Faith hope love

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3 TABLE OF CONTENTS"

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Introduction"

5"

FAITH

6

Have A Piece of Cake"

7"

Things Aren't Always What They Seem"

7"

The Necklace"

8"

The Alphabet Prayer"

9"

The Charles Blondin Story"

10"

Buy The Milk"

11"

Don't Worry"

13"

The Mountain Climber"

14"

Why Go To Church?"

15"

God's Hands"

15"

Expect An Answer"

16"

HOPE

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The Little Cracked Pot"

18"

Three Little Words"

19"

I’ll Be Happy When. . ."

20"

The Little Grass Hut"

20"

The Buzzard, The Bat and The Bumblebee"

21"

Memo from God"

22"

The Late Bloomer"

23"

How Much Is A Miracle?"

24"

Parable Of Distrust"

26"

Three Trees"

27"

4

God's Coffee"

28"

The Frog Race"

29"

The Obstacles In Our Path"

30"

The Barber Shop"

30"

LOVE

31

Breakfast at McDonald’s"

32"

THE GOLD WRAPPING PAPER"

33"

The Most Important Question"

34"

A Bag of Nails"

34"

26 guards"

35"

From The Desk of God"

36"

My Attorney"

38"

Making Pancakes"

39"

Remember Those Who Serve"

40"

The Story of the Tea Cup"

41"

The Carpenter's Tools"

42"

A Bible For Graduation"

43"

Thank You Lord"

44

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Introduction!

Three things will last forever — FAITH, HOPE and LOVE — and the greatest of these is LOVE.!

1 Corinthians 13:13!

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In a journey where the road is not always smooth as we dreamed it to be, life may sometimes be discouraging. Yet as children of God, we hold on to the promise that we shall overcome all things. Such promise keeps us to take heart and not lose hope."

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When the future seems blur, keep the FAITH." When you feel like giving up, continue to believe and HOPE." When you think you are all alone, God’s LOVE for you endures forever."

" God gave us one another to encourage and build each other up (1 Thessalonians 5:11)." "

Be encourage with this compilation of short stories that inspires and keeps you smiling."

And when someone you know is feeling down, go and share these to keep the inspiration moving."

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Ai.Pad"

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FAITH! Hebrews 11:6 !

But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.!

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Have A Piece of Cake"

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Often we wonder, “What did I do to deserve this?” or “Why did God have to do this to me?” "

" Here is a wonderful explanation!" "

A daughter is telling her mother how everything is going wrong. She’s failing algebra, her boyfriend broke up with her and her best friend is moving away."

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Meanwhile, her mother is baking a cake and asks her daughter if she would like a snack, and the daughter says, “Absolutely Mom, I love your cake.”"

" Here, have some cooking oil,” her Mother offers. “Yuck” says her daughter." " “How about a couple raw eggs?” " “Gross, Mom!”"

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“Would you like some flour then? Or maybe baking soda?” " “Mom, those are all yucky!”"

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To which the mother replies: “Yes, all those things seem bad all by themselves. But when they are put together in the right way, they make a wonderfully delicious cake!”"

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faith***

God works the same way. Many times we wonder why He would let us go through

such bad and difficult times. But God knows that when He puts these things all in His order, they always work for good! We just have to trust Him, and eventually, they will all make something wonderful!"

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Things Aren't Always What They Seem"

" Two traveling angels stopped to spend the night in the home of a wealthy family. The family was rude and refused to let the angels stay in the mansion's guest room. Instead the angels were given a small space in the cold basement. As they made their bed on the hard floor, the older angel saw a hole in the wall and repaired it. When the younger angel asked why, the older angel replied, "Things aren't always what they seem." The next night the pair came to rest

8 at the house of a very poor, but very hospitable farmer and his wife. After sharing what little food they had, the couple let the angels sleep in their bed where they could have a good night's rest.

When the sun came up the next morning the angels found the farmer and his wife in tears. Their only cow, whose milk had been their sole income, lay dead in the field. The younger angel was infuriated and asked the older angel: "How could you have let this happen? The first man had everything, yet you helped him", she accused. "The second family had little but was willing to share everything, and you let the cow die." "Things aren't always what they seem," the older angel replied. "When we stayed in the basement of the mansion, I noticed there was gold stored in that hole in the wall. Since the owner was so obsessed with greed and unwilling to share his good fortune, I sealed the wall so he wouldn't find it." "Then last night as we slept in the farmer's bed, the angel of death came for his wife. I gave him the cow instead. Things aren't always what they seem.�" faith***

Sometimes that is exactly what happens when things don't turn out the way they

should. If you have faith, you just need to trust that every outcome is always to your advantage.

You just might not know it, until some time later."

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The Necklace"

The cheerful little girl with bouncy golden curls was almost five. Waiting with her mother at the checkout stand, she saw a circle of glistening white pearls in a pink foil box."

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“Oh mommy, please, Mommy, can I have them? Please, Mommy, please?" Quickly the mother checked the back of the little foil box and then looked back into the pleading blue eyes of her little girl's upturned face."

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"A dollar ninety-five. That's almost $2.00. If you really want them, I'll think of some extra chores for you and in no time you can save enough money to buy them for yourself. Your birthday's only a week away and you might get another crisp dollar bill from Grandma.""

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As soon as Jenny got home, she emptied her penny bank and counted out 17 pennies. After dinner, she did more than her share of chores and she went to the neighbor and asked Mrs. McJames if she could pick dandelions for ten cents. On her birthday, Grandma did give her another new dollar bill and at last she had enough money to buy the necklace."

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9 Jenny loved her pearls. They made her feel dressed up and grown up. She wore them everywhere - Sunday school, kindergarten, even to bed. The only time she took them off was when she went swimming or had a bubble bath. Mother said if they got wet, they might turn her neck green."

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Jenny had a very loving daddy and every night when she was ready for bed, he would stop whatever he was doing and come upstairs to read her a story. One night as he finished the story, he asked Jenny, "Do you love me?" "Oh yes, daddy. You know that I love you." "Then give me your pearls." "Oh, daddy, not my pearls. But you can have Princess, the white horse from my collection, the one with the pink tail. Remember, daddy? The one you gave me. She's my very favorite." "That's okay, Honey, daddy loves you. Good night." And he brushed her cheek with a kiss."

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About a week later, after the story time, Jenny's daddy asked again, "Do you love me?" "Daddy, you know I love you." "Then give me your pearls." "Oh Daddy, not my pearls. But you can have my baby doll, the brand new one I got for my birthday. She is beautiful and you can have the yellow blanket that matches her sleeper." "That's okay. Sleep well. God bless you, little one.

Daddy loves you." And as always, he brushed her cheek with a gentle kiss."

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A few nights later when her daddy came in, Jenny was sitting on her bed with her legs crossed Indian style. As he came close, he noticed her chin was trembling and one silent tear rolled down her cheek. "What is it, Jenny? What's the matter?" Jenny didn't say anything but lifted her little hand up to her daddy. And when she opened it, there was her little pearl necklace. With a little quiver, she finally said, "Here, daddy, this is for you.""

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With tears gathering in his own eyes, Jenny's daddy reached out with one hand to take the dime store necklace, and with the other hand he reached into his pocket and pulled out a blue velvet case with a strand of genuine pearls and gave them to Jenny. He had them all the time. He was just waiting for her to give up the dime-store stuff so he could give her the genuine treasure."

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faith***

So it is with our Heavenly Father. He is waiting for us to give up the cheap things in

our lives so that he can give us beautiful treasures. Isn't God good? Are you holding on to things that God wants you to let go of? Are you holding on to harmful or unnecessary partners, relationships, habits and activities that you have become so attached to that it seems impossible to let go? Sometimes it is so hard to see what is in the other hand but do believe this one thing .... God will never take away something without giving you something better in its place."

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The Alphabet Prayer"

Every child comes with the message that God is not yet discouraged with man. " Now the story goes - a little shepherd boy was watching his sheep one Sunday morning and he heard the bells of the church ringing. And watching the people walk along the pasture where he

10 was, he happened to think to himself, "I would like to communicate with God! But, what can I say to God?""

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He had never learned a prayer. So, on bended knee, he began to recite the alphabet. Repeating this prayer several times, a man passing by, heard the boy's voice and peaked through the bushes. He saw the young boy kneeling with folded hands, eyes closed, repeating the alphabet."

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He interrupted the boy. "What are you doing, my little one?" he asked. The boy replied, "I was praying sir." The man seemed surprised and said, "But why are you reciting the alphabet?" The boy explained, "I don't know any prayers, sir. But I want God to take care of me, and to help me care for my sheep. And so I thought, if I said all I knew, He could put the letters together into words, and He would know all that I want and should say!""

