When they could not find a way to do this because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus. Luke 5:19
Are you being a stretcher bearer in someone's life? Think about what a stretcher bearer does. EMT workers carry people on a stretcher or gurney into the waiting ER. It is while on there, they are feverishly working on the patient keeping vitals stable and hoping to keep the them alive during transport to the hospital.
A Christian as a 'stretcher bearer' serves as an extension of Jesus in the body of Christ reaching out to care for those who are hurting emotionally or physically. They heal wounds with kindness, caring, prayer, and meeting needs. Sometimes just being there and listening is all that is required.
Do you know someone who needs a 'stretcher bearer' in their life?
PRAYER: Help me be aware of those people in my life who may be in need of someone to lighten their load. Help me think more of others than myself. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Showing posts with label helping others. Show all posts
Showing posts with label helping others. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
Friday, May 30, 2014
Bounce Back
Surely God is my help; the Lord is the One who sustains me. Psalm 54:4
How are you feeling today? Perhaps a dead end feeling where you just do not know if you can go on. Circumstances in your life may have just reached the point you do not know where to turn. This could be as a result of a loss of some sort. Maybe loss of a family member, loss of a dream, loss of good health. Whatever it is, you can make it and you can bounce back on go on! "But I feel so down and out and discouraged" you may say. God does know how you feel and He is your comfort in times of trouble. There have been times in my life I let things overwhelm me and I just had to get away and get into the Word. Sometimes doing something for others is an excellent remedy.
When feelings overwhelm you and you just want to run away, that is not a feeling from God. That is right from the pit of hell and from Satan. He is not a comic book character with a little red pitchfork but is roaming around seeking to destroy us. The Bible tells us in James 4:7 to "resist the devil and he will flee from us". Satan is a master of messing with our thoughts and our minds. It is necessary to stay focused on good and not evil. Get control of your mind and fill it with the Word of God.
If you need to 'bounce back' pick up your Bible and open it to the book of Psalms, John, or Proverbs. Just let God's word heal you.
PRAYER: Lord I know you love me and it is not your desire for me to go through life despairing. I trust in you Lord and know your words will guide me and strengthen me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
How are you feeling today? Perhaps a dead end feeling where you just do not know if you can go on. Circumstances in your life may have just reached the point you do not know where to turn. This could be as a result of a loss of some sort. Maybe loss of a family member, loss of a dream, loss of good health. Whatever it is, you can make it and you can bounce back on go on! "But I feel so down and out and discouraged" you may say. God does know how you feel and He is your comfort in times of trouble. There have been times in my life I let things overwhelm me and I just had to get away and get into the Word. Sometimes doing something for others is an excellent remedy.
When feelings overwhelm you and you just want to run away, that is not a feeling from God. That is right from the pit of hell and from Satan. He is not a comic book character with a little red pitchfork but is roaming around seeking to destroy us. The Bible tells us in James 4:7 to "resist the devil and he will flee from us". Satan is a master of messing with our thoughts and our minds. It is necessary to stay focused on good and not evil. Get control of your mind and fill it with the Word of God.
If you need to 'bounce back' pick up your Bible and open it to the book of Psalms, John, or Proverbs. Just let God's word heal you.
PRAYER: Lord I know you love me and it is not your desire for me to go through life despairing. I trust in you Lord and know your words will guide me and strengthen me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Click link to worship God in song.
http://youtu.be/DXDGE_lRI0E
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
The Uplifter
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11(NIV)
Ever had one of those days where you just can't get yourself out of a mood? It can be caused by many factors, but never the less it is one of those times you need a bouquet of flowers, a call from a friend, a hug, or a surprise letter in the mail. Often times when I have had those moments I end up hearing something I needed to hear, such as a Bible verse on the radio, just at the right time or getting an unexpected gift. Once I actually found a palm leaf cross in a puddle outside my car door. Seeing that cross gave me renewed hope and strength. Now tell me that is not God.
If you happen to find yourself in a moment like this get out your Bible and read some Psalms. I find the verses in the 150 chapters in this book very encouraging. Another thing to do is see who else might need help or an encouraging word. Somehow getting out of our own issues and becoming involved with another is a good cure. Say a quick prayer and know God will see you through.
PRAYER: Thanks for another wonderful day you have blessed me with. Show me another that just needs a smile or bit of encouragement today. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Ever had one of those days where you just can't get yourself out of a mood? It can be caused by many factors, but never the less it is one of those times you need a bouquet of flowers, a call from a friend, a hug, or a surprise letter in the mail. Often times when I have had those moments I end up hearing something I needed to hear, such as a Bible verse on the radio, just at the right time or getting an unexpected gift. Once I actually found a palm leaf cross in a puddle outside my car door. Seeing that cross gave me renewed hope and strength. Now tell me that is not God.
