As we embark on the winter season, we prepare for the bitter cold that comes with it.  Living in Chicago, we are accustomed to getting our cars winterized, switching our summer frocks for cozy winter wear, and pulling out the big comforters for the cold winter evenings.  A good comforter bring us warmth and protection.  Just as our bodies need a “comforter”, so does our soul!  Who do you look to for comfort?  Are you available to comfort someone?

 

One of the many names our Lord has is “Comforter”.  He continually provides a balm for those in need.  As He comforts us He wants us to be a comforter to others. Give a hug or say a nice word to someone today. The comfort you extend will be reciprocated back to you. 

 

 

 

 

11/5/09

 

“Are You Done Having Your Tantrum?”

 

Parenthood has offered my wife and I many lessons.  Dealing with tantrums has been one of them.  Our daughter has some notion that if she throws a tantrum, she will eventually receive what she wants.  These random acts of craziness are often for things that she can’t have or handle.  Are you constantly throwing tantrums for things that you think you want?  Are you praying for something you can’t handle yet?

 

As parents, we decide what is in the best interest of our children.  God feels the same way about us.  Sometimes we challenge God for things that we aren’t ready for.  Our prayer time consists of rants and rages about what we have yet to receive.  All the while, God is patiently waiting for us to mature.  God knows what is best for us.  Allow Him to work in His perfect timing.  When we are ready to handle what God has in store for us He will grant us our desires. 

 

I Peter 4:19  So if you are suffering in a manner that pleases God, keep doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for he will never fail you.

 

New Living Translation 

 

Holy Spirit Inspired, Written by Leroy Brown Jr

 

Look for Fresh Manna of the Day at www.triblocal.com/Bolingbrook in Faith section

 

 

In life we experience many challenges and difficult situations.  These situations may involve our family, workplace, or health.  Often we give these circumstances power through our fear of it’s outcome.  Are you experiencing a difficult time in your life?  Are you in need of a miracle?

 

God is in the miracle business!  He desires to rescue you from your circumstance.  The only thing He asks that you believe He can do it.  Have faith that He can provide a miracle.  Don’t let f.e.a.r. (false reality appearing real) disrupt your trust in God.  God is waiting to show up and show out in your situation! 

 

Hebrews 2:4  …God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to His own will?  

 

 

 

 

Marriage is the most covenant relationship two people can enter into.  It is also one of the most difficult to uphold and maintain.  Many marriages become shaky when times get hard.  Stress is often placed on the areas that are weak within the relationship.  As a result, some search for what is missing.  Are you chasing what is lacking, while risking what you have?

 

The metaphoric 80/20 rule states that many marriages have 80 percent of what is desired.  The remaining 20 percent is elusive.  In pursuit of the 20 percent, some couples disregard the other 80 percent.  Don’t take your spouse or relationship for granted.  Value your marriage.  Allow God to be your helper.  Let Him supply you with the tools needed to heal your relationship.   

 

 

Hebrews 13: 4-6  Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.  Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ” I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” 

 

 

 

 

 

Surround yourself with motivated and active people. Individuals that are busy taking care of their business don’t have time to criticize, critic or complain about what is going on in your life. You will realize the people that are studying your life really don’t have a life of their own. 

 

Proverbs 20:19 A gossip goes around telling secrets, so don’t hang around with chatterers. 

 

 

 

 

God wants you to know that you can weather any storm.  Don’t let the sound of thunder scare you or the flash of lightening distract you.  God provides shelter and is a safe harbor during trails and tribulations.  Remain steadfast and focused on God’s promises and wait for your rainbow to appear.

 

Nahum 1:3  The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked. The Lord has His way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.  

 

 

 

 

 

Growing up in the Midwest, I always enjoyed going to Great America amusement park.  It was always a thrill to experience the many rides that Great America offered.  However, the greatest excitement came when it was time to get on the featured ride.  This ride always brought fear to many people.  Only the brave and fearless would attempt to experience this roller coaster.  Are you currently on a roller coaster in your life?  Are you desperately awaiting to get off this ride?

 

Life is a roller coaster.  It brings you through many ups and downs.  While on the ride you often question when this ride is going to end.  Before you know it the roller coaster has come to a stop.

Be encouraged to know that your life will not always be like this.  Life is marathon and not a sprint.  Pace yourself in the goodness of the Lord.  Allow Him to comfort you through the highs and lows.  When you trust in Him, He will keep you in perfect peace. 

 

 

Psalm 16:11  You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy, at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.