Do you get them? Do you look for them?
Friday night, I drove 40 minutes to a crop. It was over at 11 and I got out about 11:20 and drove home. Put on my comfy clothes, and started to watch TV... decided to get my glasses and they were not EXACTLY where I knew I had put them.
I knew EXACTLY what had happened... I'd put them in the slot on my purse, hung my purse on my crophopper... and pulled it to the car. Somewhere between the store and the car, they fell out. UGH>>> UGH>>>
Do I go get them... it's now going on 1am... do I wait till the morning, if they are in the street, someone probably will run over them. Do I forget it, count the cost, and get new ones... UGH... that takes two weeks.
So, I got in my car, and drove the 40 minutes back to the store, and put my lights on, got out to look... from the car back to the door of the store... I saw nothing.. then, out of the corner of my eye, I caught them.. there they were, laying neatly on the sidewalk, glass side up... next to the door. I think someone next door had seen them, knew a bunch of us had left there late, and laid them gently next to the door to be found by the owner in the morning. They were "Placed" there.
I started home and not even tired... I thanked God for the wink that He is with me, watches for me, and wants to let me know now and then with a little wink from above!! ::nodding::
what is a wink?!
: Howdyboyalan Mon Feb 09, 2009 - 04:39:05
what is a wink?!
Ditto. I lost/found my wallet the other day and didn't get a wink.
What's a crop? What's a crophopper?
Oh come on you guys... You know when you "wink" at someone to let them know you have your eye on them. I believe God does that in the simple things like having my glasses right there, not scratched, not stepped on ... just waiting nicely placed for me to find them. God winked at me!
A Crop... is a session of cutting and designing pages for your scrapbooks with your pictures. A Crophopper is a big bag that holds all of the things you need when you go to scrapbook with friends. Like a suitcase, but designed for scrapbooking. It has wheels and you can pull it along where you go rather than carry the supplies all the time.
I load it, I pull it, I put it in the car and go to the shop or crop... where ever that may be. Today... I just stayed home and worked on my albums... I printed and cropped some 50 pictures of this past Christmas.
: kensington Mon Feb 09, 2009 - 23:46:37
Oh come on you guys... You know when you "wink" at someone to let them know you have your eye on them. I believe God does that in the simple things like having my glasses right there, not scratched, not stepped on ... just waiting nicely placed for me to find them. God winked at me!
A Crop... is a session of cutting and designing pages for your scrapbooks with your pictures. A Crophopper is a big bag that holds all of the things you need when you go to scrapbook with friends. Like a suitcase, but designed for scrapbooking. It has wheels and you can pull it along where you go rather than carry the supplies all the time.
I load it, I pull it, I put it in the car and go to the shop or crop... where ever that may be. Today... I just stayed home and worked on my albums... I printed and cropped some 50 pictures of this past Christmas.
Not my kind of hobby. <wink>
I have felt both His approval, nudge/wink that says all is okay. I've also felt His disapproval, a feeling of not being in touch with Him and heaviness of heart. I know then it's time to start checking myself out and see where I'm amiss on something. David prayed for the Lord to search him and if there be any secret sin to show it to him that he might repent.
I know that God is a reality. He sees into the future and spares us often of things we don't even know about. He does do for us even simple things like returning our glasses.
I loved this topic...but I couldn't write anything bec so many things happen to me that I didn't know where to start and sometimes people don't understand or believe me when I tell them what God does in my life.
But, yesterday, again, God and only God "did" something. I don't know if I can desribe it exactly. Or if it even matters.
I never use the word "unbelievable" ever -- I expect my Father to provide for me in every way 100%. Being self-employed helps this. I know everything given to me is God moving behind the scenes and providing. I never worry or have a care about anything. If you all only knew the extent daily of what is going on --briefly, by next week I will have flown my little old mother (who I escaped from at 18) to my state and town to care for her and her cat. She was a wicked person and is now sweet and has dementia astonishingly so. (Which I intend to reverse.) I never looked for a place for her -knowing God would manifest it.
How can I tell you that out of nowhere,
I got a call -and now in this city of 600,000, have a house rented for her 2 blocks away -furnished, no lease, util included, pets ok. Landlord's mom just died - he understands everything. God wink?
Much more than that.
But yesterday...yesterday --- He outdid Himself (almost) -that same God that parted the Red Sea -- well, I just really can't tell you what He did ---- but, suffice it to say --- the most complicated thing I've taken on in years - that I had no idea how I was going to do under a deadline --- esp, before I left to fly back with my mom --- He just manifested out of thin air ---to the 1/4 inch. It's like He's in my mind wanting to make my way easier and placing a red carpet where I walk.
It's like a lover has died and his spirit hangs around me influencing people, manifesting what I need before I ask.
I am so in tune with the things above and not of this earth ---that I expect, wait for and humbly accept all of these magical things that happen in my life. Magic just being an adjective for God's Hand.
How can I tell you all that when I was on 3.5 hr trip and didn't have time to get the pycnogenal I was out of ---How when I stopped to pee after 3.5 hrs - I went into a funky, dusty Thrift Store to stretch ---and there at eye level were 2 bottles of ($26) pycnogenal by Schiff unopened for $.89 each for me ---along with reading glasses the color of my hair. How do I explain this love affair with God to people. How do I tell people that I never will be in a relationship ever again because I am already in love. ::blushing::
How can I tell people -that all Jesus said is true. When I seek Him first -all else comes. All else is given me. When I give Him my burdens - He takes care of everything. I believe it is the Secret of the Universe. Love Him, wait for Him, expect His Love - notice Him in all things, recognize Him in everything ---and He constantly, excitedly winks at you in every facet of your life..and much much more.