If you happen to find yourself in a moment like this get out your Bible and read some Psalms. I find the verses in the 150 chapters in this book very encouraging. Another thing to do is see who else might need help or an encouraging word. Somehow getting out of our own issues and becoming involved with another is a good cure. Say a quick prayer and know God will see you through.
PRAYER: Thanks for another wonderful day you have blessed me with. Show me another that just needs a smile or bit of encouragement today. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Saturday, August 31, 2013
HELP ME!
Help me Lord to love when I feel like hating.
Help me Lord to overlook an offense when I feel offended.
Help me Lord to share when I feel selfish.
Help me Lord to forgive when I feel like lashing back.
Help me Lord to be friendly when I do not feel like it.
Help me Lord to accept others when I feel like judging.
Help me Lord to rejoice when I feel like complaining.
Help me Lord to be happy for others when I feel jealous.
Help me Lord to give thanks when I feel like comparing.
Help me Lord to walk away when someone has hurt me.
Help me Lord to pray when I would prefer worrying.
Help me Lord to hang on when I feel weak and helpless.
Help me Lord to think of others when I feel a pity party coming on.
Help me Lord to keep quiet when I would rather open my mouth.
Help me Lord to be patient when human nature wants things now!
Help me Lord to sing your praises when I would rather gossip and condemn.
Help me Lord to read my Bible when I would rather read a magazine.
God is truly only a prayer away. He wants to hear from you. Talk to Him and share your heart. In Romans 15:30(NIV) it says 'I urge you brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me.'
Memorize the following verse. Psalm 46:1(KJV) says 'God is a our refuge and strength a very present help in time of trouble.' God truly is a helping God.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus when I feel overwhelmed by issues in life or struggles within my family I know that there are others out there too with similar problems. Help me Lord to learn to lean on you as you are my helper but also to remember to focus on the needs of others who need help as well. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
GOD'S ANGELS ALL AROUND US
Many of you reading this,I am sure, have been confronted with the uncomfortable feeling of encountering what the world would call a 'bum' or a needy person who looks so down and out it makes you almost feel guilty for having success and wealth. Yes indeed most of us are wealthy to lots of street people. Many on the street may be mentally ill but many are there due to trying times in their life. Not all people under bridges want to be there.
Most of us do not want to involve ourselves in the lives of these human beings. "Do not give them money they will use it it for booze" is the common thing you hear. Recently while visiting my mom in Kentucky I was in the public library trying to use Wi Fi and as I sat there using my computer while my mom read the newspapers, a very pitiful man was seated across from me.I mean he just sat. No books, no papers, just sat. Not sure if he needed money or was just depressed and hanging out. Lots of homeless hang out at public libraries I understand. Do you dare embarrass them when they are not begging by saying " here take this ten dollar bill?" We know we can not invite them all into our warm cushy homes but how do you help? Some folks are afraid to help and try to avoid them. What should you do and how can you help? Well I missed my chance that day as while I sat and pondered what to do he left. So what would you do? What does God say to do? Even while updating this story here at a local Starbucks a gentleman came in who started talking out loud and singing out loud. It was strange I admit and there were stares. He appeared mentally ill and lonely which is sad. He is still God's creation.
First the thought came to me on both occasions that these individuals could have been one of God's angels sent as a 'test' of sorts to see how we react to them. Hebrews 13:2 says "Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! " James 2:15-17 says "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." Matthew 25:44 says "They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
The thinking today by many is that the wealth should be 'redistributed' for it is not 'fair' for some to have much and others to be destitute. No where in the Bible is taking people's money away from them to help others justified or even mentioned. Christians should want to be generous and help and there are many charities in this country to help those going through a hard time. It is not the governments place to confiscate wealth. We for sure need to help someone if we feel led in our hearts. That still small voice inside may be speaking to you. Now ladies need to be careful as to not put themselves in a dangerous situation of course. Be careful not to think more highly of yourself than you ought it says in Romans 12:3. We never know if we will end up in need. Treat all people with respect.
When you have the love of Christ inside of you, you should want to help those who are having a hard time. So where is your heart today? Do you share with those less fortunate? If you do no need to brag about it. God knows and he will reward you. Keep an eye out for how you can show God's love in a hurting world.
PRAYER: Open the eyes of my heart to the needs of the hurting around me and help me not be stingy with those in need. Give me one pure and Holy passion to serve you Lord through being kind to others. In Jesus name. Amen.
Note: Worship the Lord now in song by clicking on the link below.
http://youtu.be/tDP12eYxSpE
Also read 2 Corinthians 8 about encouraging giving generously.
