Thank God for your Life!!!

Beloved,
As the year 2009 comes to an end,

Thank God because;

1. You can still breathe without aid or mechanical assistance.
2. You have a roof over your head and not under one of the bridges.
3. Your two legs can still carry your body wherever you want to go.
4. Your skin is not covered up by some strange skin disease.
5. Your ears are not supported with hearing aids.
6. Your sight is not impaired in any manner.
7. With barely enough meal to get by the day you are still alive and healthy.
8. With so much issues you deal with daily you can still smile and look good daily
9. Every day comes with its craziness and demands yet your sanity is intact.
10. Your hair still grows on your head and sometimes adds grey to its colour to make you unique among your peers.
11. You sleep and wake up with ease to appreciate nature in all its beauty.
12. Your digestive system functions with the ease at which it was meant without the support of a machine.
13. Your appetite is very healthy with no issues.
14. Your teeth are still able to grind meat, bones and all other chewable.
15. Sickness put you to bed but could not put you to an early grave.
16. With all your many trips from your home to office, within the country and overseas accidents was not your portion even when it did happen you came out alive.
17. So far so good no bullet has your name on it either from the Police or marauders.
18. In spite of the economic downturn you can still finance your lifestyle.
19. Despite all the challenges and disappointments you suffered you did not commit suicide.
20. Above all you are still alive and standing!!!!!!


Life is a gift from God cherish it no matter the circumstance you find yourself.
Be inspired always!!!!

Happy New Year in Advance!!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Wishing you all the joy of the season and may the coming year bring with it bountiful blessings to you and all your loved ones.

May Christ, the reason for the season, grant you all Peace, Joy, Good Health and every thing else you desire throughout the coming year and beyond.

Have a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Regards,

Life’s Challenges

A diamond is merely a lump of coal that did well under extreme pressure.

So imagine how brilliant a human being can be by sustaining pressures of life.
Life’s challenges are not supposed to paralyze you, they’re supposed to
unleash your inner strength & help you discover who you are.

We can’t deny the fact that there would always be challenges in this world.

As we go in our daily activities, let us remember that God has offered to help us carry our burdens; all we need do is run to Him and touch the hem of His garment, like the woman with the issue of blood. He cares for you.

Wish you all a great month.

Let me be the 1st!!!

Let me the first to wish u a merry Christmas and a prosperous 2010

Where did the year go? Suddenly it is November and nearly December.... ..again - and we realize that with giant strides we started in January and within a blink of an eye, 2009 is on its back!

A big "Thank You" to each and everyone of you, for the huge impact you had on my life this year. Especially for all the support and e-mails I received.... ...without you, I'm sure that 2009 would have been extremely boring.

From my side I wish you all a magical Festive Season filled with Loving Wishes and Beautiful Thoughts.

May 2010 mark the beginning of a Tidal Wave of Love, Happiness and Bright Futures.

And to those who need someone special, may you find that true love

To those who need money, may your finances overflow

To those who need caring, may you find a good heart

To those who need friends, may you meet lovely people

To those who need life, may you find GOD

Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year In Advance!

Don't dare GOD

Unemployed Graduate:

An unemployed graduate woke up one morning and checked his pocket. All he had left was $10. He decided to use it to buy food and then wait for death as he was too proud to go begging. He was frustrated as he could find no job, and nobody was ready to help him.

He bought food and as he sat down to eat; an old man and two little children came along and asked him to help them with food as they had not eaten for almost a week. He looked at them. They were so lean that he could see their bones coming out. Their eyes had gone into the socket. With the last bit of compassion he had, he gave them the food. The old man and children prayed that God would bless and prosper him and then gave him a very old coin. The young graduate said to them 'you need the prayer more than I do'.

With no money, no job, no food, the young graduate went under the bridge to rest and wait for death. As he was about to sleep, he saw an old newspaper on the ground. He picked it up, and suddenly he saw an advertisement for people with old coins to come to a certain address.


He decided to go there with the old coin the old man gave him. On getting to the place, he gave the proprietor the coin. The proprietor screamed, brought out a big book and showed the young graduate a photograph. This same old coin was worth 3 million dollars. The young graduate was overjoyed as the proprietor gave him a bank draft for 3 million dollars within an hour. He collected the Bank Draft and went in search of the old man and little children.

By the time he got to where he left them eating, they had gone. He asked the owner of the canteen if he knew them.. He said no but they left a note for you. He quickly opened the note thinking it would lead him to find them.

This is what the note said: 'You gave us your all and we have rewarded you back with the coin,' signed God the Father, The Son and The Holy Ghost. 1 Kings 17:10-16; Matt hew 11:28-30

PRAYER:
Here is your financial blessing! It's a simple prayer, you've got 30 seconds. If you need a financial blessing, continue reading this e-mail.

