Tagged: life Toggle Comment Threads | Keyboard Shortcuts

  • TFRStaff 5:52 am on May 24, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: life, someday   

    A story to live by 

    A Story to Live By

    By Ann Wells (Los Angeles Times)

    My brother-in-law opened the bottom drawer of my sister’s bureau and lifted out a tissue-wrapped package.”This,” he said, “is not a slip. This is lingerie.”He discarded the tissue and handed me the slip. It was exquisite; silk, handmade and trimmed with a cobweb of lace. The price tag with an astronomical figure on it was still attached.”Jan bought this the first time we went to New York, at least 8 or 9 years ago. She never wore it. She was saving it for a special occasion. Well, I guess this is the occasion.”He took the slip from me and put it on the bed with the other clothes we were taking to the mortician. His hands lingered on the soft material for a moment, and then he slammed the drawer shut and turned to me. “Don’t ever save anything for a special occasion. Every day you’re alive is a special occasion.”

    I remembered those words through the funeral and the days that followed when I helped him and my niece attend to all the sad chores that follow an unexpected death. I thought about them on the plane returning to California from the Midwestern town where my sister’s family lives. I thought about all the things that she hadn’t seen or heard or done. I thought about the things that she had done without realizing that they were special.

    I’m still thinking about his words, and they’ve changed my life. I’m reading more and dusting less. I’m sitting on the deck and admiring the view without fussing about the weeds in the garden. I’m spending more time with my family and friends and less time in committee meetings. Whenever possible, life should be a pattern of experience to savor, not endure. I’m trying to recognize these moments now and cherish them.

    I’m not “saving” anything; we use our good china and crystal for every special event-such as losing a pound, getting the sink unstopped, and the first camellia blossom.I wear my good blazer to the market if I feel like it. My theory is if I look prosperous, I can shell out $28.49 for one small bag of groceries without wincing. I’m not saving my good perfume for special parties; clerks in hardware stores and tellers in banks have noses that function as well as my party-going friends’.

    “Someday” and “one of these days” are losing their grip on my vocabulary. If it’s worth seeing or hearing or doing, I want to see and hear and do it now. I’m not sure what my sister would have done had she known that she wouldn’t be here for the tomorrow we all take for granted. I think she would have called family members and a few close friends. She might have called a few former friends to apologize and mend fences for past squabbles. I like to think she would have gone out for a Chinese dinner, her favorite food. I’m guessing – I’ll never know.

    It’s those little things left undone that would make me angry if I knew that my hours were limited. Angry because I put off seeing good Friends whom I was going to get in touch with-someday. Angry because I hadn’t written certain letters that I intended to write-one of these days. Angry and sorry that I didn’t tell my husband and daughter often enough how much I truly love them. I’m trying very hard not to put off, hold back, or save anything that would add laughter and luster to our lives.

    And every morning when I open my eyes, I tell myself that it is special. Every day, every minute, every breath truly is…a gift from God. “You’ve got to dance like nobody’s watching, and love like it’s never going to hurt.”

    “Thoughts For Today to Brighten Your Day” by Glenn, Mercedes and Lauren Hitchcock

     

  • Eugene Adkins 11:36 am on May 18, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , high school students, life, , Students,   

    4 Pointers for Graduates to Head in the Right Direction 

    An blue icon with a graduation cap and tassel.

    Here’s the basic points with a scripture that I’m using for tomorrow’s “graduation night” at Keltonburg for our High School students. This’ll work whether they’re heading to college or the job market:

    • It’s time to grow up (1 Corinthians 13:11)
    • Prepare for hard times (Ecclesiastes 12:1)
    • When you think you have the world conquered its conquered you (Ecclesiastes 1:9)
    • Don’t compromise your faith for a “good grade” or a “good job” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

    “Whatever comes to your hand to do with all your power, do it because there is no work, or thought, or knowledge, or wisdom in the place of the dead to which you are going.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10 - BBE)

     

  • Eugene Adkins 6:31 am on May 13, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: life, , ,   

    It’s About Time (This is a “Nudge”) 

    Much of life is about time, and time is that commodity that captures the human imagination. Even Pink Floyd made a few bucks, and amazingly quite a bit of sense, singing about time to a bunch of spaced out brains.

    The Bible encourages us to place a great emphasis on spending the time we’re given wisely with verses like:

    wrist watch

    “Take care then how you are living, not as unwise, but as wise; Making good use of the time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16 - BBE)

    So give your advice. There are probably a lot more answers that you might think of at first, so take some time to think about it.

    What are some wise ways we that need to be spending our time?

     

    • J. Randal Matheny 9:47 am on May 13, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      Getting away from the time wasters, first off, and finding ways to invite those we know to know the Lord.

    • Ron Thomas 9:54 am on May 13, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      For me, down time is good. Too much of it is a waste, but a little, in my view is not. During the evening hours I could do much better than I do. I generally work about 6-7 days a week – and it is not work to me at all. On occasion, however, some additional down-time is good. Today, I will play some golf. I have to balance that “play” with any corresponding guilt that might come along.

  • John T. Polk II 4:00 am on April 26, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , enemy, , hates, , life, pantheism, , ,   

    Psalm 139 Father Knows Us Best 

    This Psalm of David gives a picture of how thoroughly God knows us. We should seek to know Him as completely as we can, for “when you did not know God, you served those which by nature are not gods” (Galatians 4:8); “the world through wisdom did not know God” (1 Corinthians 1:21); “He who does not love does not know God, for God is love” (1 John 4:8); Jesus Christ will be “taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Thessalonians 1:8).

    Verses 1-6 show how completely God knows about our individual lives;

    Verses 7-12 show how useless it is for anyone to try to flee from God;

    Verses 13-16 show when God begins to know us;

    Verses 17-18 show how completely we should know God;

    Verses 19-22 show how completely we should side with God;

    Verses 23-24 show how completely open we should be with ourselves and God.

    Verses 1-6: There is no one who knows and understands us like God does: not Mother, Father, Children, Husband or Wife, close friend. God interacts with individual lives by examination, constant monitoring, complete understanding of our thinking, hearing all our words, protecting and guiding at times, all exceeding our own understanding of ourselves!

    Verses 7-12: As Adam and Eve discovered in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:6-8), there is nowhere God cannot find us: Heaven (as if we could!)? He is there; “Hell” (Sheol, the place beyond the body’s grave, where departed spirits dwell)? He is there; fly as fast as the light of a new day (as if we could!)? dive as deep as the sea goes? He still could guide and hold us; be surrounded by total darkness? God sees as if it was still light. God is everywhere, but He is NOT everything! God is Creator NOT the Creation! Pantheism is totally wrong in this concept.

    Verses 13-16: God designs, develops, and delivers each and every human baby ever born! For each and every human baby, while in the womb, God “covered” (intricately weaves together) our organs; “fearfully and wonderfully” develops the baby; makes the skeleton support structure; begins His work on “unformed” “substance” (Hebrew term for embryo), prepared the baby to live “the days fashioned for me” (plans for the baby to live its life on earth). Abortion is the destroying of the work of God, and wise Solomon said: “I know that whatever God does, It shall be forever. Nothing can be added to it, And nothing taken from it. God does it, that men should fear before Him” (Ecclesiastes 3:14). Abortion is taking from the work of God!

    Verses 17-18: There is much more about God than we can grasp, but we should learn all we can while we can. The Word of God is the gradual unfolding of the revelation of God.

    Verses 19-22: Instead of demanding God to “side” with us, we should get on God’s “side.” There should be no evil work a Christian would practice, plan, or proceed to do: terrorism, abortion, self-centeredness, drunkenness/drug abuse, divisiveness, fornication/adultery, lust, or anything else contrary to “sound doctrine.” Whatever God condemns, Christians should condemn. Whatever God hates, Christians should hate. Whoever is an enemy of God, should be an enemy to a Christian. No Christian should compromise this commitment to God for any  political platform, union slogan, or gang fidelity!

    Verses 23-24: An open heart asks for God to check it out, and is willing for Him to “lead me in the way everlasting.” Why wait? God provides for Christians to “examine themselves” (2 Corinthians 13:5). “For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world” (1 Corinthians 11:31-32).