Most of us do not want to involve ourselves in the lives of these human beings. "Do not give them money they will use it it for booze" is the common thing you hear. Recently while visiting my mom in Kentucky I was in the public library trying to use Wi Fi and as I sat there using my computer while my mom read the newspapers, a very pitiful man was seated across from me.I mean he just sat. No books, no papers, just sat. Not sure if he needed money or was just depressed and hanging out. Lots of homeless hang out at public libraries I understand. Do you dare embarrass them when they are not begging by saying " here take this ten dollar bill?" We know we can not invite them all into our warm cushy homes but how do you help? Some folks are afraid to help and try to avoid them. What should you do and how can you help? Well I missed my chance that day as while I sat and pondered what to do he left. So what would you do? What does God say to do? Even while updating this story here at a local Starbucks a gentleman came in who started talking out loud and singing out loud. It was strange I admit and there were stares. He appeared mentally ill and lonely which is sad. He is still God's creation.
First the thought came to me on both occasions that these individuals could have been one of God's angels sent as a 'test' of sorts to see how we react to them. Hebrews 13:2 says "Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! " James 2:15-17 says "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." Matthew 25:44 says "They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
The thinking today by many is that the wealth should be 'redistributed' for it is not 'fair' for some to have much and others to be destitute. No where in the Bible is taking people's money away from them to help others justified or even mentioned. Christians should want to be generous and help and there are many charities in this country to help those going through a hard time. It is not the governments place to confiscate wealth. We for sure need to help someone if we feel led in our hearts. That still small voice inside may be speaking to you. Now ladies need to be careful as to not put themselves in a dangerous situation of course. Be careful not to think more highly of yourself than you ought it says in Romans 12:3. We never know if we will end up in need. Treat all people with respect.
When you have the love of Christ inside of you, you should want to help those who are having a hard time. So where is your heart today? Do you share with those less fortunate? If you do no need to brag about it. God knows and he will reward you. Keep an eye out for how you can show God's love in a hurting world.
PRAYER: Open the eyes of my heart to the needs of the hurting around me and help me not be stingy with those in need. Give me one pure and Holy passion to serve you Lord through being kind to others. In Jesus name. Amen.
Note: Worship the Lord now in song by clicking on the link below.
http://youtu.be/tDP12eYxSpE
Also read 2 Corinthians 8 about encouraging giving generously.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
BEAR ONE ANOTHER'S BURDENS
When you have a problem do you try to keep it to yourself or do you find a trusted friend to share things with? Do you bear your struggles alone? The reason for counselors is that it helps to talk to someone when issues arise in your life. No one should shoulder problems himself. I read a devotion the other day from CMDA(Christian Medical Dental Association) that said most people when asked how they were doing always replied "fine". What if we were to be honest and say something to the effect "well my dog is sick, my car is in shop, my mom is in hospital with kidney failure, my best friend is mad at me and on it goes"? You get the point. Most of us would not do that but it is such a pat answer to simply say "Fine" and probably not truthful in many peoples cases. I have heard another reply I love too and it is when asked this question to say "If I were any better I would be twins". Love it!
In Galatians 6:2 it says "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Can you do this? Can you help another by easing their pain and struggle somewhat? Sometimes just a shoulder to cry on is all someone really needs.Romans 15:1 says "We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves." We all may be in need of help someday. Just like in the case of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)where he stopped to give assistance, everyone at one time or another needs a helping hand. If you can assist a friend in need, do it. Sometimes people just need to talk. Can you be the listening ear for a friend who has a problem or who is hurting? Romans 12:15 tells us to "weep with those who weep". Galatians 5:14 says "The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." A sign of love is being there for someone in their time of need. Do not be in too big a hurry in life you do not stop to care for your brothers and sisters who are needing a boost. Sometimes when you hurt helping others even helps alleviate your sadness. Give it a try!
PRAYER: Lord thank you for giving me the means to be able to reach out and help someone in need. Make me sensitive to those who are hurting and show me creative ways I can be a help to those in my path that may just need someone to listen to them. Help me to stop and not rush around so much I am not available to help. In Jesus Name. Amen.
In Galatians 6:2 it says "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Can you do this? Can you help another by easing their pain and struggle somewhat? Sometimes just a shoulder to cry on is all someone really needs.Romans 15:1 says "We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves." We all may be in need of help someday. Just like in the case of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)where he stopped to give assistance, everyone at one time or another needs a helping hand. If you can assist a friend in need, do it. Sometimes people just need to talk. Can you be the listening ear for a friend who has a problem or who is hurting? Romans 12:15 tells us to "weep with those who weep". Galatians 5:14 says "The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." A sign of love is being there for someone in their time of need. Do not be in too big a hurry in life you do not stop to care for your brothers and sisters who are needing a boost. Sometimes when you hurt helping others even helps alleviate your sadness. Give it a try!
PRAYER: Lord thank you for giving me the means to be able to reach out and help someone in need. Make me sensitive to those who are hurting and show me creative ways I can be a help to those in my path that may just need someone to listen to them. Help me to stop and not rush around so much I am not available to help. In Jesus Name. Amen.
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