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The man smiled and said, "Bless your heart, God will!" And he went on to church knowing full well that he had heard the finest sermon he could possibly hear that day."

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faith***

Maybe if we thought like little children and let God put together the letters, what we

should want, and what we should say, things would probably work out a lot better than we planned. No any memorized prayers, just something that comes from your heart. Believing that the Spirit of God will put every word perfectly together."

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The Charles Blondin Story"

The amazing story of Charles Blondin, a famous French tightrope walker, is a wonderful illustration of what true faith is."

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Blondin's greatest fame came on September 14, 1860, when he became the first person to cross a tightrope stretched 11,000 feet (over a quarter of a mile) across the mighty Niagara Falls. People from both Canada and America came from miles away to see this great feat."

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He walked across, 160 feet above the falls, several times. Each time with a different daring feat - once in a sack, on stilts, on a bicycle, in the dark, and blindfolded. One time he even carried a stove and cooked an omelet in the middle of the rope!"

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A large crowd gathered and the buzz of excitement ran along both sides of the river bank. The crowd “Oohed and Aahed!� as Blondin carefully walked across - one dangerous step after another - pushing a wheelbarrow holding a sack of potatoes."

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Then a one point, he asked for the participation of a volunteer. Upon reaching the other side, the crowd's applause was louder than the roar of the falls!"

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11 Blondin suddenly stopped and addressed his audience: "Do you believe I can carry a person across in this wheelbarrow?""

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The crowd enthusiastically yelled, "Yes! You are the greatest tightrope walker in the world. We believe!""

" "Okay," said Blondin, "Who wants to get into the wheelbarrow."" " As far as the Blondin story goes, no one did at the time!" "

This unique story illustrates a real life picture of what faith actually is. The crowd watched these daring feats. They said they believed. But their actions proved they truly did not believe."

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faith***

Similarly, it is one thing for us to say we believe in God. However, it's true faith

when we believe God and put our faith and trust in His Son, Jesus Christ. A faith we believe that God is able to fulfill His promise in our lives. "

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Buy The Milk"

A young man had been to Wednesday Night Bible Study. The Pastor had spoken about "listening to God and obeying the Lord's voice.” The young man couldn't help but wonder, "Does God still speak to people?" "

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After service he went out with some friends for coffee and pie and they discussed the message.

Several different ones talked about how God had led them in different ways. It was about ten o'clock when the young man started driving home. Sitting in his car, he just began to pray,"God, if you still speak to people, speak to me. I will listen. I will do my best to obey.”"

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As he drove down the main street of his town, he had the strangest thought to stop and buy a gallon of milk. He shook his head and said out loud, "God is that you?" He didn't get a reply, so he started on toward home. But again, the thought came to him - “buy a gallon of milk.”"

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The young man thought about Samuel, and how he didn't recognize the voice of God, and how little Samuel ran to Eli. "Okay, God, in case that is you, I will buy the milk." It didn't seem like too hard a test of obedience. He could always use the milk. So, he stopped and purchased the gallon of milk and started toward home."

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As he passed Seventh Street, he again felt the urge, "Turn down that street." This is crazy, he thought, and drove on past the intersection. Again, he felt that he should turn down Seventh Street. At the next intersection, he turned back and headed down Seventh. Half jokingly, he said out loud, "Okay, God, I will"."

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12 He drove several blocks, when suddenly, he felt like he should stop. He pulled over to the curb and looked around. He was in a semi-commercial area of town. It wasn't the best, but it wasn't the worst of neighborhoods either. The businesses were closed and most of the houses looked dark, like people were already in bed."

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Again, he sensed something, "Go and give the milk to the people in the house across the street." The young man looked at the house. It was dark and it looked like the people were either gone or they were already asleep. He started to open the door and then sat back in the car seat. "Lord, this is insane. Those people are asleep and if I wake them up, they are going to be mad and I will look stupid.""

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Again, he felt like he should go and give the milk. Finally, he opened the door and said, "Okay God, if this is you, I will go to the door and I will give them the milk. If you want me to look like a crazy person, okay. I want to be obedient. I guess that will count for something but, if they don't answer right away, I am out of here.""

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He walked across the street and rang the bell. He could hear some noise inside. A man's voice yelled out, "Who is it? What do you want?" Then the door opened before the young man could get away. The man was standing there in his jeans and T-shirt. He looked like he just got out of bed. He had a strange look on his face and he didn't seem too happy to have some stranger standing on his doorstep."

" The man asked, "What is it?"" "

The young man thrust out the gallon of milk and said, "Here, I brought this to you," he said. The man took the milk and rushed down a hallway speaking loudly in Spanish. Then from down the hall came a woman carrying the milk toward the kitchen.The man was following her holding a baby. The baby was crying. The man had tears streaming down his face. The man began speaking and half crying, "We were just praying. We had some big bills this month and we ran out of money. We didn't have any milk for our baby. I was just praying and asking God to show me how to get some milk." His wife in the kitchen yelled out,"I ask him to send an angel with some. Are you an Angel?""

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The young man reached into his wallet and pulled out all the money he had on him and put it in the man's hand. Then he turned and walked back toward his car and tears were streaming down his face. He knew then that God does still speak to people - and answer prayers."

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faith***

There are times when God speaks and sends messages to us for other people.

Open your ear to hear what God is calling you to do and what God is telling you to say to others who might be needing a simple encouragement, prayer or help."

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Don't Worry"

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Years ago, I was enthralled as I listened to a pastor who for several years had faithfully served the church. His executive responsibilities had taken him all over this country. As he concluded his message, he told of one of the most frightening, yet thought-provoking, experiences of his life."

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He had been on a long flight from one place to another. The first warning of the approaching problems came when the sign on the airplane flashed on: Fasten your seat belts. Then, after a while, a calm voice said, "We shall not be serving the beverages at this time as we are expecting a little turbulence. Please be sure your seat belt is fastened.""

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As he looked around the aircraft, it became obvious that many of the passengers were becoming apprehensive. Later, the voice of the announcer said, "We are so sorry that we are unable to serve the meal at this time. The turbulence is still ahead of us.""

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Then the storm broke. The ominous cracks of thunder could be heard even above the roar of the engines. Lightening lit up the darkening skies, and within moments that great plane was like a cork tossed around on a celestial ocean. One moment the airplane was lifted on terrific currents of air; the next, it dropped as if it were about to crash."

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The pastor confessed that he shared the discomfort and fear of those around him. He said, "As I looked around the plane, I could see that nearly all the passengers were upset and alarmed.

Some were praying. The future seemed ominous and many were wondering if they would make it through the storm."

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Then, I suddenly saw a little girl. Apparently the storm meant nothing to her. She had tucked her feet beneath her as she sat on her seat; she was reading a book and every thing within her small world was calm and orderly. Sometimes she closed her eyes, then she would read again; then she would straighten her legs, but worry and fear were not in her world. When the plane was being buffeted by the terrible storm when it lurched this way and that, as it rose and fell with frightening severity,when all the adults were scared half to death, that marvelous child was completely composed and unafraid." The minister could hardly believe his eyes."

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It was not surprising therefore, that when the plane finally reached its destination and all the passengers were hurrying to disembark, our pastor lingered to speak to the girl whom he had watched for such a long time. Having commented about the storm and behavior of the plane, he asked why she had not been afraid."

" The child replied, "'Cause my Daddy's the pilot, and he's taking me home."" " faith***

There are many kinds of storms that buffet us. Pysical, mental, financial, domestic,

and many other storms can easily and quickly darken our skies and throw our plane into apparently uncontrollable movement. We have all known such times, and let us be honest and confess, it is much easier to be at rest when our feet are on the ground than when we are being

14 tossed about a darkened sky. Let us remember - Our Father is the Pilot. He is in control and taking us home. So Don't Worry."

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The Mountain Climber"

They tell the story of a mountain climber who, desperate to conquer the Aconcagua, initiated his climb after years of preparation. But he wanted the glory to himself, therefore, he went up alone. He started climbing and it was becoming later, and later. He did not prepare for camping, but decided to keep on going."

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Soon it got dark. Night fell with heaviness at a very high altitude. Visibility was zero. Everything was black. There was no moon, and the stars were covered by clouds."

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As he was climbing a ridge at about 100 meters from the top, he slipped and fell. Falling rapidly he could only see blotches of darkness that passed. He felt a terrible sensation of being sucked in by gravity. He kept falling. And in those anguishing moments good and bad memories passed through his mind. He thought certainly he would die."

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But then he felt a jolt that almost tore him in half. Yes! Like any good mountain climber he had staked himself with a long rope tied to his waist. In those moments of stillness, suspended in the air he had no other choice but to shout: "HELP ME GOD. HELP ME!""

