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| Unfortunate circumstances??? |
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This has truly been a strange and difficult week. In fact, an emotionally exhausting one at that! The worst of it, a good friend lost his job a couple days ago. This hurt! I called him with tears in my eyes for him, to arrange an immediate get together to support him, when to my surprise the voice on the other side of the phone sounded strangely… normal. Upbeat in fact. I asked how he’s doing, and he replied “Great!” That certainly wasn’t what I expected!!!
Come to find out, his perspective on his situation was a lot closer to God’s than mine. He sees the events unfolding in his life as “God opening up a giant door to freedom.” NOT freedom FROM anything, but freedom TO. Freedom to follow God’s call wherever it may take him. When God opens doors, there’s ALWAYS something wonderful on the other side! We may not see it at first, as we look through the door from this side, but we have to trust that it’s there!
That brings me to the second point, which is that appearances are often, or maybe always, deceiving!! I saw a man who lost his job, his income, his status and influence, and much more. But my friend saw God’s hand at work!! I thank and praise God for people like this, and though it sounds mighty strange, I thank God for the unfortunate circumstances they go through. Because as they go through these circumstances, they teach me to not be deceived by what I see.
2,000 years ago a man was nailed to a bloody cross. His eleven remaining closest friends, and a handful of women who also followed him, saw a dear friend put to death unjustly. They saw the dreadful, heartbreaking loss of an influential teacher and incredibly godly man. But three days later their eyes were opened, and they realized how deceived they were by appearances.
So as this difficult week winds down, I am almost gleeful, against all odds, and totally reminded of the prophet’s words:
3:17 Though the fig tree do not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, 3:18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.
I pray that we can all have our spiritual eyes opened together, and that we can see past the unfortunate circumstances we go through, perceiving instead the incredible hand of God working in our lives. |
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| To add a comment to "Unfortunate circumstances???" |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| PRAYS FOR EVEYONE TO HAVE THERE SPIRITUAL EYES OPENED. AMEN TO THAT. AWESOME POST.THANK YOU FOR SHARING THIS. |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Glad this is the first blog i read today! It is so true! Thanks for posting! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Thank you Tina! I feel like my world changed this morning. God soooo opened my eyes. Best morning worship ever for me! (or at least, best in a while) Blessings to you dear sister. I feel like I've written my bestest blog ever! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| I'll say an Amen to that as well Mike. |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| AMEN!!!! God lets us know we may not be able to control our circumstances but we can certainly control our reactions to them!! Praise God!!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Thank you Stevie, thanks beautyfromashes!!
I never ask for stars (anymore), but I feel this may be the best blog I've ever written! God gave me these words this morning on the bus, and I worshiped him like I haven't in a long long time! Stars, this blog needs stars!! This is a word for us all!!!!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Rejoicing!
Loudly!
Singing!
Proudly!
Thank you Jesus for my salvation! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| AMEN!!!!!!!! Our circumstances and situations are almost NEVER what they look like! I think that's why we are told to walk by faith not by sight, whoever said that was a Genius HEHE!!! May we always see Gods mighty hand at work regardless what it looks like!!!!!!!!!! God Bless my precious brother!!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Saying Amen and keeping you in my prayers!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Amen Paul! Amen!! Doyle, thank you my exhuberant and Christlike friend!
Amen Angela, we are walkin together by faith!! Becky, hang in there sister, things AREN'T what they seem!!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Stars people, this word deserves stars!!
