Trail Mix - 5.31.18

5.31.18 – Vance Havner said a lot of people sing, “Oh, How I Love Jesus,” who are not keeping His commandments! We love to meditate on His promises while giving short shift to His practices. Jesus said His purpose was to do “His Father’s will.” We cannot separate love for Christ and keeping His word. It’s like the law of the Medes and the Persians, “It altereth not!” God help us to see this truth clearly!

My prayer for you today is for a faith that “follows” Jesus commands faithfully, fully and finally!

Revelation 22:14 Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. KJV

“A young boy went to  his mother and said, "Mother, did you say that we came from dust?" She replied, "Yes, son, God made us from the dust of the earth and breathed into us the breath of life." The young boy then asked, "Didn't you say that we would go back to dust when we die?" Her reply was, "Yes, that is right.    We came from dust and we will go back to dust." Very excited the young boy said, "Mom, I want you to come and look behind the couch.  There is someone going or coming."

Bible Reading Schedule for today - Ezra 6-8

Trail Mix - 5.30.18

5.30.18 – “One of the great principles found in God’s word is to “overcome evil with good.” How we respond when we are tried and tested is a measure of our maturity in the Lord. Evil is a fact of life and we will face it in all its forms in our lifetime. Jesus is our pattern for dealing with the evil that men would do to us. When He was reviled he “reviled not again,” and when He was abused He did not retaliate. He was willing to “take” it knowing that there was something better ahead, namely, the salvation of the world. God give us to the grace to be “overcomers!” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is that the power of Christ would rest upon you.

1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. KJV

To Be 8 Again!

A man was sitting on the edge of the bed, watching his wife, who was looking at herself in the mirror. Since her birthday was not far off he asked what she'd like to have for her birthday. 'I'd like to be eight again', she replied, still looking in the mirror. On the morning of her Birthday, he arose early, made her a nice big bowl of Coco Pops, and then took her to Adventure World theme park. What a day! He put her on every ride in the park; the Death Slide, the Wall of Fear, the Screaming Roller Coaster, everything there was. Five hours later they staggered out of the theme park. Her head was reeling and her stomach felt upside down. He then took her to a McDonald's where he ordered her a Happy Meal with extra fries and a chocolate shake. Then it was off to a movie, popcorn, a soda pop, and her favorite candy, M&M's. What a fabulous adventure! Finally she wobbled home with her husband and collapsed into bed exhausted. He leaned over his wife with a big smile and lovingly asked, 'Well dear, what was it like being eight again? Her eyes slowly opened and her expression suddenly changed. 'I meant my dress size!!!!' The moral of the story: Even when a man is listening, he is gonna get it wrong.

 

Bible Reading Schedule for today - Ezra 3-5

Trail Mix - 5.29.18

5.29.18 – Charles Spurgeon said, “We must addict ourselves to prayer; it must not be our chance work but our daily business.” The main problem for most of us is that we give in so easily to distractions. Our minds wander all over the map and progress in prayer is minimal. Prayer is a spiritual discipline that we must master if we are to be successful. God help us to be a people of prayer!

My prayer for you today is that you would become a “warrior” in prayer, daily battling against the world, the flesh and the devil.

James 5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. KJV

“A fellow tries to cross the Mexican border on a bicycle with two big bags balanced on his shoulders. The guard asks, "What's in the bags?" The fellow says, "Sand!" The guard wants to examine them. The fellow gets off the bike, places the bags on the ground, opens them up, and the guard inspects... only to find sand. The fellow packs the sand, places the bags on his shoulders, and pedals the bike across the border. Two weeks later, the same situation is repeated... "What have you there?" "Sand" "We want to examine." Same results... nothing but sand and the fellow is on his way again. Every two weeks for six months the inspections continue. Finally, one week the fellow didn't show up. However, the guard sees him downtown and says to the fellow, "Buddy, you had us crazy. We sort of knew you were smuggling something. I won't say anything what were you smuggling?" The fellow says, "Bicycles."

Bible Reading Schedule for today - Ezra 1-2

Trail Mix - 5.28.18

5.28.18 – “Is faith or doubt the mainspring of your life? You can choose either of the two but my friend, God stands at the ready to bless your faith and meet your need! Come to God pleading the name of Jesus and He will help you. He has promised to meet all your needs by His dear Son. Is there some heavy matter weighing upon your heart? Take it to the Lord in faith! – Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is that your faith might stand firm in trial and trouble, resting in Jesus.