Heavenly Father, most Gracious and Loving God, I pray to you that you abundantly Bless my family and me. I know that you recognize that a family is more than just a mother, father, sister, brother husband and wife, but all Who believe and trust in you.

I thank you in advance for your blessings.

Father God, deliver the person reading this right now and those who will read it in the near future from debt and debt burdens. Release your Godly wisdom that I may be a good steward over all that You have given me Father, for I know how wonderful and mighty You are and how if we just obey You and walk in Your word and have the faith of a Mustard seed that You will pour out blessings.

I thank You now Lord for the recent blessings I have received and for the blessings yet to come Because I know You are not done with me yet.
In your name, I pray, Amen

It's called Mindset!

It's called Mindset !

As my friend was passing the elephants, he suddenly stopped, confused by the fact that these huge creatures were being held by only a small rope tied to their front leg. No chains, no cages. It was obvious that the elephants could, at anytime, break away from the ropes they were tied to but for some reason, they did not. My friend saw a trainer nearby and asked why these beautiful, magnificent animals just stood there and made no attempt to get away.

"Well," he said, "when they are very young and much smaller we use the same size rope to tie them and, at that age, it's enough to hold them. As they grow up, they are conditioned to believe they cannot break away. They believe the rope can still hold them, so they never try to break free." My friend was amazed. These animals could at any time break free from their bonds but because they believed they couldn't, they were stuck right where they were.

Like the elephants, how many of us go through life hanging onto a belief that we cannot do something, simply because we failed at it once before? So make an attempt to grow further.... Why shouldn't we try it again?


"Your attempt may fail, but never fail to make an attempt"

CHOOSE not to accept the false boundaries and limitations created by the past!

Two Frogs

A group of frogs were traveling through the woods and two of them fell into a deep pit.

All the other frogs gathered around the pit. When they saw how deep the pit was, they told the two frogs that they were as good as dead. The two frogs ignored the comments and tried to jump up out of the pit with all of their might. The other frogs kept telling them to stop, that they were as good as dead. Finally, one of the frogs took heed to what the other frogs were saying and gave up. He fell down and died.

The other frog continued to jump as hard as he could. Once again, the crowd of frogs yelled at him to stop the pain and just die. He jumped even harder and finally made it out.

When he got out, the other frogs said, "Did you not hear us?"

The frog explained to them that he was deaf. He thought they were encouraging him the entire time.

This story teaches two lessons:

There is power of life and death in the tongue. An encouraging word to someone who is down can lift them up and help them make it through the day.

A destructive word to someone who is down can be what it takes to kill them or be the push over the edge. Be careful of what you say.

Speak life to those who cross your path. The power of words....it is sometimes hard to understand that an encouraging word can go such a long way. Anyone can speak words that tend to rob another of the spirit to continue in difficult times.

Special is the individual who will take the time to encourage another.

Be special and kind to others.

Thank God right NOW!!!!!!!!

Dear GOD, I want to thank You for what you have already done.

I am not going to wait until I see results or receive rewards, I am thanking You right now

I am not going to wait until I feel better or things look better, I am thanking You right now

I am not going to wait until people say they are sorry or until they stop talking about me, I am thanking You right now.

I am not going to wait until the pain in my body disappears, I am thanking You right now.

I am not going to wait until my financial situation improves, I am going to thank You right now.

I am not going to wait until the children are asleep and the house is quiet, I am going to thank You right now.

I am not going to wait until I get promoted at work or until I get the job, I am going to thank You right now.

I am not going to wait until I understand every experience in my life that has caused me pain or grief, I'm going to thank You right now.

I am not going to wait until the journey gets easier or the challenges are removed. I am thanking You right now.

I am thanking You because I am alive.

I am thanking You because I made it through the day's difficulties.

I am thanking You because I have walked around the obstacles. I am thanking You because I have the ability and the opportunity to do more and do better.

I'm thanking You because FATHER, YOU haven't given up on me.

Let’s all embrace an attitude of gratitude this month.

Take care and wish you a victorious month.

Regards,
Tosin

How well do you listen to God

A young man had been to Wednesday Night Bible
Study.

The Pastor had shared about listening to God and obeying the Lord's voice

The young man couldn't help but wonder, 'Does God still speak to people?'

After service, he went out with some friends for coffee and pie and they discussed the message.
Several different ones talked about how God had led them in different ways.

It was about ten o'clock when the young man started
driving home. Sitting in his car, he just began to pray, 'God...If you still speak t o people, speak to me. I will listen. I will do my best to obey.'

As he drove down the main street of his town, he had the strangest thought to stop and buy a gallon of milk.

He shook his head and said out loud, 'God is that you?' He didn't get a reply and started on toward home.

But again, the thought, buy a gallon of milk.

The young man thought about Samuel and how he didn't recognize the voice of God, and how little Samuel ran to Eli.