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:15 am on April 1, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , deceit, , , life, , , , , ,   

    Psalm 120 God Hears When the World is Saying Wrong Things 

    There is uncertainty regarding the author, time, or circumstances of these Psalms, but it is apparent Psalms 120-134 work together, and are called the “Songs of Degrees,” and sometimes “Songs of Ascension.”

    Verses 1-4 contrast God’s listening to help, and our having to listen to others;

    Verses 5-7 state how hard it is to live among war-mongers.

    Verses 1-4: (Verse 1) God hears our cries from distress. Jacob said God had done so (Genesis 35:3); David said God had (2 Samuel 22:7); Paul said distress cannot “separate us from the love of Christ” (Romans 8:35). (Verse 2) Integrity, trust, faith, dependability all are ruined by “lying lips” and a “deceitful tongue.” “Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, But those who deal truthfully are His delight” (Proverbs 12:22). Having a “deceitful tongue” is responsible for destroying the credibility of gossips, talebearers, editorial writers, propaganda press, factory fables, and many others. (Verse 3) There will be a judgment against a “false tongue.” “All liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death” (Revelation 21:8). (Verse 4) Whoever said “words can never hurt me” wasn’t familiar with this verse. Words can pierce like “sharp arrows of the warrior,” and burn like “coals of the broom tree.” “For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. Indeed, we put bits in horses’ mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body. Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison” (James 3:2-8).

    Verses 5-7: (Verse 5) Little is certain of these places, “Meshech” (slave traders, Ezekiel 27:13) and “Kedar” (wanderers, Isaiah 21:16-17), but they represent the hostile environment many people experience, even today. (Verses 6-7) Patience and longsuffering can wear us down or wear us out when we are mis-matched with polar opposites on a subject like “war” and “peace.” There is “a time of war, And a time of peace” (Ecclesiastes 3:8), however “wisdom is better than weapons of war; But one sinner destroys much good” (Ecclesiastes 9:18). The wise can avoid war, but the foolish advocate it and their foreign policies depend upon it! Christians are not waging carnal war against their enemies (2 Corinthians 10:2-6). “When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him” (Proverbs 16:7).

     All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:24 am on March 29, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , life, lost sheep, , , , , , , ,   

    Psalm 119:169-176 Tau Speaking to God – Hearing His Word 

    It is fitting that the greatest tribute to the Word of God is IN the Word of God, itself, and is in the longest chapter of the Word of God! This Psalm has no author’s name, historical incident, or other distraction from its theme. It is divided into 22 sections (one for every letter in the Hebrew alphabet), each consisting of 8 lines, each line beginning with the alphabet letter of that section (aleph is the first letter of each line under the aleph section, for instance). The chapter uses some 8-10 different words to describe the Word of God, each bringing something extra to the total picture of the Word of Truth. In order to savor the depth and richness of teaching in this Psalm, we will examine each portion as if it were its own chapter.

    Psalm 119:169-176  Tau                       Speaking to God – Hearing His Word

    Verses 169-172 give the connection from my mouth to God’s ear;

    Verses 173-176 summarize God’s blessings from the Word.

    Verses 169-172: (Verse 169) The only concern expressed is that the believer will be heard; the only thing asked for with this “cry” is for “understanding,” is this not what Solomon later will do? (1 Kings 3:5-14) (Verse 170) “Supplication” is presenting sincere needs and asking that something be done; “deliverance” is the blessing asked for that is described in God’s Word. (Verse 171) Coming from “my lips” indicates a heart full of lessons from God’s “statutes” (words marking out the right way). Jesus later would say: “Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things” (Matthew 12:34-35). (Verse 172) Just as a healthy tree bursts forth with signs of life; a bird sings when it shares its life; a flower shares its color and fragrance; a believer full of the “righteousness” of God’s “commands” cannot be silent. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Colossians 3:16-17).

    Verses 173-176: (Verse 173) Choosing God’s “precepts” (words that superintend our way) will cause a believer to reach out for God’s leadership. (Verse 174) “Longing” (continuing desire) for God’s “salvation,” means the method of obtaining it is a “delight.” Wanting to be saved is not enough, a person must enjoy obeying God to reach for it. “Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1:21-22). Since baptism into Christ is the moment of salvation (1 Peter 3:21), it is a delightful response for one who longs to be saved. (Verse 175) Knowing how perfect God’s “judgments” have always been, the soul blessed by God with physical and spiritual life “praises” God for all of these. (Verse 176) All of us can, and probably will, “go astray” by wandering off “like a lost sheep.” Most of us sin without intending to violate God’s Will, but by simply becoming too focused upon what we are doing at the time, and not paying attention to what should be important. God “seeks” “servants,” in other words, those who seek Him. “The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him” (Lamentations 3:25). “Seek the LORD while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the LORD, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon” (Isaiah 55:6-7).

    Thought: By using different words to convey facets of God’s Word, its brilliance is better than any gemstone, diamond, or other precious jewelry. Psalm 119 shows that the Word of God is not a “dead book,” but bursting with life that brings to life any soul that has been numbed, deadened, or abused by the world. God’s Word brings from us a zest for life, enjoyment of life, and praise for the Giver of life!

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

    • preachercarter 10:34 am on March 30, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      Your closing statement rings very true. God’s Word is not dead rather His Word (that is the personification of God) lives in all that choose to honour His, well, Word.

    • John T. Polk II 11:39 am on March 30, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      Thank you for your agreement. Truly, Jesus Christ is the Word of God in the flesh Who has shown all men what it means to follow Him (Titus 2:11-12; Mark 16:15-16). Feel free to visit our church website for further Bible studies. Please contact me if you have any questions or comments.

  • John T. Polk II 4:33 am on March 22, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , , , life, , , redeem, , , ,   

    Psalm 119:129-136 Pe Why The Word Is Wonderful 

    It is fitting that the greatest tribute to the Word of God is IN the Word of God, itself, and is in the longest chapter of the Word of God! This Psalm has no author’s name, historical incident, or other distraction from its theme. It is divided into 22 sections (one for every letter in the Hebrew alphabet), each consisting of 8 lines, each line beginning with the alphabet letter of that section (aleph is the first letter of each line under the aleph section, for instance). The chapter uses some 8-10 different words to describe the Word of God, each bringing something extra to the total picture of the Word of Truth. In order to savor the depth and richness of teaching in this Psalm, we will examine each portion as if it were its own chapter.

    Psalm 119:129-136  Pe                                 Why The Word Is Wonderful

    Verses 129-131 give admiration for God’s Word;

    Verses 132-135 make humble requests for God’s help;

    Verse 136 shows concern for those who haven’t appreciated God’s Word.

    Verses 129-131: (Verse 129) God’s “testimonies” (words describing and manifesting God’s character) are “wonderful” (wonder-full, brilliant, captivating), therefore “my soul keeps them.” We are drawn to that which fascinates us: Moses to a burning bush (Exodus 3:1-3); Jesus’ power over afflictions (Matthew 15:29-38); multitude on Pentecost hearing Jesus preached in their own languages by the Holy Spirit’s power (Acts 2:1-11); the man born lame “walking, leaping and praising God” (Acts 3:1-11); Peter’s vision of life without prejudice (Acts 10:9-17). Our rapt attention should be centered in God’s Word. (Verse 130) The Bible is the gradual unfolding of the revelation of God. A light turned on in the darkness draws attention not to the light, but to what can now be seen. There is no surprise, therefore, when Scripture’s “light” enters the darkened soul, and gives “understanding to the simple.” (Verse 131) A soul struggling to be free from the entanglements of sin, trying to be distant from temptations, fighting the influence of ungodliness, “pants” (gasps, gulps) for God’s “commandments” (words authorizing the path to follow).

    Verses 132-135: Having expressed how much God’s Word means, it is appropriate to ask for help from God. It is in His Word we learn that: (Verse 132) He looks mercifully as His “custom is toward those who love” His “name.” God’s habit is always to be merciful to lovers of His name. (Verse 133) His Word “directs” (guides, leads) our “steps,” so that “iniquity” (having no right value) has no “dominion” over us. Obeying God’s Word does not keep on from single sins, but from sinful practices becoming habitual, the thoughts of Jesus (John 8:34) and John (1 John 3:4-8). (Verse 134) He “redeems” (frees, ransoms) the obedient “from the oppression” that comes from “man,” so that we “may keep Your precepts” (words highlighting what is right). Jesus Christ “gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works” (Titus 2:14). “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons” (Galatians 4:4-5). (Verse 135) Since “God is light” (1 John 1:5) He brightens the way of all who are willing to be taught His “statutes” (words marking the right and the wrong way).