We need to quit whining, quit moping, quit reacting angrily, get rid of the bitterness. It only holds us back!! Allow the Spirit to open your eyes to God's mighty hand, his loving concern for you!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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(I just tried to star this myself, thinking God might allow it just this one time, lol!) |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Good Mike. Good for sharing |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Can you see it, prophet_elder_rev_etc? Can you? Our lives can be JOYFUL, if only we could see it.... |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| All things always work together for the good of them that LOVE GOD and to them who are called according to His Eternal Purpose....Some times God is trying to position us for greatness but we refuse to move...So He has to allow circumstances in life to move us to where He ultimately wants us to be for HIS GLORY....Powerful blog Mike...Thanks for sharing ;o) |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Mike: Your friend is "Alive" hehehehehe Maybe he went to the river with Ken? love it, love it, love it! Starrrrrrrrrrrrsssssssssssssssssssssssssssss |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Marjay, amen sis!!! God's vision, is what we need! This starts to become possible w/the Holy Spirit! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Cindy....amen, and God bless Ken, he's RIGHT where God wants him .... sometimes despite appearances!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| HEHE!!! I give you Infinity stars if that means anything!!! I wish mychurch had a bulletin space so I could send the word out!!!!! Oh wait can;t do that but I will copy and paste the link!!! I love all your excitement over what God is showing you!!!!!!!!!! There is nothing better!!!!!!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| hehe... |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| AMEN Angela!!! Thanks!! (God sure is good.... we lose sight of that only b/c we lack vision, but he never ceases to be good or do good things!) |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Oh Bubbles, you KNOW WHAT I'M TALKIN ABOUT!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Ya'll always give me plenty to preach about on Sundays ya know. Mike, isn't it always wonderful to get revelations from the Lord? |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Mary...I have a feeling your eyes are truly fixed on God, and your vision is pretty darn good! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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I need to read this this Am
Thank you for revealing this word to me today
funny how you know something but you dont know it at the same time..does that even make sense
Praise the Lord
Have a blessed weekend
Heather |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Jerry, USE THIS!! It's God's not mine. |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Yeah Heather it does! May your eyes "see" spiritually, and may your joy be multiplied as a result! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Ah, the "right" side of the Cross --I don't look, facing the Cross-- because I can't see the Empty Tomb (it would be behind me).... the Tomb was ahead of Him..... and besides that Paul writes .... I am 'crucified with Christ.... I am hanging there with Him- my guilt, I am the guilty one.... and when I am facing the way HE is facing ON THE CROSS... I am facing the TO the Empty Tomb...He "saw" it... Paul also writes... I rose with Christ..... I "see" LIFE now --- and I have to let Him use me to help others "see" the Empty Tomb! Face the right direction.... That we to who are IN Christ... are "resurrected" into newness of Life! Good blog Mr. Mike.... |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Amen Donna! We all need to continue growing stronger in our faith. Thanks for the many stars sister, you have true star power!!!
Proph, I will check that out today, I promise! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Love that word, Mrs W. You too are inspired! "I have to let Him use me to help others "see" the Empty Tomb! Face the right direction...." Lovely! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Truly, Pastor Tim!! We know this, but do we always see it? Do we ever see it? Our perspective is often so bleak, so wrong.
ps... That song is special to me, thx for posting the lyrics. |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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AMEN and AMEN... God has a plan for each and everyone of His children and it is ALWAYS for our good... If we can only take our eyes off of the obvious and focus on what He has told us in His word, then the workings of the devil would become so insignificant. We are to be tried and tested, some more harshly than others, but we should come out gleaming like gold because our Father has promised us the victory.
Victory in that we should not worry (easier said than done) but also knowing DEEP DOWN IN OUR SOULS that He will forever take care of us. Maybe not the way we want, but He will do it. To know is to know \o/
Father, Thank you for standing and guiding me through the trials that are set forth. Continue to mold and make me the apple of Your eye, continue to soften my heart toward the ones who cannot and will not listen to You. Help me to become a better person in Your eyes. All of the doubt and fear that constantly enters my heart, cleanse. You alone are worthy of all my Praise and Adoration. Guide my brothers and sisters along to grasp what is truly important (YOU). I give to You alone all that I am, I have and ever will be. Forgive me for the sins that I have committed (known and unknown). I only want to glorify You and bring to You your children who are so lost and lonely. Honor, Glory and Praise to Your name. In the mighty name of your most precious son, Jesus.... |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| I'd paste in a gazillion stars for you Mike--but I have to run! You deserve them, though! This is a GREAT blog! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| I'm with Donna, a Million Stars buddy!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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" ......If His eye is on the sparrow, then I know He's watching me........" REALLY REALLY !
I'm rejoicing in your, and your friends victory Mike! PTL!!!!!!!!!!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| You got my star Mike.... God amazes me everyday... just when you think you may have it figured out... He shows you that He is control and if we would just step aside His Will will be done for the glory of God. |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Thanks, Mike. I also lost my job almost 3 months ago, and I have been "wallowing" in despair. Mentally I know God has something good for me, but emotionally I just keep looking at the bills and the dwindling cash, and the lack of prospects. I pray now for your friend's outlook of "freedom to." This may be exactly what I need to really look to God, not just pay lip service.
