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Post by Cindy on Jul 16, 2016 10:45:27 GMT -5
Thank you ever so much for writing all you did about praying and talking to Jesus!!
I usually do read scripture on line ( tho sometimes I read it the night or day before and occasionally a commentary) when I write here because I can paste and copy the verses if I include them.
Also its easier than also trying to juggle my Bible with my laptop, mouse, headphones, book to scroll the mouse on, a pillow to raise the computer that is on my lap, sometimes a snack and/or something to drink etc.etc.
However, the idea of writing a reminder to pray on a bookmark etc. was a grrrrr-great idea!
And I loved everything you revealed about talking to Jesus....I do hope He will answer me as much as He does you.
I do talk to Him throughout the day, but not as much as I would like (another habit/joy/privilege) I would like to cultivate way more deeply more often....keeping my mind stayed on Him. Today Thursday July 14th
I read Mark 4: 35-41
So while reading this, I asked Jesus 3 questions ( since I am still very shaky in knowing what may or may not be a true answer or even just my own thoughts.....
If it's okay with you, I would like to write a little about it, and get your help, because you have been doing this a LOT longer than I....in a way, this could be in one sense, like the first time...
or at least, on a different , new level.
So right off the bat:
v. 35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.”
v.36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat.
My question to Jesus was, what did it mean.....'just as you (He) was?
Were you dirty from sand, or did it mean you were so very tired ( as you obviously were)....or something else.
My 'thought' (?) was tired....but I am not 100%
sure.
Then:
v. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”
My 2nd question was:
Did their asking you if don't you care.....
make you angry or sort of hurt....
it seemed disrespectful ( but perhaps honest).
The problem with that question was, although it was my immediate question to him, I didn't wait for the answer.....
I just read on and then I sort of got an answer of sorts
v.40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”
It seems like His answer was that it was yes hurtful, disappointing, and maybe made Him a little annoyed?
So, in any case, the application for me is,
to realize that, even tho I may not stop all fear.....
I need to take it captive as soon as possible, because, at least for me, it is a disrespectful attitude...
and of course, fear is lacking in faith...
I need to focus instead on the fact that no matter what the outcome is, of whatever I am fearful of....
He will be with me always, and even if it means death for me.....
He will make something good out of it.
Next to the question did their comment hurt Him or make Him angry, continuing to read is just what He wanted you to do hon! That's one way He answers us. Sometimes He wants us to keep reading, and other times He may suggest an entirely different scripture from another book. Don't be afraid to leave what your reading and see what it says (in context) if a scripture comes to your mind. And yes, I think you heard His answer, that it was both hurtful and disappointing to Him, and possibly a little annoyed that they hadn't grown in their faith more.
Very good application too, although keep in mind that when Jesus replied to them asking if they still had so little faith, He said it in love. He said it the way we might say something similar to our little children when they disappoint us. (yes, even if we're a little annoyed with them too lol) But His love is greater than ours ever could be. He knows our struggles.
We've been having to deal with the issue of fear with my granddaughter Gracie who's 6 now. We taught her to take her thoughts captive and she's learning to do that pretty well. But I also prayed that the Lord would send angels to guard her, her brother and her parents as it dawned on me that Grace and Elijah know more about God and His Word than many adults do, and therefore are prime targets for Satan. Well, I didn't tell Gracie or anyone about my prayers, didn't think of it. Yesterday she called me to tell me that she saw an angel in her bedroom the night before! After she'd told me all about it and I'd answered her questions, (she was hoping one of her friends could have had an angel to watch over her father who died when she was 6 months old) I confessed that I'd asked the Lord to send His angels. So we're working on helping her learn to trust the Lord and letting her know that because she trusts Him, she doesn't need to be afraid of anything. This is something we all have to learn, which is why the Lord tells us so much about it in His Word. I also suggested that she memorize Psalm 4:8 so she could repeat it to herself when she went to bed at night.
You did a great job. Did you think about any of that during the rest of your day, or talk to Him, asking Him questions during the day about anything? Our time with Him shouldn't end when we put our bible away, but should continue throughout the day....at least the talking to Him part and asking Him questions. Whether it's making a comment about the weather, or the beautiful scenery, or saying you wonder what His favorite flower is....
Today Friday July 15th
I read Mark 5: 1-10
Jesus Restores a Demon-Possessed Man
Again demon possession. I can't help but believe that demon possession is growing at a very fast rate today, as we speed towards the tribulation. Yet again in France it seems like another demonstration of that.
But in this case ( in Mark),
the demon may have contributed to this man's great strength, but the man did not use it to kill people, tho a man who could break iron chains, surely would have been able to kill many many people.
I have to wonder if people were spared mass murders, because Jesus was walking around, but today, with much of the world having what amounts to 'God Free Zones', the demons are getting bolder and bolder to mass murder people ( something the demons long to do).
I did ask Jesus a question, but as of yet have no definitive answer. I wondered what this man ate out there? Did he have relatives or friends bring him food? It would seem like if the folks wanted to contain him they might have tried to weaken him but not providing food, but clearly he must have been eating ( plus imbued with demon power?) to maintain his strength.
Anyway, I notice that up to and including, verse 10, the man himself does not speak to the Lord, only the demons. In fact, it seems they were forced to not only come to meet Jesus, but fall on the man's knees, to the Creator and Lord of everything.
My application, is, to realize that even tho the ever increasing manifestation of demonic possession is greatly increasing and is even terrifying,
to know,
that they(demons and demon possessed) must bow their knee to Jesus....
and to make sure, that our ( Leonard and I) home is never a God Free Zone,
but in fact,
continue to 'increase' it,
(as the demons increase... we who love the Lord Jesus must increase our love for Him more!!)
as a God/Jesus/Holy Spirit....
Wanted Here Zone!
We are seeing the results,
the more the Lord is being kicked out of the nations,
the more the demons can run rampant, and the more possessed people continue commit horrifying acts.
In wars, men usually stick to killing other soldiers,
(tho they also raped women, and even killed children from time to time),
but the 'war' going on today,
is changed into just killing as many people as possible, (no matter who they are, or even killing those that are part of your group)
right from the start and not bothering to fight a war of soldiers against soldiers.
The other application is to step up my prayer life and of course reading God's Word.
you know I agree that demons are at work more and more today due to it being the end of the age. Sadly, many people seem to think that a new or different president can save us, or save the US anyway. But I'm afraid that it's too late for that. God is sovereign and His Word is true. The clock is ticking and cannot be stopped at this point. I really doubt if it could have been stopped even 8 years ago when Obama was elected. That was God's judgment on our nation. At first others didn't want to believe that, but after awhile even they couldn't deny it. Now with all the horrible "natural disasters" and the murders that are happening in our country, there's no way it can be denied. Our country is going under the same way Rome did. Things will get worse, not better. The only question in my mind is whether or not we'll see the end of our country and way of life before the rapture or not. I hope we won't, but there's no guarantee of that. In many ways we've already been reduced to a second rate world power. It's not going to take much to make that final in the eyes of all the other countries. 
Again, great application! And in a way, I was thinking on similar lines when I was reading Acts today, and wrote this:
fresh-hope.com/thread/2555/fellowship-believers
Sorry I wasn't here yesterday, but had to work on the bills and all. And today I have to go shopping so don't have time to do much more. Bruce is going to two funerals first as I'm unable to do that and do the shopping too, so that's why I had time to write today.
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 16, 2016 17:46:35 GMT -5
Today Sat. July 16th
I read Mark 5:11-20
This the 2nd half of the story about the demon possessed man, the demons ( many of them, called Legion) begged Jesus again and again, not to be sent out of the land.
I asked Jesus about that, because it seems that demons wouldn't really care about where they were.
However, it seemed like perhaps part of the answer ( again, I am not confident that what I think Jesus might have said to me is in fact, what He did say, IF he said anything yet)...
But it seems like even tho they had possessed one man, they still influenced the people in the area ( which made it comfortable for them?)
It seemed like part of the answer was further on, because
The people did not seem to care so much about the man being free of the demons, as they were of their lost pigs.
Not only that, they actually asked Jesus to leave, even tho he did this amazing miracle.
I think I need to apply this as a reminder to never let 'things or livelihood,to ever take place over having a relationship with Jesus.