'Okay, God, in case that is you, I will buy the milk.' It didn't seem like too hard a test of obedience. He could always use the milk. He stopped and purchased the gallon of milk and started off toward home.

As he passed Seventh Street, he again felt the urge, 'Turn Down that street.'

This is crazy he thought, and drove on past the intersection.

Again, he felt that he should turn down Seventh Street .

At the next intersection, he turned back and headed down Seventh.

Half jokingly, he said out loud,

'Okay, God, I will.'

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

Again, he sensed something, 'Go and give the milk to the people in the house across the street.' The young man looked at the house. It was dark and it looked like the people were either gone or they were already asleep. He started to open the door and then sat back in the car seat.


'Lord, this is insane. Those people are asleep and if I wake them up, they are going
to be mad and I will look stupid.' Again, he felt like he should go and give the milk.

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

He walked across the street and rang the bell. He could hear some noise inside. A man's voice yelled
out, 'Who is it? What do you want?' Then the door opened before the young man could get away.

The man was standing there in his jeans and T-shirt. He looked like he just got out of bed. He had a strange look on his face and he didn't seem too happy to have some stranger standing on his doorstep. 'What is it?'

The young man thrust out the gallon of milk, 'Here, I brought this to you.' The man took the milk and rushed down a hallway.

Then from down the hall came a woman carrying the milk toward the kitchen. The man was following her holding a baby. The baby was crying. The man had tears streaming down his face.

The man began speaking and half crying, 'We were just praying. We had
some big bills this month and we ran out of money. We didn't have any milk for our baby. I was just praying and asking God to show me how to get some milk.'

His wife in the kitchen yelled out, 'I ask him to send an Angel with some. Are you an Angel?'

The young man reached into his wallet and pulled out all the money he had on him and put in the man's hand. He turned and walked back toward his car and the tears were streaming down his face. He knew that God still answers prayers.

Sometimes it's the simplest things that God asks us to do that cause us, if we are obedient to what He's asking, to be able to hear. His voice more clear than ever.

A Stranger Passed By..........

I ran into a stranger as he passed by,
"Oh excuse me please" was my reply..
He said, "Please excuse me too;
I wasn't watching for you."

We were very polite, this stranger and I.
We went on our way and we said goodbye.
But at home a different story is told,
How we treat our loved ones, young and old.


Later that day, cooking the evening meal,
My son stood beside me very still.
When I turned, I nearly knocked him down.
"Move out of the way," I said with a frown.


He walked away, his little heart broken.
I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken.
While I lay awake in bed,
God's still small voice came to me and said,


"While dealing with a stranger,
common courtesy you use,
but the family you love, you seem to abuse.
Go and look on the kitchen floor,
You'll find some flowers there by the door.


Those are the flowers he brought for you.
He picked them himself: pink, yellow and blue.
He stood very quietly not to spoil the surprise,
you never saw the tears that filled his little eyes."


By this time, I felt very small,
And now my tears began to fall.
I quietly went and knelt by his bed;
"Wake up, little one, wake up," I said.
"Are these the flowers you picked for me?"


He smiled, "I found 'em, out by the tree.
I picked 'em because they're pretty like you.
I knew you'd like 'em, especially the blue."


I said, "Son, I'm very sorry for the way I acted today;
I shouldn't have yelled at you that way."


He said, "Oh, Mom, that's okay.
I love you anyway."
I said, "Son, I love you too,
and I do like the flowers, especially the blue."


FAMILY
Are you aware that if we died tomorrow, the company
that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days.
But the family we left behind will feel the loss
for the rest of their lives.

And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more
into work than into our own family,
an unwise investment indeed,
don't you think?
So what is behind the story?

Do you know what the word FAMILY means?
FAMILY = Father And Mother I Love You

Do you know what the word FAMILY means?
FAMILY = Father And Mother I Love You

Many a Times, We Treat Strangers with Courtesy and yet treat our near & dear ones like dirt. Just because... WE TAKE THEM FOR GRANTED...Isnt It??

From today let's all make a conscious effort to treat our family and loved ones with more respect and let’s appreciate them.

Take care and have a great week ahead.

Regards,
Tosin

It's too early to give up

Don't give up.....

One day I decided to quit...
I quit my job, my relationship, my spirituality... I wanted to quit my life.
I went to the woods to have one last talk with God.
"God", I asked, "Can you give me one good reason not to quit?"
His answer surprised me...
"Look around", He said. "Do you see the fern and the bamboo?"
"Yes", I replied.
"When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took very good care of them. I gave them light. I gave them water. The fern quickly grew from the earth. Its brilliant green covered the floor.
Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo. In the second year the Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful.
And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo. He said. "In year three there was still nothing from the bamboo seed. But I would not quit. In year four, again, there was nothing from the bamboo seed. I would
not quit." He said. "Then in the fifth year a tiny sprout emerged from the earth.