Help me, Lord, to trust You to do what is best for me. |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Hey bro! Your post totally reminded me of one I intended to write a couple months back (and wrote this morning as a result of being "reminded") about the same topic, just from a different angle. Read it here and tell me what you think! Two sides to the same coin, as they say! Good word! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Mike - I have been at this door many times and he continues to open new ones for us |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Sounds like you had a really good one, wish I could understand it better. Here is a cute saying for ya: 'One when door closes, we so often look at the closed door, that we don't see the one that has been opened for us.' |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Amen, Mike! Definitely star-worthy. No kidding, this has been like the topic of the week for me. I was just reading in Psalm 138:8 where it says (to paraphrase), "the LORD will work out his plans for our lives. I was just sharing this with someone in our church. God's plans for us are always for good. Unknown plans can be frightening, but when the plans belong to God, we can rest assured that we can expect something marvelous. His word promises us that He will guide us along the best pathway for our life. He will advise and watch over us, (Psalm 32). And He wants to help us follow the path that is most pleasing to Him, not the path that may be most pleasing to us. I believe in my heart-of-hearts that if we actively continue to seek His will, we will find it and it will be something very, very beautiful - even if it means that we must go through some unfortunate circumstances to get there. Really nice post, Mike. Thanks for sharing that - it makes me think that the body of Christ is on the same page. God bless you and have a wonderful weekend. <>< |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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 Standing with you all in faith... pray that we can all have our spiritual eyes opened together, and that we can see past the unfortunate circumstances we go through, perceiving instead the incredible hand of God working in our lives.
8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Love that Habakkuk verse so much! Makes me cry every time I attempt to read it out loud! So POWERFUL! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Mary, many many thanks for adding that prayer... it blessed me (us) to pray it with you.
Birdie, thank you, and I'll accept a gazillion stars - for God's word revealed!
Cher, ditto to you sis! (And of everyone I've encountered on this site, YOU may be the one who best manages to keep your eyes on God's perspective...thanks for sharing that view with us!
Tom, good to rejoice together, bro! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come,
Why should my heart be lonely, and long for heaven and home,
When Jesus is my portion? My constant friend is He:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.
Refrain:
I sing because I’m happy,
I sing because I’m free,
For His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know He watches me. “Let not your heart be troubled,” His tender word I hear,
And resting on His goodness, I lose my doubts and fears;
Though by the path He leadeth, but one step I may see;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me. Refrain
Whenever I am tempted, whenever clouds arise,
When songs give place to sighing, when hope within me dies,
I draw the closer to Him, from care He sets me free;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me. Refrain
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Oh GrammyB, I know it! :-) |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Pastor Dan, bringing me tears again! You know, I cry whenever we sing that at Sunrise, w/all those dear Alzheimers ladies.
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Bren, GLAD we are standing together...thanks!
Linda, thanks so much. You reveal to me that scripture is probably rife with examples just like this. I have seen them many times, possibly daily in fact. But God uses specific "unfortunate circumstances" to open those unseeing eyes of ours. Yeah, I kind of saw earlier this week, but the world changed for me this morning. Life is wonderful when God is your pilot!
Megan, that is exactly what I'm talkin about, sis! If you understand what you wrote, you are definitely on the right track!
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Lee, praying for you NOW! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Mike,
Thanks for this!
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| September 19, 2008 |
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PT, can't tell you how many times I have said to myself, "what was I thinking?" Or how about "when will I learn!"
Keith, few have your keen spiritual vision, I know it!
Cher and Jason, I'm on those links man! Thanks!! Cher, thanks, you have been a major encouragement to me! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Thank you Stacey, see you Sunday!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Thanks brother~ |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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I can't tell you how closely this correlates to what's been going on in my life recently. It's funny that God had actually reminded me the other day of the song that Pastor Tim posted in his comment. A business in my small town that frequently posts quotes on their sign outside for people to read as they drive by had a quote the other day that read: "Life isn't about waiting for the storms to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain."(I'm not sure who it is by) In my blog, Pity Parties Are For Losers, I shared about our recent "unfortunate circumstances." We have learned to see things in a much different perspective now, and God has definitely been doing a work in us. While what He is doing may not be exactly what we would have pictured, it is certainly all for His glory and for His good purposes. It has really become clear to me that God is using our circumstance not only for us to learn from, but for others as well, just as you are learning from how your friend handled his trial. Now comes the wait for the day when we get to hear about how God chooses to use your friend's circumstance for His glory! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Cheryl from GA, sounds like you definitely speak from experience.
Elizabeth, "God is using our circumstance not only for us to learn from, but for others as well". Wow, when you have a heart for others, AND a healthy view of God's perspective, how can you go wrong???? I'll bet you are a couple of the most joyful people on the planet, Liz. :-) Thanks for stopping in and sharing that. |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Wow, I am surprised that I got that right. :-) It is an old saying that I try to live by. :-) |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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God bless you for sharing one of His most improtant lessons!
I have been in an intense year long course steeped in this very subject. I have not been blogging because it is just too big to get down. God's grace is not only suficient, but down right Glorious! The moment I can find the words to START to descibe how good He is, you guys will be the first to know.
Bhek |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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That is The Perfect Outlook We all Need to Put on Every Morning &
When Difficult Things (mere Appearance) of difficulty.... Know That ALL THINGS work for the Good
To Those that LOVE God......Attitude is Everything.