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All of a sudden he heard a deep voice from heaven."

"What do you want me to do?""

" "SAVE ME."" " "Do you REALLY think that I can save you?"" " "OF COURSE, MY GOD."" " "Then cut the rope that is holding you up."" "

There was another moment of silence and stillness. The man just held tighter to the rope. The rescue team says that the next day they found a frozen mountain climber hanging strongly to a rope... TWO FEET OFF THE GROUND."

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faith***

How about you? How trusting are you in that rope? Why don't you let it go? I tell

you, God has great and marvelous things planned for you. Cut the rope and simply trust in Him."

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Why Go To Church?"

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If you're spiritually alive, you're going to love this."

If you're spiritually dead, you won't want to read it."

If you're spiritually curious, there is still hope."

" A Church goer wrote a letter to the editor of a newspaper and complained that it made no sense to go to church every Sunday. "I've gone for 30 years now," he wrote, "and in that time I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, I can't remember a single one of them. So, I think I'm wasting my time and the pastors are wasting theirs by giving sermons at all.""

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This started a real controversy in the "Letters to the Editor" column, much to the delight of the editor. It went on for weeks until someone wrote this clincher: " "I've been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals. But I do know this - They all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!""

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faith***

When you are DOWN to nothing, God is UP to something! Faith sees the invisible,

believes the incredible and receives the impossible! Thank God for your physical AND our spiritual nourishment! When Satan is knocking at your door, simply say, "Jesus, could you get that for me?�"

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God's Hands"

Wishing to encourage her young son's progress on the piano, a mother took her boy to a Paderewski concert. After they were seated, the mother spotted a friend in the audience and walked down the aisle to greet her. Seizing the opportunity to explore the wonders of the concert hall, the little boy rose and eventually explored his way through a door marked "NO ADMITTANCE.""

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When the house lights dimmed and the concert was about to begin, the mother returned to her seat and discovered that the child was missing."

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Suddenly, the curtains parted and spotlights focused on the impressive Steinway on stage. In horror, the mother saw her little boy was sitting at the keyboard, innocently picking out "Twinkle,

16 Twinkle Little Star." At that moment, the great piano master made his entrance, quickly moved to the piano, and whispered in the boy's ear, "Don't quit. Keep playing.""

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Then, leaning over, Paderewski reached down with his left hand and began filling in a bass part.

Soon his right arm reached around to the other side of the child and he added a running obligato. Together, the old master and the young novice transformed a frightening situation into a wonderfully creative experience. The audience was so mesmerized they couldn't recall what else the great master played. Only the classic "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.""

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That's the way it is with God. What we can accomplish on our own is hardly noteworthy. We try our best, but the results aren't exactly graceful flowing music. But with the hand of the Master, our life's work truly can be beautiful. Next time you set out to accomplish great feats, listen carefully. You can hear the voice of the Master, whispering in your ear, "Don't quit. Keep playing.""

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faith***

Feel His loving arms around you. Know that His strong hands are there helping you

turn your feeble attempts into true masterpieces. Remember, God doesn't call the equipped, He equips the called. And He'll always be there to love and guide you on to great things. Life is more accurately measured by the lives you touch than the things you acquire."

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Expect An Answer"

As a drought continued for what seemed an eternity, a small community of farmers was in a quandary as to what to do. Rain was important to keep their crops healthy and sustain the way of life of the townspeople. As the problem became more acute, a local pastor called a prayer meeting to ask for rain. Many people arrived. The pastor greeted most of them as they filed in. As he walked to the front of the church to officially begin the meeting he noticed most people were chatting across the aisles and socializing with friends. When he reached the front his thoughts were on quieting the attendees and starting the meeting. His eyes scanned the crowd as he asked for quiet. He noticed an eleven year-old girl sitting quietly in the front row.

Her face was beaming with excitement. Next to her, poised and ready for use, was a bright red umbrella. The little girl's beauty and innocence made the pastor smile as he realized how much faith she possessed. No one else in the congregation had brought an umbrella. All came to pray for rain, but the little girl had come expecting God to answer."

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faith***

When you pray, believe that God is already working to provide the answer. Pray with

expectation and anticipation."

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HOPE! Romans 8:24-25 !

For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.!

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The Little Cracked Pot"

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There was once a water bearer who had two large pots, one hung on each end of a pole which, he carried across his neck. One of the pots had a crack in it, but the other pot was perfect, and always delivered a full portion of water at the end of the long walk from the stream to the master’s house, while the cracked pot arrived only half full."

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For a full two years this went on daily, with the bearer delivering only one and a half pots full of water to his master’s house. Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments, perfect to the end for which it was made."

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But the poor cracked pot was very ashamed of its imperfection, and was miserable that it could only do half of what it had been made to do — or so it thought.The cracked pot, after two years of what it perceived to be a bitter failure, spoke to the water bearer one day by the stream."

"

“I am very ashamed of myself, and I want to apologize to you.”"

“Why?” asked the water bearer. “What are you ashamed of?”"

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“For the past two years, I have only been able to deliver half of my real capacity, because this crack in my side allows water to leak out all the way back to the master’s house. Because of my flaws, you have to do all of this work, and you don’t get full value from your efforts,” the cracked pot said."

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The water bearer felt sorry for the old cracked pot, and compassionately said, “As we return to the master’s house, I want you to notice the beautiful flowers along the path.”"

"

As they went up the hill, the old cracked pot did notice the sun shining on the beautiful wild flowers growing along his side of the path, and this cheered it some. However, at the end of the trail, it still felt bad because it had again leaked out half its load, and so it apologized to the water bearer for its failure."

"

The bearer said to the pot, “Did you notice that there were flowers only on your side of the path, but not on the other pot’s side? That’s because I have always known about your flaw, and put it to good use. I planted flower seeds on your side of the path (for the return trip), and every day while we walk back from the stream, you’ve watered them. For over two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate my master’s table. If you weren’t the way you are, he wouldn’t have the flowers for his house.”

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hope***

You were made with a purpose. What you can see as broken, God can use it for His

glory. Shift your focus from your flaws to your worth."

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19

Three Little Words"

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One evening I was parked in front of the mall wiping off my car. I had just come from the car wash and was waiting for my wife to finish work."

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Coming my way from across the parking lot was, what society would consider, a bum. From the looks of him he had no car, no home, no clean clothes and no money. There are times when you feel generous, but there are times that you just don't want to be bothered. This was one of the don't-want-to-be-bothered times!"

" "Hope he doesn't ask me for money," I thought. " "

He didn't. He came and sat on the curb in front of the bus stop and he didn't look like he could have enough money to even ride the bus."

"

After a few minutes he spoke. "That's a very nice car," he said. He was ragged, but had an air of dignity around him."

" I said "Thanks," and continued wiping off my car." "

He sat there quietly as I worked. The expected plea for money never came. As the silence between us widened, something inside said, "Ask him if he needs any help." I was sure that he would say yes, but I held true to the inner voice."

" "Do you need any help?" I asked. " "

He answered in three simple, but profound, words that I shall never forget. We often look for wisdom in great accomplishments. I expect it from those of higher learning and accomplishments. I expected nothing here but an outstretched grimy hand. "

" Then, he spoke three words that shook me. "Don't we all?" he said." "

I needed help. Maybe not for bus fare or a place to sleep, but I needed help. I reached in my wallet and gave him not only enough for bus fare but enough to get a warm meal and shelter for the day."

"

hope***

Those three little words still ring true. No matter how much you have, no matter how

much you have accomplished, we all need help. No matter how little you have, no matter how loaded you are with problems, even without money or a place to sleep, you can GIVE help.

Even if it's just a compliment, you can give that!"

"

You never know when you may see someone that appears to have it all, yet in actuality they need you to give them what they don't have – a different perspective on life, a glimpse of something beautiful, a respite from daily chaos – that only you, through a torn world can see."

"

20 Maybe the man was just a homeless stranger wandering the streets. Maybe he was more than that. Maybe he was sent by a power that is great and wise to minister to a soul too comfortable in himself."

"

Maybe someone looked down, called an angel, dressed him like a bum, and then said, "Go minister to that man cleaning the car; that man needs help.""

" Don't we all?" " " " " "

I’ll Be Happy When. . ."

"

We convince ourselves that life will be better after we get married, have a baby, then another. Then we are frustrated that the kids aren’t old enough and we’ll be more content when they are. After that, we’re frustrated that we have teenagers to deal with. We will certainly be happy when they are out of that stage. We tell ourselves that our life will be complete when our spouse gets his or her act together, when we get a nicer car, when we are able to go on a nice vacation or when we retire. The truth is there’s no better time to be happy than right now. If not now, when? Your life will always be filled with challenges."