    Verse 136: The Word of God is so full of wonder, the obedient weep because the God of love, mercy, salvation, and comfort is ignored by those who need Him most; and because the souls yet burdened down with the toils, tears, troubles, and terrors of sin haven’t seen the wonders of The Word, The God, The Christ. “Jesus wept” (John 11:35) for you and me, and so should every Christian.

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:47 am on March 20, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , double-minded, , , life, , , , , , ,   

    Psalm 119:113-120 Samek The Certainty of the Word 

    It is fitting that the greatest tribute to the Word of God is IN the Word of God, itself, and is in the longest chapter of the Word of God! This Psalm has no author’s name, historical incident, or other distraction from its theme. It is divided into 22 sections (one for every letter in the Hebrew alphabet), each consisting of 8 lines, each line beginning with the alphabet letter of that section (aleph is the first letter of each line under the aleph section, for instance). The chapter uses some 8-10 different words to describe the Word of God, each bringing something extra to the total picture of the Word of Truth. In order to savor the depth and richness of teaching in this Psalm, we will examine each portion as if it were its own chapter.

    Psalm 119:113-120  Samek                  The Certainty of the Word

    Verses 113-114 tell why God is our choice;

    Verse 115 tells which direction we are going;

    Verses 116-117 describe how God helps;

    Verses 118-119 show how certain God is of the outcome;

    Verse 120 describes how this certainty should affect us.

    Verses 113-114: (Verse 113) “The double-minded” are people who are torn between two opinions, skeptical of truth, and can’t decide which to follow. Elijah, the prophet, called for people to make up their minds: “And Elijah came to all the people, and said, ‘How long will you falter between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him; but if Baal, then follow him.’ But the people answered him not a word” (1 Kings 18:21). Faith is to be “with no doubting,” or else we are “a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways” (James 1:5-8). To love God’s “law” (words that make straight) means we have made a definite decision. (Verse 114) God’s “word” (what God actually has said) keeps our “hope” alive, so that we know God is our “hiding place” and our “shield.”

    Verse 115: Once we have decided whose “commandments” (authoritative orders) we “will keep,” it is easier to reject the “evil doers.” Jesus will, on the Judgment Day, say these very words (Matthew 7:21-23).

    Verses 116-117: (Verse 116) We need to be upheld (propped up) by God’s “word,” “that I may live” (the believer knows life begins with faith) without “shame” (timidity). “And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent” (John 17:3). (Verse 117) We need for God to “hold [us] up” (above evil) that we may be “safe.” But this requires “observing” God’s “statutes” (words marking out proper conduct) “continually” (cannot dismiss it from thought).

    Verses 118-119: (Verse 118) God has made His decision, not about individual names, but of whoever follows “deceit” and “falsehood.” They have made a definite decision to “stray” from God’s “statutes,” and God has decided He will “reject” them “all.” (Verse 119) God definitely will “put away all the wicked of the earth” (which He has before, in Noah’s day, Genesis 6:5-7), as if they were “dross” (rejected impurities of melted metal, Ezekiel 22:18-22). The obedient believer decides to “love” God’s “testimonies” (words proving God’s character to be true) because His decision is final.

    Verse 120: This verse glimpses into the Judgment Day, as described by the Apostle Paul: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences” (2 Corinthians 5:10-11).

    Thought: Every believer should be certain in knowing what way to go, and what way God will reject. “Have I not written to you excellent things Of counsels and knowledge, That I may make you know the certainty of the words of truth, That you may answer words of truth To those who send to you?” (Proverbs 22:20-21)

     All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version,  unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:39 am on March 19, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , , life, , , , , , ,   

    Psalm 119:105-112 Nun The Light In The Tunnel 

    It is fitting that the greatest tribute to the Word of God is IN the Word of God, itself, and is in the longest chapter of the Word of God! This Psalm has no author’s name, historical incident, or other distraction from its theme. It is divided into 22 sections (one for every letter in the Hebrew alphabet), each consisting of 8 lines, each line beginning with the alphabet letter of that section (aleph is the first letter of each line under the aleph section, for instance). The chapter uses some 8-10 different words to describe the Word of God, each bringing something extra to the total picture of the Word of Truth. In order to savor the depth and richness of teaching in this Psalm, we will examine each portion as if it were its own chapter.

     Psalm 119:105-112  Nun                      The Light In The Tunnel    

    Verse 105 shows what God’s Word provides;

    Verses 106-112 show how God’s Word helps.

    Verse 105: God’s “word” (message of instruction) provides “a lamp” for “my feet” (which represents specific action). Lamps usually provide illumination in dark situations. “A light” (usually associated with day) to “my path” (which represents constant course of conduct).

    Verses 106-112: GOD’S WORD HELPS US: (Verse 106) KEEP OUR PROMISES. With the respect as in a court of law, God’s “righteous judgments” (always right decisions) prevail, and people must swear and confirm to keep them. “For men indeed swear by the greater, and an oath for confirmation is for them an end of all dispute” (Hebrews 6:16), but God accepts a person’s oath seriously: “Do not be rash with your mouth, And let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. For God is in heaven, and you on earth; Therefore let your words be few” (Ecclesiastes 5:2). (Verse 107) RENEW EFFORTS IN AFFLICTION. When “affliction” (stress, depression, strife, conflict, pain) grows in effect to “very much,” we need to be “revived” (by reconsidering our responsibility before God). (Verse 108) GIVE FERVENT WORSHIP. “Freewill offerings of my mouth” are our prayers, songs, and teaching centered upon God and His Will for us. If worship is begrudging, forced, intimidated, or coerced, it is NOT “freewill.” “Therefore by Him [Jesus] let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased” (Hebrews 13:15-16). (Verse 109) MAKE GOD’S WILL MY WILL. No plainer statement is ever made about the freewill nature of humans than: “My life is continually in my hand.” That means no one makes us do anything we do not choose to do, for our decisions come from within our hearts (Proverbs 4:3; Matthew 5:8; Mark 7:20-23). Since God’s “law” (words showing the straight path) must always govern our way, we must never “forget” it. (Verse 110) STAY ON COURSE. The “wicked” are all who “have laid a snare for me,” but the faithful are those who “have not strayed from” God’s “precepts” (words highlighting what is pure). “Do not be afraid of sudden terror, Nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes; For the LORD will be your confidence, And will keep your foot from being caught” (Proverbs 3:25-26). (Verse 111) ENJOY GOD’S CHARACTER. “Testimonies” about God are His dealings with mankind from His Word, and the promise of Heaven is “a heritage forever.” In Christ, we are “giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light” (Ephesians 1:12). We are “looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2). (Verse 112) KEEP LOOKING UP. An “incline” is designed to go upward, so God’s “statutes” (words marking out our limits) lift us heavenward if we “perform” them. “Forever, to the very end” shows we should leave this life actively serving God. Eternity is determined, not by the height of the pile of good works or absolute purity we have attained, but the direction we are going when we die! “Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me” (Philippians 3:12).

     All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:00 am on March 14, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , , life, , , , , , ,   

    Psalm 119:81-88 Kaph “Finding Strength In Weakness” 

    It is fitting that the greatest tribute to the Word of God is IN the Word of God, itself, and is in the longest chapter of the Word of God! This Psalm has no author’s name, historical incident, or other distraction from its theme. It is divided into 22 sections (one for every letter in the Hebrew alphabet), each consisting of 8 lines, each line beginning with the alphabet letter of that section (aleph is the first letter of each line under the aleph section, for instance). The chapter uses some 8-10 different words to describe the Word of God, each bringing something extra to the total picture of the Word of Truth. In order to savor the depth and richness of teaching in this Psalm, we will examine each portion as if it were its own chapter.

    Psalm 119:81-88 Kaph                          “Finding Strength In Weakness”

    Verses 81-83 describe our weakened condition;

    Verses 84-87 show how much worse it gets;

    Verse 88 make an appeal for strength.