The Attitude That He would like us to put on & Wear like a Garment.
Another great reminder what to look for to wear in our Spiritual Closet.
Good one Brother.....the stars keep adding up.....so are you in second place DC has the Gold
& you have The Silver??.....hahaha |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Michael, LOL! I'm not the king, never will be thank the Lord! Yes, this is the outlook we must have. We MUST have!!
Bhek, you are welcome, and I'll take no credit for this one bro! Still hoping we can get together!
Indeed Mama Strout! Indeed!!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| ps.... This really is important, life changing even!! Is 100 stars too much to ask? :-) |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Another Gold Star for you :) Thank you as always for being a blessing |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Thank you Lord for your faithfulness even when we are unfaithful.
Your mercy overwhelms me Lord and causes me to praise your holy Name.
Thanks for the words of wisdom Mike.
Psalm 34:1 - I will bless the Lord at all times - His praise shall continually be in my mouth. |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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This strange week has been capped off today with more "bad" news. Just heard an hour ago, ANOTHER of my closest friends was laid off today!! Hard to believe. Though I am stunned at this incredible turn of events, I am steeled against the blow, after this morning's revelation. My spiritual eyes open.
There has also been very good news, good things going on behind the scenes here. Good news, bad news, it's all in God's hand today! An amazing day! God is worthy of our praise!!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| Okay Mike I need to know what your devotional was this morning!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I think you should post it cause I think it's just selfish to keep to yourself LOL!!!!!!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| p.s. 100 stars too much to ask? I say not enough!!!!!!!!!!! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| I'm still trying to see the joy in it and I have been praying about it, but I am not getting feedback from someone, so maybe the people that you think might care, might not really care at all. |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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| 100 shinning stars....Keep rejoicing, It make the devil mad! |
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| September 19, 2008 |
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Terry, bless you! Yes, we had him on the run today, didn't we?
Toni, it's hard to see, my friend. But the whole world changes when you do!!!
Angela, I couldn't agree more!!!!!!!!! LOL!!
ps... This morning's devo time was solely prayer. Took a break from my study on Exodus to talk to my Father. |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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| Amen to that! |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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God is opening more eyes spiritually in our struggling church, thanks be to God!!!!!
(yes, I'm joyful despite the difficult circumstances we are going through!) |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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Amen brother it awesome How our spiritual eyes open..Things are different when they open to see..
awesome Blog and awesome brother I am glad to get to know..Thank you Jesus
Blessing.. |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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| God never closes a door but that He open another one if we just need to look for that door. |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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| seek and you shell find, what God has for you. |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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1 Corinthians 2:9 (KJV) But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.
This scripture is often used to describe heaven. But in context with surrounding scripture it is plain that GOD wants us to see now the things He has prepared for us.
It was a beautiful cake. Elaborately iced, perfectly baked, tasted great. All who saw it or tasted it was impressed with how good it was.
But no one thought about what the cake had to go thru to get to where it was.
Several eggs were cracked.
Milk was poured out.
Flour was mixed in and mixed up.
Ingredients were added at the cook's discretion.
The batter was beaten and stirred.
And then put into an oven and the heat was turned on.
Did it survive?
What if the cake had a say in how it was prepared?
Would the eggs not crack up because they avoided being broken?
Would the milk refuse to be poured out?
Would the flour not get mixed up in someone else's mess?
Would the ingredients decide not to let someone else be in charge?
Would they resist being beaten and not be stirred?
Instead of the oven would they head for the fridge?
Romans 8:29 says that we are predestined to be conformed into His image. In other words, GOD is working in the circumstances of life to make me more like Jesus. When I "discovered" this truth...duh! There is a reason and a purpose for each thing GOD causes or allows in our lives. A lot of times that is hard to see because I only see how that affects me. GOD is looking at the big picture. I am not the big picture. But if I only will offer my life as a canvas others will see the big picture.
Been my experience that unfortunate circumstances are necessary to equip me to minister to those in unfortunate circumstances. I must have a lot of ministry ahead. Do I enjoy pain, hardship, heartache and heartbreak? Of course not. But the joy of the Lord is not dependent on my emotions or my circumstances.
This then is my consolation (comfort, peace)--my joy in unrelenting pain--that I have not denied the words of the Most High (Job 6:10 NIV).
I have not denied, I will never leave you or forsake you.
I have not denied, I am with you always.
I have not denied, All things work together for good...
I have not denied, "the things that GOD has prepared for them that love Him."
O taste and see the the Lord is good. Blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.
.....peace.....
