Are you recovering from a big blow in your life that has left you depressed, in doubt about your own sense of judgment, or on the road to destruction? Are you addicted to something that you are trying to break free from? Do you need a word from the Lord to help you along?
I have written Devotionals of Recovery to help you, as I have sought to help myself. I used the first chapter of the Book of Genesis, because in seeking to rebuild your own life, you must allow God to create a new creature through you. If you are a Bible believing Christian, then you know that when you come to know Christ as Saviour and Lord, you are a new creature in Christ. The old man has passed away. Each time you backslide and end up in a place you don't want to be, God uses that to teach you how to be the creature He created you to be.
I hope that these devotionals will help to guide you back onto the road that God wishes for you to take in your life.
Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6, Day 7, Day 8, Day 9, Day 10, Day 11, Day 12, Day 13, Day 14, Day 15, Day 16, Day 17, Day 18, Day 19, Day 20, Day 21, Day 22, Day23, Day 24, Day 25, Day 26, Day 27, Day 28, Day 29, Day 30, Day 31
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=========================
Shonda Ponder
Monday, January 26, 2009
Devotionals of Recovery: Day 18: Genesis 1:18
Devotionals of Recovery:
Day 18: Genesis 1:18
January 18, 2009
Written by Shonda Ponder
All Bible verses taken from the KJV of the Open Bible
Genesis 1:18 -- And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
The light rules. There are two great lights. One is lesser, one is greater. Which one will you live in? Which one will you let rule your life? God gave us a choice when He created two. He created the greater and the lesser. His plan includes both. What God creates, God can destroy.
The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up. (1 Samuel 2:7)
He did this so He could give man free will. Man has no free will if he cannot choose his own path.
God didn't just give man free will, though. He told man which path he should follow, not which path he could follow. He laid out basic instructions to man in the Bible that would lead to long life and contentment.
Which path will you follow?
========================
Day 18: Genesis 1:18
January 18, 2009
Written by Shonda Ponder
All Bible verses taken from the KJV of the Open Bible
Genesis 1:18 -- And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
The light rules. There are two great lights. One is lesser, one is greater. Which one will you live in? Which one will you let rule your life? God gave us a choice when He created two. He created the greater and the lesser. His plan includes both. What God creates, God can destroy.
The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up. (1 Samuel 2:7)
He did this so He could give man free will. Man has no free will if he cannot choose his own path.
God didn't just give man free will, though. He told man which path he should follow, not which path he could follow. He laid out basic instructions to man in the Bible that would lead to long life and contentment.
Which path will you follow?
========================
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Devotionals of Recovery: Day 17: Genesis 1:17
Devotionals of Recovery:
Day 17: Genesis 1:17
January 18, 2009
Written by Shonda Ponder
All Bible verses taken from the KJV of the Open Bible
Genesis 1:17 -- And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light on the earth,
God doesn't take a light and hide it where no one can see it. He sets it high so it can light the way for all who are around. We are called to be children of the light.
While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. (John 12:36)
When you focus on anything but God, you are not living in the light. Your everyday problems stay problems that you can't get out of. Jesus is the light that we need to see by.
That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. (John 1:19)
You may think that no one understands you, at times. This is true when you live among children of the night. You must remember that it is not them that you need to look for your answers to.
And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. (John 1:5)
The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out. (Proverbs 13:9)
Stay the course. Keep walking in the light, and even your dark days will seem to be like a firefly in the night: small, quick, and easily swatted.
======================
Day 17: Genesis 1:17
January 18, 2009
Written by Shonda Ponder
All Bible verses taken from the KJV of the Open Bible
Genesis 1:17 -- And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light on the earth,
God doesn't take a light and hide it where no one can see it. He sets it high so it can light the way for all who are around. We are called to be children of the light.
While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. (John 12:36)
When you focus on anything but God, you are not living in the light. Your everyday problems stay problems that you can't get out of. Jesus is the light that we need to see by.
That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. (John 1:19)
You may think that no one understands you, at times. This is true when you live among children of the night. You must remember that it is not them that you need to look for your answers to.
And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. (John 1:5)
The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out. (Proverbs 13:9)
Stay the course. Keep walking in the light, and even your dark days will seem to be like a firefly in the night: small, quick, and easily swatted.
======================
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Devotionals of Recovery: Day 16: Genesis 1:16
Devotionals of Recovery:
Day 16: Genesis 1:16
January 14, 2009
Written by Shonda Ponder
All Bible verses taken from the KJV of the Open Bible
Genesis 1:16 -- And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
The light of day will always outshine the light of night. When good things happen in your life, it has more influence than the bad things that happen in your life. The good things that happen in your life will direct the paths that you take from there on out, unless you choose to stay in the dark.