Matthew 19:26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. KJV

“A funeral director asked a young minister to hold a graveside service for a homeless man with no family or friends. The funeral was to be at a cemetery way out in the country. As this was a new cemetery, this man was the first to be laid to rest there. The minister was not familiar with the area and became lost, but he finally found the cemetery about an hour later. The backhoe was there, and the crew was eating their lunch. The hearse was nowhere to be seen. He apologized to the workers for being late. As he looked into the open grave, he saw the vault lid already in place. He told the workers he would not keep them long, but that this was the proper thing to do. The workers, still eating their lunch, gathered around the opening. He was young and enthusiastic and poured out his heart and soul as he preached. The workers joined in with, "Praise the Lord," "Amen," and "Glory!" He got so into the service that he preached and preached and preached, from Genesis to Revelation. When the service was over, he said a closing prayer and walked to his car. As he opened the door, he heard one of the workers say, "I never saw anything like that before, and I've been putting in septic systems for 20 years!"

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Chron. 34-36

Trail Mix - 5.27.18

5.27.18 – “The difference between self-reliance and God-reliance is like the difference between motion and movement. There is much motion within the church today that borders on commotion but there is very little progress because it is based on self-reliance. When my children were little we would feed them with a spoon but the time came when they would demand, “Me do it!” We must make sure that we never get out in front of God.  When we rely on God there is real movement for movement implies purpose and design. God help us to be God reliant and not defiant! Reject that old “me do it” attitude!” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for you to “learn to lean” on the One who never moves so that real movement can take place in your life.

Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. KJV

“A little boy was attending his first wedding. After the service, his cousin asks him: "How many women can a man marry?" "Sixteen!" replies the little boy. His cousin laughed and asked how he knew this. "Easy," the little boy said. "All you have to do is add it up!  4 better, 4 worse, 4 richer, 4 poorer!"

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Chron. 31-33

Trail Mix - 5.26.18

5.26.18 – “God views the world and us through both the microscope and the telescope. He is not limited in His ability to see either the minute or the mighty! Therefore, God can and does determine great events like a planet’s orbit and He shows equal skill in the determination of a man’s life. Do not place any arbitrary limitations on God. He is master of everything, great or small. With that said, you can trust God with anything. He is Master of everything and in the case of His children He superintends every detail of our lives and…works all things together for good…” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is that you can see the greatness of our God and also the comparative size of our problems in relation to HIM.

Hebrews 12:28 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:

Fall Out

“As we stood in formation at the Pensacola Naval Air Station, our Flight Instructor said, "All right! All you dummies fall out." As the rest of the squad wandered away, I remained at attention. The instructor walked over until he was eye-to-eye with me, and then just raised a single eyebrow. I smiled and said, "Sure was a lot of dummies, huh sir?"

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Chron. 29-30

Trail Mix - 5.25.18

5.25.18 – “What made the Shunammite woman think that Elisha was a "holy man?" 2 Kings 4:9. The prophet was bald-headed and like most prophets of that day, dressed in rough garments and carrying a staff but there was something about his bearing and behavior, his walk and his words that spoke loudly. He made her think of holiness, God and another world. Is this what people think when they see us? They will if we talk like Jesus talked and if we walk like He walked! Read what they said about these two disciples: Acts 4:13  Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today if for you to have the “bearing of a believer.”

Ephesians 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, KJV

Adam and Eve’s Religion

Teacher: "Who were the first human beings?"
Christian Student: "Adam and Eve."
Teacher: "And what religion were this Adam and Eve?"
Student: "Communist, of course."
Teacher: "And how do you know that they were Communist?"
Student: "Easy, they had no roof over their heads, no clothes to wear, and only one apple between them, yet they still called it paradise!"

 Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Chron. 26-28

Trail Mix - 5.24.18

5.24.18 – “Hudson Taylor’s “Spiritual Secret,” speaks of an intimacy with God that seems foreign today. Our American style Christianity with its emphasis on efficiency does not lend itself to a closer walk, a quiet time, a taking time to be holy. The song says, “When we walk with the Lord, by the light of His word, what a glory He sheds on our way…” The church desperately needs those who are willing to walk with God…You will never lose if you walk with God but you will always lose if you run from God.” Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is that you would stay “in the garden with Him” until your soul gives off the unmistakable fragrance of fellowship with Him.

