Top quotes by Charles R. Swindoll

We cannot change our past. We can not change the fact that people act in a certain way. We can not change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. Votes: 34

I'm not against screens, or new songs, or innovation. I just don't like the gimmicks. I want to know when worship is over that that leader's sole purpose was to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ. Votes: 33

We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations. Votes: 31

Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children. Votes: 30

You and I are, by birth, by nature, and by choice, inwardly depraved, which is to say that we are entirely corrupt. That's not to say that we have no good in us; we do. However, anything good in us has been tainted with evil. It touches everything. Without the redeeming power of Christ we cannot halt our own moral slide. Votes: 27

Because God gave you your makeup and superintended every moment of your past, including all the hardship, pain, and struggles, He wants to use your words in a unique manner. No one else can speak through your vocal cords, and, equally important, no one else has your story. Votes: 23

The difference between something good and something great is attention to detail. Votes: 22

When you have a sense of calling, whether it's to be a musician, soloist, artist, in one of the technical fields, or a plumber, there is something deep and enriching when you realize it isn't just a casual choice, it's a divine calling. It's not limited to vocational Christian service by any means. Votes: 21

A family is a place where principles are hammered and honed on the anvil of everyday living. Votes: 20

We can't solve modern problems by going back in time. Retreating to the safety of the familiar is an understandable response, but God has called us to a life of faith. And faith requires us to face the unknown while trusting Him completely. Votes: 19

When you have vision it affects your attitude. Your attitude is optimistic rather than pessimistic. Votes: 17

If I ever wrote a book on preaching, it would contain three words: Preach the Word. Get rid of all the other stuff that gets you sidetracked; preach the Word. Votes: 16

As far back as I can remember, my mother would have me down by the bed at night with her, praying. I can still hear her voice calling my name to God and telling him that she wanted me to follow him in whatever he called me to do. Votes: 14

It is easy for Christians to have the false impression that once we have established a relationship with Christ, which we believe sets us right with God, the problems of life will somehow scoot away or they will slowly be removed from our lives. Votes: 13

It's the most exciting thing to watch God work when I've asked him about something, to listen to him and watch him work. It's like this friendship, and it just grows and grows and grows and grows. Votes: 13

The secret of living a life of excellence is merely a matter of thinking thoughts of excellence. Really, it's a matter of programming our minds with the kind of information that will set us free. Votes: 13

Words can never adequately convey the incredible impact of our attitudes toward life. The longer I live the more convinced I become that life is 10 percent what happens to us and 90 percent how we respond to it. Votes: 13

When I think of vision, I have in mind the ability to see above and beyond the majority. Votes: 13

I think it is important to begin with a statement in your speech that grabs the attention of the audience. I try to make my opening line 15 words or less. Votes: 13

I believe firmly in God's control in life. Votes: 13

Attitude is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than what people do or say. It is more important than appearance, giftedness, or skill. Votes: 11

I know of nothing more valuable, when it comes to the all-important virtue of authenticity, than simply being who you are. Votes: 11

One of my great goals in life is to live long enough to where I am in the pulpit, preaching my heart out, and I die on the spot, my chin hits the pulpit - boom! - and I'm down and out. What a way to die! Votes: 9

Sometimes I wake up before dawn, and I love sitting up in the middle of the bed with all the lights off, pitch-black dark, and talking to the Father, with no interruptions and nothing that reminds me that there's anything in life but me and Him. Votes: 9

I want to preach till the last breath in my lungs runs out. Votes: 8

There is plenty of television. There are plenty of talk shows. There are plenty of comedians. But there is not plenty of worship of the true and living God. Votes: 5

When you are giving people the gospel, you are giving them something to believe, and you have to set the stage for that. You don't just drive up and dump the truck and drive off. Votes: 5

I am a preacher. I'm involved in many other things, but, mainly, I preach. And I love it! Votes: 4

The world has changed and it's going to keep changing, but God never changes; so we are safe when we cling to Him. Votes: 4

The wonderful thing about God is he knows what we need to persuade us. Votes: 4

Nothing is more bothersome to me than retiring. Weird things happen when you disengage; first you get negative, then you start telling people about your latest surgeries, and eventually you lose touch. I want to stay in touch. Votes: 0

I have no interest in returning to yesteryear. I love the conveniences and delights of today's time. I wouldn't go back if I could. Votes: 0

A teardrop on earth summons the King of heaven. Votes: 0

I cannot even imagine where I would be today were it not for that handful of friends who have given me a heart full of joy. Let's face it, friends make life a lot more fun. Votes: 0

Alleged 'impossibilities' are opportunities for our capacities to be stretched. Votes: 0

The swift wind of compromise is a lot more devastating than the sudden jolt of misfortune. Votes: 0

The remarkable thing is, we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. Votes: 0

Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it. Votes: 0

I let people see the cracks in my life. We can't be phony. We've got to keep it real. Votes: 0

Not every Christian finds it easy to believe. Votes: 0

Prejudice is a learned trait. You're not born prejudiced; you're taught it. Votes: 0

We really shouldn't look like a church.' I've heard that so much I want to vomit. 'Why?' I ask. 'Do you want your bank to look like a bank? Do you want your doctor's office to look like a doctor's office, or would you prefer your doctor to dress like a clown?' Votes: 0

When a church is spending more of its budget on media than shepherding, something is out of whack. We have gotten things twisted around. Votes: 0

Elizabeth's barreness and advanced age--a double symbol of hopelessness--became the means by which God would announce to the world that nothing is impossible for Him. Votes: 0

Israel's first king, Saul, looked like he was born for the role. He was tall, handsome, intelligent, and sensitive to God's leading. But he eventually lost most of his attractive qualities, the most important being obedience. Votes: 0

I'm not against screens, or new songs, or innovation. I just don't like the gimmicks. I want to know when worship is over that that leader's sole purpose was to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ." Votes: 0

When you have vision it affects your attitude. Your attitude is optimistic rather than pessimistic." Votes: 0

Envy is one of the great enemies of active spirituality. It keeps us from loving our neighbours, from functioning with others in community, and from affirming people's unique worth. It also steals contentment from the heart. Is there anything or anyone you are envious of? Votes: 0

When God is involved, anything can happen. Be open. Stay that way. God has a beautiful way of bringing good vibrations out of broken chords. Votes: 0

God never asked us to meet life's pressures and demands on our own terms or by relying upon our own strength. Nor did He demands that we win His favor by assembling an impressive portfolio of good deeds. Instead, He invites us to enter His rest. Votes: 0

Worry is assuming responsibilities that you cannot handle. They truth is, they are responsibilities that God never intended for you to handle, because they are His. Votes: 0