Please, I hope this may inspire even one person - to practice unwavering trust and faith in the Lord. May this help to encourage even one person to 'give it up' totally to the Lord. ::pray::
XXOO Elaine
I can not believe god looks out for us in these small ways. It would be a despicable god who concerns himself with saving a pair of glasses, but does naught to fix an australian drought etc.
: Howdyboyalan Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 07:30:34
I can not believe god looks out for us in these small ways. It would be a despicable god who concerns himself with saving a pair of glasses, but does naught to fix an australian drought etc.
Ahh, but indeed He does look out for us in these small ways and in all ways.
And knows every hair on our head.
So, if I'm reading your post correctly - do you blame God for either the drought or not doing anything about it? Do you see these things as
"An Act of God" ?
In studying the Bible more and more and reading and reading smarter people than me - I no longer blame God for these things. I know where any blame goes, if that was what I wanted to do.
It is very important to know and understand God - thus my "signature".
I could recommend Dr. Myles Munroe's books. I gained huge understanding into the Mind of God. Also, Andrew Wommack explains things very well. www.awmi.net
I am so much happier now that I "got" it.
:) Elaine
I do not blame god for anything. I simply believe he does not intervene in daily life at all. Why would he help somebody with a lost pair of glasses if he won't help millions of people dying for natural causes. Obviously I may learn better one day and understand how it fits into his plan. However for now, I believe he only intervenes in the most severe of circumstances.
I believe HIS ways are not our own. And who said HE did not intervine in those fires? Are you saying that something is impssible for GOD? I say after hearing many stories from survivors that HE did intervine. Praise GOD.
That is like saying praise god for saving the lives of the people on the hudson river plane crash.
Then why did the plane crash happen in the first place?
ARE YOU SAYING he only has the power to save people from the fires? Are you saying he cant just stop the fires?
drop the accusatory tone.
: Howdyboyalan Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 13:31:25
I do not blame god for anything. I simply believe he does not intervene in daily life at all. Why would he help somebody with a lost pair of glasses if he won't help millions of people dying for natural causes. Obviously I may learn better one day and understand how it fits into his plan. However for now, I believe he only intervenes in the most severe of circumstances.
That is actually quite fascinating logic. It is not how I see things or the way my mind works. I say fascinating because we are all so different. I find that exciting and intriquing.
That sentence -"I simply believe he doesn't intervene...."intriques me as to ---what you must think of God.
It is amazing truly how 5 blind men can feel an elephant and one that felt the tail thinks of it as kinda like a snake ---while the guy feeling the belly thinks it's a whole different thing. You know?
From where I'm feeling the elephant, God presents His hand in every aspect of my life. Now, I'm seeing an atheist and he would think I'm nuts for thinking "God" had anything to do with the "coincidences" or great things in my life.
He calls "God" my imaginery friend ---I say the the only imaginary friend I have is him!!! That usually shuts him up. ;) ::crackup::
I bow to God's intervention in my life all the time. Sometimes I'll make an appointment a month in advance and then completely forget about it - and I mean
totally forget ----then as I'm eating my lunch -fork in mid air - a month later--"He" will put the thought in my head after a MONTH!
---"You have an appointment in 45 minutes, don't you?"Now you might not think anything of that - that it's a coincidene or something ---I do not. I bow my head and thank God directly in my words, thoughts and heart. I also believe that bec I recognize Him all the time ---He smiles at me and presents His Guidance even MORE of the time.
It's like if you ask your father for the car keys and then afterwards tell your dad how he's the greatest! and thank you so much for giving me the keys the other night, dad...what is the natural result ---the dad will probably be so touched he'll just give the keys again and give the kid a $20 bill besides, you follow my way of thinking?
That is my relationship with the Spirit that is my Father.
I only tell you this stuff because in my enthusiasm I would like very much for you to experience what I do. I know the difference of NOT experiencing this - I was not always this way.
Anyway,
I love ya, Elaine
: Howdyboyalan Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 13:31:25
I do not blame god for anything. I simply believe he does not intervene in daily life at all. Why would he help somebody with a lost pair of glasses if he won't help millions of people dying for natural causes. Obviously I may learn better one day and understand how it fits into his plan. However for now, I believe he only intervenes in the most severe of circumstances.
How SAD to think that way. Sometimes I can't believe how Christians don't seem to know their Lord at all... maybe you should take more time to get to know Him better!
: ItalianFlavor Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 16:41:17
: Howdyboyalan Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 13:31:25
I do not blame god for anything. I simply believe he does not intervene in daily life at all. Why would he help somebody with a lost pair of glasses if he won't help millions of people dying for natural causes. Obviously I may learn better one day and understand how it fits into his plan. However for now, I believe he only intervenes in the most severe of circumstances.
How SAD to think that way. Sometimes I can't believe how Christians don't seem to know their Lord at all... maybe you should take more time to get to know Him better!
Oh please guide me, enlightened one. How did you get to know him so well?
It's like if you ask your father for the car keys and then afterwards tell your dad how he's the greatest! and thank you so much for giving me the keys the other night, dad...what is the natural result ---the dad will probably be so touched he'll just give the keys again and give the kid a $20 bill besides, you follow my way of thinking?
I do indeed, perhaps I am the child who asks for nothing and gets nothing.