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Post by fearnot on Jul 16, 2016 19:43:23 GMT -5
Opps! I didn't see your answers to the previous reading until after I finished this one.
Thank you
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Post by fearnot on Jul 17, 2016 14:41:49 GMT -5
Today July 17th
I read Mark 21-34
This is at least at first, a strangely organized story, it starts out with a synagogue leaders begging Jesus to heal his dying daughter.
I already know Jesus answer to my first question even before I asked it.....but as a sinful human, I still wanted to know, how could Jesus be so kind and compassionate to a man from the very organization trying to kill him.
And I know, that Jesus loved him even as he loves me....sinners all.
Anyway, the strange thing is this starts off telling this story but hardly gets started when it is interrupted with a totally different one! ( more about why next post I think)
This is a story I can certainly relate to! A woman has been going to doctors for 12 years and instead of getting better, she is worse hummmmm.
Nevertheless, the application for me, is: It isn't over until its over, not to loose faith, because like this woman who Jesus heals ( after a very looong time and all of her money), Jesus will heal me too ( more than just physically!!) ....if not in this life for sure in eternity future!
Still, I do not have to rule out it in this life...patience is a virtue, and God can surprise me at anytime ( if He chooses).
Actually, I believe Jesus has already healed a great portion of my many ailments and pain....no not all gone, but so far improved!!
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Post by Cindy on Jul 18, 2016 11:26:18 GMT -5
Today Sat. July 16th
I read Mark 5:11-20
This the 2nd half of the story about the demon possessed man, the demons ( many of them, called Legion) begged Jesus again and again, not to be sent out of the land.
I asked Jesus about that, because it seems that demons wouldn't really care about where they were.
However, it seemed like perhaps part of the answer ( again, I am not confident that what I think Jesus might have said to me is in fact, what He did say, IF he said anything yet)...
But it seems like even tho they had possessed one man, they still influenced the people in the area ( which made it comfortable for them?)
It seemed like part of the answer was further on, because
The people did not seem to care so much about the man being free of the demons, as they were of their lost pigs.
Not only that, they actually asked Jesus to leave, even tho he did this amazing miracle.
I think I need to apply this as a reminder to never let 'things or livelihood,to ever take place over having a relationship with Jesus.
Did you remember to pray before you started reading?
So, did you talk to the Lord about anything else during the day?
Opps! I didn't see your answers to the previous reading until after I finished this one.
Thank you Today July 17th
I read Mark 21-34
This is at least at first, a strangely organized story, it starts out with a synagogue leaders begging Jesus to heal his dying daughter.
I already know Jesus answer to my first question even before I asked it.....but as a sinful human, I still wanted to know, how could Jesus be so kind and compassionate to a man from the very organization trying to kill him.
And I know, that Jesus loved him even as he loves me....sinners all.
Anyway, the strange thing is this starts off telling this story but hardly gets started when it is interrupted with a totally different one! ( more about why next post I think)
This is a story I can certainly relate to! A woman has been going to doctors for 12 years and instead of getting better, she is worse hummmmm.
Nevertheless, the application for me, is: It isn't over until its over, not to loose faith, because like this woman who Jesus heals ( after a very looong time and all of her money), Jesus will heal me too ( more than just physically!!) ....if not in this life for sure in eternity future!
Still, I do not have to rule out it in this life...patience is a virtue, and God can surprise me at anytime ( if He chooses).
Actually, I believe Jesus has already healed a great portion of my many ailments and pain....no not all gone, but so far improved!!
Again, did you pray before you started reading? Did you ask Him anything else about what you were reading? And did you talk to the Lord about anything during the day after this? Looking forward to hear about why you think it happened the way it did too.
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 18, 2016 12:43:42 GMT -5
Arrrggghhh So sorry Cindy, Thank you so much for asking and reminding me about praying before reading.
Yes, I did pray before reading scripture, and I did ask Jesus some questions throughout those 2 days.
But I still have tooo many lapses where I forget, and just do and think, by bad habit, whatever 'I' decide.
Still, I am catching myself at it quicker and quicker ( well occasionally, I 'wake-up' discovering I went like a drunk on a long 'toot'.
It's soooo frustrating.
I have asked Jesus to help me catch that sort of thing before it starts, and there is a great improvement...but not perfect for sure.
I even am beginning to pray before I say something to someone (I have even done that in the past on rare occasions).
In other words ask Jesus if there is anything He wants me to say or respond ( and to watch my attitude)....but I want to get so much better....
I want it to be a habit so ingrained it will be 2nd nature. I think I need to make it part of my first words to Jesus each morning.
Can you think of some other ways to talk to Him about it and also ways to help speed up the process?
Maybe writing about it is another way of instilling it as a new true habit?
I want to be like you :-) Talking to him all the time about every every every single thing!
For example, I was talking and chatting and thanking etc. Jesus for awhile yesterday, but then I went to make breakfast, and tho I started off asking Him about that....
I started on the dishes and then got into my old way of talking to me to myself (daydreaming etc.).
Finally....I woke up from my daydream and was annoyed at myself!
Thank you again for working with me on this, I actually am feeling very hopeful that I will have more and more success...if not totally perfection in this life.
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Post by evafromgreece on Jul 18, 2016 14:12:51 GMT -5
Hello guys :) I am back :)
The exam went well, I still dont have the results, but I believe it went well :)
On our study I am up to John chapter 8.
The thing is that in the previous gospels, it was much easier to go faster lets say. In John I read the same thing over and over again.
I am moving to 9. And will come up with a post on these chapters. I will try for not something very long.
Thank you guys.
See also my post in the other thread. Maybe there is a misunderstanding about what I wrote about nations
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 18, 2016 15:52:49 GMT -5
Today Monday 18th
I read Mark 5: 35-43
So just like in real life we may be talking to someone about something, and another person interrupts with their crisis or whatever, so it happened for Jesus.
However, this passage is one of many that skeptics like to point to and say:
Seeeee the Bible contradicts itself.
They point out the father said his daughter was dying, but now it says she is dead...so which is it? Contradiction they crow!
But not so fast.....
when the dad first talk to Jesus he said:
"My little daughter is dying."
That is what he meant...not dying a few hours from then or days or weeks...she was in the process of dying...right then!
But....
They got interrupted and so by the time the Lord had helped the sick woman, the little girl did die....no contradiction.
then Jesus says something that is so applicable for me:
"Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
In fact, that is the reason I choose 'fearnot'....to remind me to fear not...or don't be afraid....just believe.
I asked Jesus why didn't you let anyone follow you but Peter, James and John? I mean everywhere you went large crowds followed you, so why now?
Waiting to see if He tells me as I read more, it seems like this is at least partially why:
When He tells the people crying outside the home of the little girl, that she is not dead, but asleep...
they laughed at him.
I think Jesus is telling me the family didn't need even more cynical non-believers during this time.
Which brings me to my next question....didn't their laughing at you, make you angry and sad? I think the answer is...yes.
Oh well there I go....the next sentence says He put them all out but the parents and disciples....if Jesus put them out, I think He is telling me something about my question.
So there was the little girl on her death bed and Jesus raises her from death.
Which raised yet another question, why did you say she was just sleeping and the servants said she was dead.
I only have a feeling Jesus said to me, that death to us is death, but He knows we never 'really' die
and
if He raises them from death, it would be like a sleep?
It seemed like Jesus was trying to explain it to me, but I am still so new at this, I am not always getting it or only part of it ( which is what this seems like).
In any case, the application for me is I can rejoice, that Jesus can ( and will....to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord) raise me from the dead should I die.
This is kind of scary, I feel a little like Peter, trying to walk on water...going a ways and then plop right in! LOL
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Post by evafromgreece on Jul 19, 2016 12:53:04 GMT -5
I was thinking about why Jesus did so many miracles on Saturday. I think that Jesus wanted to show the importance of saving a person no matter what. I mean respecting the law was what the should do , but the biggest comandment was to love the person that is near you over yourself. Maybe, He wanted to point out what was important and what was not so important.
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Post by fearnot on Jul 19, 2016 16:01:54 GMT -5
True Eva we are to first love God and then your neighbor as yourself.