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| September 20, 2008 |
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Gordon, where can I begin? I don't have time to respond to all your thoughts, in fact I don't really have time to respond in depth to any -- which grieves me a tad, b/c your comment is CHOCK FULL of the kind of stuff that went through my mind as I worshiped and thanked God for the unfortunate circumstances that allowed me to see spiritually. (Not specifically the cake part though, lol.) Amazingly, I always thought my eyes WERE open and seeing.....but something changed Friday, just prior to this blog leaping out of my head/heart!
Robert, a purer truth is hard to imagine. Thanks brother!!!
Shelley, amen! Life is so less painful when our spiritual eyes have been opened! :-) |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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| 50 stars, halfway to 100!! Praise the Lord, and are we joyful yet? \0/ |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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| 51 :) |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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Awesome Blog Mike, so glad to hear of your friends good news... he has real faith... God bless him. I will keep him in my prayers still though... I can't wait till I am mature like that.... Wow!
Mike I love your blogs, I always learn something,,. God bless you. and thanks for caring and sharing,
I will pray your week next week will be awesome... |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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Marilyn - what a sweet comment to read....thank you thank you thank you!! The prayers are so appreciated. And yes, I too hope to be where my friend is in terms of spiritual maturity. Sometimes I feel like I'm there, but others... definitely not! Let's just be satisfied for now that we're headed in the right direction, one day at a time. :-) Sue....thanks! Umm, would it be spam if I sent a link to this to all 190,000 members of MyChurch?? Hmm? This lesson sure could save a lotta heartache and despair! |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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How many more now? (hee,hee)
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| September 20, 2008 |
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| Cathy, thanks!! That one MUST count for about 10 normal ones! |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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| wait a sec, the count didn't change... |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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| GOD BLESS YOU BOTH ! |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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THANK YOU Misty!!! (I'm still wonderin why Cathy's BIG star didn't change the counter...... should have at least jumped by 5!) |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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| I starred you because I'm feeling your star power! And because it is a great post! |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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| Pastor Mark, hey thanks!! This spiritual eye opener has made an otherwise difficult week downright joyful! How 'bout dat?? |
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| September 20, 2008 |
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| I'll gladly give this star to you Mr. Mike...and I thank you for this word...let the scales fall from the blind eyes...you've given me a new prayer...many thanks and blessings... |
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| September 21, 2008 |
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Thank you LaTonya!! The WHOLE WORLD CHANGES when our eyes are opened spiritually!!!!! Unfortunate circumstances can be SUCH a tremendous distraction though!!!! Love and prayers, sis.
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Today is the day we'll find out who's seeing with God's perspective, the "BIG" picture (God's plan)!
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| September 21, 2008 |
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ps... Looking BACKWARDS, nothing has ever happened that wasn't part of God's plan. Can you believe that? We must look forward to the continued unfolding of his plans with JOY!
(my heart is bursting today, may the LORD be praised!!!!!) |
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| September 21, 2008 |
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| I am right there with you Mike, God Bless, I would star it again but it won't let me. I guess I won't see you today, I am going to the 11:00 service, Paul is there now setting up communion. talk to you later. I did receive a good e-mail by the way. |
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| September 22, 2008 |
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“Get away from here and turn eastward, and hide by the Brook Cherith, which flows into the Jordan. And it will be that you shall drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there.”
So he went and did according to the word of the LORD, for he went and stayed by the Brook Cherith, which flows into the Jordan..
Excellent message Mike. I am sad to hear of your friends loss of employment but delighted to know that through this he is able to see with the eyes of his heart.
I like the way you tied in the use of appearances too. We looked at Christ in the flesh at one time. How differently we see him now!
Notice the verses that I started this comment with. The reason I posted them is because I just got in from a three part meeting with Andrew Wommack. Andrew taught on lessons from Elijah and how Elijah was given a word from the Lord and once he spoke that word God had already commanded provisions for him in another place called there.
The entire series of messages is very powerful and I intend to blog on that shortly but there is no doubt in my mind whatsoever that I was "led" to this blog for yet another reason. You see, I have been experiencing some turbulence with my job also. There have been many, many layoffs in my field of expertise and the job market is very scarce right now. In addition, I have been hearing the Lord speak to me about moving to Colorado and going to Andrews Bible College.
So anyway, during one of the meetings this weekend, I could swear that Andrew kept glancing at me. It was more than just a couple of times and I could almost hear the Lord telling me that Andrew had a word for me. Then at the end of the meeting, he requested that anyone who was seeking some direction from the Lord to stand for prayer. Well, of course, I did, as did others. So during his prayer he mentioned how someone was worried how they would ever be able to pay all there bills and still be able to attend school full-time. And then he paused briefly and said that the Lord had just spoke to him about someone who was standing and said that they were about to lose their job., Ouch! I immediately felt in my spirit that it was me.