    Verses 81-83: (Verse 81) A soul may “faint” (grow weaker, dims) waiting for God’s salvation, but nothing else will do, for “hope” (anticipation) is still in God’s “word” (actual statements). (Verse 82) Eyes “fail” (strain, ache) from constant peering into God’s “word,” searching for God’s answer to: “When will You comfort me?” Under stress, strain, duress, distress, pain, or anguish, we can only tolerate so much. We ask God, not whether or not He will help, but “When.” (Verse 83) “A wineskin in smoke” dries out, becomes brittle, and useless as a liquid container. Before we become useless, we continue to remember God’s “statutes” (words defining proper conduct, lines marking out what we must do).

    Verses 84-87: (Verse 84) We ask, “how long will we live,” and “when will God payback our persecutors?” The souls of those who died in the Jewish persecution of the churches of Christ (Acts 8:1-4; 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16) asked the same question: “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” (Revelation 6:9-10). That answer came back in Revelation 19:1-2. (Verse 85) “The proud” (those lifted in their own minds above God and His word) create pitfalls (or problems) for those who serve God. “The proud” are mentioned 5 times just in this Psalm (verses 51, 69, 78, 85, 122) as representing all who disobey God’s “law” (words that guide in a straight path). (Verse 86) Dangers are not caused by God’s “commandments” (words that tell us what we should and should not do), all of which are “faithful” (producing faith), but are caused by “wrongful persecution” (undeserved, unprovoked, uncaused). “Help me!” is our appeal to our God who cares, can help, and considers our immediate plight. Christians may “come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). The help we need always comes from the Lord, and His way to help is revealed in His word. (Verse 87) Though oppressed near death, we should never “forsake” (give up, quit) on God’s “precepts” (words that highlight or point out what is important).

    Verse 88: With fainting soul, strained eyes, strength drying up, problems caused by “the proud,” we ask to be “revived” (have our spirit refreshed, renewed vigor, restored ability) that we may finish our task of keeping His “testimony” (words of His character and will), not that God would take over and finish what we are capable of doing. Paul said of Philemon, “For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother” (Philemon 7).

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:00 am on March 13, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , , life, , , , , ,   

    Psalm 119:73-80 Yod “Keeping Faith Through Affliction” 

    It is fitting that the greatest tribute to the Word of God is IN the Word of God, itself, and is in the longest chapter of the Word of God! This Psalm has no author’s name, historical incident, or other distraction from its theme. It is divided into 22 sections (one for every letter in the Hebrew alphabet), each consisting of 8 lines, each line beginning with the alphabet letter of that section (aleph is the first letter of each line under the aleph section, for instance). The chapter uses some 8-10 different words to describe the Word of God, each bringing something extra to the total picture of the Word of Truth. In order to savor the depth and richness of teaching in this Psalm, we will examine each portion as if it were its own chapter.

    Psalm 119:73-80 Yod                   “Keeping Faith Through Affliction”

    Vs. 73-74 confess the faith that God knows me;

    Vs. 75-77 attribute to God good qualities that show through His ways;

    Vs. 78 shows why the believer does not turn to unbelievers in troublesome times;

    Vs. 79-80 state the faith of a believer who remains faithful throughout all.

    Verses 73-74: (Verse 73) Begins with a quotation from Job 10:18: “Your hands have made me and fashioned me,” but Job added, “An intricate unity.” Every human is complex in working, but it works as a unity. The only thing missing from a person is the “understanding” to connect with, and use, God’s “commandments” (words showing what should and shouldn’t be done). (Verse 74) All who “fear God” are “glad” to know there’s another who has “hoped” in God’s “word” (communication of His way).

    Verses 75-77: (Verse 75) “I know” (certainty based upon experience) the evidence proves that Jehovah’s “judgments” (decisions) are the standard of “right.” Abraham asked the question: “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?” (Genesis 18:25) God’s character is without a wrong. When “affliction” occurs, we know God wants us to emerge with a yield of “the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11). “God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone” (James 1:13). (Verse 76) Afflictions are times to see God’s “merciful kindness” (attempts to help) as “comfort,” according to His “word” (what He actually has said). He is the “God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).  (Verse 77) Affliction can help us see God’s “tender mercies” (reminders of His love for us) “that I may live” (still have purpose, knowing God cares for me). Through it all, we see God’s “law” (words guiding the straight path) is the only thing that brings “delight” (satisfaction at progress).

    Verse 78: “The proud” have not triumphed by their wrongful mistreatment “with falsehood,” for the believer has survived their false attacks, seeing truth in God’s Word and ways. After the affliction and false attacks, experience gives even more reason to “meditate” (give slow, thoughtful consideration of) God’s “precepts” (what God has emphasized or pointed out).

    Verses 79-80: (Verse 79) The believer who endures with faith becomes an encouragement to all others who “fear God.” Everyone who “knows God” has combined “testimonies” (words pointing beyond to God) with experiences. “For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe” (1 Corinthians 1:21). (Verse 80) Our prayer should be to survive, knowing “the purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith” (1 Timothy 1:5). We must never be “ashamed” of God’s “statutes” (words outlining proper actions), for we need them to remain in “the way,” for Jesus said: “where I go you know, and the way you know” (John 14:4).

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • Eugene Adkins 6:46 am on March 12, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , life, , ,   

    The Record Is Always On 

    There are times when cultural “stars” of varying levels want to speak to reporters but they want to speak “off the record”. The idea is that they want their words to be heard, but they don’t want to be seen as the source. They want to get people talking, but they want people talking about them.

    There are several reasons why someone living in the cultural arena would want their words to remain anonymous. One is that they do not want to deal with the negative effect of the repercussions, and another is that they may want to benefit from positive effect of the repercussions without it being obvious. Regardless of the situation the “stars” of the world find themselves in, the ”stars” of the church must remember that there is never a time when people speak off the record.

    “But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matthew 12:36-37)

    “Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.” (Philippians 2:14-16)

    “Therefore whatever you have spoken in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have spoken in the ear in inner rooms will be proclaimed on the housetops.” (Luke 12:3)

     

  • Ed Boggess 8:05 am on March 11, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , life,   

    How very, very fragile our lives are! How very, very changeable our world is! Life is unpredictable, subject to drastic modification in a moment, shadow and sunlight, heartbreak and hallelujahs, tears and treasure, all mixed together with no rhyme or reason as far as we can see. The day breaks in glory and ends in grief the vacation begins with excitement and ends in sorrow it happens all the time, from the greatest of the least. Schedules are ignored, promises broken, intentions forgotten, all because of circumstances unforeseen and beyond our control. A nation’s brightest moment, watched worldwide by millions of anxious interested spectators, is dashed in a moment’s explosion and all that is left are twisted fragments and bittersweet memories of those who gave their lives. Surely all of this is vanity when it is live without God. This is Just-A-Minute with Ed Boggess

     

  • John T. Polk II 5:11 am on March 6, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , life, ,   

    Psalm 119 He 

    It is fitting that the greatest tribute to the Word of God is IN the Word of God, itself, and is in the longest chapter of the Word of God! This Psalm has no author’s name, historical incident, or other distraction from its theme. It is divided into 22 sections (one for every letter in the Hebrew alphabet), each consisting of 8 lines, each line beginning with the alphabet letter of that section (aleph is the first letter of each line under the aleph section, for instance). The chapter uses some 8-10 different words to describe the Word of God, each bringing something extra to the total picture of the Word of Truth. In order to savor the depth and richness of teaching in this Psalm, we will examine each portion as if it were its own chapter.

    He Psalm 119:33-40                     Living Faithfully “To The End”

     Verses 33-35 picture a heart open to God’s Word;

    Verses 36-37 mention some pitfalls to be avoided;

    Verses 38-40 express the on-going need of help from God.

    Verses 33-35: (Verse 33) Any education must begin with a student who realizes the need for information, and “statutes” (lines laid down to mark-off life’s limits) make the way of knowledge clear. There is no degree or graduation in this education, only obedience “to the end,” presumably, of life. (Verse 34) God gives more “understanding” as we study and “keep” His “law” (direction) with our “whole heart,” a desire to learn, for knowledge cannot be forced. “And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us an understanding, that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life” (1 John 5:20). (Verse 35) If we have been taught, and understand what God wants, the “Make me” simply shows an eagerness to put it into practice, because the student sees the “delight in it.”