In short, I simply do not want to slip into a way of thinking that sees god in every coincidence, some might be him, but others might not be, so it would be safe to leave daily life to itself. It is all down to not understanding gods overall plan. If I see god in everything and start asking him to intervene in my life, what happens when one builds their hopes up so much and pray for a loved one who will soon die, who goes ahead and dies anyway. I know the bible invites us to pray, some passages for certain things. However, if it is not to god wish's then there is no point in asking for it. Best let him do what he wishes.
Interesting topic, but the answer isn't an absolute one way or the other I suspect.
We know that God has intervened in history in both small and large ways. We also know that He has promised to be with us and to listen to our prayers.
As a result, I have to believe that God intervenes in various ways to work His will and, I suspect, to bless people just for the fun of it.
On the other hand, I don't believe He has a particular plan for you next Tuesday. For the most part, the physical earth runs, and we make our choices.
: Howdyboyalan Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 13:56:05
That is like saying praise god for saving the lives of the people on the hudson river plane crash.
Then why did the plane crash happen in the first place?
ARE YOU SAYING he only has the power to save people from the fires? Are you saying he cant just stop the fires?
drop the accusatory tone.
do you complain aboudt sodom and Gamorah as well?
the LORD does what is HIS will. And I sing HIS praises for it.
the LORD does what is HIS will.
I do believe that was my whole point.
But I will not praise god for the fires in australia. Regardless of whether it is his will. If it is not his will, YOU maybe praising satan. If it is his will, it is something beyond my understanding. In which case I can not praise him for it.
I praise GOD, for nothing can be done without HIS permision.
Blessed be HIS Holy name.
The Bible tells us that God orders the steps of a good man. An angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear and hear Him. We also read that not one hair falls from our heads that He doesn't see.
Not so for the Sinner. His face is turned that He cannot look upon them nor does He hear their prayers.
: Bonnie Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 19:54:16
The Bible tells us that God orders the steps of a good man. An angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear and hear Him. We also read that not one hair falls from our heads that He doesn't see.
Not so for the Sinner. His face is turned that He cannot look upon them nor does He hear their prayers.
I take it that your definition of sinner is not simply someone who sins, but someone who is not "a good man."
: Howdyboyalan Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 18:09:42
the LORD does what is HIS will.
I do believe that was my whole point.
But I will not praise god for the fires in australia. Regardless of whether it is his will. If it is not his will, YOU maybe praising satan. If it is his will, it is something beyond my understanding. In which case I can not praise him for it.
The Lord used the weather many times to try and correct the straying Isaelites, that they might fear Him and call upon His name.
Whose to say He doesn't do that now?
: HRoberson Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 19:56:20
: Bonnie Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 19:54:16
The Bible tells us that God orders the steps of a good man. An angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear and hear Him. We also read that not one hair falls from our heads that He doesn't see.
Not so for the Sinner. His face is turned that He cannot look upon them nor does He hear their prayers.
I take it that your definition of sinner is not simply someone who sins, but someone who is not "a good man."
Hello HB, it's not my definition, it's God's.
: Bonnie Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 19:59:53
: HRoberson Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 19:56:20
: Bonnie Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 19:54:16
The Bible tells us that God orders the steps of a good man. An angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear and hear Him. We also read that not one hair falls from our heads that He doesn't see.
Not so for the Sinner. His face is turned that He cannot look upon them nor does He hear their prayers.
I take it that your definition of sinner is not simply someone who sins, but someone who is not "a good man."
Hello HB, it's not my definition, it's God's.
Just checking....seems somebody famous once said things like "there is no one righteous," and "all have sinned."
I'm not convinced that God does not accept or acknowledge the prayers of bad people, especially if those prayers are part of repentance.
: HRoberson Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 20:03:09
: Bonnie Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 19:59:53
: HRoberson Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 19:56:20
: Bonnie Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 19:54:16
The Bible tells us that God orders the steps of a good man. An angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear and hear Him. We also read that not one hair falls from our heads that He doesn't see.
Not so for the Sinner. His face is turned that He cannot look upon them nor does He hear their prayers.
I take it that your definition of sinner is not simply someone who sins, but someone who is not "a good man."
Hello HB, it's not my definition, it's God's.
Just checking....seems somebody famous once said things like "there is no one righteous," and "all have sinned."
I'm not convinced that God does not accept or acknowledge the prayers of bad people, especially if those prayers are part of repentance.
Of course we have all sinned. We're born with a nature that desires the things of the flesh. But I believe this statement made by Paul was acknowledgement of that and not to say we sin purposely all the time.
Yes, that's the only prayer He hears from a Sinner.
God has called many righteous, good, and faithful, etc.
Psalms 37:23 The steps of a [good] man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. ::nodding::
: Howdyboyalan Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 13:31:25
I do not blame god for anything. I simply believe he does not intervene in daily life at all. Why would he help somebody with a lost pair of glasses if he won't help millions of people dying for natural causes. Obviously I may learn better one day and understand how it fits into his plan. However for now, I believe he only intervenes in the most severe of circumstances.
Because I am his blood bought child. And I NEED the glasses... and I have to choose between replacing them and groceries for my kids? Maybe that is why he intervenes on my behalf? Are you saying that I am not a valuable to God as those people caught in a drought situation? My kids eating isn't nearly as important? Based on what bible verse do you say this?
: HRoberson Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 20:03:09
: Bonnie Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 19:59:53
: HRoberson Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 19:56:20
: Bonnie Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 19:54:16
The Bible tells us that God orders the steps of a good man. An angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear and hear Him. We also read that not one hair falls from our heads that He doesn't see.
Not so for the Sinner. His face is turned that He cannot look upon them nor does He hear their prayers.