We have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for the day. Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it. Our attitude is everything. Votes: 0

With vision there is no room to be frightened. No reason for intimidation. It's time to march forward! Let's be confident and positive! Votes: 0

God's word is tailor-made for gray-slush days. It sends a beam of light through the fog. It signals safety when we fear we'll never make it through. Votes: 0

It's the nature of the beast within us to keep going back to the familiar rather than to strap on faith and face the future. Votes: 0

People who are close to God cultivate a personal intimacy with Him like a good gardener cultivates beautiful flowers. Votes: 0

Fortunately, God made all varieties of people with a wide variety of interests and abilities. He has called people of every race and color who have been hurt by life in every manner imaginable. Even the scars of past abuse and injury can be the means of bringing healing to another. What wonderful opportunities to make disciples! Votes: 0

One essential ingredient for being an original in the day of copies is courageous vision. Votes: 0

So, you want to be like Christ? Me too. But that kind of godliness won't just happen by hanging around a church or thinking lofty thoughts three or four times a day or learning a few verses of Scripture. It will take more - much more. Disciplining ourselves will require the same kind of focused thinking and living that our Master modeled during His brief life on earth. Votes: 0

If our perfect Lord is gracious enough to take our worst, and ugliest, our most boring, our least successful, and forgive them, burying them in the depths of the sea, then it's high time we give each other a break. Votes: 0

Wisdom is looking at life from God's point of view. You look at life's difficulties and tests as God looks at them. You look at family life and child rearing as God looks at them. You interpret current events as God would interpret them. You see the truth even though all around you are deception and lies. Votes: 0

Only you can determine your choice of attitude. Choose wisely, choose carefully, choose confidently! Votes: 0

That's what this thing called Christian life is all about, isn't it. Going . . . yet not knowing. As followers of our Lord we believe He leads us in a certain direction . . . or in pursuit of a precise goal. Votes: 0

Christlikeness is a journey, not a destination. The joy is in the journey. Votes: 0

Deep, contended joy comes from a place of complete security and confidence [in God] - even in the midst of trial. Votes: 0

The secret to responsible trust is acceptance. Acceptance is taking from God's hand absolutely anything He gives, looking into His face in trust and thanksgiving, knowing that the confinement of the hedge we're in is good and for His glory. Even though what we're enduring may be painful, it's good simply because God Himself has allowed it. Votes: 0

Someone has said,"Education is going from an unconscious to conscious awareness of one's ignorance."..No one has a corner on wisdom. All the name-dropping in the world does not heighten the significance of our character. If anything, it reduces it. Our acute need is to cultivate a willingness to learn and to remain teachable. Votes: 0

Many seducers clutter the simple message of the gospel with legalistic additions, with convoluted attempts to legitimize moral compromise, and with psychological theories that turn churches into relational support groups instead of houses of worship. Votes: 0

Attitude keeps me going or cripples my progress. It alone fuels my fire or assaults my hopes. When my attitudes are right, there is no barrier too high, no valley too deep, no dream too extreme, no challenge too great for me. Votes: 0

A story without context is like a diamond without a mounting. The stone may be beautiful lying loose on a table, but when it is carefully mounted in the right setting it can dazzle you with its brilliance and sparkling beauty. Votes: 0

Joy is a deeply felt contentment that transcends difficult circumstances and derives maximum enjoyment from every good experience. Votes: 0

Honesty has a beautiful and refreshing simplicity about it. No ulterior motives. No hidden meanings. An absence of hypocrisy, duplicity, political games, and verbal superficiality. As honesty and real integrity characterize our lives, there will be no need to manipulate others. Votes: 0

Encouragement is awesome. Think about it. It has the capacity to lift a man's or a woman's shoulders. To breathe fresh air into the fading embers of a smoldering dream. To actually change the course of another human being's day, week, or life. Votes: 0

Dream big . . . don't let anybody or anything break your wishbone. Stay strong, full of faith, and courageous... keep that backbone straight. And along the way, don't forget to laugh and enjoy the journey. Votes: 0

The past is over... forget it. The future holds hope... reach for it. Votes: 0

Your call will become clear as as your mind is transformed by the reading of Scripture and the internal work of God's Spirit. The Lord never hides His will from us. In time, as you obey the call first to follow, your destiny will unfold before you. The difficulty will lie in keeping other concerns from diverting your attention. Votes: 0

[God] is able to take your life, with all of the heartache, all of the pain, all of the regret, all of the missed opportunities, and use you for His glory. Votes: 0

When you accept the fact that sometimes seasons are dry and times are hard and that God is in control of both, you will discover a sense of divine refuge, because the hope then is in God and not in yourself. Votes: 0

While I wholeheartedly believe in choosing to approach every challenge with a great attitude, I don't mean that we should abandon authenticity and live in fantasyland. Votes: 0

Battles are won in the trenches, in the grit and grime of courageous determination; they are won day by day in the arena of life. Votes: 0

Our identity as Christians is strengthened as we stand in the lengthening shadows of saints down through the centuries, who have always answered back in antiphonal voice: 'He is risen, indeed!' Votes: 0

God presents the Sabbath rest as a shelter we can enter. (Hebrews 4:1-11) Votes: 0

In place of our exhaustion and spiritual fatigue, God will give us rest. All He asks is that we come to Him...that we spend a while thinking about Him, meditating on Him, talking to Him, listening in silence, occupying ourselves with Him - totally and thoroughly lost in the hiding place of His presence. Votes: 0

Hope is like an anchor. Our hope in Christ stabilizes us in the storms of life, but unlike an anchor, it does not hold us back. Votes: 0

If you only knew what God had to take me through to get me to the place where he could use me to be a blessing to other people, I doubt whether you would be willing to pay the price. Votes: 0

The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Votes: 0

Courage is not limited to the battlefield or the Indianapolis 500 or bravely catching a thief in your house. The real tests of courage are much quieter. They are the inner tests, like remaining faithful when nobody's looking, like enduring pain when the room is empty, like standing alone when you're misunderstood. Votes: 0

People who inspire others are those who see invisible bridges at the end of dead-end streets Votes: 0

The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is ten percent what happens to me and ninety percent of how I react to it. And so it is with you. we are in charge of our attitudes. Votes: 0

There is an enormous difference between growing old in the Lord and growing up in Him. One is automatic and requires no effort at all ... just aging. But the other is never automatic, or easy. It calls for personal discipline, continual determination, and spiritual desire. Churches are full of sleepy saints who are merely 'logging time' in God's family. Votes: 0