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 19, 2016 16:46:56 GMT -5
Today Tuesday July 19th
I read Mark 6: 1-6
A Prophet Without Honor
A very strange juxtaposition of ideas and feeling from the people of Jesus home town.
On the one hand,they realized that when He taught it was so far more advanced than religious leaders of the day, plus they were aware of his amazing miracles.
Yet, on the other hand, because they knew His earthy family and background, they took offense.
Again, I had to ask Jesus if their bitterness didn't anger and sadden Him....and it seems like the answer is (at least in some degree) yes, because verse 6 says that the Lord was amazed at their lack of faith...so much so He could not do any miracles (except to lay hand on some sick).
The application for me, is to be sure no root of bitterness springing up in me, so that I miss some miracle Jesus might wish to perform for me.
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 20, 2016 14:05:32 GMT -5
Today Wed. July 20th
I read Mark 6:6-13
I had a lot of ( I am sure someone may say are silly) questions to Jesus. But you have encouraged me to have a 'real' relationship with the Lord, and since I am 'mostly' still a baby Christian, asking 'silly questions I am pretty sure is ok with Jesus ( I may never get beyond silly questions, but I am so happy to being a deeper relationship that I can't be too concerned about that right now).
Even tho this is only a few verses, nevertheless I was surprised that I had more than one question, so I will paste the verse and type my questions and answers ( if I got any) and then do the application/-applications.
Then Jesus went around teaching from village to village.
My first thought, (not a question), was, how neat it must have been to hear Jesus teach. But that was followed by, I am able to have Him teach my through scripture whenever!
7 Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits.
I had two thoughts/questions:
Why 2 by 2?
I know you used that in scripture before Lord, the animals going into the arc....is there a connection?
And the thought demons again....but exactly does having 'authority over them' entail?
I know you cast them out of people, but were the disciples by their 'authority' able to have knowledge and stop any other evil activities of the demons?
This is confusing a wee bit to me because the archangel Michael, didn't exactly have an easy time disputing over Moses body, so in what degree can mere humans have as a way of authority over demons.
I don't think I have a clear cut answer yet
8 These were his instructions: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts.
[What's the 'bag' exactly? Looking at some earlier verses in scripture, it seems like it's sorta the man's 'purse kinda".
9 Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. 11 And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, leave that place and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.”
12 They went out and preached that people should repent. 13 They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.
Well it seems they were given authority to drive out demons from humans
The application for me today was from v.8 where Jesus tells them not to take: bread, no bag, no money etc.
They were to rely on the Lord for all their provisions.....likewise, I am not to worry about such things ( which is not to say, I or other Christians never work etc. because Jesus will be like some sort of 'magic' genii that will give us all we wish).
Yet god can provide in extreme times 'manna' or have ravens bring food or any way He choose, IF He chooses!
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Post by evafromgreece on Jul 21, 2016 14:29:45 GMT -5
Thoughts about John chapter 11-12
I liked much to be reminded that "bad things" are not always bad. God can use bad things to reveal things to people, and as long as we have faith in Him, nothing could be really bad, because things are used for us in order to learn and to bring glory to Him. Also, death is not bad because it can lead us to be with the Lord eventually.
I am not sure about 12:9-11. They want to kill also Lazarus? Was this mentioned to the other gosplels also? I might have missed something...
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 21, 2016 15:33:28 GMT -5
Thoughts about John chapter 11-12 I liked much to be reminded that "bad things" are not always bad. God can use bad things to reveal things to people, and as long as we have faith in Him, nothing could be really bad, because things are used for us in order to learn and to bring glory to Him. Also, death is not bad because it can lead us to be with the Lord eventually. I am not sure about 12:9-11. They want to kill also Lazarus? Was this mentioned to the other gosplels also? I might have missed something...
You are right....I never really noticed that they wanted to kill Lazarus also! Good catch! |
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Post by fearnot on Jul 21, 2016 16:00:36 GMT -5
Today Thursday July 21st
I read Mark 6: 14-29
This is the sad story of John the Baptist Beheaded because John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.”....
and Herodias nursed a grudge....
Right there is an application for me, to be careful not to 'nurse a grudge'!!
I am not sure, but was it you Cindy, who pointed out that when a mother nurses, she is totally focused on her 'baby'?
So to 'nurse' a grudge, is to be so focused on it, nothing else is in your world. And the whole point of 'nursing' is so your baby will 'grow'.....
Grow big...and strong!!!
What may start out as a small irritation at someone who offended you, if I 'nurse' it, then it will grow, (prayerfully, not to the point of murder, but that is the nature of sin)....
sin always grows...especially if we 'feed or nurse it".
In fact, I still have moments of 'nursing' a grudge' against my PCP ( who I will see this coming Tue) for throwing up the Salem witch trials and Crusades in my face 4mts ago!!
I guess, its back, ( we have talked about it already),
because I have an appointment in 5 days...
so this scripture was timely. I need to pray for him, rather than, nurse the grudge.
But it wasn't just against me, is the problem, I feel like I have to defend Christianity and Jesus...tho I know that is silly!
And I feel sad and angry for the poor daughter of Herodias!
What a piece of work....to manipulate her young daughter to do a sexy dance in front of how many men?
Then when the king offers her 'anything' and she asks her mother's advice as to what should she ask for....her mother involves her child to be a part of murder.
Well, that reminds me not to repeat, (as I have in the past),
my 'grudges' to my daughter.
I am positive, I gossiped about the whole Salem witch trials etc. to her, because I was steaming mad, (until I talked to you).
Those are very hard and difficult sins, but these verses have reminded me to ask Jesus to help me overcome them and be victorious. ...(Oh not to win the battle with my PCP, but over the sins).
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Post by Cindy on Jul 22, 2016 13:00:55 GMT -5
Arrrggghhh So sorry Cindy, Thank you so much for asking and reminding me about praying before reading.
Yes, I did pray before reading scripture, and I did ask Jesus some questions throughout those 2 days.
But I still have tooo many lapses where I forget, and just do and think, by bad habit, whatever 'I' decide.
Still, I am catching myself at it quicker and quicker ( well occasionally, I 'wake-up' discovering I went like a drunk on a long 'toot'.
It's soooo frustrating.
I have asked Jesus to help me catch that sort of thing before it starts, and there is a great improvement...but not perfect for sure.
I even am beginning to pray before I say something to someone (I have even done that in the past on rare occasions).
In other words ask Jesus if there is anything He wants me to say or respond ( and to watch my attitude)....but I want to get so much better....
I want it to be a habit so ingrained it will be 2nd nature. I think I need to make it part of my first words to Jesus each morning.
Can you think of some other ways to talk to Him about it and also ways to help speed up the process?
Maybe writing about it is another way of instilling it as a new true habit?
I want to be like you :-) Talking to him all the time about every every every single thing!
For example, I was talking and chatting and thanking etc. Jesus for awhile yesterday, but then I went to make breakfast, and tho I started off asking Him about that....
I started on the dishes and then got into my old way of talking to me to myself (daydreaming etc.).
Finally....I woke up from my daydream and was annoyed at myself!