I take it that your definition of sinner is not simply someone who sins, but someone who is not "a good man."
Hello HB, it's not my definition, it's God's.
Just checking....seems somebody famous once said things like "there is no one righteous," and "all have sinned."
I'm not convinced that God does not accept or acknowledge the prayers of bad people, especially if those prayers are part of repentance.
No.. but some have repented and are covered by the blood... There in lies the difference in a righteous man and a sinner. The steps of a righteous man are ordered of the LORD.
Bonnie,
I'm not sure that God controls the steps of the righteous as though they physically could do nothing else. The ways of God control them because the righteous are given over to God, and the righteous elect to walk in His ways.
The Jewish Publication Society's 1985 English text of the TANAKH reads thusly,
The steps of a man are made firm by the Lord, when He delights in his way.
and verse 24 reads like this:
Though he stumbles, he does not fall down, for the Lord gives him support.
James Mays in his introduction to this psalm in the Interpretation Series says this:
....The psalm has often been read as advocacy of a doctrinaire moralism that believes evil is punished and good rewarded in some kind of deterministic, simplistic way.There are lines in the psalm that, taken by themselves, may seem to invite such a reading. The whole and all that is said must be considered.
As a result, this line from the psalm should not be used to advocate that God controls the righteous in some automatomic manner. Rather, God sees the righteous, and no matter what the world may seem to indicate (reading the entire psalm and putting this line in context), God does see the righteous and reach out to help.
Of course, the only way that God could help a stumbling man is if the man first stumbles. That stumbling can not have been caused by God. No, God is around and He supports, but does not control the righteous.
All of this of course could be entirely irrelevant if I've misunderstood your point.
GOD Bless you all. even you Howdey. I need my faith tested daily to get stronger. and you help out great.
: Howdyboyalan Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 18:09:42
the LORD does what is HIS will.
I do believe that was my whole point.
But I will not praise god for the fires in australia. Regardless of whether it is his will. If it is not his will, YOU maybe praising satan. If it is his will, it is something beyond my understanding. In which case I can not praise him for it.
(I don't praise God either for disasters.) And yes, I do believe after reading and reading the Bible knowing His Will is very important in our faith. When we "know" beyond any doubt that God's Will is indeed for our abundance and health and happiness -then we (I) can ask whatever I will and I have the confidence that it is given me.(Because it is according to His Will.)
Howdyboyalan (tell me if I could call you alan for short sometime), it's funny you spoke that way about prayer -paraphrasng - why pray if only to get your hopes dashed - bec I was about to suggest to you to start little bit by little bit praying for something. I say this bec I have never had a prayer not answered and now it's to the point of "Before they call I will answer..." Is 65:24
Our attitude or belief or intent or focus is all important. I understand this now because of extensive study ---I didn't just start out with faith and having my prayers answered, you know? I used to be on anti-depressants and was quite the negative person, oyvay ---
it took deliberate conscious work/effort ---buying and reading many books on 'Answered Prayers Guaranteed' and the Holy Spirit - -I decided that I am never going to be an expert brain surgeon in this life, so what COULD I accomplish and excel at -what do I have in my reach to go beyond the ordinary in ---well, bingo -I could grow in knowledge of the spirit, or the Spirit, God the Creator -the mysteries of this creation!! No money needed for that! And no really huge brain either!! Voila -why not be all I can be in the spirit!!!
So anyway, I think I understand where you are coming from. I wish I could give you even a little drop of hope or faith. I'm a believer in sticking a little toe in to test the water - because there is a Law of Like attracts Like.
If we imagine negative things - bingo - that's what happens ---and vice versa ----that's why Jesus put so much emphasis on BELIEVE and you will receive. That's the ingredient --that is IT! That's the yeast that makes the whole thing happen. So that's why I say, baby steps ----you'll see -what Jesus said
is the truth.
Lovin' ya, Elaine :)
: MegaJedi Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 18:45:13
I praise GOD, for nothing can be done without HIS permision.
Blessed be HIS Holy name.
Let's not forget who still has power here. Someone else still holds the "lease" here. (God may be the Landlord - but there is a renter that holds the lease.) No Landlord can enter a renters property without permission or an invite, btw. ---Example of Dr. Myles Munroe insightful lessons.
And "Blessed be HIS Holy name." What Name is that , btw, when you say that?
Thanks, Elaine
: HRoberson Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 21:07:27
Bonnie,
I'm not sure that God controls the steps of the righteous as though they physically could do nothing else. The ways of God control them because the righteous are given over to God, and the righteous elect to walk in His ways.
The Jewish Publication Society's 1985 English text of the TANAKH reads thusly,
The steps of a man are made firm by the Lord, when He delights in his way.
and verse 24 reads like this:
Though he stumbles, he does not fall down, for the Lord gives him support.
James Mays in his introduction to this psalm in the Interpretation Series says this:
....The psalm has often been read as advocacy of a doctrinaire moralism that believes evil is punished and good rewarded in some kind of deterministic, simplistic way.There are lines in the psalm that, taken by themselves, may seem to invite such a reading. The whole and all that is said must be considered.
As a result, this line from the psalm should not be used to advocate that God controls the righteous in some automatomic manner. Rather, God sees the righteous, and no matter what the world may seem to indicate (reading the entire psalm and putting this line in context), God does see the righteous and reach out to help.
Of course, the only way that God could help a stumbling man is if the man first stumbles. That stumbling can not have been caused by God. No, God is around and He supports, but does not control the righteous.
All of this of course could be entirely irrelevant if I've misunderstood your point.