Psalms 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. KJV

A Child’s Point of View

“The story of Adam and Eve was being carefully explained in the children's Sunday School class. Following the story, the children were asked to draw some picture that would illustrate the story. Little Bobby was most interested and drew a picture of a car with three people in it. In the front seat, behind the wheel was a man and in the back seat, a man and a woman. The teacher was at a loss to understand how this illustrated the lesson of Adam and Eve but little Bobby was prompt with his explanation. "Why, this is God driving Adam and Eve out of the garden!"

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Chron. 23-25

Trail Mix - 5.23.18

5.23.18 – “As we approach the end of all things there will be natural disasters with increasing frequency. Earthquakes, floods, fire and famine will be the headlines. How are you and I to react when these things happen? How did Job respond when a cyclone wiped out his family? He trusted in God and gave us one of the greatest declarations of faith found in Scripture. “The Lord giveth; the Lord taketh away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” God wants to develop spiritual depth in all of us so that when we step into “deep water” we will not be overwhelmed.” S. E. Trail  

My prayer for you today is for you to develop the spiritual resources to deal with any circumstance; no matter what happens in life.

Luke 21:28  And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. KJV

Questions and Answers!

Q: Why do they say 'Amen' at the end of a prayer instead of 'Awomen'?
A: The same reason they sing Hymns instead of Hers!
Q: Why didn't Noah go fishing?
A: He only had two worms!
Q: When was the longest day in the Bible?
A: The day Adam was created because there was no Eve.
Q: Why did God create man before woman?
A: He didn't want any advice.
Q: What do you call a sleepwalking nun?
A: A roamin' Catholic!
Doctor: Your recovery was a miracle!
Patient: PRAISE GOD. Now I don't have to pay you!
Q: Why did Moses wander in the desert for 40 years?
A: Even then men wouldn't ask for directions!

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Chron. 19-22

Trail Mix - 5.22.18

5.22.18 – “Do you ever say things that you wish you hadn't said? None of us can afford to “throw stones” at others on account of their speech because we have all come short at one time or another. Our speech should be that which edifies. It should bring blessing instead of blasting! Be careful of gossip, tale bearing and the breaking of a confidence also. The man or woman who can control this "animal" that has its den right behind our teeth is blessed indeed.” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for you to have the spiritual discipline to control the “beast” and be a blessing instead of a curse.

Ephesians 4:29  Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. KJV

Alternative Beatitudes (From you know who)

Blessed are those who are too tired, too busy, too distracted to spend an hour once a week with their fellow Christians in Church ~ they are my best workers.
Blessed are those who wait to be asked and expect to be thanked ~ I can use them in my business.
Blessed are those who are touchy. Soon they will stop going to church ~ verily, they shall be my missionaries.
Blessed are those who sow gossip and trouble ~ they are my beloved children.
Blessed are those who have no time to pray ~ for they are MY prey.
Blessed are those who gossip ~ for they are my secret agents.
Blessed are you when you read this and think it has everything to do with other people, and nothing to do with you. ~ I’ve got room for YOU at my inn.

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Chron. 8-10

Trail MIx - 5.21.18

5.21.18 – “What pleases God is faith, and the weakest faith is better than no faith. Looking at Jesus we find that He meets our need and proves that we have faith. Faith looks at an object and if that object is Jesus then we “look and live.” Jesus receives all who come to Him. In the Gospels people came to Jesus, He commended their faith even when they felt they had little. “Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief,” is certainly better than not coming at all!” Vance Havner

My prayer for you today would be for a faith that would “doubt your doubts and believe your beliefs!” KJV

Luke 18:13  And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

“One woman wrote to a national magazine to say that every year, it seemed, her family would get on a highway a few miles out of the city, and her mom would wail, “Oh my goodness! I think I left the iron on.” And almost every year they would turn around and go back. But as far as she could recall, not once was the iron ever plugged in. It seems her mom was dominated by the fear that all their earthly possessions would disappear in a fire caused by her forgetfulness. That was a family ritual, she says, until she was about 14 years old. On that occasion they were headed out of Chicago for Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and, sure enough, her mom gasped, “I just know I left the iron on.” She says this time her father didn’t say a word. He just pulled over onto the shoulder of the road, got out, opened the trunk and handed his wife the iron.”
  

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Chron. 15-18

Trail Mix - 5.20.18

5.20.18 – “Do you ever say things that you wish you hadn't said? All of us know something of what James was talking about when he called the tongue an "unruly member!" Every idle word is going to be brought into judgment so it behooves each of us to place a special guard on our speech. Out tongue is dangerous, destructive, defiling and damnable! The man or woman who can control this "animal" that has its den right behind our teeth is blessed indeed.” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for you to have the spiritual discipline to control the “beast” and be a blessing instead of a curse.