What is God looking for? He is looking for men and women whose hearts are completely His - completely. Votes: 0

I am convinced that wise planning is good. But plans, like material possessions, must always be held loosely. Yes - always! Plan wisely, but be ready for God to rearrange things and take you along paths that may feel dangerous to you. Don't sweat it; He knows what He's doing. And He isn't obligated to inform you ... or request permission to upset your neat little agenda! Votes: 0

Anxious. Intriguing word. It literally means, "to be divided" or "distracted." It conveys the idea of being so mentally ill at ease that you cannot do what you need to do because you are so distracted in your thinking. Votes: 0

You know one of the most encouraging things about faith? It pleases God. Votes: 0

I believe the single most significant decision I can make on a day-to-day basis is my choice of attitude. It is more important than my past, my education, my bankroll, my successes or failures, fame or pain, what other people think of me or say about me, my circumstances, or my position. Votes: 0

Do you need strength? Peace? Wisdom? Direction? Discipline? Ask for it! God will hear you. Votes: 0

Focusing intently on Christ naturally results in a lifestyle of increasingly greater selflessness. And it has another benefit. Gazing on Christ gives us greater ability to look past life's trials and remain calm in the midst of what others would call chaos. Votes: 0

We continually encounter hardships. People disappoint us. We disappoint ourselves. But God is constant and compassionate. We are not alone. He cares. Against all reason, the transcendent God loves us so much that He has committed Himself to us. Votes: 0

When we attempt to find meaning in the pursuit of pleasure, the commitment to a job, or through plumbing intellectual depths, we all eventually find in each of these pursuits a dead end. Votes: 0

The Promised Land was a tangible representation of God's ultimate desire for His people, but they failed to comprehend His gift for at least three reasons: It was unconditionally promised, it was outrageously generous, and it was absolutely free. None of those make sense in the world as we know it... Votes: 0

Thanksgiving is a time of quiet reflection; an annual reminder that God has, again, been ever so faithful. The solid and simple things of life are brought into clear focus. Votes: 0

People who soar are those who refuse to sit back, sigh and wish things would change. They neither complain of their lot nor passively dream of some distant ship coming in. Rather, they visualize in their minds that they are not quitters; they will not allow life's circumstances to push them down and hold them under. Votes: 0

Walk by faith! Stop the plague of worry. Relax! Learn to say, "Lord, this is Your battle." Votes: 0

Adversity is a good test of our resiliency, our ability to cope, to stand back up, to recover from misfortune. Adversity is a painful pedagogue. Votes: 0

Prayer is an investment. The time you dedicate to prayer isn't lost; it will return dividends far greater than what a few moments spent on a task ever could. If we fail to cultivate this discipline, prayer winds up being our last resort rather than our first response. Votes: 0

Don't expect wisdom to come into your life like great chunks of rock on a conveyor belt. Wisdom comes privately from God as a byproduct of right decisions, godly reactions, and the application of spiritual principles to daily circumstances. Votes: 0

We want a crowd to make us feel important and liked. But why is getting a crowd our focus? Jesus never suggested that crowds were the goal. He never addresses getting your church to grow. Never. Votes: 0

The ministry of the church is a genuine concern for others. We need to stop talking about it and start doing it. Rise.Rise and shine, friend. Everyone you meet today is on heaven's Most Wanted list. Votes: 0

If your motive is in any way to promote greatness for yourself, you're in the wrong calling. Votes: 0

In many (most?) churches there are programs and activities... but so little worship. There are songs and anthems and musicals... but so little worship. There are announcements and readings and prayers... but so little worship. Votes: 0

God doesn't mock us. He never gives us a goal that we cannot accomplish in His strength. I want to assure you, you can glorify God, you MUST glorify God. But you have to determine deep within your heart that you're going to do it His way. Votes: 0

Sin may have the power to kill and destroy, but God is the Creator of life. He can create it from nothing, and He can restore it from death.(John 11:25-26) Votes: 0

Give us an intense distaste for things that displease You and a renewed pleasure in things that bring You honor and magnify Your truth. Votes: 0

It takes faith to find personal significance in your relationship with God rather than how much money you earn, how beautiful you look, how many toys you own, how many trophies you collect, or how much territory you conquer and control. Votes: 0

If you allow it, [suffering] can be the means by which God brings you His greatest blessings. Votes: 0

...goals not bathed in prayer or brought in humility before the Lord turn out to be downright useless. They don't go anywhere. They don't accomplish anything. Votes: 0

It's not enough merely to believe there is a God. You must believe in the God who is there. Votes: 0

The crisis of physical hunger is essentially a crisis of faith. What or whom will you trust to meet your most basic needs? Will you trust the God who made human bodies, or will you seek your own way? (Deuteronomy 8:1-3) Votes: 0

The size of a challenge should never be measured by what we have to offer. It will never be enough. Furthermore, provision is God's responsibility, not ours. We are merely called to commit what we have - even if it's no more than a sack lunch. Votes: 0

In other words Jesus went into the desert to confront His enemy and throw down the gauntlet. He would prove Himself to be the legitimate shepherd of Israel by overcoming the temptations that had undone all of Israel's previous kings, including His mighty ancestor, King David. Votes: 0

Jesus kept it simple. The lesson wasn't complicated. 'I speak; you believe My word; your son will be fine.' We complicate what God has made simple by seeing the world through human eyes. We want to see in order to believe and presume that our limitations are His. Votes: 0

Faith itself cannot accomplish anything, yet without faith, no one can fly. Votes: 0

God never calls His people to accomplish anything without promising to supply their every need. Votes: 0

If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters.Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude. Votes: 0

To require God to prove that He is able and willing to fulfill His promises would be proof positive that one does not trust Him. Votes: 0

When you suffer and lose, that does not mean you are being disobedient to God. In fact, it might mean you're right in the center of His will. The path of obedience is often marked by times of suffering and loss. Votes: 0

Boldness in the course of a noble fight is worth the risk...If you stand on truth, you'll only regret your timidity later, but you'll never regret being bold. Votes: 0

In the wilderness, God's covenant people struggled with a choice between feeding their bellies and nourishing their souls. God provided manna--a breadlike food that fell to the ground during the night--to sustain the wandering Israelites and to teach them how to value His Word more than physical fulfillment. Votes: 0

We must cease striving and trust God to provide what He thinks is best and in whatever time He chooses to make it available. But this kind of trusting doesn't come naturally. It's a spiritual crisis of the will in which we must choose to exercise faith. Votes: 0

When we panic, we instinctively turn to our own internal resources because we doubt Him. Votes: 0