    Verses 36-37: (Verse 36) The heart must remain tilted (“inclined”) toward God’s “testimonies” (words about the beyond, God’s part in our salvation), and not lean toward “covetousness” (desire for the forbidden stronger than faith in God’s way). Jesus said, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses” (Luke 12:15). The best person is NOT the one who dies with the most: clothing, sexual partners, fame, lands, money, power, “gods,” fans, or bastard children! Notice, the medicine for a covetous heart is leaning away from such toward God’s Bible! (Verse 37) Whatever becomes the heart’s ambition that points away from God’s “way” is defined as “worthless things.” A worthless person is described in Proverbs 6:12-15. “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ” (Colossians 2:8). This lapse back into nothingness is cured by being “Revived” (brought back to life), or returning to God’s “way.”

    Verses 38-40: (Verse 38) To be “established” means placed back upon the firm ground of Bible study, and will be done by one who will “fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). (Verse 39) The false condemnation from others can be discouraging, but is cancelled by returning to God’s “good” “judgments” (decisions about the obedient and the disobedient!). (Verse 40) One “longs for” (desires to live with) God’s “precepts” (clarifications or descriptions designed to help), which are “righteousness” (always right, clean, holy, wholesome).

    Thought: People who expect God to miraculously intervene, the Holy Spirit to spiritually overwhelm, or Jesus Christ to immediately change their heart and make it better should re-read this section many times. God has placed all such transforming power within His Word, and it works only in those who are “diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).

     All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:01 am on March 5, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , , life, ,   

    Psalm 119 Daleth 

    It is fitting that the greatest tribute to the Word of God is IN the Word of God, itself, and is in the longest chapter of the Word of God! This Psalm has no author’s name, historical incident, or other distraction from its theme. It is divided into 22 sections (one for every letter in the Hebrew alphabet), each consisting of 8 lines, each line beginning with the alphabet letter of that section (aleph is the first letter of each line under the aleph section, for instance). The chapter uses some 8-10 different words to describe the Word of God, each bringing something extra to the total picture of the Word of Truth. In order to savor the depth and richness of teaching in this Psalm, we will examine each portion as if it were its own chapter.

    Daleth Psalm 119:25-32                        Receiving New Life

    Verse 25 shows how low we fall on our own;

    Verses 26-29 give the determination it will take to change;

    Verses 30-32 give the will to live.

    Verse 25: When our life (“soul”) bottoms out (“clings to the dust”), if we are looking for a remedy, we should look up to God’s “word” (instruction, explanation). Sinners who try every way but God’s way either end up in prison, rehab, court, suicide, or slavery, and eventually—Hell! But that’s what it takes before we hurt so much we can’t take it anymore. How many people, and how often, have their lives turned around that have “crashed” first. It’s those who realize they have a “soul” who know their lives must be changed, not only for life here but hereafter. “Do not let your heart envy sinners, But be zealous for the fear of the LORD all the day; For surely there is a hereafter, And your hope will not be cut off” (Proverbs 23:17-18). “Revival” occurs only by a sinner’s acceptance of the Word of God, as Jesus said, “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life” (John 6:63).

    Verses 26-29: (Verse 26) To “declare my ways” is prayerful confession of the life-style that brought one down to dirt, morally, but God’s answers were in His Bible all along. Such a person becomes “teachable” to God’s “statutes” (lines marking limits).  (Verse 27) “Make me” is not asking God to force faith into a person’s heart, for He never has, but is an expression that shows the determination in the person’s heart to “understand” God’s “precepts” (things to notice). Since it is from “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34), there is little difference in “meditating” or “speaking” about God’s “wonderful works” recorded in the Bible. (Verse 28) The Gospel of Christ is God’s invitation to all who would be “conformed to the image of His Son” (Romans 8:29), and the “melting” process stems from “heaviness,” as life fills with “sorrows” (Job 14:1), then we need the “strength” that can only come from faith produced by and with the Word of God. (Verse 29) God truthfully speaks, and so must someone who would learn from God’s “law.” Lying to ourselves, others, or especially to God, fools no one, but destroys ourselves now and forever (Ephesians 4:20-25).

    Verses 30-32: Notice the will to live: “I have chosen;” “I cling to;” “I will run;” AND notice the new rules that will make it so: “the way of truth;” “Your judgments;” “Your testimonies;” “Your commandments.” AND notice how much better the servant of God becomes, “You shall enlarge my heart.” People whose heart has become embittered, hateful, spiteful, twisted, deceitful, perverse, and coldly calculating have so shrunk their heart’s capacity that it cannot live life to the fullest. As one obeys God, that stretching sound may be scary, but when love for God tumbles in, the poison is driven out. No one ever died from this kind of “enlarged heart” (2 Corinthians 6:11). “We love Him because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19).

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • Eugene Adkins 6:25 am on February 26, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , life, , , Works of Faith   

    How much time? 

    How much time do we spend smiling?

    How much time do we spend supporting the works of the body of Christ?

    How much time do we spend in prayer?

    How much time do we spend putting down other Christians?

    How much time do we spend lifting up other Christians?

    How much time do we spend in reaching out to others who need Jesus?

    How much time do we spend in the scriptures?

    How much time do we spend in worship?

    How much time do we have left to do these things?

    How much time do we expect to spend with God in Heaven?

    “Not everyone who says to me, Lord, Lord, will go into the kingdom of heaven; but he who does the pleasure of my Father in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21 - BBE)

    Related Article:

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:52 am on January 18, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , , life,   

    Psalm 90 

    Vs. 1-6 remind us of the eternal power of God;

    Vs. 7-12 remind us of the brevity of life and certainty of its end;

    Vs. 13-17 point out, therefore, the lesson of life.

    Moses wrote this Psalm toward the end of the 40-year Wilderness Wandering (Exodus 16-Deuteronomy 34). There is no good reason to doubt that this Psalm is “a prayer of Moses the man of God.” “Moses the man of God” is used some 5 other times in the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 33:1; Joshua 14:6; 1 Chronicles 23:14; 2 Chronicles 30:16; Ezra 3:2). The phrase “the man of God” frequently refers to a prophet of God, except for the one time it occurs in the New Testament, when it refers to everyone who uses the completed Scriptures for “doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). “O man of God” is used specifically of Timothy (1 Timothy 6:11) who is “an example” to believers (1 Timothy 4:12).

    Verses 1-6: Concerning Earth’s existence: without a permanent home, verse 1 is quite poignant, for God is Moses’ constant “dwelling place.” Before our home was formed (“the earth and the world”), there was God (verse 2), existing “from everlasting to everlasting.” Since “matter is not eternal,” since there must be an “uncaused first cause,” then only God could “create” (bring into existence from nothing, Genesis 1:1). Therefore “By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible” (Hebrews 11:3). “Faith” is based upon solid, scientific fact, that confidently points into the unseen, “while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Only “God” makes sense of the world.

    Concerning life on Earth: God can: bring down or build up (verse 3; Daniel 4:29-37); outlive everyone (verse 4; 2 Peter 3:8); remove people suddenly “like a flood,” make their lives brief as a night, or frail as grass (verse 5-6; 1 Thessalonians 5:3-4; 1 Peter 1:24).

    Verses 7-12: Having come through the Wilderness (Hebrews 3:16-19), Moses had seen that God had: “anger” and “wrath” (verse 7); thorough knowledge of their sins (verse 8); life after their “sigh” (verse 9); limited their life-span (verse 10); potential for more judging (verse 11); taught the lesson of life (verse 12).

    Verses 13-17: Moses’ appeal is for God to: “Return” with “compassion” (verse 13); give “mercy” that they may “rejoice and be glad” (verse 14); give them as many years of gladness as of affliction (verse 15); return to His “work” of fulfilling His promise to Abraham (verse 16; Deuteronomy 4:23-40); let His beauty show through blessings to Israelites (verse 17).

