell you to put flares in the front and flares in the back. I never did understand it neither."

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Nehemiah 9-10

Trail Mix - 7.4.19

July 4, 2019 – “Someone has said that, “We must get into us more of that which is above us or we shall give way to that which is around us!” John wrote, “Love not the world, nor the things that are in the world…” This world is not a friend to the true Christian and we do have a dangerous predator among us, so we must be alert to the danger and the defilement of this world. God give us the grace to finish our race, “…unspotted from the world.” S. E. Trail

Help us Lord, to fill our lives’ so full of You that there will not be room for anything else!

2 Peter 1:10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: KJV

Save It For the Funeral

“An elderly man lay dying in his bed. At the point of passing, he suddenly smelled the aroma of his favorite chocolate chip cookies wafting up the stairs. He gathered his remaining strength, and lifted himself from the bed. Leaning against the wall, he slowly made his way out of the bedroom, and with even greater effort forced himself down the stairs, gripping the railing with both hands. With labored breath, he leaned against the doorframe, gazing into the kitchen. Were it not for death's agony, he would have thought himself already in heaven: There, spread out on the kitchen table were literally hundreds of his favorite chocolate chip cookies. Was it heaven? Or was it merely one final act of heroic love from his devoted wife, seeing to it that he left this world a happy man? Mustering one great final effort, he threw himself toward the table. His aged and withered hand made its way to a cookie at the edge of the table, when his wife suddenly smacked it with a spatula. "Stay out of those," she said. "They're for the funeral."

            2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Nehemiah 7-8

Trail Mix - 7.3.19

July 3, 2019 – “Live your life so that you will have no “deathbed regrets.” At the end many look back and wish they had done differently but friend it is far wiser to begin early to think reflectively about life so that we can achieve practical results as we take our journey. “Today is the day of salvation…” not some planned for future time that may not provide an opportunity. Our Lord said, “…the night cometh when no man can work…” A lifetime is short compared to eternity. Redeem it!” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for a life well lived and a “well done” at the end of the journey from our Master!

Hebrews 12:17 For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears. KJV

The Game Warden

"Doin' any good?" asked the curious individual on the bridge. "Any good?" answered the fisherman, in the creek below. "Why I caught forty bass out o' here yesterday." "Say, do you know who I am?" asked the man on the bridge. The fisherman replied that he did not.
"Well, I am the county fish and game warden." The angler, after a moment's thought, exclaimed, "Say, do you know who I am?" "No," the officer replied. "Well, I'm the biggest liar in Eastern Alabama," said the crafty angler, with a grin.

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Nehemiah 4-6

Trail Mix - 7.2.19

July 2, 2019 – “It has been well said that “Nothing is easier than to doubt.” Faith demands knowledge for we must know something before we can believe anything. The simplest thing in the world is to be an atheist for one is not required to give a reason for his infidelity. He substitutes defiance and a blustery tone for an answer to the deep questions of the here and the hereafter. To believe is to really be alive to knowledge!” Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is for you to “know” Christ for He is the “fullness of the Godhead bodily.”

Romans 11:33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! KJV

“A preacher had ordered a load of hay from one of his parishioners. About noon, the parishioner's little son came to the house crying lustily. On being asked what the matter was, he said that the load of hay had tipped over in the street. The preacher, a kindly man, assured the little fellow that it was nothing serious, and asked him in to dinner. "Pa wouldn't like it," said the boy. But the preacher assured him that he would fix it all right with his father, and urged him to take dinner before going for the hay. After dinner the boy was asked if he were not glad that he had stayed. "Pa won't like it," he persisted. The preacher, unable to understand, asked the boy what made him think his father would object. "Why, you see, pa's under the hay," explained the boy.”

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - Nehemiah 1-3

Trail Mix - 7.1.19

July 1, 2019 – “Friend, we who know Christ are nearer home than we’ve ever been before. Death itself, just speeds our arrival to that place that is “fairer than day.” Paul makes it plain that to “be with Christ is far better” and “to die is gain.” Our Lord and our loved ones are over there. The song writer said it best, “Going home, I’m going home, nothing can keep me here, for I’ve caught a glimpse of that beautiful heavenly land, praise God I’m going home.” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for an improvement in your “heavenly vision”.

John 14:2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. KJV

“A young boy, puzzled about the origin of life, came to his mother and asked, "Mom, didn't you say that God created us?" Her reply was that God did indeed create us.  Then the young boy said, “But, Mom, Dad says that we came from monkeys."  She looked at him and answered, "Son, your dad is talking about his side of the family."

2019 Bible Reading Schedule for today - 1 Ezra 9-10