Thank you again for working with me on this, I actually am feeling very hopeful that I will have more and more success...if not totally perfection in this life.  He said the experiment really helped him bring the Lord into everything he was doing or thinking about. I never did that myself, mainly because I forgot about it until long afterward. Personally, I think every 60 seconds is a bit much as we'd never get anything done lol, but every 5 or 10 minutes would be a good way to train yourself. But if you remember back to when you first began taking your thoughts captive, I told you then that one of the first things you'd experience would be that you'd start catching yourself after the fact, and then you'd start catching yourself half way through the thought, and then a little closer to the beginning of it, and finally, you'd catch yourself before the thought had really formed. It's the same way with this. (and even taking our thoughts captive is often still like that when we start taking a different kind of thought captive lol) So you're on the right track and the Lord will help you and remind you. I'm visual, so I tend to put notes where I can see them to remind myself of what I'm trying to learn. Sometimes the only thing the note says, is "remember" LOL. I don't need to say more because obviously, I know exactly what it is I'm trying to do. Another way you can help yourself, since you're often involved with your grandchildren, is to tell them what you're trying to do and ask them to help you by asking you every day what you've talked to the Lord about that day. Kids usually love to do stuff like that, and they can be a real help that way! (not to mention that it's a great example and lesson for them that you get across without ever saying anything directly to them, but instead they think they're helping you!) Another thing I've used before is association. That's often used as a memory trick, so I've used it for things like this too. Pick an object or even a person, and tell yourself that every time you see that object or person, it will remind you to talk to the Lord. So let's say you pick one of the cats, or the refrigerator or the sink, or whatever... those things will act as a reminder for you. All you have to do after you pick the object is visualize it or actually look at it, either one, while telling yourself it will from then on remind you to talk to the Lord. It works really well that way! Hello guys :) I am back :) The exam went well, I still dont have the results, but I believe it went well :) On our study I am up to John chapter 8. The thing is that in the previous gospels, it was much easier to go faster lets say. In John I read the same thing over and over again. I am moving to 9. And will come up with a post on these chapters. I will try for not something very long. Thank you guys. See also my post in the other thread. Maybe there is a misunderstanding about what I wrote about nations
I'm glad your exam went well, and like you, I'm sure it did. I'm not sure what you mean when you say that in John you read the same thing over and over again because John is totally different from the other gospels. It does mention some of the same things but instead of repeating what the other gospels say about it, John gives us all new information about what happened. It is not important to go fast, in fact the slower you go the more you will get out of it. I'll have to check the other thread tomorrow if I have time. . Today Monday 18th
I read Mark 5: 35-43
So just like in real life we may be talking to someone about something, and another person interrupts with their crisis or whatever, so it happened for Jesus.
However, this passage is one of many that skeptics like to point to and say:
Seeeee the Bible contradicts itself.
They point out the father said his daughter was dying, but now it says she is dead...so which is it? Contradiction they crow!
But not so fast.....
when the dad first talk to Jesus he said:
"My little daughter is dying."
That is what he meant...not dying a few hours from then or days or weeks...she was in the process of dying...right then!
But....
They got interrupted and so by the time the Lord had helped the sick woman, the little girl did die....no contradiction.
then Jesus says something that is so applicable for me:
"Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
In fact, that is the reason I choose 'fearnot'....to remind me to fear not...or don't be afraid....just believe.
I asked Jesus why didn't you let anyone follow you but Peter, James and John? I mean everywhere you went large crowds followed you, so why now?
Waiting to see if He tells me as I read more, it seems like this is at least partially why:
When He tells the people crying outside the home of the little girl, that she is not dead, but asleep...
they laughed at him.
I think Jesus is telling me the family didn't need even more cynical non-believers during this time.
Which brings me to my next question....didn't their laughing at you, make you angry and sad? I think the answer is...yes.
Oh well there I go....the next sentence says He put them all out but the parents and disciples....if Jesus put them out, I think He is telling me something about my question.
So there was the little girl on her death bed and Jesus raises her from death.
Which raised yet another question, why did you say she was just sleeping and the servants said she was dead.
I only have a feeling Jesus said to me, that death to us is death, but He knows we never 'really' die
and
if He raises them from death, it would be like a sleep?
It seemed like Jesus was trying to explain it to me, but I am still so new at this, I am not always getting it or only part of it ( which is what this seems like).
In any case, the application for me is I can rejoice, that Jesus can ( and will....to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord) raise me from the dead should I die.
This is kind of scary, I feel a little like Peter, trying to walk on water...going a ways and then plop right in! LOL
I was thinking about why Jesus did so many miracles on Saturday. I think that Jesus wanted to show the importance of saving a person no matter what. I mean respecting the law was what the should do , but the biggest comandment was to love the person that is near you over yourself. Maybe, He wanted to point out what was important and what was not so important. True Eva we are to first love God and then your neighbor as yourself.  Today Tuesday July 19th
I read Mark 6: 1-6
A Prophet Without Honor
A very strange juxtaposition of ideas and feeling from the people of Jesus home town.
On the one hand,they realized that when He taught it was so far more advanced than religious leaders of the day, plus they were aware of his amazing miracles.
Yet, on the other hand, because they knew His earthy family and background, they took offense.
Again, I had to ask Jesus if their bitterness didn't anger and sadden Him....and it seems like the answer is (at least in some degree) yes, because verse 6 says that the Lord was amazed at their lack of faith...so much so He could not do any miracles (except to lay hand on some sick).
The application for me, is to be sure no root of bitterness springing up in me, so that I miss some miracle Jesus might wish to perform for me.
 Today Wed. July 20th
I read Mark 6:6-13
I had a lot of ( I am sure someone may say are silly) questions to Jesus. But you have encouraged me to have a 'real' relationship with the Lord, and since I am 'mostly' still a baby Christian, asking 'silly questions I am pretty sure is ok with Jesus ( I may never get beyond silly questions, but I am so happy to being a deeper relationship that I can't be too concerned about that right now).
Even tho this is only a few verses, nevertheless I was surprised that I had more than one question, so I will paste the verse and type my questions and answers ( if I got any) and then do the application/-applications.
Then Jesus went around teaching from village to village.
My first thought, (not a question), was, how neat it must have been to hear Jesus teach. But that was followed by, I am able to have Him teach my through scripture whenever!
7 Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits.
I had two thoughts/questions:
Why 2 by 2?
I know you used that in scripture before Lord, the animals going into the arc....is there a connection?
And the thought demons again....but exactly does having 'authority over them' entail?
I know you cast them out of people, but were the disciples by their 'authority' able to have knowledge and stop any other evil activities of the demons?
This is confusing a wee bit to me because the archangel Michael, didn't exactly have an easy time disputing over Moses body, so in what degree can mere humans have as a way of authority over demons.
I don't think I have a clear cut answer yet
8 These were his instructions: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts.
[What's the 'bag' exactly? Looking at some earlier verses in scripture, it seems like it's sorta the man's 'purse kinda".
9 Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. 11 And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, leave that place and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.”
12 They went out and preached that people should repent. 13 They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.
Well it seems they were given authority to drive out demons from humans
The application for me today was from v.8 where Jesus tells them not to take: bread, no bag, no money etc.
They were to rely on the Lord for all their provisions.....likewise, I am not to worry about such things ( which is not to say, I or other Christians never work etc. because Jesus will be like some sort of 'magic' genii that will give us all we wish).
Yet god can provide in extreme times 'manna' or have ravens bring food or any way He choose, IF He chooses!
2. I bet you knew this was coming... there's no such thing as a silly question to our Lord. Not when the question comes from a heart of love for Him!
3. I love the comments you have for the Lord and your questions! I'm sure He does too!
As far as sending them 2 by 2 goes, what else does that make you think of beside the animals? Does it cause you to think of relationships, of being with someone instead of being alone?
About what having authority over demons means: we, as humans, have no authority over then except the Lord's authority which He gives us to use. It's like having a power of attorney from Him. Because of that, we can command them to stop what they are doing, or to leave a person. In other words, we can do what He has done. Michael is not God, he is an angel, as I'm sure you know. God has no problem controlling Satan or demons, although Michael or any other angel may have a fight on their hands. We are not given the authority of angels, but rather the authority of God Himself.
Yes, a bag would be like a purse.
Excellent application too!
Thoughts about John chapter 11-12 I liked much to be reminded that "bad things" are not always bad. God can use bad things to reveal things to people, and as long as we have faith in Him, nothing could be really bad, because things are used for us in order to learn and to bring glory to Him. Also, death is not bad because it can lead us to be with the Lord eventually. I am not sure about 12:9-11. They want to kill also Lazarus? Was this mentioned to the other gosplels also? I might have missed something...
It would be nice if you would share what you get to apply to your own life from each chapter you read ...
Thoughts about John chapter 11-12 I liked much to be reminded that "bad things" are not always bad. God can use bad things to reveal things to people, and as long as we have faith in Him, nothing could be really bad, because things are used for us in order to learn and to bring glory to Him. Also, death is not bad because it can lead us to be with the Lord eventually. I am not sure about 12:9-11. They want to kill also Lazarus? Was this mentioned to the other gosplels also? I might have missed something...
You are right....I never really noticed that they wanted to kill Lazarus also! Good catch! Today Thursday July 21st
I read Mark 6: 14-29
This is the sad story of John the Baptist Beheaded because John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.”....
and Herodias nursed a grudge....
Right there is an application for me, to be careful not to 'nurse a grudge'!!
I am not sure, but was it you Cindy, who pointed out that when a mother nurses, she is totally focused on her 'baby'?
So to 'nurse' a grudge, is to be so focused on it, nothing else is in your world. And the whole point of 'nursing' is so your baby will 'grow'.....
Grow big...and strong!!!
What may start out as a small irritation at someone who offended you, if I 'nurse' it, then it will grow, (prayerfully, not to the point of murder, but that is the nature of sin)....
sin always grows...especially if we 'feed or nurse it".
In fact, I still have moments of 'nursing' a grudge' against my PCP ( who I will see this coming Tue) for throwing up the Salem witch trials and Crusades in my face 4mts ago!!
I guess, its back, ( we have talked about it already),
because I have an appointment in 5 days...
so this scripture was timely. I need to pray for him, rather than, nurse the grudge.
But it wasn't just against me, is the problem, I feel like I have to defend Christianity and Jesus...tho I know that is silly!
And I feel sad and angry for the poor daughter of Herodias!
What a piece of work....to manipulate her young daughter to do a sexy dance in front of how many men?
Then when the king offers her 'anything' and she asks her mother's advice as to what should she ask for....her mother involves her child to be a part of murder.
Well, that reminds me not to repeat, (as I have in the past),
my 'grudges' to my daughter.
I am positive, I gossiped about the whole Salem witch trials etc. to her, because I was steaming mad, (until I talked to you).
Those are very hard and difficult sins, but these verses have reminded me to ask Jesus to help me overcome them and be victorious. ...(Oh not to win the battle with my PCP, but over the sins).
We need to remember that neither Jesus nor God need to be defended. They're quite able to defend themselves and in fact, have done so, and do so regularly for those who have eyes to see and ears to hear. The day will soon come when there will be no question of how great or how powerful they are!
Remember that righteous anger focuses on the wrongness of the evil done rather than on the destruction of the person doing it. Righteous anger will have the law of God in focus. If our anger is going to remain righteous we must maintain our focus on the things of God. Anger should be aimed at helping to correct the situation. I like what one of my books says about this:
Who more than Jesus had the right to be angry? Who more powerful than Jesus could have retaliated against those with whom He was angry? It is not that Jesus let anyone off the hook. It is just that He kept His perspective and entrusted them to the Father who was in a better position to deal with them. I am afraid that the reason we don’t let go of anger by giving people over to God is the same reason Jonah did not want to go to Nineveh. We are afraid God will forgive them and we want them to pay for what they have done.
There are some things which happen to us or to people we love that warrant our intense anger but, as in all things, we must hold all things in God’s perspective. If wrath is warranted no-one can match the fierce wrath of God. On the other hand, if God chooses to have compassion on them (as He has on us), who are we to get in the way?
Christianity and change: Steps to growth and healing in Christian counseling
It might also help you to remember what to do if you follow a specific order for your posts. For example, 1 start every post from now on by saying something like, "first I prayed and asked for God's guidance", 2 then talk about what you read, and what you talked to the Lord about it, and what He said, 3 then talk about your application, and 4 mention if you spoke to Him about what you read or about other things throughout the rest of the day. By forcing yourself to follow this pattern in your posts, you would subconsciously begin to remember that you needed to do these things because you wouldn't want to have to write that you had not done them. Know what I mean?
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 22, 2016 13:24:03 GMT -5
Today Friday July 22nd
I read Mark 6:30-44
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
I noticed in v.30 something I have overlooked in past readings ( oh I read it, but it didn't really register in the same way as today).
v. 30 " The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught."
It reminded me of the relationship we ought to aim for with Jesus, and part of that is telling Him about our day and all we have done ( tho we can talk to Him throughout the whole day, not just at the end of the day).
Then in v. 31 something for me (especially) to remember ( because I tend to think....If Only I could work for Jesus non-stop somehow......
Yet Jesus said to the apostles:
“Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
In the beginning God gave us a day of rest....rest...apparently, He not only is OK with rest, it may even be a requirement for health etc. So that is another application for when I get stressed worrying that I need to push harder and work long ( in some way?)...if only I could work non-stop.....I need to go to a quiet place, and rest, trusting in the Lord!
Another application is about being orderly ( something i have always falsely told myself, because I have an 'arty' nature, I am exempt from)
However, Jesus ( who I should have as a 'role model" was very orderly) as per verses 39, 40
39 Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. 40 So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties.
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 22, 2016 17:16:48 GMT -5
Great useful ideas Cindy ( I wrote them down, so that for now I can read them over in order to remember them.
Since I did include step 4 ( because I just read it....and interestingly enough my last post I was talking about being organized LOL).
Anyway, one thing I talked to Jesus about today, is a Christian novel, I was reading (The Days of Noah ...a name of a contemporary man, not the Biblical Noah).
It's kind of a tribulation scenario.
However, since the Christians are not sure how long they will remain on earth until Jesus comes, they are doing all manner of preparations ( food, medical supplies, gas, guns, etc etc.)
So I asked Jesus, if this is the right thing to do....or is it in a sense, out of a lack of faith.
Not that we all shouldn't have some provisions stocked up ( If we can) for a storm, or natural disaster that might mean we would be on our own so to speak for days.
The other thing I asked Him is it more like a man needs to 'work' in order to eat?
It seemed like Jesus was kinda saying yes to all the above.
In other words, it is not a sin to 'stock up' and be prepared...
Yet, on the other hand, it is a lack of faith to depend solely on ourselves, without having faith.
If it is His will, He can even have to ravens feed us....we need to realize all 'our plans' may not work out...
and... If the Lord chooses, He can provide for us in all sorts of miraculous ways.
So this book is interesting and has lots of thoughts about how to prepare (even before hand), should everything we have become used to in the world breaks down....then some stocking up might be in order....
But to also read it with a grain of salt.....because God may have an entirely different plan for me.
I started laughing a little tho when you suggested writing about things we have talked to Jesus through out the day.....
It occurred to me, I may have to pick a couple...not everything or it might could be a loooooong post.
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 23, 2016 12:51:16 GMT -5
I haven't written notes to myself yet, (hope to do so some time today)...
Nevertheless, I am remembering more often.....but not every 10 mins.
I don't have a watch that has an alarm....so notes will probably the way I will have to go, at least for now.
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 23, 2016 13:16:11 GMT -5
Today Sat. July 23rd
I read Mark 6:45-56
Jesus Walks on the Water
45 Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. 46 After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.
( I asked Jesus why did you 'make' the disciples go on ahead....were they concerned about leaving you all alone with the crowd with no-one to watch your back?
I 'think' Jesus said: yes, and that He was showing them that He was never truly alone, and He had others ( angels, the Holy Spirit and the Father to 'watch His back....except for the crucifixion that would come later).
The disciples needed more lessons in faith because:
v. 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened.
so Jesus walked on the water of the lake to the boat where the disciples were struggling with the oars because of the wind.
( I asked Jesus wasn't this when Peter was able to walk a short while on the water also?
He told me to search the scriptures for the answer and... yes, this is the same time, but for some reason Mark left that part out).
The applications are to continue to check that my heart is not hardened also, and to Fear Not.
I asked Jesus again, if ( in eternity future) if He and I ( and anyone else He might invite) could not only walk on water but also under, so He can show me all the amazing sea creatures. He said: Yes! and soooo much more that I cannot even imagine right now!
I will come back later in the day and and write about one or two more chats that may happen through out the day.
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 23, 2016 18:59:30 GMT -5
I was listening to some music on youtube, and I asked Jesus if I should stop listening to it.
At first, I thought maybe I could get away with it because there were no words ( not hip hop, rock, or anything like that....a new 'music type called 'trip music'? go figure....
And no not all music is evil ( some is down right praise worthy of God)....
but the Lord knows, satan has a 'special hook' for me thru music.
Soooo I stopped listening.....and then about 2 or 3 hours later, I put down the window.
I had a strong feeling that if it was not the Lord's best for me...
and
it could... ( most likely was),
a potential trap for me ( tho it might not be for someone else),
So the right thing to do (for me) was not to listen to it.