Then he went on to remind me not to worry. That if I would take the word that the Lord has given me, and follow through with step one, that then and only then, would I be given step two through ten, and, that every provision had already been made for me there!
Wow! So you see, I am not surprised that you personally invited me to read this blog. You never do that. It's not like you don't have a solid reader base already. So I must see your invitation as a further confirmation that the time is coming, in fact it may already be here, where I will be making arrangements to move to Colorado and begin Bible College, finaly! Yeah!
That is where the Lord is saying is my new place called there!
Great message as usual my friend. And to your friend, you may wish to have him listen to this audio message:
A Place Called There
Or at least ready this article: Lessons From Elijah
Thanks again Mike. Love you man!
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| September 22, 2008 |
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Michael,
When you are in the pulpit of some huge megachurch years from now, I hope you'll remember lil' ol' me and the tiny role I played in confirming your call.... or rather the way the Spirit used me to confirm it. lol Cool bro, I'm excited for ya, even if things don't work out, I know you'll have your spiritual eyes open and looking at the wonder of God's amazing yet difficult to understand, plan for your life.....worked to perfection thus far. Thanks for the great comment, bro. I knew you would appreciate this one. Yep, rarely do I let friends know I blogged, but when something is so potentially life changing as this, I can't keep quiet about it!! Glad you came! :-) |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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several things came to mind when I first read this blog several days ago I was undecided on what to say or how to say it but I think these words are the closest I will get to what I am looking for... "When hard times befall you, don't be tempted to give up your faith. The lord has his reasons for what He is doing, and if you hold on to your faith long enough, He will compensate you for all your suffering." Author unknown. Hope I didn't miss the point... good blog my brother. |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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| Jade, that's a mature point of view ... thanks for sharing it!! |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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| Wow! That was powerful Mike! I wished ours had been as pleasant...but God has truly been our restorer! He know how to make a good plan out of a plan that the enemy tried to plot against us. This has truly encouraged me this morning andI am rejoicing with you well...because the Lord is Good and His mercy endures forever. Hallelujah!!! \o/ \o/ \O/ \O/ did you see the praises get bigger?..thats what happens when you begin to praise the Lord!!! It grows and grow and grows and then 'BREAKTHROUGH' comes! |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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| Thanks Mike, reading this gives me a sense of happiness for your friend whom I know very well. It was a surprise to hear that he was doing great when we talked to him last week. Oh lord almighty please watch over this solider of your army and help him and his family regain there foot hold back into the working world and lead them to the front lines once again. AHMEN. He is and always will be someone I look up to and respect. |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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Oh dspione, COULDN'T AGREE MORE!!! Tania, thanks! So glad this encouraged you, like it certainly encouraged me to write! And yes, I see (and love) the praises! :-) |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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Mike the Lord has opened your eyes once again, but remember to keep them open. We sometimes get glimpses of His leading and direction but then forget when our unfortunate turn of events occurs. Like looking in the mirror and forgetting what we look like once we walk away. Keep your eyes on Jesus and He will let you see the direction you should be going, even when all seems dark.
Great reminder brother and of course here is your start! Number 60 I believe.
peace |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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| Thanks for the good advice Glenn! That is precisely why I will hang onto a printout within easy reach. And the comment/star. This thing could still get to 100! |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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| I once worked as a mechanic on a fleet of 22 school buses for a Christian school that was run by a church. My wife and I attended that church. We felt a strong leading of the Lord to start attending a different church. I knew that making that decision most likely meant I would loose my job repairing the fleet and that's how it ended up playing out. At the time I didn't know what the Lord had in store. I ended up working at an automotive repair shop for the husband of one of the bus drivers that just happened to be located in walking distance from my house. Four years later he decided to move to Florida. I either had to find another job or buy the place. He made me a offer I couldn't refuse. That was 21 years ago. I have to say that owning a business with now eight employees and all the stress that goes along with that isn't the walk in the park some might think it is but I am convinced its where God wants me to be. He has placed me in a spot where I have many opportunities to share His love. Unlike many types of jobs that folks have there is no one looking over my shoulder preventing me form sharing my faith. I have had the freedom for short periods of time to take off and do Christian releif work. So I have to say that losing a job can be somewhat of a heart break like it was for me but it just could be God's way of moving us into His perfect will. |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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| "....losing a job can be somewhat of a heart break like it was for me but it just could be God's way of moving us into His perfect will. " Amen Mark!! Either God is sovereign over everything, or he's sovereign over nothing! Someone said that recently, and it really stuck in my brain. Thanks for sharing your mature perspective Mark. Hey, man. You'd be one of my first choices to fill the holes left behind at church, know what I mean? :-) |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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| It is always how we look at things, that will determine how we handle things. Once we realize that it is all really out of our hands, we can rest in the knowledge that God has it under control, even though it might not look like it. That weight is lifted, and we eagerly await to see what God has in store for us next! Great blog Mike, and it doesn't look like you needed to ask me to read it or to star it :) |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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| That man reminds me of my husband. Steadfast.. |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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Deb, perspective is indeed so very very important. This was one of those rare times when God's perspective became crystal clear to me!