Many times, we tend to spitefully sit where we are at under a dark sky. The negative emotions we experience envelope us and cause us to angrily fight going anywhere else. Jonah experienced this after he was sent to Ninevah to do God's work there. There is no record of him after that in the Bible. Job also experienced this, when he lay on his bed in depression, and his concerned friends came to stay with him. Job finally got off his bed, and the life God blessed him with was much better than the life Satan took away from him.
Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. (Psalm 27:14)
Sometimes when we are in the darkness of our lives, it is better to wait for the Lord to lead us. We must always look forward to the light, even when we are angry about the dark.
Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me. Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me. I will bear the indignation of the LORD, because I have sinned against him, until he plead my cause, and execute judgment for me: he will bring me forth to the light, and I shall behold his righteousness. (Micah 7: 7-9)
Micah says that he has sinned against God. When we are in darkness, it is usually because the choices we have made in life has led us there. We have sinned. And, because we sin, we have to bear the punishment. (I will bear the indignation of the LORD, because I have sinned against him).
When you show God that you are willing to accept the punishment, you are showing Him that you are willing to change. Being willing to change means that you go through the doors that He will eventually open to you. But, you must wait for those doors to open, and when they do, you must accept that He wants to bless you, and not punish you any longer. It may be that He uses the experience to bless you further, if you are sincere.
=================
Day 16: Genesis 1:16
January 14, 2009
Written by Shonda Ponder
All Bible verses taken from the KJV of the Open Bible
Genesis 1:16 -- And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
The light of day will always outshine the light of night. When good things happen in your life, it has more influence than the bad things that happen in your life. The good things that happen in your life will direct the paths that you take from there on out, unless you choose to stay in the dark.
Many times, we tend to spitefully sit where we are at under a dark sky. The negative emotions we experience envelope us and cause us to angrily fight going anywhere else. Jonah experienced this after he was sent to Ninevah to do God's work there. There is no record of him after that in the Bible. Job also experienced this, when he lay on his bed in depression, and his concerned friends came to stay with him. Job finally got off his bed, and the life God blessed him with was much better than the life Satan took away from him.
Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. (Psalm 27:14)
Sometimes when we are in the darkness of our lives, it is better to wait for the Lord to lead us. We must always look forward to the light, even when we are angry about the dark.
Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me. Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me. I will bear the indignation of the LORD, because I have sinned against him, until he plead my cause, and execute judgment for me: he will bring me forth to the light, and I shall behold his righteousness. (Micah 7: 7-9)
Micah says that he has sinned against God. When we are in darkness, it is usually because the choices we have made in life has led us there. We have sinned. And, because we sin, we have to bear the punishment. (I will bear the indignation of the LORD, because I have sinned against him).
When you show God that you are willing to accept the punishment, you are showing Him that you are willing to change. Being willing to change means that you go through the doors that He will eventually open to you. But, you must wait for those doors to open, and when they do, you must accept that He wants to bless you, and not punish you any longer. It may be that He uses the experience to bless you further, if you are sincere.
=================
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Devotionals of Recovery: Day 15: Genesis 1:15
Devotionals of Recovery:
Day 15: Genesis 1:15
January 10, 2009
Written by Shonda Ponder
All Bible verses taken from the KJV of the Open Bible
Genesis 1:15 -- And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
God wants you to live in the light. He doesn't like darkness of any kind. When you are confused, or unsure, you may say that you are "in the dark" about something. When you find yourself in the dark, it is always good to ask the Father for light. He will give you what you ask for, if it is done with a sincere heart.
Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. (Psalm 112:4)
God allows the darkness because He wants you to choose the light. He wants you to ask Him to lead you into the light. If you choose to remain in the darkness, the problems you are facing cannot be solved.
=========================
Day 15: Genesis 1:15
January 10, 2009
Written by Shonda Ponder
All Bible verses taken from the KJV of the Open Bible
Genesis 1:15 -- And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
God wants you to live in the light. He doesn't like darkness of any kind. When you are confused, or unsure, you may say that you are "in the dark" about something. When you find yourself in the dark, it is always good to ask the Father for light. He will give you what you ask for, if it is done with a sincere heart.
Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. (Psalm 112:4)
God allows the darkness because He wants you to choose the light. He wants you to ask Him to lead you into the light. If you choose to remain in the darkness, the problems you are facing cannot be solved.
=========================
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Devotionals of Recovery: Day 14: Genesis 1:14
Devotionals of Recovery:
Day 14: Genesis 1:14
January 8, 2009
Written by Shonda Ponder
All Bible verses taken from the KJV of the Open Bible
Genesis 1:14 -- And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
God created the day and the night. God doesn't abandon what He creates. He has a purpose for all that He creates. If it is not useful, it is not there. The sun, moon and stars all have a purpose: to divide the day from the night and to be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years.