"

It’s best to admit this to yourself and decide to be happy anyway. Happiness is the way. So, treasure every moment that you have and treasure it more because you shared it with someone special, special enough to spend your time with…and remember that time waits for no one."

" So, stop waiting…" " hope***

There is no better time than right now to be happy. Happiness is a journey, not a

destination."

" " " " " "

The Little Grass Hut"

The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for GOD to rescue him, and every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming."

"

21 Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood and long grass to protect himself from the elements, and to store his few possessions."

"

One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, with smoke rolling up to the sky. The worst had happened, and everything was lost. He was stunned with disbelief, grief, and anger. “GOD, how could you do this to me?” he cried."

" Early the next day he was awakened by the sound of a ship that was approaching the island." " It had come to rescue him. “How did you know I was here?” asked the weary man of his rescuers. “We saw your smoke signal,” they replied."

"

hope***

It’s easy to get discouraged when things are going bad, but we shouldn’t lose heart,

because GOD is at work in our lives, even in the midst of pain, and suffering."

Remember that the next time your little hut seems to be burning to the ground, it just may be a smoke signal that summons the grace of GOD."

" " " " "

The Buzzard, The Bat and The Bumblebee"

"

If you put a BUZZARD in a pen six or eight feet square and entirely open at the top, the bird, in spite of his ability to fly, will be an absolute prisoner. The reason is that a buzzard always begins a flight from the ground with a run of ten or twelve feet. Without space to run, as is his habit, he will not even attempt to fly, but will remain a prisoner for life in a small jail with no top."

"

The ordinary BAT that flies around at night, a remarkably nimble creature in the air, cannot take off from a level place. If it is placed on the floor or flat ground, all it can do is shuffle about helplessly and, no doubt, painfully, until it reaches some slight elevation from which it can throw itself into the air. Then, at once, it takes off like a flash."

"

A BUMBLEBEE, if dropped into an open tumbler, will be there until it dies, unless it is taken out.

It never sees the means of escape at the top, but persists in trying to find some way out through the sides near the bottom. It will seek a way where none exists, until it completely destroys itself."

"

hope***

In many ways, there are lots of people like the BUZZARD, the BAT, and the BEE.

They are struggling about with all their problems and frustrations, not realizing that the answer is right there ”above” them. Don’t forget to look UP!!"

" "

22

"

Memo from God"

To: YOU" Date: TODAY" From: THE BOSS" Subject: YOURSELF" Reference: LIFE I am God."

" Today I will be handling all of your problems. Please remember that I do not need your help." "

If life happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, do not attempt to resolve it.

Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) box. All situations will be resolved… but in My time, not yours."

"

Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold onto it by worrying about it. Instead, focus on all the wonderful things that are present in your life now"

"

If you find yourself stuck in traffic; Don’t despair. There are people in this world for whom driving is an unheard of privilege."

" Should you have a bad day at work; Think of the man who has been out of work for years." "

Should you despair over a relationship gone bad; Think of the person who has never known what it’s like to love and be loved in return."

"

Should you grieve the passing of another weekend; Think of the woman in dire straits, working twelve hours a day, seven days a week to feed her children."

"

Should your car break down, leaving you miles away from assistance; Think of the paraplegic who would love the opportunity to take that walk."

"

Should you notice a new gray hair in the mirror; Think of the cancer patient in chemo who wishes she had hair to examine."

"

Should you find yourself at a loss and pondering what is life all about, asking what is my purpose? Be thankful. There are those who didn’t live long enough to get the opportunity."

"

Should you find yourself the victim of other people’s bitterness, ignorance, smallness or insecurities; Remember, things could be worse. You could be one of them!"

"

hope***

" " " " "

God is God. Let Him take control of life’s challenges."

23

The Late Bloomer"

"

A cactus stood all alone in the desert, wondering why it was stuck in the middle of nowhere."

"

“I do nothing but stand here all day,” it sighed. “What use am I? I’m the ugliest plant in the desert. My spines are thick and prickly, my leaves are rubbery and tough, my skin is thick and bumpy. I can’t offer shade or juicy fruit to any passing traveler. I don’t see that I’m any use at all.”"

"

All it did was stand in the sun day after day, growing taller and fatter. Its spines grew longer and its leaves tougher, and it swelled here and there until it was lumpy and lopsided all over. It truly was strange-looking."

" “I wish I could do something useful,” it sighed." " By day hawks circled high overhead." "

“What can I do with my life?” the cactus called. Whether they heard or not, the hawks sailed away."

" At night the moon floated into the sky and cast its pale glow on the desert floor." "

“What good can I do with my life?” the cactus called. The moon only stared coldly as it mounted its course."

" A lizard crawled by, leaving a little trail in the sand with its tail." " “What worthy deed can I do?” the cactus called." "

“You?” the lizard laughed, pausing a moment. “Worthy deed? Why, you can’t do anything! The hawks circle way overhead, tracing delicate patterns for us all to admire. The moon hangs high like a lantern at night, so we can see our ways home to our loved ones. Even I, the lowly lizard, have something to do. I decorate the sands with these beautiful brushstrokes as I pull my tail along. But you? You do nothing but get uglier every day.”"

" And so it went on, year after year. At last the cactus grew old, and it knew its time was short." "

“Oh, Lord,” it cried out, “I’ve wondered so long, and I’ve tried so hard. Forgive me if I’ve failed to find something worthy to do. I fear that now it’s too late.”"

"

But just then the cactus felt a strange stirring and unfolding, and it knew a surge of joy that erased all despair. At its very tip, like a sudden crown, a glorious flower suddenly opened in bloom."

"

24 Never had the desert known such a blossom. Its fragrance perfumed the air far and wide and brought happiness to all passing by. The butterflies paused to admire its beauty, and that night even the moon smiled when it rose to find such a treasure."

" The cactus heard a voice." "

“You have waited long,” the Lord said. “The heart that seeks to do good reflects My glory, and will always bring something worthwhile to the world, something in which all can rejoice – even if for only a moment.”"

"

hope***

If you feel that you have not done anything worthwhile yet, believe that God makes

everything beautiful in His time."

" " " " " "

How Much Is A Miracle?"

Tess was a precocious eight year old when she heard her Mom and Dad talking about her little brother, Andrew. All she knew was that he was very sick and they were completely out of money. They were moving to an apartment complex next month because Daddy didn't have the money for the doctor bills and their house."

"

Only a very costly surgery could save Andrew now and it was looking like there was no one to loan them the money. She heard Daddy say to her tearful Mother with whispered desperation, "Only a miracle can save him now.""

"

Tess went to her bedroom and pulled a glass jelly jar from its hiding place in the closet. She poured all of the change out on the floor and counted it carefully. Three times, even. The total had to be exactly perfect. No chance here for mistakes. Carefully placing the coins back in the jar and twisting on the cap, she slipped out the back door and made her way 6 blocks to Rexall's Drug Store with the big red Indian Chief sign above the door."

"

She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her some attention but he was to busy at this moment. Tess twisted her feet to make a scuffing noise. Nothing. She cleared her throat with the most disgusting sound she could muster. No good. Finally she took a quarter from her jar and banged it on the glass counter. That did it!"

"

"And what do you want?" the pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone of voice. "I'm talking to my brother from Chicago whom I haven't seen in ages," he said without waiting for a reply to his question."

"

"Well, I want to talk to you about my brother," Tess answered back in the same annoyed tone.

"He's really, really sick... and I want to buy a miracle.""

25

" "I beg your pardon?" asked the pharmacist." "

"His name is Andrew, and he has something bad growing inside of his head, and my Daddy says only a miracle can save him now. So how much does a miracle cost?""

"

"We don't sell miracles here, little girl. I'm sorry but I can't help you," the pharmacist said, softening a little."

"

"Listen, I have the money to pay for it. If it isn't enough, I will get the rest. Just tell me how much it costs.""

"

The pharmacist's brother was a well dressed man. He stooped down and asked the little girl, "What kind of a miracle does you brother need?""

"

"I don't know," Tess replied with her eyes welling up. "I just know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation. But, my Daddy can't pay for it, so I want to use my money.""

" "How much do you have?" asked the man from Chicago." "

"One dollar and eleven cents," Tess answered barely audibly. "And it's all the money I have, but I can get some more if I need to."

"

"Well, what a coincidence," smiled the man. "A dollar and eleven cents -- the exact price of a miracle for little brothers." He took her money in one hand and with the other hand he grasped her mitten and said "Take me to where you live. I want to see your brother and meet your parents. Let's see if I have the kind of miracle you need.""

"

That well dressed man was Dr. Carlton Armstrong, a surgeon, specializing in neuro-surgery. The operation was completed without charge. And it wasn't long until Andrew was home again and doing well. Mom and Dad were happily talking about the chain of events that had led them to this place."