Ephesians 4:29  Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. KJV

Alternative Beatitudes (From you know who)

Blessed are those who are too tired, too busy, too distracted to spend an hour once a week with their fellow Christians in Church ~ they are my best workers.
Blessed are those who wait to be asked and expect to be thanked ~ I can use them in my business.
Blessed are those who are touchy. Soon they will stop going to church ~ verily, they shall be my missionaries.
Blessed are those who sow gossip and trouble ~ they are my beloved children.
Blessed are those who have no time to pray ~ for they are MY prey.
Blessed are those who gossip ~ for they are my secret agents.
Blessed are you when you read this and think it has everything to do with other people, and nothing to do with you. ~ I’ve got room for YOU at my inn.

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Chron. 8-10

Trail MIx - 5.19.18

5.19.18 – “There are four metaphors in Scripture that define the life of a believer; we are sowers, servants, stewards and soldiers. These word pictures all have one thing in common. Obedience is required for all to be effective in what they do. We each have the option of becoming a believer but once we receive Christ we have no option. "If we love Him we will keep His commandments." We are His by virtue of the fact that He bought us with His own precious blood. Let “Onward Christian Soldiers” become a reality in your life!” S. E. Trail

My prayer today is for you to be an obedient servant, steward, soldier of Jesus Christ!

Luke 15:18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, 19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. KJV

 “A man placed some flowers on the grave of his dearly departed mother and started back toward his car when his attention was diverted to another man kneeling at a grave. The man seemed to be praying with profound intensity and kept repeating, "Why did you have to die? Why did you have to die?" The first man approached him and said, "Sir, I don't wish to interfere with your private grief, but this demonstration of pain is more than I've ever seen before. For whom do you mourn so deeply? A child? A parent?" The mourner took a moment to collect himself, then replied, "My wife's first husband."

 

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Chron. 5-7

Trail Mix - 5.18.18

5.18.18 – “Where are we most likely to meet God? In Scripture Moses met God on the backside of the desert, Jacob alone at Bethel, Paul in Arabia and John on Patmos. These men were isolated and lonely but never alone. You see, it was in the desert that Moses found “the mountain of God with its burning bush, Jacob wrestled with the “Angel of the Lord” and was never the same again, Paul had a “third heaven” experience and John saw “a city coming down!” John Wesley had his Aldersgate experience and D. L. Moody had his experience in a small room in New York, after which he declared, "One day, in the city of New York, oh what a day! I cannot describe it. I seldom refer to it. It's almost too sacred an experience to name.” S. E. Trail  

My prayer for you today is that you can “know” Christ and the fellowship of his sufferings!

Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. KJV

Dog Sense

“Three handsome male dogs are walking down the street when they see a beautiful, enticing, female Poodle. The three male dogs fall all over themselves in an effort to be the one to reach her first, but end up arriving in front of her at the same time. The males are speechless before her beauty, slobbering on themselves and hoping for just a glance from her in return. Aware of her charms and her obvious effect on the three suitors, she decides to be kind and tells them "The first one who can use the words "liver" and "cheese" together in an imaginative, intelligent sentence can go out with me." The sturdy, muscular black Lab speaks up quickly and says "I love liver and cheese." "Oh, how childish," said the Poodle. "That shows no imagination or intelligence whatsoever." She turned to the tall, shiny Golden Retriever and said "How well can you do?" Um. I HATE liver and cheese," blurts the Golden Retriever. "My, my," said the Poodle. "I guess it's hopeless. That's just as dumb as the Lab's sentence." She then turns to the last of the three dogs and says, "How about you, little guy?" The last of the three, tiny in stature, but big in fame and finesse, is the Taco Bell Chihuahua. He gives her a smile, a sly wink, turns to the Golden Retriever and the Lab and says, "Liver alone. Cheese mine."

 Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Chron. 1-4

Trail Mix - 5.17.18

5.17.18 – “When our insufficiency meets God’s sufficiency wonderful things can happen! Knowing our inadequacy is the beginning of real fruitfulness because only when we come to that point can God use us. Vance Havner said, “Moses started with “Who am I?” but soon asked God, “Who are you?” The answer changed Moses life! God said, “I am that I am!”And Moses was never the same again. Isaiah saw the “Lord, high and lifted up,” and was a changed man. We need less religious activity and more seeking and seeing the “face” of God. Once we truly seek and see His face then all else will pale in comparison.” S. E. Trail with gleanings from Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is that your realization of God would grow and give you a greater sense of His presence.

2 Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. KJV

“There was this man that had a dog. He came home one day, and his dog was belly up with its legs sticking in the air. He wasn't sure if it was dead or not, so he took it to the vet. He told the vet of his problem, and the vet said that there was a sure-fire way to see if the dog is indeed dead. He left the room and returned with a cat. He rubbed the cat in the dogs face, and after a while came to the conclusion that the dog was indeed dead. The man was upset and asked the doctor how much he owed him. The doctor said, "$550" The man was stunned. He asked the doctor to explain and the doctor said, "Fifty for the visit, and 500 for the cat-scan..."

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 1 Chron. 27-29

Trail Mix - 5.16.18

5.16.18 – “We hear much about being in God’s “favor” today, so that you may be on the receiving end of His blessings. Usually this “favor” is associated with sending an offering (sowing seeds of faith) to a particular ministry. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” so why is there this focus on what we can receive from God? God sends rain on the just and the unjust. It’s more about His sovereign will than “favor!” Much of today’s “favor” theology borders on superstition.” Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is that you would seek the real flavor (salty), of the Lord, not the right favor of the Lord!

Zechariah 9:17a For how great is his goodness, and how great is his beauty… KJV

Police Business!

“A rookie police officer was assigned to ride in a cruiser with an experienced partner. A call came over the car's radio telling them to disperse some people who were loitering. The officers drove to the street and observed a small crowd standing on a corner. The rookie rolled down his window and said, "Let's get off the corner." No one moved, so he barked again, "Let's get off the corner!" Intimidated, the group of people began to leave, casting puzzled glances in his direction. Proud of his first official act, the young policeman turned to his partner and asked, "Well, how did I do?" "Pretty good," replied the veteran, "especially since this was a bus stop."

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 1 Chron. 24-26

Trail Mix - 5.15.18

5.15.18 – “For corn to bear fruit you have to bury it in the ground and the same is true for the Christian life. Jesus said, “Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.” John 12:24. Jesus made it plain that his way was the way of death and the cross that we must die to live. Friend can you point to a time and place where you were “buried?” Do you remember saying yes to Jesus who said yes to the Cross?” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is that you would have a strong sense of consecration to Christ and His Cause.

Mark 8:34  And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. KJV

Bear Facts!

“A country preacher decided to skip services one Sunday and head to the hills to do some bear hunting. As he rounded the corner on a perilous twist in the trail, he and a bear collided, sending him and his rifle tumbling down the mountainside. Before he knew it, his rifle went one way and he went the other, landing on a rock and breaking both legs. That was the good news. The bad news was the ferocious bear charging at him from distance, and he couldn't move. "Oh Lord," the preacher prayed, "I'm so sorry for skipping services today to come out here and hunt. Please forgive me and grant me just one wish.... please make a Christian out of that bear that's coming at me. Please, Lord!" That very instant, the bear skidded to a halt, fell to its knees, clasped its paws together and began to pray aloud right at the preacher's feet. "Dear Lord, bless this food I am about to receive... in Jesus' name... Amen."

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 1 Chron. 20-23

Trail Mix - 5.14.18

5.14.18 – “Preaching as we have come to know the term has fallen out of favor with many in the church world today. The emphasis in many worship services has shifted and we now see music occupying the place of priority in most services. There is “pressure” to lengthen the worship music and shorten the sermon in many churches. We must never ever lose sight of the fact that “God himself has chosen the foolishness of preaching…” to save the lost! Music should “set the table” but should never be the “main course!” What is the answer? Paul said, “Preach the Word…” and that should be enough to settle the issue!” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is that you would “know the truth” the whole truth and nothing but the truth!

1 Corinthians 1:18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. KJV

Denise and Denephew!

“A pregnant woman from Washington, D.C. gets in a car accident and falls into a deep coma. Asleep for nearly 6 months when she wakes up she sees that she is no longer pregnant and frantically asks the doctor about her baby. The doctor replies, "Ma'am you had twins! A boy and a girl. Your brother from Maryland came in and named them." The woman thinks to herself, "No, not my brother... he's an idiot!" She asks the doctor, "Well, what's the girl's name?" "Denise." "Wow, that's not a bad name, I like it! What's the boy's name?" "Denephew!"

 Bible Reading Schedule for today - 1 Chron. 17-19

Trail Mix - 5.13.18

5.13.18 – “There is a song that asks the question, "How deep the Father's love for us?" If you want to know the answer, then look at the cross. There on the cross Jesus took the weight of the sins of the whole upon himself, "He that knew no sin, became sin for us..." The blood, suffering, pain and ultimately, the death of Jesus, is all about His love for a lost world. You just cannot understand such love without looking to the cross!” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for you to know the length and depth and height of the love of God in Christ.

Mark 10:33 Saying, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be delivered unto the chief priests, and unto the scribes; and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the Gentiles: KJV

Go figure!

“You know you're a mom when you're up each night until 10 PM vacuuming, dusting, wiping, washing, drying, loading, unloading, shopping, cooking, driving, flushing, ironing, sweeping, picking up, changing sheets, changing diapers, bathing, helping with homework, paying bills, budgeting, clipping coupons, folding clothes, putting to bed, dragging out of bed, brushing, chasing, buckling, feeding (them, Not you), PLUS swinging, playing baseball, bike riding, pushing trucks, cuddling dolls, rollerblading, basketball, football, catch, bubbles, sprinklers, slides, nature walks, coloring, crafts, jumping rope, PLUS raking, trimming, planting, edging, mowing, gardening, painting, and walking the dog. You get up at 5:30 AM and you have no time to eat, sleep, drink or go to the bathroom, and yet ... you still managed to gain 10 pounds.”

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 1 Chron. 13-16

Trail Mix - 5.12.18

5.12.18 – “Several times in the Bible we read the phrase, "...and it came to pass." Has it ever occurred to you that every promise that the Lord has made has come to pass? If it hasn't yet, it will. It ought to fill our hearts and minds with peace and joy at the thought that when our God speaks, it "comes to pass." Think of all His promises that have already come to fruition. "He that hath begun a good work....will finish it," and the list goes on and on!” Steve Trail

My prayer for you today is you would lean upon the Lord and trust in His providence.

1 John 2:17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. KJV

Mother’s Dictionary!

DUMBWAITER: One who asks if the kids would care to order dessert.
FAMILY PLANNING: The art of spacing your children the proper distance apart to keep you on the edge of financial disaster.
FEEDBACK: The inevitable result when your baby doesn't appreciate the strained carrots.
FULL NAME: What you call your child when you're mad at him.
GRANDPARENTS: The people who think your children are wonderful even though they're sure you're not raising them right.
HEARSAY: What toddlers do when anyone mutters a dirty word.
IMPREGNABLE: A woman whose memory of labor is still vivid.
INDEPENDENT: How we want our children to be as long as they do everything we say.
OW: The first word spoken by children with older siblings.
PUDDLE: a small body of water that draws other small bodies wearing dry shoes into it.
SHOW OFF: a child who is more talented than yours.
STERILIZE: what you do to your first baby's pacifier by boiling it and to your last baby's pacifier by blowing on it.
TOP BUNK: where you should never put a child wearing Superman pajamas.
TWO MINUTE WARNING: when the baby's face turns red and she begins to make those familiar grunting noises.
VERBAL: able to whine in words
WHODUNIT: none of the kids that live in your house...

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 1 Chron. 10-12

Trail Mix - 5.11.18

5.11.18 – “The joy that Jesus gives to those who ask is not natural exuberance, human enthusiasm, circumstantial exhilaration or manipulated emotion! It cannot not be worked up, it must come down from the “Man of sorrows!” Joy does not depend on (praise and worship, gospel songs, high church or whatever label you call it) music or the lack thereof. You can have joy in a jailhouse like Paul or on Patmos like John. Many modern services are dependent on “religious cheerleaders.” This is not the joy that Jesus offers.” Vance Havner

My prayer for you is that you might have the true joy of the Lord in all its fullness.

John 15:11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. KJV

“I have just uncovered alarming evidence that Jesus condoned bribery of the police force on a comprehensive scale. In his parable about settling with your opponent before going to court, he mentions that if you fail to do so you will end up in prison. ‘You will not get out’, he concludes, ‘until you have paid the last copper’. (Luke 12:59, RSV). Of course this could just be a corrupt text.”

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 1 Chron. 7-9

Trail Mix - 5.10.18

5.10.18 – “Abraham was a man who walked with God and is called “the friend of God” in Scripture; but he did not always walk a straight line. He went to Ur of the Chaldees when God directed but he also went to Egypt. Vance Havner said, “Layovers at Satan’s suggestion become layoffs and we fail of our mission!” If we are to be about our Lord’s business there must be care not to be “lingering when we should be laboring as in David’s case!” Our trouble is that we are “…prone to wander from the God I/we love.” Gleanings from Vance Havner by S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is that you would be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord!

1 Corinthians 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. KJV

“A man who had just undergone a very complicated operation kept complaining about a bump on his head and a terrible headache. Since his operation had been an intestinal one, there was no earthly reason why he should be complaining of a headache. Finally his nurse, fearing that the man might be suffering from some post-operative shock, spoke to the doctor about it. The doctor assured the nurse, "Don't worry about a thing. He really does have a bump on his head. About halfway through the operation we ran out of anesthetic."

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 1 Chron. 5-6

Trail Mix - 5.9.18

5-9.18 – “Is there a difference between a congregation and a crowd? I think that clearly there is. Today we see many churches with large crowds that have been built with flashy advertising, worship services with strobe lights and fog machines and music that sounds very much like what the world listens to. I suspect that if men preached to these crowds the way that Jesus preached then we would see the same results that our Lord saw; “…many left and followed Him no more.” S. E. Trail

My prayer today is for us to sound forth a clear Gospel clarion call without all the “special effects.”

Matthew 19:22 But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions. KJV

“One night a wife found her husband standing over their baby's crib. Silently she watched him. As he stood looking down at the sleeping infant, she saw on his face a mixture of emotions: disbelief, doubt, skepticism. Touched by this unusual display and the deep emotions it aroused, with eyes glistening she slipped her arm around her husband. "A penny for your thoughts," she said. "It's amazing!" he replied. "I just can't see how anybody can make a crib like that for only $46.50."

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 1 Chron. 2-4

Trail Mix - 5.8.18

5.8.18 – “If we put today’s disciples to the same test that the Lord did I wonder what would be the result. In His day when He preached hard things, “…they left Him and followed no more.” Jesus spoke of self-denial, cross bearing and following. He doesn’t say that we will be poor disciples if we don’t do these things; He says we cannot be disciples at all. Sift today’s disciples with the three cannots and I wonder what the leftovers would look like? We are called to full and total surrender to the Lord. Jesus will be Lord of all or He will not be Lord at all!” S. E. Trail

My prayer today is for you to possess a spirit of self-denial and selflessness.

Matthew 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 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

 “Employed by the human-development center of a corporation in the Midwest, a young woman was training the employees in proper dress codes and etiquette. One day as she was stepping onto the elevator, a man casually dressed in jeans and a golf shirt got on with her. Thinking of her responsibilities, she scolded, "Dressed a little casually today, aren't we?" The man replied, "That's one benefit of owning the company...."

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 1 Chron. 1

Trail Mix - 5.7.18

5.7.18 – Vance Havner said, “People used to blush when they were ashamed,” now they are ashamed if they blush!” Does it still bother us when we hear someone using vulgar language, or see an indecent image? We are no longer shocked at what we see and hear; we’ve become desensitized to the smutty and the sleazy! Does your face blush red when you are exposed to the filth and trash being displayed all around us? The Scriptures make it plain that God’s blessings are withdrawn from His people because we refuse to be ashamed.

My prayer for you today is if you have lost the capacity to “blush” that you will repent and recover the “red” that’s been missing from your countenance!

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

“The Old Cherokee Chief sat in his humble reservation hut smoking his ceremonial pipe and eyeing the two visiting U.S. Government officials who had been sent to interview his opinion of the white man's progress. "Chief", one official began, "you have observed the white man for many generations, you have seen his wars and his products -- you have seen all his progress and his problems." The Chief nodded "Yes". The official continued, "Considering recent events, in your opinion, where has the white man gone wrong?" The Chief stared at the government officials for over a minute and then calmly replied: "When white found this land, Indians were running it. No taxes. No debt. Plenty buffalo. Plenty deer, turkey and beaver. Women did most of the cooking and crop work. Medicine man free to help sick. Indian men hunted and fished all the time. We never had cheating husbands and wives--we kill cheaters." The Chief smiled and added quietly, "White man dumb enough to think he could improve system like that!"

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Kings 22-25

Trail Mix - 5.6.18

5.6.18 – “There is a new version of Christianity that seeks to avoid all the “offense” and “reproach” of the cross! This new “gospel” sings about God’s love and mercy and grace but avoids themes like sin, suffering and self-denial. This new Christianity is not foolishness to the world and involves no crucifixion of self or a bleeding, dying Savior. Paul told the Galatians’ that if any man or an angel preached another gospel “…let him be accursed!” Gleanings from Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is that you would “champion” the gospel of grace that Jesus died to bring to the world!

Colossians 3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. KJV

“A man named Jack was walking along a steep cliff one day, when he accidentally got too close to the edge and fell. On the way down he grabbed a branch, which temporarily stopped his fall. He looked down and to his horror saw that the canyon fell straight down for more than a thousand feet. He couldn't hang onto the branch forever, and there was no way for him to climb up the steep wall of the cliff. So Jack began yelling for help, hoping that someone passing by would hear him and lower a rope or something. HELP HELP! Is anyone up there? "HELP!" He yelled for a long time, but no one heard him. He was about to give up when he heard a voice. Jack, Jack. Can you hear me?" "Yes, yes! I can hear you. I'm down here!" "I can see you, Jack. Are you all right?" "Yes, but who are you, and where are you? "I am the Lord, Jack. I'm everywhere." "The Lord? You mean, GOD?" "That's Me." "God, please help me! I promise if, you'll get me down from here, I'll stop sinning. I'll be a really good person. I'll serve You for the rest of my life." "Easy on the promises, Jack. Let's get you off from there; then we can talk." "Now, here's what I want you to do. Listen carefully." "I'll do anything, Lord. Just tell me what to do." "Okay. Let go of the branch." "What?" "I said, let go of the branch. Just trust Me. Let go." There was a long silence. Finally Jack yelled, "HELP! HELP! IS ANYONE ELSE UP THERE?"

 

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Kings 19-21

Trail Mix - 5.5.18

5.5.18 – “Our culture is in deep trouble and sadly, it is looking for answers in all the wrong places. Science doesn't have all the answers and neither does philosophy. What is the cure for our culture? It is to "...know God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent." John 17:3. Our world is ignorant of its peril and rushes on like a speeding train to its appointment with the Righteous Judge! Even worse, this world's only hope is a latter day Laodicean church that is "... rich and increased with goods...and knows not that they are wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked." Gleanings from Vance Havner

My prayer for you today is for you to make the main thing in your life (God), the main thing!

Ephesians 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, 2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; 3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

“It was finals week and four college seniors decided they had worked hard enough. Instead of studying for their last final, they went to a party. They were having so much fun, they lost track of time and missed the final. The next day, they went to the professor and begged for a makeup final. To explain their absence they said their car had blown a tire on the way to the exam. The professor agreed to let them take the test later that day. The test time came and the professor put each young man in a separate room and handed out the test. It was a single sheet of paper with one question: "Which tire?"

 

Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Kings 17-18

Trail Mix - 5.4.18

5.4.18 – “Do you know someone who rubs you the wrong way, gets on your last nerve and pushes you to your wits end? One of the NT words for patience refers to patience with people. You just can’t deal with someone like this in the flesh; we need a touch of the supernatural in our lives, fruit that only the Holy Spirit can produce. We need to do more than cope with these kinds of folks we need to conquer ourselves and only God’s Spirit can help us do this!” S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is for you to allow the Spirit of God to produce the fruit of “temperance” or self control in your life.

James 1:4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. KJV

“Wife to her husband: Wake up. Some thieves have broken into our house. I think they are now eating the food I made last night. Husband: Oh! Let's better call the ambulance then."

Bible Reading Schedule for today -2 Kings 15-16

Trail Mix - 5.3.18

5.3.18 - “Lord, give me patience and I want it now!” is the way we often ask for this wonderful fruit of the Spirit but we must let “…patience have her perfect work.” Fruit doesn’t grow overnight and neither does our patience. This attribute is the key to almost everything in life. A wise man said, “That all things come to he who waits.” It is no accident that patience, forbearance and longsuffering are mentioned so many times in Scripture. S. E. Trail

My prayer for you today is that you would wait for the “fruit” to ripen!

Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. KJV

 “A wife invited some people to dinner. At the table, she turned to their six-year-old daughter and said, 'Would you like to say the blessing?' 'I wouldn't know what to say,' the girl replied. 'Just say what you hear Mommy say,' the wife answered. The daughter bowed her head and said, 'Lord, why on earth did I invite all these people to dinner?”

 Bible Reading Schedule for today - 2 Kings 13-14