Some days seem pointless to you as a mere human being. But, we must remember that those days were not created for you; but, rather, were created for God. If you are walking with God, those days would have purpose. If you are centering your thoughts and desires on yourself, those days seem pointless, because you are not in concert with the purpose in which those days were created.
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: Ecclesiastes 3:1
When you experience one of these days that seem to have no purpose, try a little soul-searching. Ask yourself what you can do to please God by being there for someone else. No matter how insignificant an activity might be, the person you are there for may see it as a great blessing. In the end, God works His purpose through you.
Every small thing you do can be used to God's glory. God does not discount the little things you do. God doesn't take them for granted.
=====================
Day 14: Genesis 1:14
January 8, 2009
Written by Shonda Ponder
All Bible verses taken from the KJV of the Open Bible
Genesis 1:14 -- And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
God created the day and the night. God doesn't abandon what He creates. He has a purpose for all that He creates. If it is not useful, it is not there. The sun, moon and stars all have a purpose: to divide the day from the night and to be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years.
Some days seem pointless to you as a mere human being. But, we must remember that those days were not created for you; but, rather, were created for God. If you are walking with God, those days would have purpose. If you are centering your thoughts and desires on yourself, those days seem pointless, because you are not in concert with the purpose in which those days were created.
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: Ecclesiastes 3:1
When you experience one of these days that seem to have no purpose, try a little soul-searching. Ask yourself what you can do to please God by being there for someone else. No matter how insignificant an activity might be, the person you are there for may see it as a great blessing. In the end, God works His purpose through you.
Every small thing you do can be used to God's glory. God does not discount the little things you do. God doesn't take them for granted.
=====================
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Reconsidering the Posse Comitatus
"Re-thinking the Posse Comitatus Act October 5, 2001 (re-edited and updated July 25, 2002)
Written by Shonda M. Ponder
The Posse Comitatus Act is in trouble. It is the only thing that stands in the way of stripping us of our freedom right now, and there are some in the defense department who are calling for a review of it. Deputy Secretary of Defense Paul Wolfowitz is one of them. Senator John Warner, R-Va, is another.
"We saw from within the cities and towns and villages of this great nation came the enemy.When that type of thing happens, we have to bring together every asset in the United States of America, irrespective of where it comes from - military, civilian and the like," Warner has stated, according to an Associated Press Report
Much of the threat of terrorism has been linked to the illegal drug trafficking, which is financing the weapons and training of the terrorists. For this reason, Bush has been adamant that this "War" is a "different kind of war", but is treating it with the same force as the "War on Drugs." The War on Drugs is the only other effort that has had to carefully examine the Posse Comitatus Act.
On September 24, 1999, Brigadier General Dorian T. Anderson sought to provide Title 10 military units in support of drug law enforcement agencies to stem the flow of illegal drugs into the continental United States. At a hearing held by the Committee on Government Reform about the drug threat along the Southwest Border, he stated:
"I would like to emphasize the words 'in support of.' With domestic law enforcement agencies in the lead, military units support their efforts with capabilities that are requested by law enforcement officials. We accomplish this support by deploying elements such as aviation reconnaissance units into operational areas. All supporting personnel are briefed on the Joint Chiefs of Staff Standing Rules of Engagement, trained in the legal constraints of the Posse Comitatus Act, intelligence oversight regulations and the environmental laws and statutes in the area in which they operate. Units deployed by Joint Task Force Six provide positive, 24 hour command and control of all assigned personnel through appropriate measures to ensure force protection, prevent accidents and ensure successful mission performance."
Previous reports on domestic terrorism have always sought to incorporate the Posse Comitatus Act into any plans of deterrency without such calls for considering to change it. In a report called "Domestic Preparedness against Terrorism: How ready are we?" on March 24, 2000, before a House Subcommittee on National Security, Veterans Affairs And International Relations, Brigadier General Bruce
M. Lawlor stated:
"A key point to make here is our relationship to the Lead Federal Agency (LFA). Under no circumstance will U.S. Joint Forces Command or JTF - CS (Joint Task Force - Civil Support) be in charge of the consequence management site. We will always act in support of an LFA, and will participate as a follow-on consequence management force behind first responders and state assets that normally arrive at the incident site first. The Commander of JTF-CS and his permanent staff, through constant exposure to the issues inherent in operations in the United States, will be able to apply the strengths resident in a military organization. They will do this in complete compliance with the Constitution, the Posse Comitatus Act, and other applicable laws."
The point to be made here is that every act of civil defense done in accordance with the suggestions made at the hearings reveal that there is no need whatsoever to do away with the Posse Comitatus act. The problem that seems to have arisen is not whether or not the Posse Comitatus act is a valid subject of reconsideration. The problem stems from the public's "right to know" about certain military operations within civilian territory.
In a recent press release sent by Norm Olson of the Michigan Militia Corps, Wolverines, he resounded his frustration that the Government was not keeping the citizen militia informed of its actions within the United States, and that it could cause endangerment--both of civilian lives and military personel. Olson maintains that the government's failure to incorporate the citizen militia for matters of home defense security has done much to encourage the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001. After all, the Posse Comitatus act does not apply to civilian law enforcement, and the citizen militia is answerable to the county sheriffs, which are civilian law enforcement in their areas.
See Also:
Bush Touts Homeland Security Dept.
Mon Jul 22,10:27 AM ET
U.S. Mulls Military's Domestic Role
Sun Jul 21,11:31 PM ET "
==============
Written by Shonda M. Ponder
The Posse Comitatus Act is in trouble. It is the only thing that stands in the way of stripping us of our freedom right now, and there are some in the defense department who are calling for a review of it. Deputy Secretary of Defense Paul Wolfowitz is one of them. Senator John Warner, R-Va, is another.
"We saw from within the cities and towns and villages of this great nation came the enemy.When that type of thing happens, we have to bring together every asset in the United States of America, irrespective of where it comes from - military, civilian and the like," Warner has stated, according to an Associated Press Report
Much of the threat of terrorism has been linked to the illegal drug trafficking, which is financing the weapons and training of the terrorists. For this reason, Bush has been adamant that this "War" is a "different kind of war", but is treating it with the same force as the "War on Drugs." The War on Drugs is the only other effort that has had to carefully examine the Posse Comitatus Act.
On September 24, 1999, Brigadier General Dorian T. Anderson sought to provide Title 10 military units in support of drug law enforcement agencies to stem the flow of illegal drugs into the continental United States. At a hearing held by the Committee on Government Reform about the drug threat along the Southwest Border, he stated:
"I would like to emphasize the words 'in support of.' With domestic law enforcement agencies in the lead, military units support their efforts with capabilities that are requested by law enforcement officials. We accomplish this support by deploying elements such as aviation reconnaissance units into operational areas. All supporting personnel are briefed on the Joint Chiefs of Staff Standing Rules of Engagement, trained in the legal constraints of the Posse Comitatus Act, intelligence oversight regulations and the environmental laws and statutes in the area in which they operate. Units deployed by Joint Task Force Six provide positive, 24 hour command and control of all assigned personnel through appropriate measures to ensure force protection, prevent accidents and ensure successful mission performance."
Previous reports on domestic terrorism have always sought to incorporate the Posse Comitatus Act into any plans of deterrency without such calls for considering to change it. In a report called "Domestic Preparedness against Terrorism: How ready are we?" on March 24, 2000, before a House Subcommittee on National Security, Veterans Affairs And International Relations, Brigadier General Bruce
M. Lawlor stated:
"A key point to make here is our relationship to the Lead Federal Agency (LFA). Under no circumstance will U.S. Joint Forces Command or JTF - CS (Joint Task Force - Civil Support) be in charge of the consequence management site. We will always act in support of an LFA, and will participate as a follow-on consequence management force behind first responders and state assets that normally arrive at the incident site first. The Commander of JTF-CS and his permanent staff, through constant exposure to the issues inherent in operations in the United States, will be able to apply the strengths resident in a military organization. They will do this in complete compliance with the Constitution, the Posse Comitatus Act, and other applicable laws."
The point to be made here is that every act of civil defense done in accordance with the suggestions made at the hearings reveal that there is no need whatsoever to do away with the Posse Comitatus act. The problem that seems to have arisen is not whether or not the Posse Comitatus act is a valid subject of reconsideration. The problem stems from the public's "right to know" about certain military operations within civilian territory.
In a recent press release sent by Norm Olson of the Michigan Militia Corps, Wolverines, he resounded his frustration that the Government was not keeping the citizen militia informed of its actions within the United States, and that it could cause endangerment--both of civilian lives and military personel. Olson maintains that the government's failure to incorporate the citizen militia for matters of home defense security has done much to encourage the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001. After all, the Posse Comitatus act does not apply to civilian law enforcement, and the citizen militia is answerable to the county sheriffs, which are civilian law enforcement in their areas.
See Also:
Bush Touts Homeland Security Dept.
Mon Jul 22,10:27 AM ET
U.S. Mulls Military's Domestic Role
Sun Jul 21,11:31 PM ET "
==============
Why The Major News Network's Ratings are Low
This was originally written in 2002.
By Shonda Ponder
If there is one thing I have learned these last few months, it's that...well, frankly, news sucks. I used to be able to turn on the internet and be barraged with all kinds of interesting activist organizations. Now, in the wake of September 11th -- and all the subsequent legislation and political cataclysms -- it seems as if journalists have become afraid to speak their minds.
Fear. It's a new thing to us Americans. We touted and protected and defended 1st Amendment rights, then we realized how close the 1st Amendment is to what we call "action". Next, we decided that anyone who doesn't speak like, think like, or act like what we consider to be the norm should be investigated, and possibly denied their freedom. We were told that we should not live in fear; to go about our daily lives as we have before, because to live in fear would mean that the terrorists won.
No wonder journalists are afraid. If they really printed their opinions, or even reported what is actually happening, they could lose their jobs -- or worse: they could lose what little freedom they actually have.
I read stories in the newspaper today that tell me how great the government is, and how they are doing everything to protect me from terrorists. When I pick up the telephone, I think, "Am I being tapped?" When I use my credit card, I wonder, "Is someone watching what I buy?" I read an article the other day how grocery stores are losing money because Americans aren't shopping as much. Could it be that I am not the only one who thinks this way?...
Oh, I understand. I understand that very few people out there who are struggling to come to terms with this new lifestyle of fear will actually ask these questions out loud. After all, no one wants to be investigated just because they can think for themselves.
It would be refreshing, however, to see more journalists who are not afraid to tell us what is really happening, rather than try to get a Democrat or Republican elected. I'd like to know the facts, not who's to blame. I'd like the opportunity to place the blame for myself, as an average, everyday American.
I took journalism in high school. And, I dare say that what these journalists and reporters report today would have probably got me an F, if they turned it in to my teachers. All the opinions and political biases should be done away with. They have no business being in a newspaper. The newspaper and TV news stations are not there to tell us how to think. Their jobs are to report the facts so we can make our own decisions. And, most importantly, their job is to report the other side of the story as well.
One of the most important things I learned in journalism was that there are three sides to every story: the person's who caused it, the person's who was the victim, and the person's who witnessed the event. How often do we hear the other two sides of the story?
The truth is, I think that, after September 11, 2001, Americans actually wanted to be told what to think, because they honestly didn't know what to think. It's always safer to let someone else make the decisions. But, is it best?
I don't know why I am writing this, except to say that I can understand why newspapers are losing their audience, and why television news stations are losing their ratings. Wake up, people. It's the same reason people have stopped showing up at the polls: lack of variety, lack of excitement, lack of real news, and lack of control. We have no control over anything anymore. We don't even control how we are supposed to think anymore.
I think people have finally come to realize what they still refuse to admit, and God help us all if they ever admit it:
Freedom isn't free.
=============================
By Shonda Ponder
If there is one thing I have learned these last few months, it's that...well, frankly, news sucks. I used to be able to turn on the internet and be barraged with all kinds of interesting activist organizations. Now, in the wake of September 11th -- and all the subsequent legislation and political cataclysms -- it seems as if journalists have become afraid to speak their minds.
Fear. It's a new thing to us Americans. We touted and protected and defended 1st Amendment rights, then we realized how close the 1st Amendment is to what we call "action". Next, we decided that anyone who doesn't speak like, think like, or act like what we consider to be the norm should be investigated, and possibly denied their freedom. We were told that we should not live in fear; to go about our daily lives as we have before, because to live in fear would mean that the terrorists won.
No wonder journalists are afraid. If they really printed their opinions, or even reported what is actually happening, they could lose their jobs -- or worse: they could lose what little freedom they actually have.
I read stories in the newspaper today that tell me how great the government is, and how they are doing everything to protect me from terrorists. When I pick up the telephone, I think, "Am I being tapped?" When I use my credit card, I wonder, "Is someone watching what I buy?" I read an article the other day how grocery stores are losing money because Americans aren't shopping as much. Could it be that I am not the only one who thinks this way?...
Oh, I understand. I understand that very few people out there who are struggling to come to terms with this new lifestyle of fear will actually ask these questions out loud. After all, no one wants to be investigated just because they can think for themselves.
It would be refreshing, however, to see more journalists who are not afraid to tell us what is really happening, rather than try to get a Democrat or Republican elected. I'd like to know the facts, not who's to blame. I'd like the opportunity to place the blame for myself, as an average, everyday American.
I took journalism in high school. And, I dare say that what these journalists and reporters report today would have probably got me an F, if they turned it in to my teachers. All the opinions and political biases should be done away with. They have no business being in a newspaper. The newspaper and TV news stations are not there to tell us how to think. Their jobs are to report the facts so we can make our own decisions. And, most importantly, their job is to report the other side of the story as well.
One of the most important things I learned in journalism was that there are three sides to every story: the person's who caused it, the person's who was the victim, and the person's who witnessed the event. How often do we hear the other two sides of the story?
The truth is, I think that, after September 11, 2001, Americans actually wanted to be told what to think, because they honestly didn't know what to think. It's always safer to let someone else make the decisions. But, is it best?
I don't know why I am writing this, except to say that I can understand why newspapers are losing their audience, and why television news stations are losing their ratings. Wake up, people. It's the same reason people have stopped showing up at the polls: lack of variety, lack of excitement, lack of real news, and lack of control. We have no control over anything anymore. We don't even control how we are supposed to think anymore.
I think people have finally come to realize what they still refuse to admit, and God help us all if they ever admit it:
Freedom isn't free.
=============================
Devotionals of Recovery: Day 13: Genesis 1:13
Devotionals of Recovery:
Day 13: Genesis 1:13
January 6, 2009
Written by Shonda Ponder
All Bible verses taken from the KJV of the Open Bible
Genesis 1:13 -- And the evening and the morning were the third day.
There is always a new day. It may seem, at times, like the world as you know it has ended. When this happens, you must see this as a new beginning. The world itself has not ended, only the world as you knew it to be.
While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease. (Genesis 8:22)
If you are depressed, the worst thing you can do is lay down. If you lay down and give up, you are committing a slow, arduous suicide. If you are committing suicide, then your faith is to be questioned. Therefore, no matter how hard life seems to be, the best thing you can do is keep going. Get up, do the things you have to do on a daily basis. Soon, the dark tunnel you are in will end. You will see glimmers of light, you will slowly rebuild your hope.
Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. (Psalm 27:14)
To "wait on the Lord" does not mean to stop living. It simply means that if you walk the path of righteousness, your hope is in Him, that He will take care of the things that cause you pain.
==============
Day 13: Genesis 1:13
January 6, 2009
Written by Shonda Ponder
All Bible verses taken from the KJV of the Open Bible
Genesis 1:13 -- And the evening and the morning were the third day.
There is always a new day. It may seem, at times, like the world as you know it has ended. When this happens, you must see this as a new beginning. The world itself has not ended, only the world as you knew it to be.
While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease. (Genesis 8:22)
If you are depressed, the worst thing you can do is lay down. If you lay down and give up, you are committing a slow, arduous suicide. If you are committing suicide, then your faith is to be questioned. Therefore, no matter how hard life seems to be, the best thing you can do is keep going. Get up, do the things you have to do on a daily basis. Soon, the dark tunnel you are in will end. You will see glimmers of light, you will slowly rebuild your hope.
Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. (Psalm 27:14)
To "wait on the Lord" does not mean to stop living. It simply means that if you walk the path of righteousness, your hope is in Him, that He will take care of the things that cause you pain.
==============
Friday, January 02, 2009
Be Thankful
Written by Shonda Ponder
All verses are taken from the KJV Bible
1 Thessalonians 5:18 -- In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
God has given you many things over the years. If you look at your life just one year ago, how drastic have the changes been? Sometimes when we look back, we imagine a time when we never thought we'd be where we are today, doing what we are doing at that moment.
The question becomes, then, why? What does God have planned in your life that got you where you are right now?
So, today, I challenge you to be thankful for where you are right now. Ask God to use your circumstances to help you do the Kingdom Work He wants you to do. Pray that where you are is profitable to the Will of God in your future.
====================
All verses are taken from the KJV Bible
1 Thessalonians 5:18 -- In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
God has given you many things over the years. If you look at your life just one year ago, how drastic have the changes been? Sometimes when we look back, we imagine a time when we never thought we'd be where we are today, doing what we are doing at that moment.
The question becomes, then, why? What does God have planned in your life that got you where you are right now?
So, today, I challenge you to be thankful for where you are right now. Ask God to use your circumstances to help you do the Kingdom Work He wants you to do. Pray that where you are is profitable to the Will of God in your future.
====================
Thursday, January 01, 2009
Dear Friend: An Invitation
I am a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. I serve with my whole heart because He paid a debt I owed that I could never repay no matter how I try. I serve with joy and gladness, for the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endures to all generations. (Psalms 100:5)
I wish I had the time to tell you how God has given me so much to be thankful for in my Lord Jesus Christ. I have tried, but hearing, ye have not heard. (Matthew 13:13) Maybe it's because you have not experienced my God the way I have, and you find it hard to relate. Or maybe you feel as if you are not good enough to approach the light of His Glory. I can only speculate as to what your reasons are, for I have invited you to join me in the praise and worship of my Lord, and to join me in His Kingdom work as He has instructed me to do , when He said, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you: And Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." (Matthew 28:19-20). Yet you linger, and refuse to quickly honor the invitation.
Friend, you don't have to be on good terms with yourself or God to approach the throne. For God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)
As a servant of God, I am not perfect or sinless. I am, however, forgiven. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Romans 10:13) And because I am saved, I am a new creature. My old life is passed away, and I have a new life. (2 Corinthians 5:17) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: It is a gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created unto Christ Jesus unto good works, which God has before ordained that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:8-10)
You see, I can never do enough to repay God for sacrificing His only son for me. I can only believe He did it because He loves me, just as I am. Even so, faith, if it has not works, is dead. (James 2:17) Therefore, I cannot, in good conscience, after the price my Lord paid for me, continue in my sins. I could not change who I am. But my God can. When I accepted Him as my Lord and Savior, I gave Him permission to mold and shape me as He would have me be. This is because once I realized the total price of my sins, I was convicted to serve with all my spirit, constantly striving to cleanse myself from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. (2 Corinthians 6:1) Even striving to perfect myself, I am constantly reminded that no matter what I do, I will never be righteous enough, For there is none righteous, no, not one. (Romans 3:10)
I have said all this to teach you, friend, that if you are waiting until you are "perfect enough", it will not happen. You need not linger or have excuses not to accept my invitation any longer. God is calling you to join Him in His kingdom work. Do you really want to disappoint Him after what He's already done for you?
Jesus never condemned the sinner, though he begged them to repent. Therefore, neither do I condemn you. (John 8:11) To do so would be blasphemy, for I am not perfect either, and am unworthy to cast stones at your character. (John 8:7) What I say to you, I say out of love, as Christ has commanded us to love one another as He first loved us. (John 3:35) Having said that, It is my duty to inform you that the Kingdom of God is at hand. (Matthew 10:7) It is because of that that I would be derelict in my duty if I failed to write this letter to you.
You see, once again, I am pleading with you to come and worship the Lord with me. I don't understand why it is so hard for you to accept my invitation. Can't you hear Jesus saying through me, "Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30) What relief you will have when you realize that you have eternal life, rather than condemnation! For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ, our Lord. (Romans 6:23)
Friend, I beg you to linger no more! You have been invited to eat the bread of life at my Lord's supper table! when I think of you, I remember a parable Jesus told once of a man who fixed a great supper. He invited certain people. These people who were invited all had some excuse for not wanting to show up. It doesn't matter what their excuse was. So, he told his servant to go out onto the streets and gather the lower classes of people to eat in their place. (Luke 14:16-24) I believe he did this because He knew they would appreciate his efforts more. (Luke 14:14) How is it that you cannot appreciate what my Lord has to offer you? If you won't come, God will invite someone else in your stead.
I have prayed for you, my friend. I have pleaded with you; and, now, I am writing this letter as a last attempt before I go on my way to invite others, as the servant of the Lord has been instructed to do. Please do not make excuses, for God will not accept any excuses on the day of judgment. Jesus has instructed that we should always be prepared, because you may not be alive tomorrow to repent, and if you are, what if He returns for His servants? Watch, therefore, for ye know neither the day, nor the hour wherein the son of man cometh. (Matthew 25:13) And, if He does, do you really want to take the chance of hearing Him say "I know you not"? (Matthew 25:12)
But if you still refuse the invitation, it is my duty to leave you alone and to shake the dust of my feet on the way. (Matthew 10:14)
My Lord is a gracious God. He has patience with you for now, but I beg you, my friend, not to test my Lord's patience for long. he has been known to curse those who continue in their sins. (Deuteronomy 28:15-68) Maybe you are already experiencing some of them. I hope not; but, if you are, repent, and God will turn those curses into blessings.
Jesus taught a parable about a prodigal son, who defied his father, spent his inheritance, and wound up slopping pigs for a living. Finally, he determined to be his father's servant, if only his father would take him back into his home after what he'd done. When his father saw him coming, he welcomed his son home, rejoicing with a great feast and restoring his place in the home. God will do that for you if you let Him. (Luke 15:11-32)
Please accept my final invitation to join me in the praise and worship of my Lord at 1st Biker's Church in Texarkana, Texas. We are located at 12th and Walnut. If you don't want to go to that church, then find one you are comfortable with, but we will accept you with open arms if you do.
With Agape Love for You,
Your Servant in Christ,
Shonda M. Ponder
903-794-7241
=========================
I wish I had the time to tell you how God has given me so much to be thankful for in my Lord Jesus Christ. I have tried, but hearing, ye have not heard. (Matthew 13:13) Maybe it's because you have not experienced my God the way I have, and you find it hard to relate. Or maybe you feel as if you are not good enough to approach the light of His Glory. I can only speculate as to what your reasons are, for I have invited you to join me in the praise and worship of my Lord, and to join me in His Kingdom work as He has instructed me to do , when He said, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you: And Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." (Matthew 28:19-20). Yet you linger, and refuse to quickly honor the invitation.
Friend, you don't have to be on good terms with yourself or God to approach the throne. For God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)
As a servant of God, I am not perfect or sinless. I am, however, forgiven. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Romans 10:13) And because I am saved, I am a new creature. My old life is passed away, and I have a new life. (2 Corinthians 5:17) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: It is a gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created unto Christ Jesus unto good works, which God has before ordained that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:8-10)
You see, I can never do enough to repay God for sacrificing His only son for me. I can only believe He did it because He loves me, just as I am. Even so, faith, if it has not works, is dead. (James 2:17) Therefore, I cannot, in good conscience, after the price my Lord paid for me, continue in my sins. I could not change who I am. But my God can. When I accepted Him as my Lord and Savior, I gave Him permission to mold and shape me as He would have me be. This is because once I realized the total price of my sins, I was convicted to serve with all my spirit, constantly striving to cleanse myself from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. (2 Corinthians 6:1) Even striving to perfect myself, I am constantly reminded that no matter what I do, I will never be righteous enough, For there is none righteous, no, not one. (Romans 3:10)
I have said all this to teach you, friend, that if you are waiting until you are "perfect enough", it will not happen. You need not linger or have excuses not to accept my invitation any longer. God is calling you to join Him in His kingdom work. Do you really want to disappoint Him after what He's already done for you?
Jesus never condemned the sinner, though he begged them to repent. Therefore, neither do I condemn you. (John 8:11) To do so would be blasphemy, for I am not perfect either, and am unworthy to cast stones at your character. (John 8:7) What I say to you, I say out of love, as Christ has commanded us to love one another as He first loved us. (John 3:35) Having said that, It is my duty to inform you that the Kingdom of God is at hand. (Matthew 10:7) It is because of that that I would be derelict in my duty if I failed to write this letter to you.
You see, once again, I am pleading with you to come and worship the Lord with me. I don't understand why it is so hard for you to accept my invitation. Can't you hear Jesus saying through me, "Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30) What relief you will have when you realize that you have eternal life, rather than condemnation! For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ, our Lord. (Romans 6:23)
Friend, I beg you to linger no more! You have been invited to eat the bread of life at my Lord's supper table! when I think of you, I remember a parable Jesus told once of a man who fixed a great supper. He invited certain people. These people who were invited all had some excuse for not wanting to show up. It doesn't matter what their excuse was. So, he told his servant to go out onto the streets and gather the lower classes of people to eat in their place. (Luke 14:16-24) I believe he did this because He knew they would appreciate his efforts more. (Luke 14:14) How is it that you cannot appreciate what my Lord has to offer you? If you won't come, God will invite someone else in your stead.
I have prayed for you, my friend. I have pleaded with you; and, now, I am writing this letter as a last attempt before I go on my way to invite others, as the servant of the Lord has been instructed to do. Please do not make excuses, for God will not accept any excuses on the day of judgment. Jesus has instructed that we should always be prepared, because you may not be alive tomorrow to repent, and if you are, what if He returns for His servants? Watch, therefore, for ye know neither the day, nor the hour wherein the son of man cometh. (Matthew 25:13) And, if He does, do you really want to take the chance of hearing Him say "I know you not"? (Matthew 25:12)
But if you still refuse the invitation, it is my duty to leave you alone and to shake the dust of my feet on the way. (Matthew 10:14)
My Lord is a gracious God. He has patience with you for now, but I beg you, my friend, not to test my Lord's patience for long. he has been known to curse those who continue in their sins. (Deuteronomy 28:15-68) Maybe you are already experiencing some of them. I hope not; but, if you are, repent, and God will turn those curses into blessings.
Jesus taught a parable about a prodigal son, who defied his father, spent his inheritance, and wound up slopping pigs for a living. Finally, he determined to be his father's servant, if only his father would take him back into his home after what he'd done. When his father saw him coming, he welcomed his son home, rejoicing with a great feast and restoring his place in the home. God will do that for you if you let Him. (Luke 15:11-32)
Please accept my final invitation to join me in the praise and worship of my Lord at 1st Biker's Church in Texarkana, Texas. We are located at 12th and Walnut. If you don't want to go to that church, then find one you are comfortable with, but we will accept you with open arms if you do.
With Agape Love for You,
Your Servant in Christ,
Shonda M. Ponder
903-794-7241
=========================
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