"

"That surgery," her Mom whispered, "was a real miracle. I wonder how much it would have cost?""

"

Tess smiled. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost... one dollar and eleven cents... plus the faith of a little child."

"

hope***

Do you have any miracle that you are praying for? God already paid it for you. It

costs free in the form of prayer. Never cease believing in a miracle-performing God."

" " " " " "

26

Parable Of Distrust"

"

This is a story about a man called Joseph, who had the misfortune to get caught in a serious flood. The water was rising all around him and was soon up to his knees. He climbed the staircase to the first floor but still the water rose. It wasn't long before the water was up to his waist and he looked out of the window to see what was happening to his neighbours."

"

A boat was passing and the occupant shouted, "Hey, Joseph! Quick, climb aboard my boat and I will take you to safety." Joseph smiled and replied, "Thank you very much, but I have had a word with God and he will take care of me. You use the space on your boat to help others less fortunate than myself." Soon the boat was out of sight."

"

The flood would not stop and the water continued to climb. Joseph was forced onto the roof of his home and he surveyed the catastrophe below him."

"

A helicopter flew over Joseph and a man used his microphone to tell Joseph that worse was yet to come. He threw a rope down to Joseph and cried, "Quick Joseph, climb up while you still have a chance!" Nevertheless, Joseph had been a good man all his life and placed his faith in the Lord, so he declined the offer, requesting that they go in search of other people. "You don't have to worry about me," he shouted, "I have spoken with God and he will not let me die.""

"

The helicopter flew away and the waters rose and rose until finally it was all over. Joseph was taken from this earth."

"

As stated earlier, Joseph was a good man, so naturally he was taken to the pearly gates to meet St. Peter. On entering heaven he was taken and introduced to God who welcomed him with open arms. But, Joseph was not content and asked God, "I am confused my Lord. I have been a devout follower my entire life, and never once have I strayed from your chosen path. I believe I was too young to die now. I prayed to you and asked you to save me, but my faith let me down. How could you have been so cruel?""

"

And the Lord replied, "What do you mean I let you down? I sent you a boat to save you, and a helicopter as well.""

"

hope***

God often works through other people. Do not turn down any help that you may

receive from others. It might be God’s way of reaching out for you."

" " " " " " " "

27

"

Three Trees"

Once there were three trees on a hill in the woods. They were discussing their hopes and dreams when the first tree said, "Someday I hope to be a treasure chest. I could be filled with gold, silver and precious gems. I could be decorated with Intricate carving and everyone would see the beauty.""

"

Then the second tree said, "Someday I will be a mighty ship. I will take kings and queens across the waters and sail to the corners of the world. Everyone will feel safe in me because of the strength of my hull.""

"

Finally the third tree said, "I want to grow to be the tallest and straightest tree in the forest.

People will see me on top of the hill and look up to my branches, and think of the heavens and God and how close to them I am reaching. I will be the greatest tree of all time and people will always remember me.""

"

After a few years of praying that their dreams would come true, a group of woodsmen came upon the trees. When one came to the first tree he said, "This looks like a strong tree, I think I should be able to sell the wood to a carpenter"... and he began cutting it down. The tree was happy, because he knew that the carpenter would make him into a treasure chest."

"

At the second tree a woodsman said, "This looks like a strong tree, I should be able to sell it to the shipyard." The second tree was happy because he knew he was on his way to becoming a mighty ship."

"

When the woodsmen came upon the third tree, the tree was frightened because he knew that if they cut him down his dreams would not come true."

"

One of the Woodsmen said, "I don't need anything special from my tree so I'll" take this one," and he cut it down."

"

When the first tree arrived at the carpenters, he was made into a feed box for animals. He was then placed in a barn and filled with hay. This was not at all what he had prayed for."

"

The second tree was cut and made into a small fishing boat. His dreams of being a mighty ship and carrying kings had come to an end."

" The third tree was cut into large pieces and left alone in the dark." "

The years went by, and the trees forgot about their dreams. Then one day, a man and woman came to the barn. She gave birth and they placed the baby in the hay in the feed box that was made from the first tree. The man wished that he could have made a crib for the baby, but this manger would have to do. The tree could feel the importance of this event and knew that it had held the greatest treasure of all time."

"

Years later, a group of men got in the fishing boat made from the second tree. One of them was tired and went to sleep. While they were out on the water, a great storm arose and the tree

28 didn't think it was strong enough to keep the men safe. The men woke the sleeping man, and he stood and said "Peace" and the storm stopped. At this time, the tree knew that it had carried the King of Kings in its boat."

"

Finally, someone came and got the third tree. It was carried through the streets as the people mocked the man who was carrying it. When they came to a stop, the man was nailed to the tree and raised in the air to die at the top of a hill. When Sunday came, the tree came to realize that it was strong enough to stand at the top of the hill and be as close to God as was possible, because Jesus had been crucified on it."

"

hope***

When things don't seem to be going your way, always know that God has a plan for

you. If you place your trust in Him, He will give you great gifts. Each of the trees got what they wanted, just not in the way they had imagined. We don't always know what God's plans are for us. We just know that His ways are not our ways, but His ways are always best."

" " " " " "

God's Coffee"

A group of alumni, highly established in their careers, got together to visit their old university professor. Conversation soon turned into complaints about stress in work and life.

Offering his guests coffee, the professor went to the kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an assortment of cups - porcelain, plastic, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite -- telling them to help themselves to the coffee."

"

When all the students had a cup of coffee in hand, the professor said: "If you noticed, all the nice looking expensive cups were taken up, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress. Be assured that the cup itself adds no quality to the coffee. In most cases it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you really wanted was coffee, not the cup, but you consciously went for the best cups... And then you began eyeing each other's cups."" " "Now consider this," he continued... "Life is the coffee. The jobs, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life, and the type of cup we have does not define, nor change the quality of life we live. Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee God has provided us."" " God brews the coffee, not the cups... Enjoy your coffee! "

"

29 hope***

The happiest people don't have the best of everything. They just make the best of

everything they have. Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly... and leave the rest to God."

" " " " "

The Frog Race"

"

There was once a bunch of tiny frogs, who arranged a running competition. The goal was to reach the top of a very high tower. A big crowd gathered around the tower to see the race and cheer on the contestants."

" The race began…" "

No one in the crowd really believed that the tiny frogs would reach the top of the tower. They shouted, “Oh, way too difficult! They will NEVER make it to the top” and “Not a chance. The tower is too high”."

"

The tiny frogs began collapsing, one by one except for those who, in a fresh tempo, were climbing higher and higher."

" The crowd continued to yell, “It’s too difficult! No one will make it!”" "

More tiny frogs got tired and gave up. But one continued higher and higher. This one wouldn’t give up! And he reached the top."

"

Everyone wanted to know how this one frog managed such a great feat. His secret? This little frog was deaf!!"

" "

hope***

" " " " " " " " " "

Ignore the pessimism of others. It can take your dreams from you. Stay positive."

30

The Obstacles In Our Path"

"

In ancient times, a King had a boulder placed on a roadway. Then he hid himself and watched to see if anyone would remove the huge rock. Some of the king's wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by and simply walked around it. Many loudly blamed the King for not keeping the roads clear, but none did anything about getting the stone out of the way."

"

Then a peasant came along carrying a load of vegetables. Upon approaching the boulder, the peasant laid down his burden and tried to move the stone to the side of the road. After much pushing and straining, he finally succeeded. After the peasant picked up his load of vegetables, he noticed a purse lying in the road where the boulder had been. The purse contained many gold coins and a note from the King indicating that the gold was for the person who removed the boulder from the roadway. The peasant learned what many of us never understand."

"

hope***

" " " " " "

�Every obstacle presents an opportunity to improve our condition.""

The Barber Shop"

A man went to a barbershop to have his hair cut and his beard trimmed. As the barber began to work, they began to have a good conversation and talked about so many things and various subjects. When they eventually touched on the subject of God, the barber said: "I don't believe that God exists." "Why do you say that?" asked the customer. "Well, you just have to go out in the street to realize that God doesn't exist. Tell me, if God exists, would there be so many sick people? Would there be abandoned children? If God existed, there would be neither suffering nor pain. I can't imagine a loving God who would allow all of these things." The customer thought for a moment, but didn't respond because he didn't want to start an argument.

The barber finished his job and the customer left the shop. Just after he left the barbershop, he saw a man in the street with long, stringy, dirty hair and an untrimmed beard. He looked dirty and unkempt. The customer turned back and entered the barber shop again and he said to the barber: "You know what? Barbers do not exist." "How can you say that?" asked the surprised barber. "I am here, and I am a barber. And I just worked on you!" "No!" the customer exclaimed.

"Barbers don't exist because if they did, there would be no people with dirty long hair and untrimmed beards, like that man outside. "Ah, but barbers DO exist! That's what happens when people do not come to me." "Exactly!" affirmed the customer. "

"

hope***

"That's the point! God, too, DOES exist! Because people do not look to God for help

is why there's so much pain and suffering in the world.�"

"

31

" " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " "

LOVE! 1 John 4:18-19!

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us.!

" " "

" " " " " " " " " " " " " " " "

32

"

Breakfast at McDonald’s"

I am a mother of three (ages 14, 12, and 3) and have recently completed my college degree. The last class I had to take was Sociology. The teacher was absolutely inspiring with the qualities that I wish every human being had been graced with. "

"

Her last project of the term was called "Smile." The class was asked to go out and smile at three people and document their reactions. I am a very friendly person and always smile at everyone and say hello anyway, so, I thought this would be a piece of cake, literally. "

"

Soon after we were assigned the project, my husband, youngest son, and I went out to McDonald's one crisp March morning. It was just our way of sharing special playtime with our son. We were standing in line, waiting to be served, when all of a sudden everyone around us began to back away, and then even my husband did. I did not move an inch. An overwhelming feeling of panic welled up inside of me as I turned to see why they had moved. "

"

As I turned around I smelled a horrible "dirty body" smell, and there standing behind me were two poor homeless men. As I looked down at the short gentleman close to me, he was "smiling".

His beautiful sky blue eyes were full of God's Light as he searched for acceptance. He said, "Good day," as he counted the few coins he had been clutching. "

"

The second man fumbled with his hands as he stood behind his friend. I realized the second man was mentally challenged, and the blue-eyed gentleman was his salvation. I held my tears as I stood there with them. "

"

The young lady at the counter asked him what they wanted. He said, "Coffee is all Miss" because that was all they could afford. (If they wanted to sit in the restaurant and warm up, they had to buy something. He just wanted to be warm). "

"

Then I really felt it - the compulsion was so great I almost reached out and embraced the little man with the blue eyes. That is when I noticed all eyes in the restaurant were set on me, judging my every action. I smiled and asked the young lady behind the counter to give me two more breakfast meals on a separate tray. "

"

I then walked around the corner to the table that the men had chosen as a resting spot. I put the tray on the table and laid my hand on the blue-eyed gentleman's cold hand. He looked up at me, with tears in his eyes, and said, "Thank you." I leaned over, began to pat his hand and said, "I did not do this for you. God is here working through me to give you hope." "

"

I started to cry as I walked away to join my husband and son. When I sat down my husband smiled at me and said, "That is why God gave you to me, Honey, to give me hope." We held hands for a moment, and at that time, we knew that it was only because of the Grace we had been given that we were able to give. We are believers. "

"

That day showed me the pure Light of God's sweet love. I returned to college on the last evening of class with this story in hand. I turned in "my project" and the instructor read it. Then

33 she looked up at me and said, "Can I share this?" I slowly nodded as she got the attention of the class. "

"

In my own way, I had touched the people at McDonald's, my husband, son, instructor, and every soul that shared the classroom on the last night I spent as a college student. I graduated with one of the biggest lessons I would ever learn: UNCONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE."

"

love***

Learn how to Love people and Use things — NOT love things and use people. Love

the unloveable, forgive the unforgiveable and show kindness to everyone. "

" " " " " "

THE GOLD WRAPPING PAPER"

Once upon a time, a man punished his 5-year-old daughter for using up the family's only roll of expensive gold wrapping paper. Money was tight and he became even more upset when on Christmas Eve, he saw that the child had pasted the gold paper so as to decorate a shoebox to put under the Christmas tree."

"

Nevertheless, the next morning, the little girl filled with excitement, brought the gift box to her father and said, "This is for you, Daddy!" As he opened the box, the father was embarrassed by his earlier overreaction. But when he opened it, he found it was empty and again his anger flared. "Don't you know, young lady," he said harshly, "when you give someone a present there's supposed to be something inside the package!""

"

The little girl looked up at him with tears rolling from her eyes and said: "Daddy, it's not empty. I blew kisses into it until it was all full." " " The father was crushed. He fell on his knees and put his arms around his precious little girl. He begged her to forgive him for his unnecessary anger."

"

An accident took the life of the child only a short time later and it is told that the father kept that little gold box by his bed for all the years of his life. And whenever he was discouraged or faced difficult problems he would open the box, take out an imaginary kiss, and remember the love of this beautiful child who had put it there."

"

love***

In a very real sense, each of us as human beings have been given an invisible golden

box filled with unconditional love and kisses from our children, family, friends and God."

" " " "

34

The Most Important Question"

"

During one of my classes in nursing school, our professor gave us a pop quiz. I was a conscientious student and had breezed through the questions, that is until I read the last one: "What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?" Surely this was some kind of joke. I had seen the cleaning woman many times. She was tall, dark-haired, and in her 50s, but how would I know her name? " " I handed in my paper, leaving the last question blank. Before class ended, one student asked if the last question would count toward our quiz grade. "Absolutely," said the professor. "In your nursing careers, you will meet many people. All are significant. They deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile and say hello." I've never forgotten that lesson. I also learned her name was Dorothy. "

"

love***

Every people that we meet in our lifetime is important. And everyone is precious into

the eyes of God. Reach out, Get to know and Show your love even in simple ways."

" " " " " "

A Bag of Nails"

There once was a young boy with a very bad temper. The boy's father wanted to teach him a lesson, so he gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper he must hammer a nail into their wooden fence."

On the first day of this lesson, the little boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. He was really mad!"

"

Over the course of the next few weeks, the little boy began to control his temper, so the number of nails that were hammered into the fence dramatically decreased."

It wasn't long before the little boy discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence."

"

Then, the day finally came when the little boy didn't lose his temper even once, and he became so proud of himself, he couldn't wait to tell his father. " Pleased, his father suggested that he now pull out one nail for each day that he could hold his temper."

"

Several weeks went by and the day finally came when the young boy was able to tell his father that all the nails were gone."

Very gently, the father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence."

35 "You have done very well, my son," he smiled, "but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same.""

The little boy listened carefully as his father continued to speak."

"

love***

"When you say things in anger, they leave permanent scars just like these. And no

matter how many times you say you're sorry, the wounds will still be there.""

" " " " " "

26 guards"

Have you ever felt the urge to pray for someone and then just put it on a list and said, "I'll pray for them later?" Or, has anyone ever called you and said, "I need you to pray for me, I have this need.� Read this story - I pray thatmay it change the way you think about prayer and the way you pray."

"

A missionary on furlough told this story while visiting his home church in Michigan. "While serving at a small field hospital in Africa, every two weeks I traveled by bicycle through the jungle to a nearby city for supplies. This was a journey of two days and required camping overnight at the halfway point."

"

On one of these journeys, I arrived in the city where I planned to collect money from a bank, purchase medicine and supplies, and then begin my two-day journey back to the field hospital.

Upon arrival in the city, I observed two men fighting, one of whom had been seriously injured. I treated him for his injuries and at the same time talked to him about the Lord."

" I then traveled two days, camping overnight, and arrived home without incident." "

Two weeks later I repeated my journey. Upon arriving in the city, I was approached by the young man I had treated. He told me that he had known I carried money and medicines. He said, "Some friends and I followed you into the jungle, knowing you would camp overnight. We planned to kill you and take your money and drugs. But just as we were about to move into your camp, we saw that you were surrounded by 26 armed guards. At this I laughed and said that I was certainly all alone in that jungle campsite. The young man pressed the point, however, and said, "No sir, I was not the only person to see the guards. My five friends also saw them, and we all counted them. It was because of those guards that we were afraid and left you alone.""

"

At this point in the sermon, one of the men in the congregation jumped to his feet and interrupted the missionary and asked if he could tell him the exact day this happened. The missionary told the congregation the date, and the man who interrupted told him this story: "On the night of your incident in Africa, it was morning here and I was preparing to go play golf. I was about to putt when I felt the urge to pray for you. In fact, the urging of the Lord was so strong, I called men in this church to meet with me here in the sanctuary to pray for you. Would all of

36 those men who met with me on that day stand up?" The men who had met together to pray that day stood up."

"

The missionary wasn't concerned with who they were, he was too busy counting how many men he saw. There were 26."

"

love***

This story is an incredible example of how the Spirit of the Lord moves in mysterious

ways. If you ever hear such prodding, go along with it. Nothing is ever hurt by prayer except the gates of hell. If we all take it to heart, we can turn this world toward God once again. As the above true story clearly illustrates, "with God, all things are possible" - and more importantly, how God hears and answers the prayers of the faithful."

" " " " " " Effective Immediately:" "

From The Desk of God"

Please be aware that there are changes you need to make in your life. These changes need to be completed in order that I may fulfill my promises to you to grant you peace, joy and happiness in this life. I apologize for any inconvenience, but after all that I am doing, this seems very little to ask of you. I know, I already gave you the 10 Commandments. Keep them. But follow these guidelines as well."

" 1. QUIT WORRYING" "

Life has dealt you a blow and all you do is sit and worry. Have you forgotten that I am here to take all your burdens and carry them for you? Or do you just enjoy fretting over every little thing that comes your way?"

" 2. PUT IT ON THE LIST" "

Something needs done or taken care of. Put it on the list. No, not YOUR list. Put it on MY to-dolist. Let ME be the one to take care of the problem. I can't help you until you turn it over to me.

And, although my to-do-list is long, I am, after all, God. I can take care of anything you put into my hands. In fact, if the truth were ever really known, I take care of a lot of things for you that you never even realize."

" 3. TRUST ME" "

Once you've given your burdens to me, quit trying to take them back. Trust in me. Have the faith that I will take care of all your needs, your problems and your trials. Problems with the kids? Put them on my list. Problem with finances? Put it on my list. Problems with your emotional roller coaster? For my sake, put it on my list. I want to help you. All you have to do is ask."

"

37 4. LEAVE IT ALONE"

"

Don't wake up one morning and say, "Well, I'm feeling much stronger now, I think I can handle it from here." Why do you think you are feeling stronger now? It's simple. You gave me your burdens and I'm taking care of them. I also renew your strength and cover you in my peace.

Don't you know that if I give you these problems back, you will be right back where you started?

Leave them with me and forget about them. Just let me do my job."

" 5. TALK TO ME" "

I want you to forget a lot of things. Forget what was making you crazy. Forget the worry and the fretting because you know I'm in control. But there's one thing I pray you never forget. Please don't forget to talk to me - OFTEN! I love you. I want to hear your voice. I want you to include me in on the things going on in your life. I want to hear you talk about your friends and family.

Prayer is simply you having a conversation with me. I want to be your dearest friend."

" 6. HAVE FAITH" "

I see a lot of things from up here that you can't see from where you are. Have faith in me that I know what I'm doing. Trust me, you wouldn't want the view from my eyes. I will continue to care for you, watch over you, and meet your needs. You only have to trust me. Although I have a much bigger task than you, it seems as if you have so much trouble just doing your simple part.

How hard can trust be?"

" 7. SHARE" "

You were taught to share when you were only two years old. When did you forget? That rule still applies. Share with those who are less fortunate than you. Share your joy with those who need encouragement. Share your laughter with those who haven't heard any in such a long time.

Share your tears with those who have forgotten how to cry. Share your faith with those who have none."

" 8. BE PATIENT" "

I managed to fix it so in just one lifetime you could have so many diverse experiences. You grow from a child to an adult, have children, change jobs many times, learn many trades, travel to so many places, meet thousands of people, and experience so much. How can you be so impatient then when it takes me a little longer than you expect to handle something on my to-do-list? Trust in my timing, for my timing is perfect. Just because I created the entire universe in only six days, everyone thinks I should always rush, rush, rush."

" 9. BE KIND" "

Be kind to others, for I love them just as much as I love you. They may not dress like you, or talk like you, or live the same way you do, but I still love you all. Please try to get along, for my sake.

I created each of you different in some way. It would be too boring if you were all identical.

Please know I love each of your differences."

" "

38 10. LOVE YOURSELF"

"

As much as I love you, how can you not love yourself? You were created by me for one reason only - to be loved, and to love in return. I am a God of Love. Love me. Love your neighbors. But also love yourself. It makes my heart ache when I see you so angry with yourself when things go wrong. You are very precious to me. Don't ever forget that!"

"

With all my heart, I love you," GOD"

" " " " " "

My Attorney"

After living what I felt was a "decent" life, my time on earth came to the end. The first thing I remember is sitting on a bench in the waiting room of what I thought to be a court house.

The doors opened and I was instructed to come in and have a seat by the defense table. As I looked around I saw the "prosecutor." He was a villainous looking gent who snarled as he stared at me. He definitely was the most evil person I have ever seen."

"

I sat down and looked to my left and there sat My Attorney, a kind and gentle looking man whose appearance seemed so familiar to me, I felt I knew Him."

"

The corner door flew open and there appeared the Judge in full flowing robes. He commanded an awesome presence as He moved across the room. I couldn't take my eyes off of Him. As He took His seat behind the bench, He said, "Let us begin.""

"

The prosecutor rose and said, "My name is Satan and I am here to show you why this man belongs in hell.""

"

He proceeded to tell of lies that I told, things that I stole, and in the past when I cheated others.

Satan told of other horrible perversions that were once in my life and the more he spoke, the further down in my seat I sank. I was so embarrassed that I couldn't look at anyone, even my own Attorney, as the Devil told of sins that even I had completely forgotten about. As upset as I was at Satan for telling all these things about me, I was equally upset at My Attorney who sat there silently not offering any form of defense at all. I know I had been guilty of those things, but" I had done some good in my life - couldn't that at least equal out part of the harm I'd done?"

"

Satan finished with a fury and said, "This man belongs in hell, he is guilty of all that I have charged and there is not a person who can prove otherwise.""

"

When it was His turn, My Attorney first asked if He might approach the bench. The Judge allowed this over the strong objection of Satan, and beckoned Him to come forward. As He" got up and started walking, I was able to see Him in His full splendor and majesty. I realized why He seemed so familiar; this was Jesus representing me, my Lord and my Savior."

39 He stopped at the bench and softly said to the Judge, “Hi, Dad," and then He turned to address the court. "Satan was correct in saying that this man had sinned, I won't deny any of these allegations. And, yes, the wage of sin is death, and this man deserves to be punished.""

"

Jesus took a deep breath and turned to His Father with outstretched arms and proclaimed, "However, I died on the cross so that this person might have eternal life and he has accepted Me as his Savior, so he is Mine.""

"

My Lord continued with, "His name is written in the book of life and no one can snatch him from Me. Satan still does not understand yet. This man is not to be given justice, but rather mercy.""

"

As Jesus sat down, He quietly paused, looked at His Father and said, "There is nothing else that needs to be done. I've done it all.""

"

The Judge lifted His mighty hand and slammed the gavel down. The following words bellowed from His lips. "This man is free. The penalty for him has already been paid in full. Case dismissed.""

"

As my Lord led me away, I could hear Satan ranting and having, "I won't give up, I will win the next one.""

" I asked Jesus as He gave me my instructions where to go next, "Have you ever lost a case?"" " Christ lovingly smiled and said, "Everyone that has come to Me and asked Me to represent them has received the same verdict as you, Paid in Full.”"

"

love***

That’s how much God loves us - He gave up His life for our sins. He has redeemed

us PAID in FULL."

" " " " " "

Making Pancakes"

Six-year-old Brandon decided one Saturday morning to fix his parents pancakes. He found a big bowl and spoon, pulled a chair to the counter, opened the cupboard and pulled out the heavy flour canister, spilling it on the floor."

"

He scooped some of the flour into the bowl with his hands, mixed in most of a cup of milk and added some sugar, leaving a floury trail on the floor, which by now had a few tracks left by his kitten."

"

Brandon was covered with flour and getting frustrated. He wanted this to be something very good for Mom and Dad, but it was getting very bad. He didn't know what to do next, whether to put it all into the oven or on the stove and he didn't know how the stove worked! Suddenly he

40 saw his kitten licking from the bowl of mix and reached to push her away, knocking the egg carton to the floor. Frantically he tried to clean up this monumental mess but slipped on the eggs, getting his pajamas white and sticky."

"

And just then, he saw Dad standing at the door. Big crocodile tears welled up in Brandon's eyes.

All he'd wanted to do was something good, but he'd made a terrible mess. He was sure a scolding was coming, maybe even a spanking. But, his father just watched him."

"

Then, walking through the mess, he picked up his crying son, hugged him and loved him, getting his own pajamas white and sticky in the process!"

"

That's how God deals with us. We try to do something good in life, but it turns into a mess. Our marriage gets all sticky or we insult a friend, or we can't stand our job, or our health goes sour."

"

love***

Sometimes we just stand there in tears because we can't think of anything else to

do. That's when God picks us up and loves us and forgives us, even though some of our mess gets all over Him. But just because we might mess up, we can't stop trying to "make pancakes" for God or for others. Sooner or later we'll get it right, and then they'll be glad we tried."