...when you trust the Lord God to give you the next step, when you wait in humility upon Him, *He* will open the doors or close them, and you'll get to rest and relax until He says, 'Go. Votes: 0

People who soar, are those who refuse to sit back and wish things would change Votes: 0

I have tried and I cannot find, either in scripture or in history, a strong-willed individual whom God used greatly until He allowed them to be hurt deeply. Votes: 0

Make a plan now to keep a daily appointment with God. The enemy is going to tell you to set it aside, but you must carve out the time. If you're too busy to meet with the Lord, friend, then you are simply too busy Votes: 0

On tough days, you gotta have heart. Don't quit, whatever you do. Persevere. Votes: 0

While I was raised around churches and had gotten to know a few preachers fairly well, the thought never entered my head that I would one day stand and deliver. Not only was I not interested, I lived with a major struggle: I stuttered. Votes: 0

Choose to view life through God's eyes. This will not be easy because it doesn't come naturally to us. We cannot do this on our own. We have to allow God to elevate our vantage point. Start by reading His Word, the Bible...Pray and ask God to transform your thinking. Let Him do what you cannot. Ask Him to give you an eternal, divine perspective. Votes: 0

Our great tendency in this age is to increase our speed, to run faster, even in the Christian life. In the process our walk with God stays shallow, and our tank runs low on fumes. Intimacy offers a full tank of fuel that can only be found by pulling up closer to God, which requires taking necessary time and going to the effort to make that happen. Votes: 0

Let your life yield a sweet, winsome melody that this old world needs so desperately. Yes you can if you will. Votes: 0

Things will happen that seem to be totally contradictory, but these are God's arrangements. It was a wonderful day when I finally realized I don't have to explained or defend the will of God. My job is simply to obey it. Votes: 0

I'm here today to warn you: I want you to watch out for the adversary. Guard yourself from any spirit of entitlement. Restrain any and all subtle temptation to gain attention or to find ways to promote yourself. Votes: 0

There is nothing more fearful for the average person in our society than to stand before a group of people and speak. Votes: 0

I am often the brunt of my own humor. Votes: 0

We need discernment in what we see and what we hear and what we believe. Votes: 0

Don't get older; get better: Live realistically. Give generously. Adapt willingly. Trust fearlessly. Rejoice daily. Votes: 0

Grace has to be the loveliest word in the English language. It embodies almost every attractive quality we hope to find in others. Grace is a gift of the humble to the humiliated. Grace acknowledges the ugliness of sin by choosing to see beyond it. Grace accepts a person as someone worthy of kindness despite whatever grime or hard-shell casing keeps him or her separated from the rest of the world. Grace is a gift of tender mercy when it makes the least sense. Votes: 0

Every one of us can blame somebody for something that has happened in our lives. But don't waste your time. What we need most is a steady stream of love flowing among us. Love that quickly forgives, willingly overlooks, and refuses to take offense. Votes: 0

Times may be hard and people may be demanding, but never forget that life is special. Every single day is a special day. God is at work in you! Votes: 0

Allow me to offer a simple definition of wisdom. Wisdom is looking at life from God's point of view. Votes: 0

God would love to piece together the shattered fragments of your life. But He is waiting ... graciously waiting until the time is right. Until you are tired of the life you are living ... until you see it for what it really is. Until you are weary of coping ... of taking charge of your own life ... until you realize the mess you are making of it. Until you recognize your need for Him ... He's waiting. Votes: 0

Today is unique! It has never occurred and it will never be repeated. At midnight it will end, quietly, suddenly, totally. Forever. But the hours between now and then are opportunities with eternal possibilities. Votes: 0

Anything under God's control is never out of control. Votes: 0

Helen Rosevere was a British medical missionary in the Congo years ago during an uprising. Her faith was strong and her trust was confident, yet she was raped and assaulted and treated brutally. Commenting later, she said, "I must ask myself a question as if it came directly from the Lord, 'Can you thank Me for trusting you with this experience even if I never tell you why?'" What a profound thought. God has trusted each of us with our own set of unfair circumstances and unexplained experiences to deal with. Can we still trust in Him even if He never tells us why? Votes: 0

The pursuit of happiness is a matter of choice...it is a positive attitude we choose to express. It is not a gift delivered to our door each morning, nor does it come through the window. And it is certain that our circumstances are not the things that make us joyful. If we wait for them to get just right, we will never laugh again. Votes: 0

People are far more important than rigid rules and demanding expectations. Votes: 0

One of the worst things you can give to your people is someone you're not. Votes: 0

Authentic men aren't afraid to show affection, release their feelings, hug their children, cry when they're sad, admit it when they're wrong, and ask for help when they need it. Votes: 0

This is a story about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody and Nobody. There was an important job to do and Everybody was asked to do it. Everybody was sure Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry because it was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody would do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn’t do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done. Votes: 0

This tendency to avoid problems and the emotional suffering inherent in them is the primary basis of all human mental illness Votes: 0

The benefits [of the resurrection] are innumerable. To list a few: Our illnesses don't seem nearly so final; Our fears fade and lose their grip; Our grief over those who have gone on is diminished; Our desires to press on in spite of the obstacles is rejuvenated... Our identity as Christians is strengthened as we stand in the lengthening shadows of saints down through the centuries, who have always answered back in antiphonal voice: 'He is risen, indeed!' Votes: 0

Encourage one another. Many times a word of praise or thanks or appreciation or cheer has kept people on their feet. Votes: 0

And when God steps in, His working is like the difference between a skyscraper and a star. Votes: 0

Humility - the discipline of putting others ahead of self, the choice to value others above self - is, at its core, a matter of faith. Votes: 0

Vision is the ability to see God’s presence, to perceive God’s power, to focus on God’s plan in spite of the obstacles. Votes: 0

Cultivate your own capabilities, your own style. Appreciate the members of your family for who they are, even though their outlook or style may be miles different from yours. Rabbits don't fly. Eagles don't swim. Ducks look funny trying to climb. Squirrels don't have feathers. Stop comparing. There's plenty of room in the forest. Votes: 0

The stronger the winds, the deeper the roots, and the longer the winds, the more beautiful the tree. Votes: 0

We aren't just thrown on this earth like dice tossed across a table. We are lovingly placed here for a purpose Votes: 0

If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters. Votes: 0

You will find a common dichotomy in life. Those who don't have vision or determination, and refuse to dream the impossible, are always in the majority. Votes: 0

Refuse to let your situation determine your attitude. Votes: 0

God has somehow placed into Christian's insides a special something, that extra inner reservoir of power that is more than a match for the stuff life throws at us. Votes: 0