Compared to the fern it was seemingly small and insignificant...But just 6 months later the bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall.
It had spent the five years growing roots. Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive. I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle." He asked me. "Did you know, my child, that all this time you have been struggling, you have actually been growing roots". "I would not quit on the bamboo.
I will never quit on you." "Don't compare yourself to others."
He said. "The bamboo had a different Purpose than the fern.
Yet they both make the forest beautiful." "Your time will come", God said to me. "You will rise high" "How high should I rise?"
I asked. "How high will the bamboo rise?" He asked in return.
"As high as it can?" I questioned. "Yes." He said, "Give me glory by rising as high as you can." I left the forest and brought back this story.
I hope these words can help you see that God will never give up on you.

Never, Never, Never Give up.

For the Christian Prayer is not an option but an opportunity.
Don't tell the Lord how big the problem is, tell the problem how Great the Lord is!

I pray God protects and blesses everyone reading this message.
Take care and have a lovely weekend.

Regards
Tosin

Special Olympics

A few years ago at the Seattle Special Olympics, nine contestants, all physically or mentally disabled challenged, assembled at the starting line for the 100-yard dash. At the gun, they all started out, not exactly in a dash, but with a relish to run the race to the finish and win.

All, that is, except one boy who stumbled on the asphalt, tumbled over a couple of times and began to cry. The other eight heard the boy cry. They slowed down and looked back. They all turned around and went back. Every one of them.

One girl with Down’s Syndrome bent down and kissed him and said, “This will make it better.” All nine linked arms and walked across the finish line together.

Everyone in the stadium stood, and the cheering went on for several minutes. People who were there are still telling the story. Why? Because deep down we know this one thing: What matters in this life is more than winning for ourselves.

What truly matters in this life is helping others win, even if it means slowing down and changing our course.

—

Origins:
The story is more true than not, although its primary point has been grossly exaggerated. According to folks at the Special Olympics Washington office, the incident happened at a 1976 track and field event held in Spokane, Washington. A contestant did take a tumble, and one or two of the other athletes turned back to help the fallen one, culminating in their crossing the finish line together, but it was only one or two, not everyone in the event. The others continued to run their race.

The story is thus not about an entire class of “special people” who spontaneously tossed aside their own dreams of going for gold in favor of helping a fallen competitor, but rather one about a couple of individuals who chose to go to the aid of another contestant. Unfortunately, this tale as it is now being told helps further a stereotype that deficiencies in intelligence are compensated for by unfailingly sweet natures and a way of looking at the world in childlike wonder.

Special Olympians train long and hard for their events and are every bit as committed as athletes who compete in any other athletic endeavors. The Special Olympics are not a casual get-together organized to give less fortunate members of the community a day to socialize and perhaps run in a foot race or two. They’re highly organized sporting events taken very seriously by all involved, with each competitor striving to do his best. It’s about trying. And succeeding.

The Special Olympics oath is “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

Make A Difference Today

Don’t stop yourself from doing a deed just cause it’s small or only cause just one or few individuals will benefit from it.

Just remember, no matter how small the deed; it really does makes a difference. Make a difference today.

Do not make decisions while angry

On walking into the factory, the MD noticed a young guy leaning against the wall, doing nothing.

He approached the young man and calmly said to him, "How much do you earn?"
The young man was quite amazed that he was asked such a personal question, he replied, none the less, "I earn $ 2000.00 a month, Sir. Why?"
Without answering, the MD took out his wallet and removed $6000.00 cash and gave it to the young man and said, "Around here I pay people for working, not for standing around looking pretty! Here is your 3 months salary, now GET OUT and don't come back".


The young man turned around and was quickly out of sight. Noticing a few onlookers, the MD said in a very upset manner, "And that applies to everybody in this company".
He approached one of the onlookers and asked him, "Who's the young man I just fired?"

To which an amazing reply came- "He was the pizza delivery guy, Sir!"

Do not make decisions while angry

Take care and have a great weekend

Cheers!

The Basket

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. (Heb. 4:12-13)

The story is told of an old man who lived on a farm in the mountains of eastern Kentucky with his young grandson. Each morning, Grandpa was up early sitting at the kitchen table reading from his old worn-out Bible. His grandson who wanted to be just like him tried to imitate him in any way he could.

One day the grandson asked, "Papa, I try to read the Bible just like you but I don't understand it, and what I do understand I forget as soon as I close the book. What good does reading the Bible do?"

The Grandfather quietly turned from putting coal in the stove and said, "Take this coal basket down to the river and bring back a basket of water."

The boy did as he was told, even though all the water leaked out before he could get back to the house. The grandfather laughed and said, "You will have to move a little faster next time," and sent him back to the river with the basket to try again.