I really just wish you would bow out of this topic... it was a about a simple blessing from the LORD, because I am His child. You have to draw everything into some DEEP conplicated thing that it just isn't. Go away.. that would be nice... a REAL GOD wink for me. Thanks.
: HRoberson Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 21:07:27
Bonnie,
I'm not sure that God controls the steps of the righteous as though they physically could do nothing else. The ways of God control them because the righteous are given over to God, and the righteous elect to walk in His ways.
The Jewish Publication Society's 1985 English text of the TANAKH reads thusly,
The steps of a man are made firm by the Lord, when He delights in his way.
and verse 24 reads like this:
Though he stumbles, he does not fall down, for the Lord gives him support.
James Mays in his introduction to this psalm in the Interpretation Series says this:
....The psalm has often been read as advocacy of a doctrinaire moralism that believes evil is punished and good rewarded in some kind of deterministic, simplistic way.There are lines in the psalm that, taken by themselves, may seem to invite such a reading. The whole and all that is said must be considered.
As a result, this line from the psalm should not be used to advocate that God controls the righteous in some automatomic manner. Rather, God sees the righteous, and no matter what the world may seem to indicate (reading the entire psalm and putting this line in context), God does see the righteous and reach out to help.
Of course, the only way that God could help a stumbling man is if the man first stumbles. That stumbling can not have been caused by God. No, God is around and He supports, but does not control the righteous.
All of this of course could be entirely irrelevant if I've misunderstood your point.
God has made many promises to His people and the verse in Psalms is just one of them. I would be one of the first to say that He doesn't make anyone walk in a way contrary to what that person wishes. I believe if you desire His help he will do as he says.
GOD Bless you all. even you Howdey
thanks, Why do I deserve the distinction?
am not a valuable to God as those people caught in a drought situation? My kids eating isn't nearly as important? Based on what bible verse do you say this?
I don't need to base a bible verse on this because that is not what I meant. My point is basically, why god allow millions of good christians to starve in africa, and save just one person for a eye wear bill.
I simply believe that a god who does favours is either:
a: At odds with an all loving god
or
b: is an all loving god, but has a far deeper plan than we can comprehend (you could never comprehend why a god would save your glass' and not hundreds of thousands of children from starvation). So to give thanks to him for finding your glass' is (within the context of option b):
a: selfish because you are thanking god for that but ignoring africa etc, his plan obviously included a good thing happening to you. For you to then say I am just as worthy as the africans is beside the point
b: At odds with a god you believe intervenes in everyday life.
There is only one way to tie these loose ends, and that is to believe in a highly non-interventionist god. I will pray to him for guidance and wisdom. Yet why pray to him for certain things, you will only get it, if it fits in with his plan anyway. So therefore it is exactly what mega jedi confirmed I said 'the LORD does what is HIS will. ' We have no bearing on that. Very very few bible verses, as a percentage of all of the ones on prayer, ask that we pray for certain things specifically (I believe it is because we are not to test the lord). Why some verses do say you can pray to god for specifics is for a different topic.
: kensington Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 02:45:40
: HRoberson Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 21:07:27
Bonnie,
I'm not sure that God controls the steps of the righteous as though they physically could do nothing else. The ways of God control them because the righteous are given over to God, and the righteous elect to walk in His ways.
The Jewish Publication Society's 1985 English text of the TANAKH reads thusly,
The steps of a man are made firm by the Lord, when He delights in his way.
and verse 24 reads like this:
Though he stumbles, he does not fall down, for the Lord gives him support.
James Mays in his introduction to this psalm in the Interpretation Series says this:
....The psalm has often been read as advocacy of a doctrinaire moralism that believes evil is punished and good rewarded in some kind of deterministic, simplistic way.There are lines in the psalm that, taken by themselves, may seem to invite such a reading. The whole and all that is said must be considered.
As a result, this line from the psalm should not be used to advocate that God controls the righteous in some automatomic manner. Rather, God sees the righteous, and no matter what the world may seem to indicate (reading the entire psalm and putting this line in context), God does see the righteous and reach out to help.
Of course, the only way that God could help a stumbling man is if the man first stumbles. That stumbling can not have been caused by God. No, God is around and He supports, but does not control the righteous.
All of this of course could be entirely irrelevant if I've misunderstood your point.
I really just wish you would bow out of this topic... it was a about a simple blessing from the LORD, because I am His child. You have to draw everything into some DEEP conplicated thing that it just isn't. Go away.. that would be nice... a REAL GOD wink for me. Thanks.
Kensington, I think as a member of the forum I have a right to post in any thread. I try to be a friend to you but it proves useless. You are one of the rudest people I have ever met and you have proved that many times over with other people in other threads.
I was watching a documentary about the abortion fight during the Clinton administration, and they had an interview with "Jane Roe", and what happened to her after that landmark case. She said she had no idea at the time what kind of impact her case would have on America at the time, and had basically been used by lawyers to change the laws in Texas. In Texas at the time, the law on the books was that parents had the right to decide when and if they wanted to procreate. So, if they had the right to decide when to have children, they should also have the right to decide not to have children, even if the child was already on the way. The law passed, and abortion became legal for the entire nine months of a woman's pregnancy. Conservatives were outraged, and began to harass her, issuing death threats, smashing her windows. She said she spent the next fifteen years in fear, hiding in her house alone. At one point, she attempted suicide. Now call it chance, or call it a wink from God, but this is the incredible part; a pro life office happened to rent the house right next to hers. The relationship was a little guarded at first, but over time, Ms. "Roe" began to visit the office, and eventually became friends with the staff there. She began to visit abortion clinics, and at one point was given the keys to a freezer and took a peek inside. The scene inside devestated her. She gave her life to Christ, and began working for the pro life movement, working in the office next door to her house.
love,
sopranette
: Bonnie Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 06:23:17
: kensington Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 02:45:40
: HRoberson Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 21:07:27
Bonnie,
I'm not sure that God controls the steps of the righteous as though they physically could do nothing else. The ways of God control them because the righteous are given over to God, and the righteous elect to walk in His ways.
The Jewish Publication Society's 1985 English text of the TANAKH reads thusly,
The steps of a man are made firm by the Lord, when He delights in his way.
and verse 24 reads like this:
Though he stumbles, he does not fall down, for the Lord gives him support.
James Mays in his introduction to this psalm in the Interpretation Series says this:
....The psalm has often been read as advocacy of a doctrinaire moralism that believes evil is punished and good rewarded in some kind of deterministic, simplistic way.There are lines in the psalm that, taken by themselves, may seem to invite such a reading. The whole and all that is said must be considered.
As a result, this line from the psalm should not be used to advocate that God controls the righteous in some automatomic manner. Rather, God sees the righteous, and no matter what the world may seem to indicate (reading the entire psalm and putting this line in context), God does see the righteous and reach out to help.
Of course, the only way that God could help a stumbling man is if the man first stumbles. That stumbling can not have been caused by God. No, God is around and He supports, but does not control the righteous.
All of this of course could be entirely irrelevant if I've misunderstood your point.
I really just wish you would bow out of this topic... it was a about a simple blessing from the LORD, because I am His child. You have to draw everything into some DEEP conplicated thing that it just isn't. Go away.. that would be nice... a REAL GOD wink for me. Thanks.
Kensington, I think as a member of the forum I have a right to post in any thread. I try to be a friend to you but it proves useless. You are one of the rudest people I have ever met and you have proved that many times over with other people in other threads.
Bonnie... I have no idea what you are talking about... I never even spoke to you... if you read that again, you will see I was talking to HRoberson... Not you. But, thanks for letting me know what you think of me. Peace.
kennsington,
Why so rude?
That was a shocking post to read so early in the morning. Even if you'd like someone to stop posting - you can ignore them or ask them in a pm or let the thread flow as it may or, or, or ----I'm thinking you may not simply realize how intense your post was? Could that be?
This is such a tough world to manuever in, don't you think - from traffic, to our bosses deadlines, to the kids being sick, you know?
That to then come on this pleasant thread and read such a harsh post is just another fly in the soup. I would love it if we could be just even a little bit kinder by mixing our words differently.
Now, don't jump all over me for saying this...not for my sake, but for the others that don't need to read such harshness here -we can get that at our jobs from jerky co-workers. It does continue to make you look very bad --- I'm sorry to say, I've seen you not chose your words well before.
I don't think in your heart you want to hurt people. And yet you do. I don't ge it. Why??
Ok then, let things fall as they may. ::eatingpopcorn:
Elaine
Sopey,
Have you seen Jane Roe on TV commercials!!? She never even got an abortion and feels terrible about her case and what it has done.
Try to catch it.
:) Elaine
: Elaine Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 08:49:10
Sopey,
Have you seen Jane Roe on TV commercials!!? She never even got an abortion and feels terrible about her case and what it has done.
Try to catch it.
:) Elaine
No, I don't think so. Honestly, I didn't know what she looked like until last night. I didn't realize her story is actually quite sad.
love,
sopranette
What would really be nice... is if the Mods would just delete this whole thing now. I see topics disappear all the time, how do you get that done?
: kensington Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 02:45:40
: HRoberson Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 21:07:27
Bonnie,
I'm not sure that God controls the steps of the righteous as though they physically could do nothing else. The ways of God control them because the righteous are given over to God, and the righteous elect to walk in His ways.
The Jewish Publication Society's 1985 English text of the TANAKH reads thusly,
The steps of a man are made firm by the Lord, when He delights in his way.
and verse 24 reads like this:
Though he stumbles, he does not fall down, for the Lord gives him support.
James Mays in his introduction to this psalm in the Interpretation Series says this:
....The psalm has often been read as advocacy of a doctrinaire moralism that believes evil is punished and good rewarded in some kind of deterministic, simplistic way.There are lines in the psalm that, taken by themselves, may seem to invite such a reading. The whole and all that is said must be considered.
As a result, this line from the psalm should not be used to advocate that God controls the righteous in some automatomic manner. Rather, God sees the righteous, and no matter what the world may seem to indicate (reading the entire psalm and putting this line in context), God does see the righteous and reach out to help.
Of course, the only way that God could help a stumbling man is if the man first stumbles. That stumbling can not have been caused by God. No, God is around and He supports, but does not control the righteous.
All of this of course could be entirely irrelevant if I've misunderstood your point.
I really just wish you would bow out of this topic... it was a about a simple blessing from the LORD, because I am His child. You have to draw everything into some DEEP conplicated thing that it just isn't. Go away.. that would be nice... a REAL GOD wink for me. Thanks.
Well thank you for encouraging my participation on this board. It is rather common for threads on this site to take off on tangents. I am sorry that this eventuality has frustrated you.
Here's your God wink.
Have a nice day.
What on earth is eating you?
Rudeness on the forum I participate in is
all of our businesses, kennsington.
It's always "silly" to "worry" about something, isn't it, when you're the one that hurts someone and needs to look at yourself and eat some humble pie. Yeah, pretty "silly" stuff -let's practice sweeping it under the carpet.
It's clear Bonnie thought with all your boxed quotes that you were talking to her instead of HR. I had to read it twice to figure it out myself.
So, have the harsh words paid off for you? Was it worth it to speak to HR that way?
Thinking twice before you type so as not to hurt someone is a basic etiquette on any forum or email or communication with another.
Why delete a thread - this is something that we all can learn from and teaches all of us resolution skills. How can anyone expect to reflect Christ's love if they can't resolve a simple thing to strangers on a forum, kennsington ?
Did I think it would help? Yes, eventually I hope you cool down and become self-reflective and re-read your post to see that it was indeed unnecessarily rude --and you learn from it.
I have faith that you'll be able to grow through this ---and imagine ---to complete strangers on a forum. If not today -one day.
You think we all don't know what it is like to be in a bad mood and take it out on another? We've all been there.
: HRoberson Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 10:58:35
: kensington Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 02:45:40
: HRoberson Mon Feb 16, 2009 - 21:07:27
Bonnie,
I'm not sure that God controls the steps of the righteous as though they physically could do nothing else. The ways of God control them because the righteous are given over to God, and the righteous elect to walk in His ways.
The Jewish Publication Society's 1985 English text of the TANAKH reads thusly,
The steps of a man are made firm by the Lord, when He delights in his way.
and verse 24 reads like this:
Though he stumbles, he does not fall down, for the Lord gives him support.
James Mays in his introduction to this psalm in the Interpretation Series says this:
....The psalm has often been read as advocacy of a doctrinaire moralism that believes evil is punished and good rewarded in some kind of deterministic, simplistic way.There are lines in the psalm that, taken by themselves, may seem to invite such a reading. The whole and all that is said must be considered.
As a result, this line from the psalm should not be used to advocate that God controls the righteous in some automatomic manner. Rather, God sees the righteous, and no matter what the world may seem to indicate (reading the entire psalm and putting this line in context), God does see the righteous and reach out to help.
Of course, the only way that God could help a stumbling man is if the man first stumbles. That stumbling can not have been caused by God. No, God is around and He supports, but does not control the righteous.
All of this of course could be entirely irrelevant if I've misunderstood your point.
I really just wish you would bow out of this topic... it was a about a simple blessing from the LORD, because I am His child. You have to draw everything into some DEEP conplicated thing that it just isn't. Go away.. that would be nice... a REAL GOD wink for me. Thanks.
Well thank you for encouraging my participation on this board. It is rather common for threads on this site to take off on tangents. I am sorry that this eventuality has frustrated you.
Here's your God wink.
Have a nice day.
NO... I would not imply for you to leave any board. I spoke about this topic. Something so simple does not have to be made complicated to understand. That is all. Thanks for the wink!
Elaine....
Rudeness on the forum I participate in is all of our businesses
I'm confused... is someone forcing you to be here?
Yes, I asked the mods to delete this... I hope they do. If not, it doesn't matter ... I'm done with it. It's a moot point now.
If anyone really wants to understand what I meant about "God Winks"... there is a book. It's called... "God Winks"...
: Elaine Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 00:02:53
I say this bec I have never had a prayer not answered and now it's to the point of "Before they call I will answer..." Is 65:24
How interesting. This is where I am in my walk as well. In fact, I do not ask for blessings for myself or my family. I enjoy simply thanking God for being God, allotting me the time I have and for being my Provider, and praying for others' needs.
Actually, the biggest blessing in the world to me, is when God directly asks me to provide for someone else's needs.
: Howdyboyalan Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 06:21:24
GOD Bless you all. even you Howdey
thanks, Why do I deserve the distinction?
Well you test my faith daily. And that I need. So GOD Bless you.
: fanuvmxpx Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 12:59:52
How interesting. This is where I am in my walk as well. In fact, I do not ask for blessings for myself or my family. I enjoy simply thanking God for being God, allotting me the time I have and for being my Provider, and praying for others' needs.
Actually, the biggest blessing in the world to me, is when God directly asks me to provide for someone else's needs.
Yay, yes. ::clappingoverhead::
: Elaine Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 13:54:53
: fanuvmxpx Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 12:59:52
How interesting. This is where I am in my walk as well. In fact, I do not ask for blessings for myself or my family. I enjoy simply thanking God for being God, allotting me the time I have and for being my Provider, and praying for others' needs.
Actually, the biggest blessing in the world to me, is when God directly asks me to provide for someone else's needs.
Yay, yes. ::clappingoverhead::
Do I get manna for something fanuvmxpx said ? NO ? Ah geesh ! LOL
Kensington, I'm sorry your thread was spoiled for you. Yes, I can see that you were posting to HB instead of me after going back and looking at the posts.
Someone was just having a bad day. ::destroyingcomputer::
Many thread lean away from its original intent. I am sure it was not intentional, but people reply to another's comments which can lead a thread in another direction.
We need to stay peaceful and not make a mountain out of a molehill.
: Mystery Man Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 14:07:36
: Elaine Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 13:54:53
: fanuvmxpx Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 12:59:52
How interesting. This is where I am in my walk as well. In fact, I do not ask for blessings for myself or my family. I enjoy simply thanking God for being God, allotting me the time I have and for being my Provider, and praying for others' needs.
Actually, the biggest blessing in the world to me, is when God directly asks me to provide for someone else's needs.
Yay, yes. ::clappingoverhead::
Do I get manna for something fanuvmxpx said ? NO ? Ah geesh ! LOL
You're so cute and pitiful like most men - I give you secret manna, darlin', alot!!!
( My relationship with MM allows me to joke with him like this before all the cards and letters start comin' in)
;) Elaine
: Bonnie Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 16:23:09
Kensington, I'm sorry your thread was spoiled for you.
Bonnie, this just shows your intrinsically sweet nature.
Kensington, Your huffiness has now oveflowed into long pm's to me.
I hope you get the bee out of your bonnet. And recognize soon
who that "bee" is and get rid of him.
"He" is the enemy not you or me.
: Elaine Wed Feb 18, 2009 - 07:05:34
: Mystery Man Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 14:07:36
: Elaine Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 13:54:53
: fanuvmxpx Tue Feb 17, 2009 - 12:59:52
How interesting. This is where I am in my walk as well. In fact, I do not ask for blessings for myself or my family. I enjoy simply thanking God for being God, allotting me the time I have and for being my Provider, and praying for others' needs.
Actually, the biggest blessing in the world to me, is when God directly asks me to provide for someone else's needs.
Yay, yes. ::clappingoverhead::
Do I get manna for something fanuvmxpx said ? NO ? Ah geesh ! LOL
You're so cute and pitiful like most men - I give you secret manna, darlin', alot!!!
( My relationship with MM allows me to joke with him like this before all the cards and letters start comin' in)
;) Elaine
Am I that transparent ? LOL
Am I that transparent ? LOL
Yes, my dear, most men are -they all just want love and
the occassional pat on the back.
They're so cute and easy to please.
::laughingatquote::
Bonnie... Thank you for the apology. I'm sorry it wasn't more clear as to who I was speaking to... "quotes" happen that way.
Elaine... you are out of line. This didn't concern you, it had nothing to do with you, you stuck your bee into something that was NONE OF YOUR business... just like you do in debate and others threads. I don't care what you think. It was a misunderstanding between Bonnie and I... why you keep taking stage for your speeches, I can only imagine. I went to you in PM to do the right thing an speak my mind to you in private... you know, like the word says... "Go to a brother privately"... something you can't seem to do. I asked you to leave me alone and to let this go, since it doesn't concern you. Which is truth.
Bonnie can, and I can let it go (as it was between us) ... but you can't. Okay... then I'll tell you outright here... IT WAS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS SISTER. The BEE in my cap is you. No one else. I know who I am in Christ and it is just silly that people like you who don't know boundaries in life, and then are rejected for their ignorant behavior... want to claim to the other person it must be "SATAN" in them. BUNK... spiritual BUNK is what that is.
But, note... Bonnie and I did not need you to work this out, we spoke in private (PM), we spoke here, and it was done... you are in something that was NEVER your business and this is the 4th time now YOU have brought up something you needed to ignore to begin with. Shades of "GET A LIFE"... comes to mind.
Don't accuse me of being influenced by satan again... NO WHERE does the BIBLE say if someone falsely accuses you and it angers you, that is sin or that satan is at work. It's a violation of rules and I'm reporting it. Leave me alone. I'm fine with the Mods reading the short PM I wrote you telling you this was none of your busines... That you are bringing it up here, just shows what you are made of.
Most of my adult life I have found that "preaching to the choir" quickly becomes boring. I much prefer discussing/debating with people who think the opposite of the way I do. And I always try to "pry" deep enough to find out why we have opposite opinions. On occasion, this has resulted in me changing my opinion on specific aspects of some topics. On other occasions, it resulted in someone else changing theirs. I have only two requisites for engaging in debate. One, I have to be under the impression that my opponent is intelligent. And two, I must be reasonably assured that they are not too thin-skinned to be objectional.
This is a public forum. If I reply to a specific post, not only will the intended recipient read it, so will dozens of others. There is often a high probability that some of those readers will disagree. Sometimes, someone will play the "I'm offended" card as a means of trying to censor my post because they have no reasonable rebuttal. Three years of experience on this forum tells me that the admin and moderators are very good at detecting and ignoring this small-minded tactic. Which is why I'm still here.
In reality, if someone here were to call me an idiot, the only way that would truly offend me is if, subconsciously, I believe it.
The thread started out as someone thankful to the Lord for his overshadowing love and mercy. We have so many promises from God in the Bible and I believe them all. ::bowing:: He is mighty and powerful and an ever present help in the time of trouble.
He told the Apostles, I will never leave you nor forsake you. I'll be with you always even until the end of the world. I believe all Christians have that promise. All may not benefit from it because it's also based on faith. Jesus could not do many miracles in a certain place and he said the reason why was due to lack of faith.
Is there anything too big or too little for our God? No, all things are possible with him to them that believe. If we pray a prayer and don't believe that He will perform it then the prayer is in vain. Some people pray amiss or ask things not according to His divine will. We're probably all guilty of that one.
The prayer of the righteous avails much!
People get to questioning God... why isn't this that way or why are these better off than most, etc.? We obviously don't have all the answers and it's not good to question God. If He took all the suffering away from every part of the world, then wouldn't we be in heaven?
God Bless
I understand, most people would not pray to be kept from a simple cold.
But, I do... my son has asthma and a simple cold can land him in the hospital on oxygen.
My husband is deployed, I have had health issues to deal with this year, and still more to come, I have teens at home, and having to deal with replacing glasses is one less thing I need. So.. yep... that was a God wink for me. You bet it was. I have panic attacks when I go grocery shopping alone. Do I think that God sees me and provides according to His riches? YES... The word says His eye is on the sparrow... why wouldn't He care if I can see to drive at night or not? (read the signs).
I don't like being out at night alone, and I've missed my exit more than once when I didn't have those glasses... so after I got them, I sure didn't want to lose them. ::shrug::