" " " " " "

Remember Those Who Serve"

In the days when an ice cream sundae cost much less, a 10 year-old boy entered a hotel coffee shop and sat at a table. A waitress put a glass of water in front of him. "How much is an ice cream sundae?" he asked. "50¢," replied the waitress."

" The little boy pulled his hand out of his pocket and studied the coins in it." "

"Well, how much is a plain dish of ice cream?" he inquired. By now more people were waiting for a table and the waitress was growing impatient. "35¢!" she brusquely replied."

"

The little boy again counted his coins. "I'll have the plain ice cream," he said. The waitress brought the ice cream, put the bill on the table and walked away. The boy finished the ice cream, paid the cashier and left."

"

When the waitress came back, she began to cry as she wiped down the table. There, placed neatly beside the empty dish, were two nickels and five pennies. You see, he couldn't have the sundae, because he had to have enough left to leave her a tip."

"

41 love***

Express your gratefulness to those who serve you even in little things. Appreciate

your colleagues, your boss, the bus driver, the cashier, the crew, your mentors and leaders among others."

" " " " " "

The Story of the Tea Cup"

There was a couple who went to England to shop in a beautiful antique store. They both liked antiques and pottery, and especially teacups. Spotting an exceptional cup, they asked "May we see that? We've never seen a cup quite so beautiful."

"

As the lady handed it to them, suddenly the teacup spoke, "You don't understand." It said, "I have not always been a teacup. There was a time when I was just a lump of red clay. My master took me and rolled me, pounded and patted me over and over, and I yelled out, 'Don't do that. I don't like it! "Leave me alone," but he only smiled, and gently said, "Not yet!!"

"

"Then. WHAM! I was placed on a spinning wheel and suddenly I was spun around and around and around. 'Stop it! I'm getting so dizzy! I'm going to be sick!" I screamed. But the master only nodded and said, quietly, "Not yet." He spun me and poked and prodded and bent me out of shape to suit himself and then..."

"

Then he put me in the oven. I never felt such heat. I yelled and knocked and pounded at the door. 'Help! Get me out of here!' I could see him through the opening and I could read his lips as he shook his head from side to side, "Not yet.""

"

When I thought I couldn't bear it another minute, the door opened. He carefully took me out and put me on the shelf, and I began to cool. Oh, that felt so good! 'Ah, this is much better,' I thought. But, after I cooled, he picked me up and he brushed and painted me all over. The fumes were horrible. I thought I would gag. 'Oh, please; Stop it, Stop it!' I cried. He only shook his head and said. "Not yet!"."

"

Then suddenly he put me back in to the oven. Only it was not like the first one. This was twice as hot and I ! just knew I would suffocate. I begged. I pleaded. I screamed. I cried. I was convinced I would never make it. I was ready to give up. Just then the door opened and he took me out and again placed me on the shelf, where I cooled and waited and waited, wondering what's he going to do to me next?"

" An hour later he handed me a mirror and said "Look at yourself." " " And I did. I said, 'That's not me; That couldn't be me. It's beautiful. I'm beautiful!"" "

Quietly he spoke: "I want you to remember, then," he said, "I know it hurt to be rolled and pounded and patted, but had I just left you alone, you'd have dried up.""

42 "I know it made you dizzy to spin around on the wheel, but if I had stopped, you would have crumbled.""

"

"I know it hurt and it was hot and disagreeable in the oven, but if I hadn't put you there, you would have cracked.""

"

"I know the fumes were bad when I brushed and painted you all over, but if I hadn't done that, you never would have hardened. You would not have had any color in your life. If I hadn't put you back in that second oven, you wouldn't have survived for long because the hardness would not have held."

" Now you are a finished product. Now you are what I had in mind when I first began with you."" " love***

God knows what He is doing in each of us. He is the potter, and we are His clay. He

will mould us and make us, and expose us to just enough pressures of just the right kinds that we may be made into a flawless piece of work to fulfill His good, pleasing and perfect will. So when life seems hard, and you are being pounded and patted and pushed almost beyond endurance; when your world seems to be spinning out of control; when you feel like you are in a fiery furnace of trials; when life seems to "stink", try this‌ Brew a cup of your favorite tea in your prettiest teacup, sit down and think on this story and then, have a little talk with the Potter."

" " " " " "

The Carpenter's Tools"

Brother Hammer served as the chairman. The other members of the tool belt informed him that he must leave, because he was too noisy. But brother Hammer said, "If I have to leave this carpenter's shop, then brother Gimlet must go too. He's insignificant and makes a very small impression." (A gimlet is a small tool with a screw point, grooved shank, and a cross handle for boring holes). Little brother Gimlet arose and said, "All right, but brother Screwdriver must go also. You have to turn him around and around to get anywhere with him." Brother Screwdriver turned to the other tools in the belt and said, "If you wish, I will go, but brother Plane must leave too. All of his work is on the surface; there's no depth to what he does." To this brother Plane leveled his terse reply, "Well, then, brother Saw will have to depart too. The changes he proposes always cut too deep." Brother Saw complained, saying, "Brother Ruler will have to withdraw if I leave, for he's always measuring other folks as though he were the only one who is right." Brother Ruler then surveyed the group and said, "Brother Sandpaper doesn't belong here either. He's rougher than he ought to be, and is always rubbing people the wrong way." "

"

In the midst of the discussion, the Carpenter of Nazareth walked in. He had come to perform his day's work. He put on His tool belt and went to the workbench to make a pulpit. He employed the ruler, the saw, the plane, the hammer, the gimlet, the screwdriver, the sandpaper, and all the other tools. When the day's work was over, the pulpit was finished, and the carpenter went

43 home. All the accusations against each of these tools were absolutely true, yet the carpenter used every one of them. No matter which tool He use, no other tool could have done the work better."

"

love***

Such is the same with the the Church. We are the body of Christ, and each one of

us is sginificant in our own little way."

" " " " " "

A Bible For Graduation"

A young man was getting ready to graduate from college. For many months he had admired a beautiful sports car in a dealer's showroom, and knowing his father could well afford it, he told him that was all he wanted."

"

As Graduation Day approached, the young man awaited signs that his father had purchased the car. Finally, on the morning of his graduation, his father called him into his private study."

"

His father told him how proud he was to have such a fine son, and told him how much he loved him. He handed his son a beautiful wrapped gift box. "

"

Curious, but somewhat disappointed, the young man opened the box and found a lovely, leather-bound Bible, with the young man's name embossed in gold."

"

Angrily, he raised his voice to his father and said, "With all your money you give me a Bible?"

And stormed out of the house, leaving the Bible."

"

Many years passed and the young man was very successful in business. He had a beautiful home and wonderful family, but realized his father was very old, and thought perhaps he should go visit him."

"

He had not seen him since that graduation day. Before he could make arrangements, he received a telegram telling him his father had passed away, and willed all of his possessions to his son."

"

When he arrived at his father's house, sudden sadness and regret filled his heart. He began to search through his father's important papers and saw the still new Bible, just as he had left it years ago. With tears, he opened the Bible and began to turn the pages. His father had carefully underlined a verse. As he read those words, a car key dropped from the back of the Bible."

"

It had a tag with the dealer's name, the same dealer who had the sports car he had desired. On the tag was the date of his graduation, and the words. PAID IN FULL"

"

44 love***

Sometimes we missed out the more important things in life by looking only to those

our eyes can see. There are much more valuable than material things - that is the love of the Father, who willingly gave everything that we desire."

" " " " " "

Thank You Lord"

A newly arrived soul in Heaven was met by St. Peter. The saint toured the soul around Heaven. Both of them walked side by side inside a large workroom filled with angels. St. Peter stopped in front of the first section and said, "This is the Receiving Section. Here, all the petitions to God said in prayer are received." The soul looked at the section, and it was terribly busy with so many angels sorting out petitions written on voluminous paper sheets from all the people of the world. They walked again until they reached the 2nd section, and St. Peter told the soul, "This is the Packaging and Delivery Section. Here, the graces and blessings the people asked for are packed and delivered to the persons who asked for them down on earth." The soul saw how busy it was. There were so many angels working in that room, since so many blessing were being packed and delivered to Earth. Finally at the farthest corner of the room, the soul stopped at the last section. To the surprise of the soul, only one angel stayed there idly, doing nothing. "This is the Acknowledging Section," St. Peter told the soul. "How is it that, there is no work here?" "That's the sad thing," St. Peter answered. "After the people received the blessings they asked for, very few send their acknowledgments." "How does one acknowledge God's blessing?" "Simple," St. Peter answered. "Just say, "'Thank you, Lord’"

"

love***

" " " " " " " " " " " " " " " "

THANK YOU LORD!"

-end-"

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be blessed and

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be a blessing