This time the boy ran faster, but again the basket was empty before he returned home. Out of breath, he told his grandfather that it was "impossible to carry water in a basket," and he went to get a bucket instead. The old man said, "I don't want a bucket of water; I want a basket of water. You can do this. You're just not trying hard enough," and he went out the door to watch the boy try again.

At this point, the boy knew it was impossible, but he wanted to show his grandfather that even if he ran as fast as he could, the water would leak out before he got far at all. The boy scooped the water and ran hard, but when he reached his grandfather the basket was again empty.

Out of breath, he said, "See Papa, it's useless!"

"So you think it is useless?" The old man said, "Look at the basket." The boy looked at the basket and for the first time he realized that the basket looked different. Instead of a dirty old coal basket, it was clean! "Son, that's what happens when you read the Bible. You might not understand or remember everything, but when you read it, it will change you from the inside out."

That is the work of God in our lives... To change us from the inside out and to slowly transform us into the image of His son. Take time to read a portion of God's word each day.

God Can

When you feel unlovable, unworthy and unclean,
When you think that no one can heal you,
Remember, Friend,
God Can.

When you think that you are unforgivable
For your guilt and your shame
Remember, Friend,
God Can.

When you think that all is hidden
And no one can see within
Remember, Friend,
God Can.

And when you have reached the bottom
And you think that no one can hear
Remember my dear Friend
God Can.

And when you think that no one can love
The real person deep inside of you
Remember my dear Friend,
God Does.
Author Unknown

An Interview With God

I dreamed I had an interview with God.
"Come in," God said. "So, you would like to interview Me?"

"If you have the time," I said.

God smiled and said: "My time is eternity and is enough to do everything; what questions do you have in mind to ask me?"

"What surprises you most about mankind?"

God answered: "That they get bored of being children, are in a rush to grow up, and then long to be children again.

That they lose their health to make money and then lose their money to restore their health.

That by thinking anxiously about the future, they forget the present, such that they live neither for the present nor the future.

That they live as if they will never die, and they die as if they had never lived..."

God's hands took mine and we were silent for while and then I asked... "As a parent, what are some of life's lessons you want your children to learn?"

God replied with a smile: "To learn that they cannot make anyone love them. What they can do is to let themselves be loved.

To learn that what is most valuable is not what they have in their lives, but who they have in their lives.

To learn that it is not good to compare themselves to others. All will stand or fall on their own merits, not as a group on a comparison basis!

To learn that a rich person is not the one who has the most, but is one who needs the least.

To learn that it only takes a few seconds to open profound wounds in persons we love, and that it takes many years to heal them.

To learn to forgive by practicing forgiveness.

To learn that there are persons that love them dearly, but simply do not know how to express or show their feelings.

To learn that money can buy everything but happiness.

To learn that two people can look at the same thing and see it totally different.

To learn that a true friend in someone who knows everything about them...and likes them anyway.

To learn that it is not always enough that they be forgiven by others, but that they have to forgive themselves."

I sat there for awhile enjoying the moment. I thanked Him for his time and for all that He has done for me and my family, and He replied, "Anytime. I'm here 24 hours a day. All you have to do is ask for me, and I'll answer."

People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.

Beginning Today

Beginning today I will no longer worry about yesterday.
It is in the past and the past will never change.
Only I can change by choosing to do so.

Beginning today I will no longer worry about tomorrow.
Tomorrow will always be there, waiting for me to make the most of it.
But I cannot make the most of tomorrow without first
making the most of today.

Beginning today I will look in the mirror and I will see a person worthy of my respect and admiration.
This capable person looking back at me is someone I enjoy spending time with and someone I would like to get to know better.

Beginning today I will cherish each moment of my life.
I value this gift bestowed upon me in this world and I will unselfishly share this gift with others.
I will use this gift to enhance the lives of others.

Beginning today I will take a moment to step off the beaten path and to revel in the mysteries I encounter.
I will face challenges with courage and determination.
I will overcome what barriers there may be which hinder my quest for growth and self-improvement.

Beginning today I will take life one day at a time, one step at a time.
Discouragement will not be allowed to taint my positive self-image,
my desire to succeed or my capacity to love.

Beginning today I walk with renewed faith in human kindness.
Regardless of what has gone before, I believe there is hope
for a brighter and better future.

Beginning today I will open my mind and my heart.
I will welcome new experiences. I will meet new people.
I will not expect perfection from myself nor anyone else: perfection does not exist in an imperfect world.
But I will applaud the attempt to overcome human foibles.

Beginning today I am responsible for my own happiness and I will do things that make me happy . . .
admire the beautiful wonders of nature, listen to my favorite music,
pet a kitten or a puppy, soak in a bubble bath . . .
pleasure can be found in the most simple of gestures.

Beginning today I will learn something new; I will try something different; I will savor all the various flavors life has to offer.
I will change what I can and the rest I will let go.
I will strive to become the best me I can possibly be.