    Some oft-heard thoughts are: “A thousand years” (which is a measure of time to humans) to God passes as fast as “yesterday” (verse 4). Human life is about 70 years, by strength 80, but further is accomplished by precious few (verse 10), and then “it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” Knowing where we are on life’s scale, we should wise up and live right (verse 12).

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:45 am on November 8, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , life   

    Psalm 39 

    Vs. 1-2 show David with nothing to say;

    Vs. 3-6 show David’s frailty is shortness of life;

    Vs. 7-11 give David’s respectful praise for God;

    Vs. 12-13 make David’s final appeal to God.

    There are several similarities between Psalm 39 and Psalm 38. It’s possible that they were written close to the same incident in David’s life, with Psalm 38 showing the great cost he was paying for his sin.

    Sometimes silence is essential. Cautiously, David says nothing “while the wicked are before me,” which Jesus Christ also did (Mark 15:3-5). In the heat of the moment, answering enemies who are attacking with lies may not be best (Ephesians 4:26-27). The problem, however, as David said, “I held my peace even from good.”

    Remember our time is limited (Psalm 39:3-6) in our struggle with sin and sinners. This is encouraging because we don’t have to withstand sin or sinners for long, but discouraging because we also don’t have much time to seek God’s forgiveness! When David’s “heart was hot within” him, he spoke to God about his concerns. Solomon said, “Do not be rash with your mouth, And let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. For God is in heaven, and you on earth; Therefore let your words be few” (Ecclesiastes 5:2). David’s “measure of my days,” compared to God, are like a “handbreadth,” “age as nothing,” “best state but vapor,” “shadow,” all of which are terms for short or fleeting. This expression does NOT say, “God has predetermined the length of every life,” BUT that humans need comparisons to show them how limited their time is, compared to God and eternity. A life of “busy-ness” is for nothing when death comes, for control of that wealth is lost. Wise Solomon will say: “Therefore I hated life because the work that was done under the sun was distressing to me, for all is vanity and grasping for the wind. Then I hated all my labor in which I had toiled under the sun, because I must leave it to the man who will come after me” (Ecclesiastes 2:17-18). A life of sharing blessings is fuller and more rewarding than one of grasping and heaping up (Ecclesiastes 1:14).

    Through it all, verses 7-11 remind us that God, who is over all, is to be respected. Hard times remind people to draw closer to God, who is the source of blessings. David “was mute,” because it was God who, “with rebukes,” “correct man for [man’s, jtpII] iniquity.” For emphasis, in verses 5 and 11 human lifespans are brief, like “a vapor,” a thought repeated in the New Testament (James 4:14).

    David’s personal responsibility for his sins causes his personal outcry and appeal to God for forgiveness, while he is still alive (“Before I go away and am no more”). Time is not on our side!

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John Henson 11:58 am on August 7, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , life,   

    Inside Out and Upside Down 

    A friend recently decided to buy a car because his was wearing out. Sounds like a simple thing, but it turned him inside out and upside down.

    His problems buying the car illustrated what can happen to a person when he is consumed with the pursuit of things. He became despondent because he could not close the deal and had to leave what he desired sitting in the parking lot. His despondency turned to depression.

    Being denied the object of desire is not a feeling people like. In this age of instant gratification, having someone say no to what we want is difficult to accept. What often follows is a time-consuming attempt to fulfill our desire. When that happens, focus shifts from important things (like serving God) to useless things (like getting what is desired).

    This is one of Satan’s traps. Focus is something that must remain constant. Shifting focus away from serving God to the accumulation of things has troubled many people. Simon the Sorcerer was a person who obeyed the gospel and embarked on a life of serving God (Acts 8:13), but his focus shifted from that service to the gratification of a desire.

    Simon, who had been used to a life in which people paid attention to what he said and did, saw the apostles impart the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:17). Simon offered the apostles money to be able to do the same. His focus had been shifted from the service of God to the attainment of power. He was not interested in having the gift, but to grant the gift as the apostles had (Acts 8:20). His request was met by strong condemnation from Peter. The apostle told him, “Repent, therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart be forgiven thee,” (Acts 8:22).

    To his credit, Simon realized his sin and decided to turn from it. So should all whose focus falls from God on the pursuit of things or power for personal benefit.

    Materialism is a very real trouble in our world. Because the world is composed of things, it is easy to believe things are more necessary than God. We must remember things will burn up (2 Peter 3:10). A person may find himself turned inside out and upside down by the pursuit of things that will be nothing more than ashes.

    Our eternal souls are worth more than that aren’t they?

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:40 am on July 10, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , life,   

    Sin – Separation – Salvation 

    Some years ago I set out to answer a question that interested me. That question was: “Why did Jesus have to shed His blood in order for me to enjoy what He offers all?” Having given some thought to this, in systematic form, I offer it for your consideration. What I have offered may not be necessary to know because the Lord stated it succinctly in Romans 5:6-8.

    1. Life is in the blood. Leviticus 17:10-11
    2. Man is a rational creature, one who can exercise volition.
    3. Man’s choice is to serve self. Jeremiah 10:23
    4. Life (blood) in man is tainted with sin. Romans 3:23
    5. Sin separates man from God. Isaiah 59:1-2
    6. God wants all men to be saved. 1 Timothy 2:4
    7. God’s remedy. John 3:16
    8. Man’s response. Ephesians 2:8-10

    ANALYSIS

    1. Life is in the blood.

    2. Man, however, can’t atone for (or reconcile) himself to God with his own blood because of his own sin.

    • The Lord has used the material product of blood (the Lord’s creation) to address the spiritual failings of man (that which he chose to create in his own life).
    • If the Lord chose to use man’s own blood to atone for his sin, this would result in his spiritual death because only blood can atone for sin, but in this case man’s blood is “tainted” with sin – thus, no atonement.
    • Moreover, man cannot do anything good enough on his own to eradicate the sin “tainted” blood flowing through his veins.
    • In God’s mercy He chose not to give to man that which was his just due: physical death which followed his spiritual death (Romans 6:23; Hebrews 9:27).

    3. God gave some men (Israel) a substitute to address his sin (failings).

    • This is the nature of animal sacrifices.
    • This substitute was adequate to only a certain degree, and not in the ultimate degree. Acts 13:39
    • Life was sacrificed, but the life sacrificed was not freely given by the victim.
    • With animals there is no volition, but with the worshiper there is. Since he can’t offer his own blood to atone for his guilt and since the blood of animals is not adequate (Hebrews 10:1-4)…..

    4. Jesus (John 3:16, cf. Romans 7:24 – 8:4)

     

  • J. Randal Matheny 8:55 am on November 25, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , life   

    All quiet in the mall 

    All quiet in the biggest mall in town today. The Maiden and I were in and out in a jiffy. But I still got a rash from going in the mall. Here, no Thanksgiving Day (there is, but nobody knows it), and no Black Friday. Living life normally is the way. Now, waiting on The Missus to get back from her doctor’s appointment in Sao Paulo.

     

    • Mike Riley 9:20 am on November 25, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      You mean people don’t camp outside the malls days in advance waiting to grab all of those “bargains?” LOL!

      • J. Randal Matheny 9:29 am on November 25, 2011 Permalink | Reply

        Not here, they don’t. But before many days the malls and downtown will be filled to the brim with shoppers. Christmas chaos!

    • Butch Adams 10:10 am on November 25, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Don’t forget pepper spray Mike!

    • John Henson 12:21 pm on November 26, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Certainly hope everything went well with the wife, Randal.

      • J. Randal Matheny 4:24 pm on November 26, 2011 Permalink | Reply

        Thank you, John, it was another battery of questions. Next, some weeks away yet, another battery of tests at that specialty hospital. Then maybe a diagnosis and treatment.

  • J. Randal Matheny 6:31 am on November 15, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , life   

    This is the life 

    A holiday. A slow rain. Earl Grey tea. Home-made biscuits with (real) butter and sorghum molasses. Peaceful quiet.

     

    • Stevelucas 8:13 am on November 15, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      What is it you are celebrating this fine Tuesday?

    • John Henson 10:48 am on November 15, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Out of the frying pan and into the fire!

    • J. Randal Matheny 10:49 am on November 15, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      True, but it did finally put them on the road to a more democratic government. After Vargas, and after the military regime in the 60s and 70s.

