JESUS IS THERE FOR YOU ALWAYS (NICE POEM TAKEN FROM INTERNET)

Three guys were tried for crimes against humanity.
Two guys committed crimes.
One guy didn't.

Three guys were given government trials.
Two guys had fair trials.
One guy didn't.

Three guys were whipped and beaten.
Two guys had it coming.
One guy didn't.

Three guys were given crosses to carry.
Two guys earned their crosses.
One guy didn't.

Three guys were mocked and spit at along the way.
Two guys cursed and spit back.
One guy didn't.

Three guys were nailed to crosses.
Two guys deserved it.
One guy didn't.

Three guys agonized over their abandonment.
Two guys had reason to be abandoned.
One guy didn't.

Three guys talked while hanging on their crosses.
Two guys argued.
One guy didn't.

Three guys knew death was coming.
Two guys resisted.
One guy didn't.

One.
Two.
Three guys died on three crosses.

Three days later.
Two guys remained in their graves.
One guy didn't.

YOUR EXPECTATION SHALL NOT BE CUT OFF! DO NOT GIVE UP YOUR HOPE

(THIS ARTICLE IS TAKEN FROM ONE OF THE MONTHLY MAGAZINE OF JESUS REDEEMS AND IT IS WRITTEN BY BRO.MOHAN C LAZARUS)

Many years before, I met at Egmore in Chennai a father and son of Thirunelveli. I casually enquired them, “For what purpose you come over here to Chennai?”

Both of them seemed to be distressed. The father said, “Sir, he is my son. He completed his studies and got his degree. Now our Tamil Nadu government has opened venue for employment opportunities concerning his studies. The interview will be slated for tomorrow for this job. That is why we came even one day before.”

“But you are in deep distress…….why?” I asked. The father replied,” Today we went to the concerned office to know the interview tactics. However, to our dismay, the people there asked us how much money we were ready to offer for that job and it had no meaning to bring only the Call Letter for the interview. I said that we were not of such rich people. Had my son been got through the interview, it would have been a real blessing to our family and that only with the hope we came from such a far of place.

On hearing my reply, they laughed. “Without money nothing will be happened here. Well…..else, do you have any recommendation letter from any of our ministers?”They enquired.

I said, “We have no contact with any of our ministers to get such recommendation letter.”The officials laughingly said, “Here one candidate brought recommendation letter from two ministers and awaiting his turn for the interview. When the situation is like this, you came here with empty hand, without money or recommendation letter. Your coming to Chennai is utter waste. Your son could not get the job. Return to your native.”

“That is the reason that we are deeply distressed and now we are in double mind-Whether we remain here to attend the interview or to return to our home town.”

The family of that person once belongs to Hinduism. At a later stage, they accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and came into His Fold. They have much love upon their Lord. I already knew those facts.

So I said to them, “Come on, let us pray.”I took them to a nearby room. I said, “What else, if you have neither money nor a recommendation letter from a minister? Jesus is with us! He divided the Red Sea! He pulled down the mighty fortress of Jericho! You came here by believing Him only…..isn’t it?”

They answered in affirmative! “Yes …we came here with anchoring our faith on our Lord only!”

“Your faith will not go in vain. Let us pray in faith. Surely the Lord will do miracle for you!”

Nevertheless, the father added, “The interview is for only one post in the whole Tamil Nadu!”

“Why not that one person should be your son? Certainly the Lord will do a miracle for you!”With these encouraging words, I led them into prayer.

At that time, the power of the Lord was descending on us. I said to his son, “Attend the interview boldly. The Lord will do a miracle for you!” Then I Left them.

Some months rolled on. One day I was standing at a bus stop in Thoothukudi. On seeing me there while passing at that side, that father rushed towards me. He gladly said, “Brother, on that day at a crucial time that you have prayed for my son’s interview. Many candidates came with the recommendation letters from various ministers and accompanied by great people in power. However, our Lord spoke to the concerned interview officials to select my son for that only post!”

See….. When the Lord intervened, the recommendation letters from ministers too went to the dustbin: because, He is God, the Almighty! Your expectation shall not be cut off! Do not give up your hope; for certainly there is an end!

You may be looking for the Lord trustfully pertaining to your business, associating with your studies, or relating to your ministerial affairs, whatever it may be, your expectation shall not go amiss! For surely there is an end!

JESUS WILL CARRY YOU

In a painting it was picturing foot prints of two persons walking together. Below that drawing, the story of that art was written.

The story goes like this: When the Lord takes along with Him a Godly man; the imprints of their feet are visible on the sand. While they go as such, they have to cross a dark valley. On seeing this dark valley, the godly man feared very much. Nevertheless, he has an encouragement in his heart that as the Lord is nearby he can cross that valley by holding His hand tightly. Likewise they crossed that dark valley. When they return back the place was so visible with the day light. The godly man sees only two foot prints in that particular length.