Beginning today. And every day.

Just a thought, but as I often think of you and realize how much God loves you, sometimes I think we need to also love ourselves through His eyes. God Bless.

Author Penny White

Fifteen Things God Won’t Ask

God won’t ask which car you drive, but will ask how many people you drove who didn’t have transportation.

God won’t ask how big is your house, but will ask how many people you welcomed into your home.

God won’t ask about the fancy clothes in your wardrobe, but will ask how many of those clothes helped the needy.

God won’t ask about your social status, but will ask what kind of class you displayed with others.

God won’t ask how many material possessions you had, but will ask if they dictated your life.

God won’t ask what your highest salary was, but will ask if you compromised your character to obtain that salary.

God won’t ask how much overtime you worked, but will ask if you worked overtime for your family and loved ones.

God won’t ask how many promotions you received, but will ask how you promoted others.

God won’t ask what your job title was, but will ask if you reformed your job to the best of your ability.

God won’t ask what you did to help yourself, but will ask what you did to help others.

God won’t ask how many friends you had, but will ask how many people to whom you were a true friend.

God won’t ask what you did to protect your rights, but will ask what you did to protect the rights of others.

God won’t ask in what neighborhood you lived, but will ask how you treated your neighbors.

God won’t ask about the color of your skin, but will ask about the content of your character.

God won’t ask how many times your deeds matched your words, but will ask how many times they didn’t.

Father's Gift

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

Finally, on the morning of his graduation his father called him into his private study. His father told him how proud he was to have such a fine son, and told him how much he loved him. He handed his son a beautiful wrapped gift box.

Curious, but somewhat disappointed the young man opened the box and found a lovely, leather-bound Bible, with the young man's name embossed in gold. Angrily, he raised his voice to his father and said, "With all your money you give me a Bible?" and stormed out of the house, leaving the Bible.

Many years passed and the young man was very successful in business. He had a beautiful home and wonderful family, but realized his father was very old, and thought perhaps he should go to him. He had not seen him since that graduation day.

Before he could make arrangements, he received a telegram telling him his father had passed away, and willed all of his possessions to his son. He needed to come home immediately and take care of things. When he arrived at his father's house, sudden sadness and regret filled his heart. He began to search his father's important papers and saw the still new Bible, just as he had left it years ago. With tears, he opened the Bible and began to turn the pages. His father had carefully underlined a verse, Matt 7:11,

"And if ye, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your Heavenly father which is in heaven, give to those who ask Him?"

As he read those words, a car key dropped from the back of the Bible. It had a tag with the dealer's name, the same dealer who had the sports car he had desired. On the tag was the date of his graduation, and the words...PAID IN FULL.

How many times do we miss God's blessings because they are not packaged as we expected?

Psalm 23

There was once a Shakespearean actor who would read Psalm 23 at the end of his performance. He was known everywhere for his one-man shows of readings and recitations from the classics.

Each night, without exception, as the actor began his recitation -
"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want"…
The crowd would listen attentively. And then, at the conclusion of the Psalm, they would rise in thunderous applause in appreciation of the actor's incredible ability to bring the verse to life.

But one night, just before the actor was to offer his customary recital of the Psalm, a young man from the audience spoke up. "Sir, do you mind if tonight I recite Psalm 23?" The actor was quite taken back by this unusual request, but he allowed the young man to come forward and stand front and center on the stage to recite the Psalm 23. He knew that the ability of this unskilled youth would be no match for his own talent.

With a soft voice, the young man began to recite the words of the Psalm. When he was finished, there was no applause. There was no standing ovation as on other nights. All that could be heard was the sound of weeping. The audience had been so moved by the young man's recitation that every eye was full of tears. Amazed by what he had heard, the actor said to the youth, "I don't understand. I have been performing Psalm 23 for years. I have a lifetime of experience and training - but I have never been able to move an audience as you have tonight. Tell me, what is your secret?"

The young man quietly replied, "Well sir, you know the Psalm...I know…
the Shepherd."

Do you know your Shepherd?

God Said No

I asked God to take away my habit.
God said, "No.
It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up."

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, "No.
His spirit is whole, his body is only temporary."

I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, "No.
Patience is a byproduct of tribulations; it isn't granted, it is learned."

I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, "No.
I give you blessings; Happiness is up to you."

I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, "No.
Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me."

I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, "No.
You must grow on your own! ,
but I will prune you to make you fruitful."

I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, "No.
I will give you life, so that you may enjoy all things."

I asked God to help me LOVE others, as much as He loves me.
God said, "...Ahhhh, finally you have the right idea."

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear…those who do not know God run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. “But… Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Matthew 6: 25-34

How To Succeed At Work And In Career

1. Don’t talk negatively about people behind their backs. If you gossip, people won’t confide in you. Mind your own business.