Sometimes we are to guard our heart...protect it from invasion and keep things safe and secure. Sometimes we should give our heart... let certain qualities out and release them to others Votes: 0

Focus on your marriage. Because that's the nucleus of the home, whatever you do to restore its health and strength will naturally restore what's broken among the other relationships. If you have no children yet, this will make a comfortable nest for them to begin life well. If you have children, the changes you make in your marriage will affect the rest of the household more quickly and dramatically than you think. Votes: 0

Laughter is the most beautiful and beneficial therapy God ever granted humanity. Votes: 0

You won't find God at the Seminary and you won't find wisdom in the halls of intellectualism. Votes: 0

The habit of always putting off an experience until you can afford it, or until the time is right, or until you know how to do it is one of the greatest burglars of joy. Be deliberate, but once you've made up your mind -jump in. Votes: 0

'We really shouldn't look like a church.' I've heard that so much I want to vomit. 'Why?' I ask. 'Do you want your bank to look like a bank? Do you want your doctor's office to look like a doctor's office, or would you prefer your doctor to dress like a clown?' Votes: 0

Love has been called the most effective motivational force in all the world. When love is at work in us, it is remarkable how giving and forgiving, understanding and tolerant we can be. Votes: 0

Let`s choose each day and every day to keep an attitude of faith and joy and belief and compassion. Votes: 0

If the pace and the push, the noise and the crowds are getting to you, it's time to stop the nonsense and find a place of solace to refresh your spirit Votes: 0

Encouragement is awesome. It (can) actually change the course of another person's day, week, or life. Votes: 0

It's a delightful thing to receive a good word just at your time of need. Encourage someone today. Votes: 0

Home is the bottom line of life, the anvil upon which attitudes and convictions are hammered out the single most influential force in our earthly existence. No price tag can adequately reflect its value. Votes: 0

The devil, darkness, and death may swagger and boast, the pangs of life will sting for a while longer, but don't worry; the forces of evil are breathing their last. Not to worry...He's risen! Votes: 0

No, the thing that makes for greatness is determination, persisting in the right direction over the long haul, following your dream, staying at the task. Votes: 0

All he asks is that we trust Him, that we stand before Him in integrity and faith. God is just waiting for us to trust Him. Votes: 0

The more impossible the situation, the greater God accomplishes His work. Votes: 0

Nothing is so common as unsuccessful men with talent. They lack only determination. Votes: 0

Do you want to be wise? Choose wise friends Votes: 0

You want to mess up the minds of your children? Here's how - guaranteed! Rear them in a legalistic, tight context of external religion, where performance is more important than reality. Fake your faith. Sneak around and pretend your spirituality. Train your children to do the same. Embrace a long list of do's and don'ts publicly but hypocritically practice them privately... yet never own up to the fact that its hypocrisy. Act one way but live another. And you can count on it - emotional and spiritual damage will occur. Votes: 0

We are often so caught up in our activities that we tend to worship our work, work at our play, and play at our worship. Votes: 0

We are in charge of our attitudes. Votes: 0

If we choose to be offended when we don't get our own way, Then we're going to live constantly on the edge of anger. But if we say to ourselves, " A merry heart does good like a medicine," It'll make all the difference in the world. Votes: 0

No marriage is "too dead" for the Lord to restore. Votes: 0

One of the marks of maturity is the ability to disagree without becoming disagreeable Votes: 0

You can choose to be a drag and a burden, or an inspiration and encouragement. Votes: 0

The beautiful thing about this adventure called faith is that we can count on Him never to lead us astray. Votes: 0

To be used of God. Is there anything more encouraging, more fulfilling? Perhaps not, but there is something more basic: to meet with God. To linger in His presence, to shut out the noise of the city and, in quietness, give Him the praise He deserves. Before we engage ourselves in His work, let's meet Him in His Word... in prayer... in worship. Votes: 0

The beautiful thing about encouragement is that anybody can do it. Votes: 0

Good listeners believe they can learn something from everyone. Votes: 0

My order of priorities reflects the level of my commitment to Christ. Whoever or whatever is in first place, if it isn't the Lord Jesus, is in the wrong place. Votes: 0

Nothing speaks louder or more powerfully than a life of integrity Votes: 0

Have you ever studied Jesus's approach to talking with people? He didn't always fill the space with answers for them. Let's learn to do that with our fellow learners. Let's give them room to think and answer for themselves. Votes: 0

When a person does something, it has the man or woman look about it. It drips with humanity. You can follow the logic of it and see the meaning behind it. Votes: 0

Anyone who influences others is a leader. Votes: 0

If you want to stop an argument, close your mouth. Votes: 0

I know of no realm of life that can provide more companionship in a lonely world or greater feelings of security and purpose in chaotic times than the close ties of a family. Votes: 0

Stand still... and refuse to retreat. Look at it as God looks at it and draw upon His power to hold up under the blast. Votes: 0

The lens of fear magnifies the size of uncertainty. Votes: 0

It is often just as sacred to laugh as it is to pray. Votes: 0

Trusting God doesn't alter our circumstances. Perfect trust in Him changes us. Votes: 0

Who can ever measure the benefit of a mother's inspiration? Votes: 0

If you want to be a person with a large vision, you must cultivate the habit of doing the little things well. Votes: 0

How important is the heart! It is there that character is formed. It alone holds the secrets of true success. It's treasures are priceless - but they can be stolen. Votes: 0

Vision encompasses vast vistas outside the realm of the predictable, the safe, the expected. Votes: 0

When the Lord makes it clear you're to follow Him in this new direction, focus fully on Him and refuse to be distracted by comparisons with others. Votes: 0

No one is immune to temptation. Not even a hero. Not even a nobody. Not even people like you and me. Lust is never very far away. And just when you least expect it, there it is again. Votes: 0

There can be no more reliable authority on earth than God's Word, the Bible. This timeless, trustworthy source of truth holds the key that unlocks life's mysteries. It alone provides us with the shelter we need in times of storm. Votes: 0

Patience is a bitter plant that produces sweet fruit. Votes: 0

Jesus' plan called for action, and how He expressed it predicted its success. He didn't say "you 'might' be my witnesses," or "you 'could' be my witnesses," or even "you 'should' be my witnesses." He said "you 'WILL' be my witnesses. Votes: 0

Friends make life a lot more fun. Votes: 0

Don't be afraid of outgiving God. It is impossible to do that. Votes: 0

God does not dispense strength and encouragement like a druggist fills your prescription. The Lord doesn't promise to give us something to take so we can handle our weary moments. He promises us Himself. That is all. And that is enough. Votes: 0