The fact was I felt torn, a part of me wanted to continue listening ( sort of like a drunk wants to drink/ and stop drinking, a drug addict may want to get high/ and not get high etc.)
but the very fact, that in one way, I wanted to do, what I wanted to do, pretty much confirmed it was no to listening for me.
The other half ( of the feeling torn) was a sense of a kind of 'relief' ,after dumping the window where the music was posted.
I had other chats today with Jesus, but I am just sort of giving you an idea of one or two things per day, that Jesus and I talk about.
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 24, 2016 17:25:57 GMT -5
Today Sunday July 24th
I read Mark:7:1-9
That Which Defiles
The enemies of our Lord brought up the fact that, some of the disciples had eaten some food, without performing a 'ceremonial washing'.
When I read v. 2..... it only said that,
they had eaten food without washing their hands...
so of course, I ask ed Jesus about that, and He said 'continue reading'.
r
So v. 3 not only clarifies, the enemies were nitpicking about a 'ceremonial washing'..which I assumed I must have missed in the Old Testament somewhere.....
but then it goes on the say that this was a 'tradition of the elders' ( and this traditions include even more rigmarole!!
However these Pharisees and teachers of the law hold their own man-made traditions in such high regard they think that anyone not following them are defiled ”
The application for me, is to never put anything of just humans above God!!
So far today, I have had a difficult time trying to talk to Jesus. I have to figure out how not to shut Him out of my life when showering or washing dishes.
I remember a Christian telling me years ago, one thing when washing dishes it to recall the verse ".....to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word,...." Ephesians 5:26
That actually might be a good starting place to talk to Jesus about....cleansing
OHHHHHH aha wasn't I just reading and posting about the wrong way to look at 'washing'....
(vs. the right way)
Maybe I need a sign at the sink and in the bathroom....any ideas?
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Post by Cindy on Jul 25, 2016 11:11:58 GMT -5
Today Friday July 22nd
I read Mark 6:30-44
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
I noticed in v.30 something I have overlooked in past readings ( oh I read it, but it didn't really register in the same way as today).
v. 30 " The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught."
It reminded me of the relationship we ought to aim for with Jesus, and part of that is telling Him about our day and all we have done ( tho we can talk to Him throughout the whole day, not just at the end of the day).
Then in v. 31 something for me (especially) to remember ( because I tend to think....If Only I could work for Jesus non-stop somehow......
Yet Jesus said to the apostles:
“Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
In the beginning God gave us a day of rest....rest...apparently, He not only is OK with rest, it may even be a requirement for health etc. So that is another application for when I get stressed worrying that I need to push harder and work long ( in some way?)...if only I could work non-stop.....I need to go to a quiet place, and rest, trusting in the Lord!
Another application is about being orderly ( something i have always falsely told myself, because I have an 'arty' nature, I am exempt from)
However, Jesus ( who I should have as a 'role model" was very orderly) as per verses 39, 40
39 Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. 40 So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties.
I really liked your second application too! Very good and true!
Yes, the main words the Lord uses to describe that in His Word are "self control" and "self discipline", and it's actually among the fruits of the spirit as well. Being orderly, comes about through self control/self discipline.....
Great useful ideas Cindy ( I wrote them down, so that for now I can read them over in order to remember them.
Since I did include step 4 ( because I just read it....and interestingly enough my last post I was talking about being organized LOL).
Anyway, one thing I talked to Jesus about today, is a Christian novel, I was reading (The Days of Noah ...a name of a contemporary man, not the Biblical Noah).
It's kind of a tribulation scenario.
However, since the Christians are not sure how long they will remain on earth until Jesus comes, they are doing all manner of preparations ( food, medical supplies, gas, guns, etc etc.)
So I asked Jesus, if this is the right thing to do....or is it in a sense, out of a lack of faith.
Not that we all shouldn't have some provisions stocked up ( If we can) for a storm, or natural disaster that might mean we would be on our own so to speak for days.
The other thing I asked Him is it more like a man needs to 'work' in order to eat?
It seemed like Jesus was kinda saying yes to all the above.
In other words, it is not a sin to 'stock up' and be prepared...
Yet, on the other hand, it is a lack of faith to depend solely on ourselves, without having faith.
If it is His will, He can even have to ravens feed us....we need to realize all 'our plans' may not work out...
and... If the Lord chooses, He can provide for us in all sorts of miraculous ways.
So this book is interesting and has lots of thoughts about how to prepare (even before hand), should everything we have become used to in the world breaks down....then some stocking up might be in order....
But to also read it with a grain of salt.....because God may have an entirely different plan for me.
I started laughing a little tho when you suggested writing about things we have talked to Jesus through out the day.....
It occurred to me, I may have to pick a couple...not everything or it might could be a loooooong post.
I haven't written notes to myself yet, (hope to do so some time today)...
Nevertheless, I am remembering more often.....but not every 10 mins.
I don't have a watch that has an alarm....so notes will probably the way I will have to go, at least for now. Today Sat. July 23rd
I read Mark 6:45-56
Jesus Walks on the Water
45 Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. 46 After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.
( I asked Jesus why did you 'make' the disciples go on ahead....were they concerned about leaving you all alone with the crowd with no-one to watch your back?
I 'think' Jesus said: yes, and that He was showing them that He was never truly alone, and He had others ( angels, the Holy Spirit and the Father to 'watch His back....except for the crucifixion that would come later).
The disciples needed more lessons in faith because:
v. 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened.
so Jesus walked on the water of the lake to the boat where the disciples were struggling with the oars because of the wind.
( I asked Jesus wasn't this when Peter was able to walk a short while on the water also?
He told me to search the scriptures for the answer and... yes, this is the same time, but for some reason Mark left that part out).
The applications are to continue to check that my heart is not hardened also, and to Fear Not.
I asked Jesus again, if ( in eternity future) if He and I ( and anyone else He might invite) could not only walk on water but also under, so He can show me all the amazing sea creatures. He said: Yes! and soooo much more that I cannot even imagine right now!
I will come back later in the day and and write about one or two more chats that may happen through out the day.
About why He made the disciples go ahead of Him: did you think about what had just happened before this? When He fed the 5000? After He fed the people, they wanted to make Him King right then and there! We're told about this in John 6:13–15. You know that the disciples were all wanting and waiting for Jesus to begin His Kingdom and always wondering when He was going to do that, so to them, this would have seemed ideal! Their ideas were still too national and political so they were most likely all for it, so Jesus made them get in the boat and leave so He could escape up the mountain to pray. Jesus knew that the disciples still hadn't learned the lesson of faith He was trying to teach them. They'd just experienced a great miracle and were on kind of a spiritual high, just like we all feel when God does something really miraculous for us. The problem with that is that is one time that Satan often chooses to attack us because we're not paying attention. After all, they'd just helped out in a major miracle and felt like nothing could ever bring them down again. Anyway, Jesus did not want the disciples to add to the problem of the people wanting to make Him King, so He sent them away in the boat. Jesus wanted them to learn to rely on Him completely - which is what He wants us all to learn too; and He wanted them to really know that He is God. You'd think after feeding all those people that they would have learned that, but feeding the people wasn't enough apparently, and honestly miracles like that rarely are. So the Lord made sure that they would think that their lives were in danger.
I see you did see that they needed the lesson on faith, so that's good, and in fact, is the answer the Lord gave you for why He sent them ahead of Him in the boat.
yes, the full story is in Matt 14:22–36; Mark 6:45–56; and John 6:14–71.
Good applications. All I would add is that it's not just to "fear not", but instead is to trust and rely on the Lord, for when we do that, we have no reason to fear anyone or anything.
I love how you asked him about doing that in the future in eternity with Him!
I was listening to some music on youtube, and I asked Jesus if I should stop listening to it.
At first, I thought maybe I could get away with it because there were no words ( not hip hop, rock, or anything like that....a new 'music type called 'trip music'? go figure....
And no not all music is evil ( some is down right praise worthy of God)....
but the Lord knows, satan has a 'special hook' for me thru music.
Soooo I stopped listening.....and then about 2 or 3 hours later, I put down the window.
I had a strong feeling that if it was not the Lord's best for me...
and
it could... ( most likely was),
a potential trap for me ( tho it might not be for someone else),
So the right thing to do (for me) was not to listen to it.