2. Try to work for someone who’ll challenge your powers.You’ll learn more in a year than 4 years of college.

3. Successful bosses have good communication skills. They learn from people, including their employees.

4. Work in such a way that makes your boss look good. It’s not flattery.

5. On downsizing, the first to go are those with few friends. Bosses prefer competent people whom they respect.

6. Dress for the job you want, not the one you have. Let your dress reflect professionalism.

7. Workout to get in good physical shape. Unless exceptionally skilled, the unhealthy are at a comparative disadvantage.

8. Personal integrity is crucial. Tell nothing but the truth. Bosses can forgive mistakes but if you lie, you’re gone.

9. Be on time. Try to arrive few minutes early. It saves you from stress. You’ll be much relaxed & work better.
10. Strive your best to keep a deadline. If you cannot meet it, then apologize & ask for an extension

11. Don’t take things personally. If some people are unhappy with you, it’s their problem. But always strive to give your best.

12. If you must correct someone, don’t get personal about it. Do it never in front of others.

13. Spend some time alone everyday. What’s the mission of my life? What do I want to be? And how to go about it.

14. As you move along Plan A of your career, maintain a Plan B as well — an alternative course to rely

15. Always remember that the secret of success is passion. Always think big. Spread love & joy. You’ll have blissful years ahead

Easter Joy

Jesus came to earth,
To show us how to live,
How to put others first,
How to love and how to give.


Then He set about His work,
That God sent Him to do;
He took our punishment on Himself;
He made us clean and new.


He could have saved Himself,
Calling angels from above,
But He chose to pay our price for sin;
He paid it out of love.


Our Lord died on Good Friday,
But the cross did not destroy
His resurrection on Easter morn
That fills our hearts with joy.


Now we know our earthly death,
Like His, is just a rest.
We'll be forever with Him
In heaven, where life is best.


So we live our lives for Jesus,
Think of Him in all we do.
Thank you Savior; Thank you Lord.
Help us love like you!


By Joanna Fuchs

The Man In the Glass

When you get what you want in your struggle for self
And the world makes you king for a day,
Just go to the mirror and look at yourself
And see what that man has to say.

For it isn't your father or mother or wife
Whose judgment upon you must pass.
The fellow whose verdict counts most in your life
Is the one staring back from the glass.

You may be like Jack Horner and chisel a plum
And think you're a wonderful guy.
But the man in the glass says you're only a bum
If you can’t look him straight in the eye.

He’s the fellow to please - never mind all the rest,
For he’s with you clear to the end.
And you've passed your most dangerous, difficult test
If the man in the glass is your friend.

You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years
And get pats on the back as you pass.
But your final reward will be heartache and tears
If you've cheated the man in the glass... Unknown

The World Is Waiting For You

Do not be afraid to shine. The world needs what you have to give.
Open up the areas of your being; Expose them to yourself - to others.
You are valuable. You are unique.
You have much to give. Do not be afraid to give it.

As we risk ourselves, we grow. Each new experience is a risk.
We can try, and maybe fail; And, as a result, grow or hold back and stagnate.


You have the potential to be anything you want. You are free to chooose.
You are limited only by your fears. Let your dreams take over.
Fly with the eagles. Soar into life.

The world is waiting for you.

~ Fran Watson ~

Rest if you must, but don't Quit

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest, if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about,
When he might have won had he stuck it out;
Don't give up though the pace seems slow--
You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than,
It seems to a faint and faltering man,
Often the struggler has given up,
When he might have captured the victor's cup,
And he learned too late when the night slipped down,
How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out--
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems so far,
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit--
It's when things seem worst that you must not quit.

- Author unknown

Today I Will Make a Difference

Today I will make a difference. I will begin by controlling my thoughts. A person is the product of his thoughts. I want to be happy and hopeful. Therefore, I will have thoughts that are happy and hopeful. I refuse to be victimized by my circumstances. I will not let petty inconveniences such as stoplights, long lines, and traffic jams be my masters. I will avoid negativism and gossip. Optimism will be my companion, and victory will be my hallmark. Today I will make a difference.

I will be grateful for the twenty-four hours that are before me. Time is a precious commodity. I refuse to allow what little time I have to be contaminated by self-pity, anxiety, or boredom. I will face this day with the joy of a child and the courage of a giant. I will drink each minute as though it is my last. When tomorrow comes, today will be gone forever. While it is here, I will use it for loving and giving. Today I will make a difference.

I will not let past failures haunt me. Even though my life is scarred with mistakes, I refuse to rummage through my trash heap of failures. I will admit them. I will correct them. I will press on. Victoriously. No failure is fatal. It’s OK to stumble… I will get up. It’s OK to fail… I will rise again. Today I will make a difference.

I will spend time with those I love. My spouse, my children, my family. A man can own the world but be poor for the lack of love. A man can own nothing and yet be wealthy in relationships. Today I will spend at least five minutes with the significant people in my world. Five quality minutes of talking or hugging or thanking or listening. Five undiluted minutes with my mate, children, and friends.

Today I will make a difference....by Max Lucado

THE MOST AND THE GREATEST

The most destructive habit............Worry
The greates joy.............................Giving
The greatest loss.............Loss of respect
The most dangerous parishioner....A gossiper
The world's most incredible computer.....The Brain
The worst thing to be without..........Hope
The most satisfying work......Helping others
The ugliest personality trait........Selfishness
The most endangered species....Dedicated leaders
The deadliest weapon................The tongue
The most power-filled words..........."I Can"
The greatest asset..............................Faith
The greatest natural resource.....Our youth
The greatest "shot in the arm"...Encouragement
The greatest problem to overcome......Fear
The most worthless emotion........Self-pity
The most beautiful attire.................SMILE!
The most prized possession ........Integrity
The most crippling failure disease...Excuses
The most powerful force in life..........LOVE!
The most contagious spirit.......Enthusiasm

10 Tips For A Happier Life

1. Don’t worry
Worry is the least productive of all human activities and thoughts….

2. Don’t let needless fears preoccupy your life…
Most of things we fear never happen!!!

3. Don’t hold grudges…
That is one of the biggest and most unnecessary weights we carry through our lives..

4. Take on one problem at a time
It’s the only way to handle things anyway..one by one..

5. Don’t take your problems to bed with you.
They are bad and unhealthy companions for good natural sleep and rest…

6. Don’t take on the problems of other people..
They are better equipped to handle their own problems than you are..

7. Don’t live in the past.
It will always be there in your memories to enjoy..but don’t cling to it. Concentrate on what is happening right now in your life..and you will be happy in the present also..not just the past.

8. Be a good listener.
It is only when one listens..that one gets and learns ideas different from ones own…

9. Do not let frustration ruin and rule your life…
Self pity more than anything..interferes with positive actions..with moving forwards in our lives.

10. Count your blessings…
Don’t even forget the smallest blessings.. As many small blessings add up to large ones…

From Author Unknown

The Secret

One day, one friend asked another,
'How is it that you are always so happy?
You have so much energy,
and you never seem to get down.'

With her eyes smiling, she said,
'I know the Secret!'
'What secret is that?'
To which she replied, 'I'll tell you all about it, but you have to promise to share the Secret with others.'

'The Secret is this:
I have learned there is little I can do in my life that will make me truly happy
I must depend on God to make me happy and to meet my needs.
When a need arises in my life, I have to trust God to supply according to HIS riches. I have learned most of the time I don't need half of what I think I do.
He has never let me down.
Since I learned that 'Secret' , I am happy.'

The questioner's first thought was,
'That's too simple!'
But upon reflecting over her own life she recalled how she thought a bigger house would make her happy, but it didn't!
She thought a better paying job would make her happy, but it hadn't.
When did she realize her greatest happiness?
Sitting on the floor with her grandchildren, playing games, eating pizza or reading a story, a simple gift from God.

Now you know it too!
We can't depend on people to make us happy.
Only GOD in His infinite wisdom can do that.
Trust HIM!
And now I pass the Secret on to you!
So once you get it, what will you do?

YOU have to tell someone the Secret, too!
That GOD in His wisdom will take care of YOU!
But it's not really a secret...
We just have to believe it and do it..
Really trust God!

Be Careful

Be careful of your thoughts, for your thoughts become your words.


Be careful of your words, for your words become your actions.


Be careful of your actions, for your actions become your habits.


Be careful of your habits, for your habits become your character.


Be careful of your character, for your character writes your destiny.'


Author unknown

Tips for Goals Setting

Have you set goals for the New Year? Here are some important tips to help you construct your goes for next year.

Break down your goals by setting goals for every key area of your life, e.g., spiritual, financial, personal development, family life social responsibility, etc.

Set specific goals for each area. E.g. spiritual: Read through the Bible in a year. Financial: Make an annual income of ten (10) million naira. Etc.

Set a time target for each goal, e.g. Spiritual: finish going through the bible by Dec 31, 2009. Financial: Make a million naira by January 31, 2009.

Write how you will achieve each goal, e.g. Spiritual: Read three chapters of the Old Testament every morning. Financial: Sell at least 10 electronics every week or improve my skills on the job by going for an MBA, thereby getting the desired promotion.

Make sure you set goals that will motivate you for action. If they don’t motivate you, rewrite them to ensure you are motivated.

Do a periodic evaluation of your set goals to be sure you are on course or out of it.

However, do not set small goals because of your past experiences. Set MOTIVATING, BIG and ACHIEVABLE goals. God bless!- Pastor Sam Adeyemi