He is shocked. He thought that in that particular place Jesus might have left him alone; so only the imprints of two footprints alone remained there instead of four foot prints. He sadly asked the Lord, “Lord, here there are only two foot prints that belonged to a single man.  Up to this place you were coming along with me. But, where have you been from this point by leaving me alone?”

A smile sweeps through the Lord’s face. “Son, they are the foot prints of mine legs!” the perplexed godly man asked, “If it be so, where have I gone then?” The Lord says, “This is a very arduous and blind path. I knew that you were terrified of this. So I took you upon my shoulder and was carrying along!”

YOU ARE NOT AN ORPHAN

(THIS PASSAGE WAS WRITTEN BY BRO. MOHAN C LAZARUS WHO IS AN EVANGELIST FROM INDIA)

In the early days of my ministry, I had been invited to a three day Gospel Meeting organized in a small village. I was sheltered in the local school building.

 In the middle of my staying, one young man came to see me there. While I enquired about him, he began to weep like a child. Amidst sobbing he said, “Sir, my relatives had killed my parents and took possession of my entire property. They drove me out of my native place.

“I came to this place some years back and since then I have been here. I used to do any works that are demanded by anyone else. I have my living on the meager amount that I am earning through these petty helps.

“But Sir, some locals call me a gamin. This gives me pain. Now you please tell me, am I a street Arab?” His words imbued in his tears.

The words spelt out from a wounded heart of that young man anguished me. I was perplexed and did not know how to answer him. At this juncture I prayed for a minute in my heart.

The Spirit of God gave me wisdom. I asked him, “Have you accepted Jesus Christ?”

His face shone bright. He wiped away his tears and said joyfully, “Sir, recently few months back I heard about Jesus Christ through someone else. I accept him into my heart.”

I said, “As you have accepted Jesus, you became His child and He, your father. [John 1:12]. Since Jesus Christ is your father, how can you be an orphan? Certainly you are not!” On hearing this, his exuberance found no boundary!

“If it be so, I am not an orphan!”-He jubilantly uttered and relished.

Dearly beloved, you may also wallow in such consternation “Oh! I am like an orphan!” Don’t be dismayed! Jesus is there as your Father!

One of the names that were given to Jesus Christ is ‘Everlasting Father’ [Isaiah 9:6]. That means He is our father eternally!

Jesus Christ is the good father to you. Whatever may be your age, you are his children. There is no grandson and granddaughter for Him. He will call you as ‘Son…..’, ‘Daughter…..’ irrespective of your age whether you are a kid in your ripened years!

What blissfulness that He be your Father! Let not your heart be troubled. You have an eternal Father who carries you all through your life.

HAVE FAITH IN GOD FOR HE WILL CARRY YOU(Nice Poem Which was taken from Internet)

The father, a well digger,
strong was he,
And as loving and kind
as a father could be.

And Mary his daughter, 
Just five years old,
Was very much dearer
than millions in gold.

To Mary her father
was big, grand and nice,
So each had a treasure,
beyond any price.

One day to the well,
little Mary was sent
To take daddy's lunch,
how gladly she went.

But when she looked down,
not a thing could be seen.
The well, like a pocket,
was dark as could be.

The father saw Mary
and heard her voice, too,
But made not a sound,
just to see what she'd do.

She dropped to her knees,
the dear little soul,
And called down, "Oh, Daddy,
are you down this hole?"

"Why, yes Mary darling, 
I'm here at your feet,
Just drop my lunch
for I'm ready to eat.

Just let it go easy,
I'll catch it all right."
She did and she saw
it fall out of sight.

"Why Mary," said father,
"There's enough here for two,
Now this is the thing
I would like you to do.

You jump down here to me
and we'll eat it together,
Down here in the cool
and away from the weather."

"Oh, daddy, I'm afraid, 
I can't see you at all,
Be sure now you catch me
and don't let me fall."

'Twas just for a moment
she wavered in doubt,
Then closing her dear
little eyes she jumped out.

In the darkness, yes,
that was the test,
She trusted in faith
At her father's request.

And both were so happy
he kissed her and smiled
Because of the sweet
trusting faith of his child.

"Oh, sweet little Mary,
you put me to shame,
How often my Father
Has called me the same, 

But because it was dark
I turned back in doubt. 
Refusing the call, 
though his arms were stretched out."

POEMS BY WATCHMAN NEE-2

Watchman Nee-God's Servant 

(This poem was written when his fellow workers in Foochow family announced his expulsion from the work there without any reason)

What length, breadth, height and depth! What greatness is His love!

How else could I, a sinner vile, Be in such grace and bliss?

My Lord has paid the price To buy me for Himself.

So, willingly I’ll bear the cross To follow Him steadfast.

I’ve now abandoned all That I may thus gain Christ.

No thought or care of life or death, Nothing can hold me back.

Friends, pleasures, gain and fame . . . No longer useful be.

My Lord became so poor for me, His poverty I’d share.

I love my Savior dear; His praise is my desire.

For Him, let ease be turned to pain, Let gain be turned to loss.

My Comforter Thou art, Jesus my gracious Lord!

Who do I have in heaven but Thee? Who else my love on earth?

I care not for the pain, Hardship and loneliness.

Dear Lord, embrace my spirit, soul and body with Thy love.

I ask of Thee, my Lord, To guide me with Thy grace;

Stand by my side to give me strength To safely pass through life.

Satan, flesh, and the world Do tempt and press me sore;

Unless Thy might upholds me, Lord, I just might shame Thy name.

While time is fleeting by, Lift me above this world;

That at Thy return I can sing, “Hallelujah, Amen.”

POEMS BY WATCHMAN NEE-1

Watchman Nee-God's servant who lived & died for God 

(This poem was written when he lay aside his lover for the sake of love of Christ)

If from the right course I depart, At once comfort I’ll find;

But I remember how my Lord Did suffer agony.

I’d utterly forsake this world, And sever all the ties.

My path may narrow more and more; I’m but a pilgrim here.

Though men may scowl and laugh to scorn, I only want His smile.

Let others fancy outward shows, His “best” is my desire.

Not after greatness do I seek, Nor success in this life.

But humbly I would serve the Lord That day to gain His praise.

I’m daily gazing at the light Out of His judgment seat,

That all my living and my works May stand the test of fire.

You may run after name and fame, Or glory, wealth, and friends.

You can have all your great success, Your followers and praise.

In solitude and poverty, I wish to prosper not;

But faithfully I’ll follow Him Until I reach the goal.

I know, while here to earth He came, His only gain was “death.”

That’s why no other wish have I But with Him to suffer loss.

Since all my glories lie ahead, Now patient I must be.

I will not go before my Lord Much glory to receive.

That day, my honor I’ll receive; The Lord will dry my tears.

Today, while He must tarry still, I’ll press on faithfully.

GOD'S PURPOSE BEHIND AN UNANSWERED PRAYER

There is always a purpose behind everything: whether it’s good or bad. We all know this. But the problem arises when it comes to God: that is most of us do not accept the fact that there is a wonderful purpose behind everything God does. Many a times, we are aware of it but our thoughts let out, ‘what if (some negative thought)’. Bible clearly says that there is a time for everything and remember God’s timing is always perfect.

God never leaves our prayer unanswered. He always answers it with a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ or ‘wait’. Maybe our idea of ‘unanswered prayer’ is, God ‘not answering according to our desire’. Many a times we go to God with a heavy heart and God shows a ‘wait’ signal. The reason behind our suffering might be due to our own doings or the doings of others, whatever it is, remember that only God’s doings will take its effect, at last.

When we ponder about a small incident, from the Holy Bible, in Luke chapter 8, verses 28 to 39, we can talk about God’s way of answering our pleading or prayers.

The incident is about a certain man that Jesus met, who is possessed with many devils and he takes his abode in tombs.

·         In verse 28, when that man saw Jesus, he fell down before Him and cried out with a loud voice, “I beseech thee, torment me not”. Here,’ he fell down before Him’, shows a sign of worship, fear and a sort of humility too. The meaning of the word ‘beseech’ is: urgent request; to ask earnestly; to plead; to beg. To this Jesus answered with a ‘yes’.

·         In verse 31, we see that the devils ‘besought him that He would not command them to go into the deep”. Again there is a pleading. A ‘pleading’ can be taken as a ‘prayer’. To this also Jesus answered with a ‘yes’.

·         In verse 32, it is said that a herd of swine were feeding on the mountain and the devils “besought Him that he would suffer them to enter into them (herd of swine)”. Here, again we see a pleading or prayer. Jesus did say ‘yes’.

·         In verse 37, it is said that a multitude surrounding that region came to Jesus and asked Him to depart from them. Again we see a prayer made by the people to Jesus. To this prayer also Jesus answers ‘yes’.

·         But surprisingly in the verse 38, we see that the man out of whom the devils were departed places a plead. The verse goes like this, “Now the man out of whom the devils were departed besought Him that he might be with Him: but Jesus sent Him away, saying” it continues in the next verse 39,” Return to thine own house and shew how great things God hath done unto thee”.