The fact was I felt torn, a part of me wanted to continue listening ( sort of like a drunk wants to drink/ and stop drinking, a drug addict may want to get high/ and not get high etc.)
but the very fact, that in one way, I wanted to do, what I wanted to do, pretty much confirmed it was no to listening for me.
The other half ( of the feeling torn) was a sense of a kind of 'relief' ,after dumping the window where the music was posted.
I had other chats today with Jesus, but I am just sort of giving you an idea of one or two things per day, that Jesus and I talk about.
Please know you don't have to tell me about all your conversations, only the ones you want to, and then just let me know whether or not you continued to chat with Him throughout the day, ok?
Today Sunday July 24th
I read Mark:7:1-9
That Which Defiles
The enemies of our Lord brought up the fact that, some of the disciples had eaten some food, without performing a 'ceremonial washing'.
When I read v. 2..... it only said that,
they had eaten food without washing their hands...
so of course, I ask ed Jesus about that, and He said 'continue reading'.
r
So v. 3 not only clarifies, the enemies were nitpicking about a 'ceremonial washing'..which I assumed I must have missed in the Old Testament somewhere.....
but then it goes on the say that this was a 'tradition of the elders' ( and this traditions include even more rigmarole!!
However these Pharisees and teachers of the law hold their own man-made traditions in such high regard they think that anyone not following them are defiled ”
The application for me, is to never put anything of just humans above God!!
So far today, I have had a difficult time trying to talk to Jesus. I have to figure out how not to shut Him out of my life when showering or washing dishes.
I remember a Christian telling me years ago, one thing when washing dishes it to recall the verse ".....to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word,...." Ephesians 5:26
That actually might be a good starting place to talk to Jesus about....cleansing
OHHHHHH aha wasn't I just reading and posting about the wrong way to look at 'washing'....
(vs. the right way)
Maybe I need a sign at the sink and in the bathroom....any ideas?
I'd still like to know if you prayed before you began reading though. But you've been doing fantastic!!!!! How do you feel about how you're doing?
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 25, 2016 12:28:19 GMT -5
I keep forgetting to be accountable and say if I prayed first....
Thank you soooo much for continually reminding me ( now you can see why I asked for your help! :-)
Yes, I understand, you were not saying, I 'had' to follow the suggestions that worked for you, but they seem like a good starting place for me, especially since I am struggling .
I understand Jesus may give me some other or different aids to help, but at this point in time, and the fact, that your aids for yourself, seemed to resonate with me, and sound like perfectly good ideas..
( tho they could conceivably not be what will work for me) for now I think writing notes, can't hurt.
I think I am doing a LOT better and am growing in my relationship with Jesus! But there is much more to go...
Oh yes, I agree, night time before bed and sleeping for me, is when I can for sure talk to the Lord.
And ha-ha....I never did answer your question...
(oy vey) ( that I asked you to help me with)
Yes, sooooo far, I have at least remembered to pray before reading scripture....
In fact, I mentioned it to Leonard, and now he remembers 95% of the time, to do so before reading scripture ( before eating dinner).
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 25, 2016 13:01:14 GMT -5
Today Monday July 25th
I read Mark 7:10-15
Jesus gives another example of the 'traditions of men in the religious community. He explains how they circumvented what God had said about honoring parents by their human tradition.
The thing is human tradition of Corban seemed very righteous, because they said the money was devoted to God....who could argue against that?
But this was to avoid helping their aged parents and THAT was against what God had told them to do.
So the application for me, is again to be very careful of men's traditions, and laws....even those that sound good, righteous and even Holy!
If anything of man, is put ahead of what God says, no matter how compassionate, or Holy, or good it seems, ( even if it claims to be for God...it is still a human tradition or law)...
I must always apply what God says in His word.
I asked Jesus how v. 15 ties into v.10-14?
15 Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them.”
The only nudge I got so far, was to study further.
I am wondering v. 15 because the other ones seemed to be about human traditions and parents and incorrectly offering to the Lord, whereas this seems to be a somewhat different subject, concerning being defiled ......
Oh wait, I just went back and re-read 7:1-7 which was about washing hands and being defiled, so my first thought is v.15 is tied to that ....
whereas what I just read, was a further example of 'men's traditions...sounding so high and righteous, but in fact, being against God's Word.
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Post by Cindy on Jul 26, 2016 10:22:36 GMT -5
I keep forgetting to be accountable and say if I prayed first....
Thank you soooo much for continually reminding me ( now you can see why I asked for your help! :-)
Yes, I understand, you were not saying, I 'had' to follow the suggestions that worked for you, but they seem like a good starting place for me, especially since I am struggling .
I understand Jesus may give me some other or different aids to help, but at this point in time, and the fact, that your aids for yourself, seemed to resonate with me, and sound like perfectly good ideas..
( tho they could conceivably not be what will work for me) for now I think writing notes, can't hurt.
I think I am doing a LOT better and am growing in my relationship with Jesus! But there is much more to go...
Oh yes, I agree, night time before bed and sleeping for me, is when I can for sure talk to the Lord.
And ha-ha....I never did answer your question...
(oy vey) ( that I asked you to help me with)
Yes, sooooo far, I have at least remembered to pray before reading scripture....
In fact, I mentioned it to Leonard, and now he remembers 95% of the time, to do so before reading scripture ( before eating dinner). Today Monday July 25th
I read Mark 7:10-15
Jesus gives another example of the 'traditions of men in the religious community. He explains how they circumvented what God had said about honoring parents by their human tradition.
The thing is human tradition of Corban seemed very righteous, because they said the money was devoted to God....who could argue against that?
But this was to avoid helping their aged parents and THAT was against what God had told them to do.
So the application for me, is again to be very careful of men's traditions, and laws....even those that sound good, righteous and even Holy!
If anything of man, is put ahead of what God says, no matter how compassionate, or Holy, or good it seems, ( even if it claims to be for God...it is still a human tradition or law)...
I must always apply what God says in His word.
I asked Jesus how v. 15 ties into v.10-14?
15 Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them.”
The only nudge I got so far, was to study further.
I am wondering v. 15 because the other ones seemed to be about human traditions and parents and incorrectly offering to the Lord, whereas this seems to be a somewhat different subject, concerning being defiled ......
Oh wait, I just went back and re-read 7:1-7 which was about washing hands and being defiled, so my first thought is v.15 is tied to that ....
whereas what I just read, was a further example of 'men's traditions...sounding so high and righteous, but in fact, being against God's Word.
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 26, 2016 13:41:10 GMT -5
I was bummed at myself yesterday.
Our granddaughter has been badgering our daughter, Hossanah to move closer to her dad...
Granddaughter had a whole bullet point list of why her mom had to move:
( where she wanted to go to college in calif she needed to be a resident,
our small costal village tooooo boring,
she wants to live in a city,
girls here in HS stab you behind your back,
new baby brother coming and she's too far away,
and she has 'panic attacks and cries all the time with traveling so far back and fourth and so on),
its not fair she has parents so far apart distance wise
etc etc etc.....
Hossanah had already talked to her for an hour plus yesterday ( and for many days previously)
I had just popped outside and Hossanah was looking grim, angry, grumpy and sad talking on the cell to said granddaughter (who is almost 15).
I almost laughed because, Hossanah was tired of being harassed and said she was hanging up or.........
granddaughter could talk to me!!! ( It was funny to me as I was the 'threat almost HA!)
A few seconds later daughter hands to phone to me...and I plum forgot to pray first!!!! arrrggghhh
The conversation went fairly well
( funny I was never any where as near open, honest, or almost tough, with my daughter....
but granddaughter ended up saying, I had really given her some things to think about.
But I was sooooo devasted that I forgot to ask Jesus to be with me while I had THAT converstation!!!!!!
I had asked Jesus in a 'fire insurance' early morning cover prayer: " Lord please be with me all day, even if I forget to ask you too, I am working on making a habit of asking you BEFORE or right at the moment, but I still forget...so could you still be with me even when I forget?
I think Jesus was and did help me, but how much better could it have been, if I had prayed right there and then!!
This time I did not mention God either and that was also disappointing....but if we talk again, I pray I will be better prepared putting the Lord first in prayer and talking about her situation and 'feelings'.