Oh, how horrible our sins look when they are committed by someone else. Votes: 0

Believing in grace is one thing. Living it is another. Votes: 0

Ours is a bad, bad world, but does that mean nothing's good? Does it mean we have run out of things for which to be grateful? No, no, a thousand times, no! Votes: 0

God alone is perfectly and consistently just. We forget; God remembers. We see an action; God sees a motive. This qualifies Him as the best recordkeeper and judge. Votes: 0

Another problem with worry is that it makes you forget your worth. Worry makes you feel worthless, forgotten, and unimportant. Votes: 0

We shouldn't deny the pain of what happens in our lives. We should just refuse to focus only on the valleys. Votes: 0

Confidence brings joy when we let God be God. Votes: 0

Consistency: It's the jewel worth wearing; It's the anchor worth weighing; It's the thread worth weaving; It's a battle worth winning. Votes: 0

You see, when we talk about perfect trust, we're talking about what gives us roots, character, the stability to handle the hard times. Trusting God doesn't alter our circumstances. Perfect trust in Him changes us. Votes: 0

Worry erases the promises of God from your mind. Votes: 0

There are times we need to tell ourselves, "Good job!" when we know that is true. Votes: 0

An anniversary says, "Think of the dreams you have weathered together. They are intimate accomplishments." Votes: 0

Go God's way! His is the most reliable route to follow when life gets complicated. It will have its tough moments, but you will never regret it. Votes: 0

No pressure is greater than God's power. Votes: 0

The longer I live the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company . . . a church . . . a home. Votes: 0

If you are having difficulty loving or relating to an individual, take him to God. Bother the Lord with this person. Don't you be bothered with him - leave him at the throne. Votes: 0

I'm glad . . . that Edison didn't give up on the light bulb. That Luther refused to back down. That Michelangelo kept painting. That Lindbergh kept flying. Votes: 0

Noise and crowds have a way of siphoning our energy and distracting our attention, making prayer an added chore rather than a comforting relief Votes: 0

From the tiny birds of the air and from the fragile lilies of the field, we learn the same truth, which is so important for those who desire to live a life of simple faith: God takes care of His own. He knows our needs. He anticipates our crises. He is moved by our weaknesses. He stands ready to come to our rescue. And at just the right moment, He steps in and proves Himself as our faithful heavenly Father. Votes: 0

Convictions are a matter of choice, not force. Votes: 0

When we have God in clear focus, His powerful presence eclipses our fear. Votes: 0

It has come to the time where the most dangerous place to be in America is not the inner city, where gangs threaten innocent lives, or in angry prisons, where only the fit survive, but in the womb of a mother who is being told that if she doesn't really want the baby, an abortion is the solution. Votes: 0

Take charge of your thoughts! Votes: 0

Learning more truth is a poor and cheap substitute for stopping and putting into action the truth already learned Votes: 0

Those who feed on rumors are small, suspicious souls. Votes: 0

Man is the only animal that when you pat him on the head, his head swells up. Votes: 0

In our rough and rugged individualism, we think of gentleness as weakness, being soft and virtually spineless. Not so! Gentleness includes such enviable qualities as having strength under control, being calm and peaceful when surrounded by a heated atmosphere, emitting a soothing effect on those who may be angry or otherwise beside themselves, and possessing tact and gracious courtesy that causes others to retain their self-esteem and dignity. Instead of losing, the gentle gain. Instead of being ripped off and taken advantage of, they come out ahead! Votes: 0

Without a quest, life is quickly reduced to bleak black and wimpy white, a diet too bland to get anybody out of bed in the morning. A quest fuels our fire. It refuses to let us drift downstream gathering debris. Votes: 0

In the wilderness, God's covenant people struggled with a choice between feeding their bellies and nourishing their souls. God provided manna-a breadlike food that fell to the ground during the night-to sustain the wandering Israelites and to teach them how to value His Word more than physical fulfillment. Votes: 0

10% of life is made up of what happens to you. 90% of life is decided by how you react. Votes: 0

We want the safety of yesterday even though we know it's not where God would have us. Votes: 0

"Do not lean on your own understanding." That means don't bring in the crutches and lean on them, those crutches that you have designed and made to handle such situations. Stay away from them. Don't lean on them; lean on God. Votes: 0

I don't have to explain or defend the will of God. My job is simply to obey it. Votes: 0

One of the problems with worry is that it keeps you from enjoying what you have. Votes: 0

Worry is a complete waste of energy. It solves nothing. Votes: 0

Worry is characteristic of the heathen, not the Christian. Votes: 0

Faith is like lighting the torch that passes from one person to the next. You can't light the torch of another if yours isn't burning. Votes: 0

You may be going through a trial so overwhelming that it's borderline unbearable. You want to see the end of the tunnel. Which is only natural, because once we see that little speck of light, we feel we can make it through to the finish. But God's tunnels are often twisting, too complex and dark to see the light for many days. In such settings He says, "In that dark, twisting, seemingly endless period of time, trust Me. Stop running scared! Stop fearing!" Votes: 0

You see, this people [Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Jacob, etc.] simply believed that God existed in the situation they were faced with, and they trusted Him rather than themselves. The result? God said, "That pleases Me." They were men and women just like you and I, which is the most encouraging part of all. We don't find golden haloes, or perfect backgrounds, or sinless lives, we just find people. People who failed, who struggled, who doubted, who experienced hard times and low times in which their faith was eclipsed by doubt. But their lives were basically characterized by faith. Votes: 0

Faith does not change my circumstances; faith changes me. Faith may not bring in the tuition check when I need it, but faith will give me what it takes to hang on. Votes: 0

Strength comes from choosing to fully trust, pray, and praise. Our circumstances may not change, but in the process we change. Votes: 0

The longer I live the more I believe that the greatest enemy of a victorious Christian life is passivity. Votes: 0

God will never adjust His agenda to fit ours. He will not speed up His pace to catch up with ours; we need to slow our pace in order to recover our walk with Him. God will not scream and shout over the noisy clamor; He expects us to seek quietness, where His still small voice can be heard again. Votes: 0

Leaders need to cultivate two things: a righteous heart and a rhinoceros skin. Votes: 0

Remorse is sorrow over being caught and the pain of consequences that follow. Repentance is not being concerned for ourselves but having a contrite heart. Votes: 0

Because the Holy Spirit is God, we feel Him as He controls our circumstances and transforms our lives. When He does that, He uses us. He melts us in relationships. He molds us in the pursuit and the direction of His will. He fills us with power and the perseverance to keep at it. He uses as He controls our circumstances and transforms our lives. Ask the Spirit of God to use you, just as you are, with the gifts and abilities that He's given you. Secure in the confidence that God is in control of your life, you will be free to serve Him with joy and effectiveness. Votes: 0

Only grace-large doses, frequently displayed, released-will restore the wounded. Votes: 0

Allowing anger to seethe on the back burner will lead to a very large lid blowing off a very hot pot. Votes: 0

If you never get criticized, chances are you aren't getting anything done. Votes: 0

Lead with action and let the feelings follow. Votes: 0

The Lord delights to surprise us with His goodness, if only we will unlock the door of obedience with the key of faith - which He has given - and then push it open and walk through. Votes: 0

God is a specialist when the anguish is deep. His ability to heal the soul is profound...but only to those who rely on His wounded Son will experience relief. Votes: 0

When it seems like that's all there is, remember all you have in Him. Votes: 0

God's timing is always on time. Votes: 0

God uses those who seem ill-fitted for a significant life. Votes: 0

God has not only created each of us as distinct individuals, He also uses us in significant ways. Votes: 0

Some folks serve the almighty dollar far more faithfully than the Almighty God. They get greater delight out of balancing the budget than watching the Lord multiply the loaves and fishes. Votes: 0

If God awarded us medals, as they do in the Olympics, love would win the gold, joy the silver, and peace the bronze. Votes: 0

Wouldn't you like to contribute to an event that is part of Christ's own prediction, "I will build my church"? Votes: 0

I don't see life divided into public and private, secular and sacred. It's all an open place of service before our God. Votes: 0

When I have a wrong attitude, I look at life humanly. When I have a right attitude, I look at life divinely. Votes: 0

Servants must be big people. Big enough to go on, remembering the right and forgetting the wrong. Votes: 0

Our minds can be kept free of anxiety as we dump the load of our cares on the Lord in prayer. Votes: 0

It is a pity that many Christians have the TV schedule better memorized than a single chapter for God's precious Word. Votes: 0

God also allows suffering so that we might learn what it means to depend on Him, not on our own strength and resources. Votes: 0

To be "in Christ" is to place one's trust in Him for salvation from sin. To be "in Christ" is to trust His goodness, not our own; to trust that His sacrificial death on the cross paid the complete debt of death we owe for our sin; to trust that His resurrection gives us eternal life instead of relying upon our own ability to please God. To be "in Christ" is to claim, by faith, the free gift of salvation. To be "in Christ" is to enjoy a completely restored relationship with our Father in heaven by virtue of His Son's righteous standing. Votes: 0

When God's in it, the job gets done. Votes: 0

In spite of our high-tech world and efficient procedures, people remain the essential ingredient of life. Votes: 0

Any idol, regardless of its beauty or usefulness or original purpose, is to be set aside so that Christ might reign supreme, without a single competitor. Votes: 0

God seems to reward us with good, delightful experiences when we move with joy through the less-than-delightful times. Votes: 0

There is no counsel like God's counsel. No comfort like His comfort. No wisdom more profound than the wisdom of the Scriptures. Votes: 0

Real integrity stays in place whether the test in adversity or prosperity. Votes: 0

More often than not, when something looks like it's the absolute end, it is really the beginning. Votes: 0

Acceptance is taking from God's hand absolutely anything He gives, looking into His face in trust and thanksgiving. Votes: 0

If God's people are to be living examples of one thing, that thing ought to be - it must be - compassion. Votes: 0

The decision to give ourselves to others is a daily taking up of the cross. Votes: 0

God declared me righteous! Votes: 0

Grace is ours. Let's live it! Deny it or debate it and we kill it. Votes: 0

Pride leaves no room for grace. Votes: 0

GRACE: All you can do is take it. Votes: 0

More than once Jesus deliberately addressed certain issues that quickly diminished the number of onlookers. It was commitment that thinned the ranks. Votes: 0

The happiest people I know are the ones who have learned how to hold everything loosely and have given the worrisome, stress-filled, fearful details of their lives into God's keeping. Votes: 0

If we want the advantages of love, then we must be willing to take the risks of love. And that requires vulnerability. Of course, we can refuse this path and trod another one devoid of openness. But the toll on such a road is extremely high. Votes: 0

If you're running a 26-mile marathon, remember that every mile is run one step at a time. If you are writing a book, do it one page at a time. If you're trying to master a new language, try it one word at a time. There are 365 days in the average year. Divide any project by 365 and you'll find that no job is all that intimidating. Votes: 0

Please, put aside all excuses and ask yourself, "What should I be doing?" Yes, you alone can make a difference. The question is, will you? Votes: 0

Leadership is influence. To the extent we influence others, we lead them. Votes: 0

God's forgiveness extends to the worst offenders and to anyone who wishes to receive it-not because of who we are, but because of who He is. Votes: 0

The skeptic may deny your doctrine or attack your church but he cannot honestly ignore the fact that your life has been changed. Votes: 0

When we arrive at dilemmas in life and we are unable to decipher the right direction to go, if we hope to maintain our confidence in the process, we must (repeat must) allow the Lord to be our Guide, our Strength, our Wisdom - our all! Votes: 0

Excellence-moral, ethical, personal excellence-is worth whatever it costs. Votes: 0

For there to be true maturity, people must be given room to grow, which includes room to fail... Votes: 0

Joy springs from a life lived with eternity's values in view. Votes: 0

Worry and faith just don't mix. Votes: 0

There is only one you. God wanted you to be you. Don't you dare change just because you're outnumbered! Votes: 0

Of all the things God created, I am often most grateful He created laughter. Votes: 0

Tell yourself right now and throughout today, that it's okay to draw away from the maddening crowd. Jesus did; so can you. Votes: 0

To be used of God. Is there anything more encouraging, more fulfilling? Perhaps not, but there is something more basic: to meet with God. Votes: 0

God doesn't work on our timetable. He has a plan that He will execute perfectly and for the highest, greatest good of all, and for His ultimate glory. Votes: 0

Jesus never commanded believers to produce fruit. Fruit is the purpose of the branch, but it is not the responsibility of the branch. The branch cannot produce anything on it's own. However, if it remains attached to the vine, it will receive life-sustaining sap, nourishment, strength, everything it needs. Votes: 0

Just as bank tellers need a thorough knowledge of legitimate currency in order to spot counterfeit bills, so Christians need a thorough knowledge of the Bible in order to spot bogus religious teachings. How grounded are you in the Scriptures? How deep are your theological roots? How capable are you of detecting false teachings? Votes: 0

Cults use our vocabulary, but they don't use our dictionary. Votes: 0

Jesus didn't come to earth to establish a new religion. He came to restore a broken relationship. He came to make the primary, primary again. The secondary activity of obedience to the law of God was always intended to serve the primary activity: to love God and enjoy Him forever. When that is primary, the secondary becomes a labor of love, a joyful, and "easy" burden to bear. (Matthew 11:28-30 Votes: 0

Life...as God intended it enables us to live above the drag of fear, superstition, shame, pessimism, guilt, anxiety, worry, and all the negativity that keeps people from seizing each day as a gift from Him. Votes: 0

Grace releases and affirms. It doesn't smother. Grace values the dignity of individuals. It doesn't destroy. Grace supports and encourages. It isn't jealous or suspicious. Votes: 0

Good intentions and earnest effort are not enough. Only Jesus can make an otherwise futile life productive. Votes: 0

It's easy to get attached to idols, good things inappropriately adored. But when you have Jesus in the centre of a room, everything else only junks up the decor. Votes: 0

Jesus has prepared the way and has made following our destiny possible, whereas we are helpless by ourselves. We can find and fulfill our purpose by responding to the clear, simple call of Jesus Christ: "Follow Me." He is the doorway to fulfilling our destiny, where our divine design and God-ordained purpose live in perfect harmony. Votes: 0

When Christ becomes our central focus, contentment replaces our anxiety as well as our fears and insecurities. Votes: 0

Fortunately Jesus didn't leave [the disciples]-or any of us-without hope or direction. Where we fail, Jesus succeeded. The only One who as able to recognize and follow His purpose from the beginning was Jesus. He alone was able to obey consistently and please God completely. And His divine mission was to make a way for each of us to do the same. Votes: 0

Peter must have thought, "Who am I compared to Mr. Faithfulness (John)?" But Jesus clarified the issue. John was responsible for John. Peter was responsible for Peter. And each had only one command to heed: "Follow Me." (John 21:20-22) Votes: 0

Choose to view life through God's eyes. Votes: 0

It helps me if I remember that God is in charge of my day - not I. Votes: 0

First impressions never have a second chance. Votes: 0

Next time you're faced with a credit-purchase decision, wait. Don't say no necessarily. Just wait. I challenge you to present your need to the Lord before presenting it to a bank, and see what He does with it. Votes: 0

Part of the thrill of guiding children into adulthood is the release. But it's also a parent's greatest act of surrender. Still, you have to let them go. Start now. Votes: 0

Precious few are those who can live in the lap of luxury ... who can keep their moral, spiritual and financial equilibrium ... while balancing on the elevated tightrope of success. ... there is about one in a hundred who can dance to the tune of success without paying the piper named Compromise. Votes: 0

It is in lonely solitude that God delivers His best thoughts, and the mind needs to be still and quiet to receive them. Votes: 0

If I had my life to live over, I'd have spent more hours in worship. Votes: 0

Not once does the Bible report that (Jesus) rushed anywhere. He was often busy, but never in a mad dash. And yet He perfectly accomplished all the Father designed for Him to do. Votes: 0

God's heavenly plan doesn't always make earthly sense. Votes: 0

...the single most important issue in all of life (is) your relationship with the living God... how you can know Him in a personal and meaningful way. Votes: 0

God is a specialist at making something useful and beautiful out of something broken and confused. Votes: 0

When each elder or pastor has his will aligned with the Lord's, we waste no time arguing for our own. Votes: 0

It's not our church; it's God's - it's not our responsibility to run it! Votes: 0

In spite of the extent to which Solomon went to find happiness, because he left God out of the picture, nothing satisfied. It never will. Satisfaction in life will never occur until there is a meaningful connection with the living Lord above the sun. Votes: 0

Thanksgiving speaks in clear, crisp tones of forgotten terms, like integrity - bravery - respect - freedom - discipline - sacrifice - godliness. Votes: 0

Discipline is training that corrects and perfects our mental faculties or molds our moral character. Discipline is control gained by enforced obedience. It is the deliberate cultivation of inner order. Votes: 0

God often does His best work in us when He catches us by surprise and introduces a change that is completely against our own desire. Votes: 0

At least one indication of unbelief is the tendency to measure life's challenges against our own adequacy instead of God's promises. To enter our Sabbath rest, we must put an end to self-reliance - trusting in our own abilities to overcome difficulties, rise above challenges, escape tragedies, or achieve personal greatness. Votes: 0

We gain the ability to rejoice under pressure through a carefully monitored training program directed by the Lord Himself. Votes: 0

You and I can become so dedicated to the will of God, we can be so driven by a false sense of purpose, that we might inadvertently take matters into our own hands and leave God completely out of the loop. Votes: 0

God has called His creation to find satisfaction in a personal relationship with Him, and stop trying to manage the world by conforming it to our expectations, and to allow Him to govern His creation. He continues to say through an ancient Hebrew worship song, "Be still and know that I am God! Votes: 0

Rejoicing is clearly a spiritual command. To ignore it, I need to remind you, is disobedience. Votes: 0

Know yourself, like yourself, be yourself. Votes: 0

Sometimes people can't see past us to hear our message. We never have a second chance to leave a first impression. Votes: 0

Hope doesn't require a massive chain where heavy links of logic hold it together. A thin wire will do...just strong enough to get us through the night until the winds die down. Votes: 0

Like sin itself, Satan appeals to the senses. He originated and perfected the art of disguising evil as good. Votes: 0

When you pray, pray so that you may know Him. When you seek to simplify, do it as a means of knowing Him more. When you surrender, or behave with humility or sacrifice, do it with the sole purpose in mind to know Him. Votes: 0

What sets Christian spiritual activity apart from all other religions is that they have knowledge of Christ as their goal; not moral perfection (although you will become more moral), not tranquility (although your life will be remarkably more peaceful). And because of the grace you have in Christ, the disciplines will do nothing to make you more accepted by the Father. You cannot be more accepted than you already are in Christ, since He has already done it all for you! Votes: 0

A "godly" person is one who ceases to be self-centered in order to become God-centered. Votes: 0

Think first. Talk less. Start today. Votes: 0

The best tests of my Christian growth occur in the mainstream of life, not in the quietness of my study Votes: 0

Two words will help you cope when you run low on hope: accept and trust. Votes: 0

I believe the single most significant decision I can make on a day-to-day basis is my choice of attitude... When my attitudes are right theres no challenge too great for me. Votes: 0

While God is not the author of evil and He never prompts or condones sin, nothing occurs without His sovereign oversight. Others may choose to do evil deeds and God's people may suffer in the short term, but He will transform the evil intentions of evil people into opportunities for the enrichment of those in His care. Votes: 0

Don't seek more days in your life but more life in your days. Votes: 0