Joey, you married a good man! :-) |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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| Mike, it was pretty funny you sent this blog to Michael...I was sitting right there when this all happened. As soon as Andrew said someone standing was about to loose their job I just looked up at Michael and smiled...and he looked at me and said, "OUCH". I don't know why I want to bust a giggle in those moments but I do, I know to the receiver it is not funny but to me it is an exciting time...when it is someone else. I can ALWAYS see God moving in their midst it is hard when it is US personally as a parent or a provider to have this happen...I KNOW how men are in particular tied to their job with self-esteem and the whole 9 yards. For your friend to respond this way just shows his maturity, isn't it great to have friends like that! To me they are who really get to show us true aspects of God, because when we venture out in our faith and trust Him to care for us, He DOES, and He does it with a flare and style that has only His signature on it... that is when our cup runneth over generally, and those times in our friends lives we never forget nor should we because they are an encouragement for every onlooker to the greatness of God...I personally just love that!... |
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| September 23, 2008 |
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| Got it! I'm on it Mike! |
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| September 24, 2008 |
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| Folks, MC is now working on the strange formatting issues you see here (and likely on your own blogs as well). |
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| September 24, 2008 |
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| hey i just joined mychurch and this is the first blog i've read. THank you sooooo much! |
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| September 24, 2008 |
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| Welcome to MyChurch, natcat! Hey, IMHO you'd have been hard pressed to read a better blog your first time out. The LORD really opened my eyes, though I thought my spiritual vision was pretty close to 20/20 before!! (ps... boy, I hope MyChurch fixes the formatting...this blog is really hard to read now!) |
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| September 24, 2008 |
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Mike (and everybody),The "strange formatting" is because of that long row of stars in Donna's post. Since there is no space between them the computer is reading them as one "word."
The best "fix" would be for Donna to copy her post, delete it, and paste it into a new post, adding a few spaces periodically between the stars. lol, I just had to do that very thing because I found typos after I posted.
Hope this helps. |
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| September 24, 2008 |
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Thanks for the suggestion Lee, but I am pretty sure the formatting problems here began well after Donna posted that comment. Have you noticed that in the last 48 hours, you can't post comments with BOLD or italics, or even...
line breaks?
MC is on it I'm told! |
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| September 24, 2008 |
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| ps... I remember seeing Donna's stars in a rectangular shape at one time.... she had line breaks inserted, now gone. AHHHH! You are right Lee, you are so smart!!! The line breaks were deleted and now those stars are expanding the width. I'm on it baby! |
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| September 24, 2008 |
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| No, I hadn't noticed that -- sorry, |
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| September 24, 2008 |
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| Donna S |  | September 19, 2008 at 8:54am | | |
| | awesome post Mike, once again .....I too see through others and it helps me to grow stronger in my faith I always thank God for those he puts in my path!EYES WIDE OPEN HERE !!!giggles on the star thingy |
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| September 24, 2008 |
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| Lee is an angel, thank you thank you thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
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| September 24, 2008 |
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| Awwwww!!! |
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| September 25, 2008 |
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| It does indeed take FAITH Lara! To imagine that things are really going as God has planned, rather than as they appear, falling apart around us, takes great faith and courage!!! |
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| September 25, 2008 |
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Amen brother. When the Word tells us that the Joy of the Lord is our Strength, your friend is a
fine example of having Joy inspite of...his circumstances.
Thank you for sharing wisdom !!!
Blessings! |
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| September 26, 2008 |
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| Well done faithful Servant |
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| September 26, 2008 |
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World Love....THANKS! Life changing stuff, ain't it??? (Psalm 42:5, 6a) Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God. |
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| September 26, 2008 |
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| Debo....amen to your amen! :-) |
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| September 26, 2008 |
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Home-run blog Mike. Thanks for sharing this. |
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| September 26, 2008 |
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| i can relate to all of this and even though bubbles want's to hold on to old things and doesn't want to forgive me for our huge missunderstanding and how i was towards her and befriend me again and be best friends all over again and be like real sisters in christ jesus instead of fake sister's in christ jesus and not like real sister's at all and plus i have needed her throughout this whole time i've been going through thee hardest thing in my life and have needed to talk to her and share things with her and let her know she is one of thee most important people in my life besides christ jesus first and foremost in my life but i see it isn't enough for her to see that she is holding a grudge way too long and needs to give it up to the lord jesus and needs to really and truly forgive me and make up and get along and be friends again and stop blocking me from ever being able to share and talk and tell her anything at all |
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| September 26, 2008 |
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| Rich, hey bud, great to see ya come out! Thanks for your comment, and I hope you find this revelation helpful and worthy to be passed along to those you know who seem to be stuck in unfortunate circumstances.....but who are actually being positioned by God for something tremendous! |
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| September 26, 2008 |
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| rebekah, I will be praying for quick resolution. Ok, sis? I know there is always more than meets the eye. May the Lord speed reconciliation to all of us! |
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| September 27, 2008 |
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STILL hoping to get this thing to 100 stars! Why? This message is important!! People are hurting, wondering where God is, and if he even cares! He DOES! You folks in the midst of unfortunate circumstances, don't throw your money at televangelists looking for "seed money"!! The seeds have already been planted!! God's just been watering them! If things are going rough right now, be patient! God is MOVING!! |
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| September 29, 2008 |
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| Hey my brother how are you???? My tree is doing really well.....When we had winds from Ike come thru here i was in florida but my tree with stood the winds but Larrys tree a bradford pear was not as strong and it split right in half....It was sad because it was shaping up so nice and it was a beautiful tree Larry was so upset to the point it made him sick......Then after some time to think he was grateful that the wind took it down he's wanting to build a garage in that area and he would have had to cut the tree down anyway and he just didn't think he could bring himself to do it....God is awesome in all His ways....Love ya little brother.....your big sis...... |
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| September 30, 2008 |
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| Wow, thank you Mike, What a blessing this is, and so perfectly written. I want my dad to read this, he really needs to hear this word today. Amazing how the Lord uses your blogs, and places them on your heart at the right time. Even though you wrote this almost 2 weeks ago, running into you at church, and then getting the message from you today to read it only confirms that God uses his people to encourage eachother at the right moments. God bless you brother. -Tam |
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| September 30, 2008 |
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| Mike , that was very encouraging to me. I have read in the Bible and people in my Bible groups have also said the same thing this man said. To me your blog is confirmation of the things your friend said but satan has tried to put doubt in my mind. This has encouraged me and increased my faith in God . I know God is allowing these things to happen for him to be glorified and that I will grow Spiritually and be what He wants me to be. I believe God sometimes has to bring you down in order to keep you close to Him so He can build you up beyond your expectations. I believe there is a scripture that says that. If you know where it is please send it to me. God Bless you and Laura, Vance |
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| October 08, 2008 |
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This is so encouraging. Especially in light of everything going on around us. To be able to see with a Kingdom perspective can be sometimes difficult. But in the case of your friend, it's given him wisdom! Glad I found this under your "Popular" section :). |
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| October 08, 2008 |
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| Op.. just made it even more popular! |
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| October 08, 2008 |
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| Thank you Carol, always happy to encourage the "facilitator of encouragement!" |
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| October 08, 2008 |
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Does this post hold a record for stars-to-comments ratio? I've not really kept track but 51% has to be pretty high among posts with this many comments... |
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| October 08, 2008 |
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| It is very encouraging that this incredible spiritual awakening impacted so many. As for a record, I haven't a clue, I would guess not though with that purple sleeping back thing, and a few others... |
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| October 09, 2008 |
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| Just cause I can still say AMEN!!!!!! |
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| October 09, 2008 |
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| Mike, check with your friend from time to time over the coming weeks. This sounds very much like a couple of the first stages of grief, shock and denial. He may be calm and have some spiritual focus now, but later on he may need a friend as the loss begins to sink in. He will need a good friend with a listening ear. Blessings! |
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| October 09, 2008 |
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Grant, thanks for the advice, it's appreciated. It is a friendship I value highly, so the relationship (and all that the Lord wants to accomplish through it) will continue. Bhek, I'm still sayin' amen too! |
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| March 02, 2009 |
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Mike, thank you for being a Godly man and sharing your gifts with all of us! God uses us all as vessels, yours is especially useful!!
Leigh |
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| September 30, 2009 |
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I know every trail, every hardship brings me closer to God. He is much bigger than anything I have ever been through. If we never had a problem, how would we know our God could solve them. I believe that. I want to share something we did in bible study last year.......
Pastor had us make a list of the five worst things that has ever happen to us and a list of the five greatest things that has ever happened to us. Well I thought about that list this week-end and my present journey will not make the any list. God is just that great. |
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