I did pray about it 'after' the conversation.
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fearnot
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Post by fearnot on Jul 26, 2016 14:19:30 GMT -5
Today Tueday July 26th
I read Mark: 7:15-23
I am including v.15 again because I didn't have a good grasp on it yesterday.....
And I didn't realize that neither did the disciples.
v. 15 "Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them.”
Jesus explains that food goes into the stomach (stomach, and not the heart) and then is eliminated...
But its the evil thoughts that come out of a person:
v. 21"...sexual immorality, theft, murder,
22 adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly.
23 All these evils come from inside and defile a person.”
Well that list can be applied to me on a daily basis. I don't even have to do any of them but to think them is defiling.
Oh I had asked Jesus about the word defile, and again got a nudge to do a search on Biblegateway of the word,
and discovered in Leviticus more defiling acts.
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Post by evafromgreece on Jul 26, 2016 15:14:39 GMT -5
In John chapter 13 Jesus teaches us to be humble and put aside our ego. Its not the first time to teach us to be humble. From His birth, to His crucifixion, He taught us how humble we should be. We are not like Him, but unfortunatelly, we as humans tend to fall into the sin of having pride... In verse 34 He insists that we should love others the way He loves us. In chapter 14:12-14 He tells us that if we truly have faith, we can do similar things to those He has done on earth! And in 21 that if we follow his commandments the Holy Spirit will live to our soul and guide us and we will live in peace (verse 27). All the above He summarizes in 15:9-17. So if somebody asks us "How we should live", we can easily answer with these 2 chapters.
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Post by Cindy on Jul 27, 2016 11:14:57 GMT -5
I was bummed at myself yesterday.
Our granddaughter has been badgering our daughter, Hossanah to move closer to her dad...
Granddaughter had a whole bullet point list of why her mom had to move:
( where she wanted to go to college in calif she needed to be a resident,
our small costal village tooooo boring,
she wants to live in a city,
girls here in HS stab you behind your back,
new baby brother coming and she's too far away,
and she has 'panic attacks and cries all the time with traveling so far back and fourth and so on),
its not fair she has parents so far apart distance wise
etc etc etc.....
Hossanah had already talked to her for an hour plus yesterday ( and for many days previously)
I had just popped outside and Hossanah was looking grim, angry, grumpy and sad talking on the cell to said granddaughter (who is almost 15).
I almost laughed because, Hossanah was tired of being harassed and said she was hanging up or.........
granddaughter could talk to me!!! ( It was funny to me as I was the 'threat almost HA!)
A few seconds later daughter hands to phone to me...and I plum forgot to pray first!!!! arrrggghhh
The conversation went fairly well
( funny I was never any where as near open, honest, or almost tough, with my daughter....
but granddaughter ended up saying, I had really given her some things to think about.
But I was sooooo devasted that I forgot to ask Jesus to be with me while I had THAT converstation!!!!!!
I had asked Jesus in a 'fire insurance' early morning cover prayer: " Lord please be with me all day, even if I forget to ask you too, I am working on making a habit of asking you BEFORE or right at the moment, but I still forget...so could you still be with me even when I forget?
I think Jesus was and did help me, but how much better could it have been, if I had prayed right there and then!!
This time I did not mention God either and that was also disappointing....but if we talk again, I pray I will be better prepared putting the Lord first in prayer and talking about her situation and 'feelings'.
I did pray about it 'after' the conversation.
That's great that you talked to Him about it afterward too! You're doing so well!
Today Tueday July 26th
I read Mark: 7:15-23
I am including v.15 again because I didn't have a good grasp on it yesterday.....
And I didn't realize that neither did the disciples.
v. 15 "Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them.”
Jesus explains that food goes into the stomach (stomach, and not the heart) and then is eliminated...
But its the evil thoughts that come out of a person:
v. 21"...sexual immorality, theft, murder,
22 adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly.
23 All these evils come from inside and defile a person.”
Well that list can be applied to me on a daily basis. I don't even have to do any of them but to think them is defiling.
Oh I had asked Jesus about the word defile, and again got a nudge to do a search on Biblegateway of the word,
and discovered in Leviticus more defiling acts.
DEFILE: to make unclean or impure. At least five types of defilement are mentioned in the Old Testament: (1) ceremonial (Lev. 15:19); (2) ethical (Ezek. 37:23); (3) physical (Song 5:3); (4) religious (Jer. 3:1); and (5) sexual (Lev. 15:24). The purpose of the Old Testament laws about defilement was to preserve the holiness of God’s chosen people. But the Jewish rabbis turned these laws into a legalistic system that emphasized ceremonial cleanliness while ignoring spiritual purity. Jesus reversed this situation by emphasizing the need for moral purity and ethical living (Mark 7:1–23). Nelson’s new illustrated Bible dictionary
“For it doesn’t go into his heart but into his stomach, and then out of his body.” (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods “clean.”)” (Mark 7:19) Acts 10:15 “The voice spoke to him a second time, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.”” uses the past tense and refers to this incident in Christ’s ministry in Mark 7:19 which is when God cleansed the animals Peter called ‘unclean’ on the roof of Simon the Tanner’s house.
I have a lot of trouble believing you're guilty of all of those things every single day Barbara. Jesus is saying that it is our thoughts that cause our feelings and actions, and that is why God tells us to take our thoughts captive and make them obedient to Christ. That is the "real" spiritual warfare that sadly many Christians are totally unaware of, partially because like the pharisees, they're too busy making up all kinds of rules and rituals for spiritual warfare that aren't in the bible.
So what did you learn to apply this passage to your life now?
Did you see what I said before about not being a baby anymore?
In John chapter 13 Jesus teaches us to be humble and put aside our ego. Its not the first time to teach us to be humble. From His birth, to His crucifixion, He taught us how humble we should be. We are not like Him, but unfortunatelly, we as humans tend to fall into the sin of having pride... In verse 34 He insists that we should love others the way He loves us. In chapter 14:12-14 He tells us that if we truly have faith, we can do similar things to those He has done on earth! And in 21 that if we follow his commandments the Holy Spirit will live to our soul and guide us and we will live in peace (verse 27). All the above He summarizes in 15:9-17. So if somebody asks us "How we should live", we can easily answer with these 2 chapters.
I also do not see where it says that if we follow His commandments that we will live in peace. Instead, Jesus is saying that He gives us His peace, not that we will have a peaceful life, but instead that we will have peace with God and can also have God's peace in our hearts no matter how bad things are in our life.
“But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:26–27)
So again, what did you get from these chapters that you can apply to your life now? |
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He said the experiment really helped him bring the Lord into everything he was doing or thinking about. I never did that myself, mainly because I forgot about it until long afterward. Personally, I think every 60 seconds is a bit much as we'd never get anything done lol, but every 5 or 10 minutes would be a good way to train yourself. But if you remember back to when you first began taking your thoughts captive, I told you then that one of the first things you'd experience would be that you'd start catching yourself after the fact, and then you'd start catching yourself half way through the thought, and then a little closer to the beginning of it, and finally, you'd catch yourself before the thought had really formed. It's the same way with this. (and even taking our thoughts captive is often still like that when we start taking a different kind of thought captive lol) So you're on the right track and the Lord will help you and remind you. I'm visual, so I tend to put notes where I can see them to remind myself of what I'm trying to learn. Sometimes the only thing the note says, is "remember" LOL. I don't need to say more because obviously, I know exactly what it is I'm trying to do. Another way you can help yourself, since you're often involved with your grandchildren, is to tell them what you're trying to do and ask them to help you by asking you every day what you've talked to the Lord about that day. Kids usually love to do stuff like that, and they can be a real help that way! (not to mention that it's a great example and lesson for them that you get across without ever saying anything directly to them, but instead they think they're helping you!) Another thing I've used before is association. That's often used as a memory trick, so I've used it for things like this too. Pick an object or even a person, and tell yourself that every time you see that object or person, it will remind you to talk to the Lord. So let's say you pick one of the cats, or the refrigerator or the sink, or whatever... those things will act as a reminder for you. All you have to do after you pick the object is visualize it or actually look at it, either one, while telling yourself it will from then on remind you to talk to the Lord. It works really well that way! 