In the last two verses, we see that the man places a plead or prayer. But Jesus answered it with a ‘no’. The devils plead were being answered with ‘yes’ and the man’s prayer with a ‘no’. We know for sure that the man has made a right choice to be with Jesus. But yet Jesus rejects his prayer. Why God did so? Here only you have to understand that there is a God’s purpose behind an unanswered prayer. Here God not only wants him to get blessed but also others, through him. That’s why He sends him back. Surely through the man’s testimony many would have turned to Jesus in that town in which Jesus cannot enter. Isn’t this the greatest blessing, one can ever have?

So God’s ways are always ‘extra special’. And His purpose for you is also special. He will never fail you. Whatever He does is for your good. When you submit everything to the Lord without any second thought, with your entire faith in Him, that’s when miracles start happening. God loves you a lot and He will always do good things for you. So don’t get dejected or discouraged for you have a God who loves you more and who has engraved you in the palm of His hands. God will never fail you. You will have a blessed life.

YOU ARE MINE, MY CHILD

Is there any hope?

I wondered when I felt it was all over...

Will there be a bright future?

I thought when everything seemed dark...

Is there a chance of victory?

I thought when I met with failures every moment...

Will I be useful anymore?

I thought when I found myself useless...

Will there be a forgiveness?

I thought when I went away from God...

Will a mighty change happen?

I thought when the circumstances were against me...

Is this the end?

I thought when I found myself at the pit...

At the dejected moment, I asked God..

Do you love me still? I asked Him, when I hated myself..

Jesus Christ Smiled and answered..

"I thought of you when my disciples fled away from me..

 I thought of you when I was nailed on the cross...

 I think of you daily at all times as you are in the palm of My hand..

 I loved you and I will love you not because of your ability..

 But because of My grace and the price of blood I paid for you on the cross..

 My dear beloved child, I love you just as you are....

 YOU ARE MINE..!"

FAITH OF A LITTLE CHILD(A True Story)

Tess was a precious eight year old when she heard her Mom and Dad talking about her little brother, Andrew. All she knew  was that   he was very sick and they were completely out of money. They were moving to  an apartment complex next month because Daddy didn't have the   money for the doctor's bills and our house.

Only a very costly surgery could save him now and it was looking   like there was no-one to loan them the money. She heard   Daddy say to   her tearful Mother with whispered desperation, "Only a miracle can save him now."

Tess went to her bedroom and pulled a glass jelly jar from   its hiding place in the closet. She poured all the change out   on the floor   an counted it carefully. Three times, even. The total had to be   exactly perfect. No chance here for mistakes. Carefully placing   the coins   back in the jar and twisting on the cap, she slipped out the   back door and   made her way 6 blocks to Rexall's Drug Store with the big red Indian Chief sign above the door.

She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her some attention   but he was too busy at this moment. Tess twisted  her feet to make a scuffing noise. Nothing.!!!

She cleared her throat with the most disgusting sound she could muster. No good.

Finally she took a quarter from her jar and banged it on the glass counter. That did it!  "And what do you want?" the pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone of voice.

"I'm talking to my brother from Chicago whom I haven't seen in ages", he said without waiting for a reply to his question.

"Well, I want to talk to you about my brother," Tess answered back   in the same annoyed tone. "He's really, really sick... and   I want to buy a miracle."

"I beg your pardon?" said the pharmacist.

"His name is Andrew and he has something bad growing inside his head and my Daddy says only a miracle can save him now. So  how much does a miracle cost?"

"We don't sell miracles here, little girl. I'm sorry but  can't  help you, " the pharmacist said, softening a little.

"Listen, I have the money to pay for it. If it isn't enough,  I will get the rest. Just tell me how much it costs."

The pharmacist's brother was a well dressed man. He stooped down and asked the little girl, "What kind of a miracle does your brother need?"

"I don't know," Tess replied with her eyes welling up. "I just  know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation. But my  Daddy  can't pay for it, so I want to use my money".

"How much do you have?" asked the man from Chicago.

"One dollar and eleven cents," Tess answered barely audibly. "And   it's all the money I have, but I can get some more if I need to.

"Well, what a coincidence," smiled the man. "A dollar and  eleven   cents exact price of a miracle for little brothers."

He took her money in one hand and with the other hand he grasped  her  mitten and said "Take me to where you live. I want  to see your   brother and meet your parents. Let's see if I have the kind of   miracle you need."

That well dressed man was Dr. Carlton Armstrong, a surgeon,  specializing in neuro-surgery. The operation was completed   without charge   and it wasn't long until Andrew was home again and doing well. Mom and Dad were happily talking about the chain of events  that had  led them to this place. "That surgery," her Mom whispered. "was a real miracle. I  wonder how much it would have cost?"

Tess smiled. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost... one  dollar   and eleven cents ...... plus the faith of a little child.

A miracle is not the suspension of natural law, but the operation  of  a higher law...... Believe in Jesus Christ and He will perform miracles in your life.