    • Stevelucas 5:20 pm on November 15, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      To extend John’s thought: Frying pan / Fire / Matheny’s arrival and the proclamation of Heaven & Hell. So then, surely some have been cooled / soothed / quenched from the water aligned with God’s salvation. Ok, enough of my extension……

  • Richard Mansel 7:22 pm on October 16, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , life, shakespeare   

    Without God: “Life is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.” There isn’t any point to life without God. We are born into trouble and then we die, never to exist again. If I believed that, I don’t know how I would make it through the day.

    With God, we have everything we could possibly need: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3).

    Jesus came to bring the abundant life to us all and we should be thrilled (John 10:10). He is the blessing, the gift, given to the world and we must be eternally thankful (John 3:16; John 14:1-6). Without Him, there isn’t anywhere else to go.

     

  • TFRStaff 6:41 am on August 30, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: life, , ups and downs   

    Highs and Lows 

    If all the world were broad and flat
    How dull the scene would be!
    We’d wish instead for hills and vales
    With changing views to see.

    If all of life were free from care,
    Devoid of tears and pain,
    There’d be no failure or success –
    No summits to attain.

    But life is filled with ups and downs,
    With happiness and woe.
    Our joys are like the mountaintops;
    Our sorrows lie below.

    The Lord who made the lofty peaks
    Designed the valleys too.
    And He is there at every turn
    To guide our passage through.

    – Amy Clarke Ellis

    Psalm 16:5-8 – O LORD, You are the portion of my inheritance and my cup; You maintain my lot. The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; Yes, I have a good inheritance. I will bless the LORD who has given me counsel; My heart also instructs me in the night seasons. I have set the LORD always before me;

    Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.

    “Thoughts For Today to Brighten Your Day” by Glenn, Mercedes and Lauren Hitchcock

     

  • Ed Boggess 8:26 am on May 31, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: casserole, chocolates, , life   

    Life is like a casserole! -JAM 

    This is Just-A-Minute. Everyone has troubles: big troubles, little troubles, simple and complicated troubles, financial, marital, health troubles. Troubles come in all sizes, colors and shapes. Forrest Gump said life was like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’ve got until you bite into it. That might do for Forrest but for most of us there is plenty of bitter to go with the sweet and a box of chocolates is always sweet! So I offer another metaphor: “life is like a casserole!” Casseroles are the king of church pot lucks and I’ve been to my share. The trouble with casseroles is you don’t know what’s in them until it’s too late! Underneath that appealing layer of cheese or crushed crackers might lurk green peas, asparagus or worse! When it comes to handling whatever life serves, don’t risk the casserole; instead as David said, “taste and see that the Lord is good!”

     

  • TFRStaff 5:34 am on May 31, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: life, slovenliness   

    TFT: Building wisely 

    An elderly carpenter was ready to retire. He told his employer-contractor of his plans to leave the house-building business and live a more leisurely life with his wife, enjoying his extended family.  He would miss the paycheck, but he needed to retire. They could get by.

    The contractor was sorry to see his good worker go, and asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favor.  The carpenter said yes, but in time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials.  It was an unfortunate way to end a dedicated career.

    When the carpenter finished his work, the employer came to inspect the house. He handed the front-door key to the carpenter.  “This is your house,” he said, “my gift to you.”

    The carpenter was shocked.  What a shame!  If he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so differently.

    So it is with us. We build our lives, a day at a time, often putting less than our best into the building. Then, with a shock we realize we have to live in the house we have built.  If we could do it over, we’d do it much differently. But we cannot go back.

    You are the carpenter. Each day you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall. “Life is a do-it-yourself project,” someone has said.  Your attitudes and the choices you make today, build the “house” you live in tomorrow. Build wisely!

    (Mat 7:24)  “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock:

    (Mat 7:25)  “and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.

    (Mat 7:26)  “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand:

    (Mat 7:27)  “and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.”

    “Thoughts For Today To Brighten Your Day”

    From: Glenn, Mercedes & Lauren Hitchcock

     

  • TFRStaff 7:01 am on April 12, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , life,   

    TFT: Day’s Results 

    OUR life may be food to us, or may, if we have it so, be poison, but one or the other it must be. Which­ever and whatever it is, beyond all doubt it is emi­nently real. So merely as the day and the night alternately follow one another, does every day when it yields to darkness, and every night when it passes into dawn, bear with it its own tale of the results which it has silently wrought upon each of us for evil or for good. The day of diligence, duty and devotion leaves it richer than it found us, richer sometimes, and even commonly, in our circum­stances; richer always in ourselves.

    –Wm. Ewart Gladstone.

    (John 10:10)  “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

    (John 10:11)  “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.

    “Thoughts For Today to Brighten Your Day” by Glenn Hitchcock
     

  • Mike Riley 4:26 pm on March 19, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , life, , utter,   

    My Life Without Christ? 

    My life without Christ would consist of the same thoughts the apostle Paul uttered:

    “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable” (1 Corinthians 15:19).

     

  • John Henson 9:57 pm on March 18, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , life   

    Here one minute, and then there 

    My brother-in-law died last Sunday afternoon while my sister was running an errand.

    His death is a good example of how we’re in the world one minute and the next minute, we’re in eternity.

    Some people believe they’ll have 80 or 90 years. In fact, I’ve had doctors brag that, through their efforts, they can assure I’ll reach 90-years old. That is a fool’s bet.

    The Psalmist wrote by the inspiration of God, “As for the days of our life,  they contain seventy years, Or if due to strength, eighty years, Yet their pride is but labor and sorrow; For soon it is gone and we fly away,” (Psalm 90:10). Even if we attain to that kind of old age, even all those years are but a fleeting time that fails to provide us the quality of life we want, and then it is over.

    Leo Deck was a very good, Christian man who raised his sons training them to love the gospel. His influence will live long and follow him (Revelation 14:13). His death demonstrates all to clearly “so teach us to number our days, that we may present to you a heart of wisdom,” (Psalm 90:12 NASU).

     

     

     

     

     

    • Mike Riley 10:34 pm on March 18, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Great point, brother John! We never know when our appointment with death will arrive (Hebrews 9:27). We need to always be prepared for that unforeseen event.

      May the Lord comfort you and your family during this time of great loss!

    • Joy 11:55 pm on March 18, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      We are very sorry for your family’s loss. We are thankful to hear that he was a child of God. Truly this ought to remind us to live each day in such a way that we are always ready to meet our Maker. Do you mind saying how old your brother-in-law was?

    • J. Randal Matheny 5:36 am on March 19, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Sorry to hear about your brother-in-law’s sudden death, John. God give your family comfort. That death comes unexpectedly most of the time ought to send us running to obey the Lord.

      • John Henson 8:20 am on March 19, 2011 Permalink | Reply

        Thank you all. My sister is the strongest one in our family and is devastated, but understands we’ll see Leo again. It was a great shock. We’re thankful to God and give him the glory for Leo’s life and willingness to follow Jesus.

    • Sid Williams 8:43 am on March 19, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      Good post!

  • Ron Thomas 5:54 am on March 18, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: life   

    Live now as you would wish you had done at death and judgment.

    Richard Baxster, referenced by Philip Hughes (NICNT: 2 Corinthians), page 71

     

  • John Henson 8:52 am on March 15, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: life, , ,   

    Snap, crackle and snarl 

    They can put a man on the moon, but they can’t make plastic wrap for a man that comes off the roll without wadding up in a dozen places.

    It has always been amazing how my wife can pull and snap a large piece of plastic wrap from the roll and it just seems to float effortlessly in one piece. Whenever I do it, it snaps into a little ball that takes hours to unfurl.

    Some people’s lives are like that, too. It sometimes seems as though life gets so twisted nothing could ever straighten it. So many consequences of sin tangle life into knots that appear to be hopeless. There is a way to restoration.

    How can this be? Wayne Jackson wrote, “How refreshingly sweet it is to have confidence in the fact that the Good Shepherd (cf. John 10:11, 14) can assuage these woes and provide us with peace once more. A beautiful song has these lyrics: ‘Bring Christ your broken life, so marred by sin; He will create anew, make whole again.’”

    When the word of God is applied to someone’s life, it has the power to transform it. Obedience to the gospel brings forgiveness of sin and reconciliation with God (1 Peter 1:18, 19). With this reconciliation comes an opportunity to straighten out all those twists and turns by applying God’s law to your mind.

    God has the power to unsnarl a life complicated by sin. Obey him today.

     

    • Ron 2:40 am on March 16, 2011 Permalink | Reply

      This is good, John. I relate well to that firt paragraph!

  • Mike Riley 10:05 am on February 16, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , distinction, , , , , , life, , , , woeful,   

    An Important Distinction 

    An important distinction in my life has been the distinction between good and evil. Many people in our society are woefully ignorant of that distinction (Isaiah 5:20). That distinction can only come about by a daily and habitual study of God’s word (Acts 17:11; Hebrews 5:13-14; 2 Timothy 2:15), as well as an application of it (Psalm 119:33-34).

     

  • Mike Riley 8:29 pm on November 18, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , everlasting, , life, , pressed, , , required, running, shaken,   

    Three Great Life Principles 

    Three great life principles that Christians live by are:

    1) Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you” (cf. Proverbs 11:24; Proverbs 19:17; 2 Corinthians 9:6).

    We can’t outgive God (cf. Malachi 3:10).

    2) Luke 12:48: “For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more” (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:16-23).

    Those folks who have been blessed with much (talents, monies, etc.), much will be required of them

    Example: Parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30).

    3) Galations 6:7-8: “Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life” (2 Corinthians 9:6).

    Example: Rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-25).

     

  • J. Randal Matheny 8:45 am on November 16, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , divine priority, life   

    TFT: God Has a Priority 

    God Has a Priority

    God is more interested in making us what He wants us to be than giving us what we think we ought to have.

    (John 10:10) “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

    “Thoughts For Today to Brighten Your Day” by Glenn Hitchcock

     

    • J. Randal Matheny 8:47 am on November 16, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      BTW, I posted this by email. I like that. May do more of it.

    • Dave Dugan 10:37 am on December 20, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Randal How do I get this sent to me?
      “Thoughts For Today to Brighten Your Day” by Glenn Hitchcock
      Thanks Dave

      • J. Randal Matheny 11:07 am on December 20, 2010 Permalink | Reply

        Dave, send him an email and request it. I think he just sends it from his address book. His email is gihitch (you know what to put here) cox.net.

  • Mike Riley 7:00 am on October 20, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: barred, body, , , life, , original, , , restored, ,   

    Original Purpose Lost – The Tree Of Life 

    What lost its original purpose? Immediately, I thought of the tree of life, which man was barred from in Genesis 1:22-24 because of sin, but will be restored to those in the body of Christ who are “overcomers” [faithful], even when facing certain death (Revelation 2:7,10; Revelation 22:1-2).

     

  • John Henson 10:08 am on October 13, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: life,   

    Would I live life over again? I’m reminded of the song, “If Jesus goes with me I’ll go anywhere!” If he goes with me, yes, of course I’ll go. I believe every fellow on this page would, too.

     

  • J. Randal Matheny 6:53 am on October 13, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: life,   

    Daily Nudge: Live life over? — and news 

    If you could live your life over again, would you? We’ll not go into whether you could have knowledge of your first attempt. You can have it either way. Still, would you go through it all again? Please explain your answer.

    As far as news, our family visited the midweek study in Taubate last night, in the home of Ricardo and Marilia. Son Micah taught the group and did a fine job. He obviously has the gift of teaching. Tonight he’ll teach the group here in our home.

    What news have you heard or witnessed among the saints?

     

  • Richard Mansel 4:46 pm on August 31, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , life,   

    "Life is not about expecting, hoping and wishing, it's about doing, being and becoming."

    Mike Dooley via Twitter

     

  • Richard Hill 11:21 pm on August 29, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: conform, , life,   

    It Happened While They Were Still Alive! 

    My working hours have lengthened as the harvest season approaches. The grain dryer setup requires extra work due to age and it all takes longer. . .due to age! Late Friday afternoon, still out on a mission to scavenge parts I decided to have a non-fast food meal alone. Many years have passed since I had done that, but I was tired and needed to rest. It was a beautiful day and I chose to dine on the patio.

    Did I mention that morning I had been inside the grain dryer in the upper heat chamber cleaning out the fines that had slipped through the perforated walls? Well, when I walked onto the patio a table of six yuppies fell silent. Oh, if they had only stayed that way. . .but I’m getting ahead of myself.

    A couple of them stared my direction. Not sure why they were looking at me. My father-in-law had blown me off with the air gun, I had wiped the grease off my left pant leg and had changed to a clean farmer cap. I looked a lot better than I usually do when working on the farm, but I can’t fault them for their reaction since they had never seen my really grubby look as comparison.

    After a couple of brief awkward moments they continued their boisterous conversations. They started with a discussion of the vegetarian diet. One woman began questioning the waiter as to the exact way the black beans were prepared so as to keep them vegetarian. After he left she went on to explain she had acquired great knowledge of all these things and more at a culinary school. She had also witnessed the way cattle were slaughtered. She was visibly shaken as she relived the event.

    One of her eating companions ran for a while on the way kosher animals were slaughtered. He considered it barbaric. She retorted that the slaughter house she visited “killed them while they were still alive!”

    Yes, you read that right. “They killed them while they were still alive.” I didn’t snort when I chuckled. An unusual level of self-control for me.

    This morning we studied the first few verses of Romans 12. You know, the part about a living sacrifice. Sounds crazy doesn’t it? Since real sacrifices involve dead things, how can there be a living sacrifice?

    Well, Christian, we were crucified nevertheless we live. Galatians 2:20. The next verse in Romans 12 tells us “not to conform any longer to the pattern of this world” which means to keep the dead part dead. The old man with his worldly ways needs to be put out of his misery never to be resurrected.

    That verse goes on to say, “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” It parallels a similar thought in the same Galatians passage which says, “Christ lives in me.” We live now as we had never lived before, revitalized by Christ himself.

    Yes sir. We were killed while we were still alive. For the Christian it’s not a misstatement. It’s not a joke. It’s our reality.

     

    • Barbara Ann Oliver 3:32 pm on August 30, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      I, for one, and thankful every day for the dusty, dirty, hot and tired farmer who sacrifices his life’s sweat and blood to put bread and meat on my table, and for the Man who was willing to sacrifice his life’s blood to bring me before the Father as an acceptable sacrifice. Thanks, Richard.

      • Richard Hill 7:22 am on August 31, 2010 Permalink | Reply

        I appreciate your support, Barb! Their demeanor, as if they were better than everyone else, and the subject matter, a loud discussion of slaughter houses, seemed a bit incongruent. Not that it bothered me. I just had trouble containing myself. Then when the lady made her crazy quote, well, I just felt the need to share.

        I liked your tie-in to the greatest of all sacrifices. Amen!

  • Mike Riley 3:21 pm on July 24, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , layoff, life, pace, , ,   

    The Difference In Generations 

    The Nudge asks, “How is your life different from that of your parents?”

    My life has experienced the following which my parents did not have to experience 50-80 years ago: (More …)

     

    • missdisplaced 8:24 am on July 25, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      “There’s no question in my mind that our society is being “dumbed down”

      I’ve often though this. However, the numbers of Americans with college degrees has increased dramatically over the last 40-50 years. In fact, it has increased SO much that a Bachelors barely means anything anymore-virtually ALL jobs require one.

      In my parent’s generation a college degree really meant something because so few people actually went to university. What we are finding now is that those college degrees do not lead to better jobs and better pay. My parents barely graduated high school, yet they had a better quality of life than me with my postgraduate education.

      • Mike Riley 9:08 pm on July 25, 2010 Permalink | Reply

        Yes, I agree with you wholeheartedly. Your parents had a better quality of life because they set the right priorities, and money wasn’t one of them. Back in my day (the 1940′s & 1950′s), God and family were far more important than money. Money was just a vehicle to get from point A to point B. Today, it’s become an all-consuming desire for many folks – a sad scenario to say the least.

← Older posts

c
compose new post
j
next post/next comment
k
previous post/previous comment
r
reply
e
edit
o
show/hide comments
t
go to top
l
go to login
h
show/hide help
shift + esc
cancel
Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 2,082 other followers

%d bloggers like this: