Daily Promises
Blue Letter Bible
March 29, 2009
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. (James 4:10)
This conditional promise can be misused by some who have ulterior motives, but when we truly humble ourselves in the Lord's sight it can in no way be for our own lifting up. True humility would put ourselves last and that is what makes this paradoxical truth so amazing. We cannot lift our own selves up; it is only God who is able to do that and He only does that when we are humbled before Him. We also saw this demonstrated in Christ who "humbled Himself to the point of death—even the death of the cross" yet "God exalted Him" (Philippians 2:8-9).
Sunday 29 March 2009
Answer to prayers
I called Him, but He gave me no answer.
—Song 5:6
Prayer sometimes tarrieth, like a petitioner at the gate, until the King cometh forth to fill her bosom with the blessings which she seeketh. The Lord, when He hath given great faith, has been known to try it by long delayings. He has suffered His servants' voices to echo in their ears as from a brazen sky. They have knocked at the golden gate, but it has remained immovable, as though it were rusted upon its hinges. Like Jeremiah, they have cried, "Thou hast covered Thyself with a cloud, that our prayer should not pass through." Thus have true saints continued long in patient waiting without reply, not because their prayers were not vehement, nor because they were unaccepted, but because it so pleased Him who is a Sovereign, and who gives according to His own pleasure. If it pleases Him to bid our patience exercise itself, shall He not do as He wills with His own! Beggars must not be choosers either as to time, place, or form. But we must be careful not to take delays in prayer for denials: God's long-dated bills will be punctually honoured; we must not suffer Satan to shake our confidence in the God of truth by pointing to our unanswered prayers. Unanswered petitions are not unheard. God keeps a file for our prayers--they are not blown away by the wind, they are treasured in the King's archives. This is a registry in the court of heaven wherein every prayer is recorded. Tried believer, thy Lord hath a tear-bottle in which the costly drops of sacred grief are put away, and a book in which thy holy groanings are numbered. By-and-by, thy suit shall prevail. Canst thou not be content to wait a little? Will not thy Lord's time be better than thy time? By-and-by He will comfortably appear, to thy soul's joy, and make thee put away the sackcloth and ashes of long waiting, and put on the scarlet and fine linen of full fruition.
Charles Spurgeon
—Song 5:6
Prayer sometimes tarrieth, like a petitioner at the gate, until the King cometh forth to fill her bosom with the blessings which she seeketh. The Lord, when He hath given great faith, has been known to try it by long delayings. He has suffered His servants' voices to echo in their ears as from a brazen sky. They have knocked at the golden gate, but it has remained immovable, as though it were rusted upon its hinges. Like Jeremiah, they have cried, "Thou hast covered Thyself with a cloud, that our prayer should not pass through." Thus have true saints continued long in patient waiting without reply, not because their prayers were not vehement, nor because they were unaccepted, but because it so pleased Him who is a Sovereign, and who gives according to His own pleasure. If it pleases Him to bid our patience exercise itself, shall He not do as He wills with His own! Beggars must not be choosers either as to time, place, or form. But we must be careful not to take delays in prayer for denials: God's long-dated bills will be punctually honoured; we must not suffer Satan to shake our confidence in the God of truth by pointing to our unanswered prayers. Unanswered petitions are not unheard. God keeps a file for our prayers--they are not blown away by the wind, they are treasured in the King's archives. This is a registry in the court of heaven wherein every prayer is recorded. Tried believer, thy Lord hath a tear-bottle in which the costly drops of sacred grief are put away, and a book in which thy holy groanings are numbered. By-and-by, thy suit shall prevail. Canst thou not be content to wait a little? Will not thy Lord's time be better than thy time? By-and-by He will comfortably appear, to thy soul's joy, and make thee put away the sackcloth and ashes of long waiting, and put on the scarlet and fine linen of full fruition.
Charles Spurgeon
Suffering for Christ
Though He were a Son, yet learned He obedience by the things which He suffered.
—Hebrews 5:8
We are told that the Captain of our salvation was made perfect through suffering, therefore we who are sinful, and who are far from being perfect, must not wonder if we are called to pass through suffering too. Shall the head be crowned with thorns, and shall the other members of the body be rocked upon the dainty lap of ease? Must Christ pass through seas of His own blood to win the crown, and are we to walk to heaven dryshod in silver slippers? No, our Master's experience teaches us that suffering is necessary, and the true-born child of God must not, would not, escape it if he might. But there is one very comforting thought in the fact of Christ's "being made perfect through suffering"--it is, that He can have complete sympathy with us. "He is not an high priest that cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities." In this sympathy of Christ we find a sustaining power. One of the early martyrs said, "I can bear it all, for Jesus suffered, and He suffers in me now; He sympathizes with me, and this makes me strong." Believer, lay hold of this thought in all times of agony. Let the thought of Jesus strengthen you as you follow in His steps. Find a sweet support in His sympathy; and remember that, to suffer is an honourable thing--to suffer for Christ is glory. The apostles rejoiced that they were counted worthy to do this. Just so far as the Lord shall give us grace to suffer for Christ, to suffer with Christ, just so far does He honour us. The jewels of a Christian are his afflictions. The regalia of the kings whom God hath anointed are their troubles, their sorrows, and their griefs. Let us not, therefore, shun being honoured. Let us not turn aside from being exalted. Griefs exalt us, and troubles lift us up. "If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him."
Charles Spurgeon
—Hebrews 5:8
We are told that the Captain of our salvation was made perfect through suffering, therefore we who are sinful, and who are far from being perfect, must not wonder if we are called to pass through suffering too. Shall the head be crowned with thorns, and shall the other members of the body be rocked upon the dainty lap of ease? Must Christ pass through seas of His own blood to win the crown, and are we to walk to heaven dryshod in silver slippers? No, our Master's experience teaches us that suffering is necessary, and the true-born child of God must not, would not, escape it if he might. But there is one very comforting thought in the fact of Christ's "being made perfect through suffering"--it is, that He can have complete sympathy with us. "He is not an high priest that cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities." In this sympathy of Christ we find a sustaining power. One of the early martyrs said, "I can bear it all, for Jesus suffered, and He suffers in me now; He sympathizes with me, and this makes me strong." Believer, lay hold of this thought in all times of agony. Let the thought of Jesus strengthen you as you follow in His steps. Find a sweet support in His sympathy; and remember that, to suffer is an honourable thing--to suffer for Christ is glory. The apostles rejoiced that they were counted worthy to do this. Just so far as the Lord shall give us grace to suffer for Christ, to suffer with Christ, just so far does He honour us. The jewels of a Christian are his afflictions. The regalia of the kings whom God hath anointed are their troubles, their sorrows, and their griefs. Let us not, therefore, shun being honoured. Let us not turn aside from being exalted. Griefs exalt us, and troubles lift us up. "If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him."
Charles Spurgeon
Romans 6:23
For the wages of sin is death; but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Wednesday 25 March 2009
Forgiveness
One of the last sayings of Christ on the cross and paying the price of my redemption by the shedding of His precious blood: "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do".
I must say that it does not always come easy for me to forgive certain wrongs. Father, forgive me and give me the grace to forgive others as you forgave me, teach me forgiveness and to all of us. This world so much need forgiveness.
I must say that it does not always come easy for me to forgive certain wrongs. Father, forgive me and give me the grace to forgive others as you forgave me, teach me forgiveness and to all of us. This world so much need forgiveness.
Humility the way to God!
Blue Letter Bible Daily PromiseToday's Promise from the Bible
Psalm 18:27
For thou wilt save the afflicted people; but wilt bring down high looks.
Humble are the people of God and they will be saved! Humble are they that trust upon Christ for they have given up hope in their own worth, power, and strength to sustain themselves. All will be saved who reject themselves and trust upon the life, death, resurrection, ascension, and diety of Christ Jesus. They shall taste the life everlasting!
Psalm 18:27
For thou wilt save the afflicted people; but wilt bring down high looks.
Humble are the people of God and they will be saved! Humble are they that trust upon Christ for they have given up hope in their own worth, power, and strength to sustain themselves. All will be saved who reject themselves and trust upon the life, death, resurrection, ascension, and diety of Christ Jesus. They shall taste the life everlasting!
Once More on the Resurrection and Sanctification
Printed from the Blue Letter Bible
Day By Day By Grace
Bob Hoekstra
March 25th
For we do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia: that we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life. Yes, we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead, who delivered us from so great a death, and does deliver us; in whom we trust that He will still deliver us. (2 Corinthians 1:8-10)
Our passage speaks again of the Lord's resurrection power operating in our daily Christian lives, in the process of sanctification and spiritual growth. The setting in which the Lord did this resurrecting work was in the midst of trials while Paul and his team were serving God.
Paul did not want other believers to be unaware of his difficulties. "For we do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia." Too often, we are tempted to keep our struggles totally private. Thereby, we rob glory from God when He delivers us. Also, we keep others from learning important lessons that come from watching God fulfill the faithful promises of His word.
Paul's battles were severe on this occasion. "We were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life. Yes, we had the sentence of death in ourselves." Spiritually speaking, these trials were "killing" Paul and his missionary team. They were pressed down, overwhelmed, helpless, and hopeless. When we are in hopeless despair, our sufferings seem to be pointless. Yet, our difficulties (like Paul's) have this invaluable purpose built into them: "that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead." We have frequently noted that living by grace requires humility and faith. God gives grace to the humble, and faith accesses grace. Well, in the trials of life, God is working on developing these relational realities (spiritual realities that become real through a growing relationship with Jesus).
Trials and difficulties become occasions to be humbled before God. We are provoked to cry out to God in helplessness. Also, trials present new opportunities to trust in the Lord. When the trials are intense, God is purging us of the primary obstacle to trusting in God, and that is self-trust. "Yes, we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead." Thus, convinced that we cannot handle it, we call upon God, who faithfully resurrects us from our circumstantial death: "Who delivered us from so great a death." Thereby, faith grows, bringing assurance that He will continue to rescue us: "and does deliver us; in whom we trust that He will still deliver us."
O Lord, my Deliverer, come to my aid in the trials that bury me in despair. Show me where I am trusting in myself. Purge me of self-trust. I want to embrace humility and put my trust in You. Resurrect me, Lord, in Jesus' name, Amen.
HE cares for ME!
(Charles Spurgeon)
"Casting all your care upon Him--for He cares for you!" 1 Peter 5:7
It is a happy way of soothing sorrow, when we can feel--"HE cares for ME!" Christian! do not dishonor God, by always wearing a brow of worry! Come--cast your burden upon your God! You are staggering beneath a weight--which your Father would not feel. What seems like a crushing burden to you--would be but as small dust to Him. Nothing is so sweet as to,"Lie passive in God's hands, And know no will, but His." O child of suffering--be patient! God has not overlooked you in His providence. He who is the feeder of sparrows--will also furnish you with what you need. Do not sit down in despair.There is One who cares for you! His all-seeing eye is fixed on you! His all-loving heart beats with pity for your woe! His omnipotent hand shall yet bring you the needed help! The darkest cloud--shall scatter itself in showers of mercy. The blackest gloom--shall give place to the morning light.If you are one of His family--He will bind up your wounds, and heal your broken heart. Do not doubt His grace, because of your troubles--but believe that He loves you as much in seasons of distress--as in times of happiness. What a serene and quiet life might you lead--if you would leave providing--to the God of providence!If God cares for you--why need you care also? Can you trust Him for your soul--and not for your body? He has never refused to bear your burdens--He has never fainted under their weight. Come, then, soul! Be done with fretful worry--and leave all your concerns in the hand of your gracious God!
"Casting all your care upon Him--for He cares for you!" 1 Peter 5:7
It is a happy way of soothing sorrow, when we can feel--"HE cares for ME!" Christian! do not dishonor God, by always wearing a brow of worry! Come--cast your burden upon your God! You are staggering beneath a weight--which your Father would not feel. What seems like a crushing burden to you--would be but as small dust to Him. Nothing is so sweet as to,"Lie passive in God's hands, And know no will, but His." O child of suffering--be patient! God has not overlooked you in His providence. He who is the feeder of sparrows--will also furnish you with what you need. Do not sit down in despair.There is One who cares for you! His all-seeing eye is fixed on you! His all-loving heart beats with pity for your woe! His omnipotent hand shall yet bring you the needed help! The darkest cloud--shall scatter itself in showers of mercy. The blackest gloom--shall give place to the morning light.If you are one of His family--He will bind up your wounds, and heal your broken heart. Do not doubt His grace, because of your troubles--but believe that He loves you as much in seasons of distress--as in times of happiness. What a serene and quiet life might you lead--if you would leave providing--to the God of providence!If God cares for you--why need you care also? Can you trust Him for your soul--and not for your body? He has never refused to bear your burdens--He has never fainted under their weight. Come, then, soul! Be done with fretful worry--and leave all your concerns in the hand of your gracious God!
Tuesday 24 March 2009
Life in Canada
Life is not always easy for us here.
Many times we feel lonely and like nobody cares. We try to help and support others in their needs and sometimes feel like they resent it. Sometimes we suffer needs. Sometimes we are sick. Sometimes we feel little.
We live one day at a time. Trusting in our ever sufficient Lord. Sometimes we feel useless and unwanted. But we rejoice in our Saviour. Sometimes we feel powerless in helping others in their trials and troubles and pains. Sometimes we feel so little but remember we are in God's hands and He will never leave us. Sometimes it feels like all the people we have tried to love and help couldn't careless. But it doesn't matter I guess since we didn't help to earn their esteem but for our Father.
Yet we long for Jesus' return. When there will be no more hurts and pains and hates and hurt feelings and other human desires coming in the way between us and God's children. Then we will never again feel the inadequacy and hurt of being unable to reach out to the people we love and to show them our love for them.
Jesus, this is the way you have chosen for us to teach us that your grace is sufficient for us, to teach us peace and let peace and faith grow in our hearts. We are far from perfect and we are weak. But we remember your promise that when we are weak, we are strong in You. Please keep on pouring your mercy, grace, Holy Spirit and love and blessings in our life as You have and You promised. Help us to be better servants of You by grace and thru the power of Jesus' blood. Forgive us when we fail You and give us new mercies every morning. We don't put our trust in us but in You and commit ourselves to You. Thank you for Your love and work of salvation in our lives. Help us to live our life for your glory and be useful to others and please use us to help others find You.
Many times we feel lonely and like nobody cares. We try to help and support others in their needs and sometimes feel like they resent it. Sometimes we suffer needs. Sometimes we are sick. Sometimes we feel little.
We live one day at a time. Trusting in our ever sufficient Lord. Sometimes we feel useless and unwanted. But we rejoice in our Saviour. Sometimes we feel powerless in helping others in their trials and troubles and pains. Sometimes we feel so little but remember we are in God's hands and He will never leave us. Sometimes it feels like all the people we have tried to love and help couldn't careless. But it doesn't matter I guess since we didn't help to earn their esteem but for our Father.
Yet we long for Jesus' return. When there will be no more hurts and pains and hates and hurt feelings and other human desires coming in the way between us and God's children. Then we will never again feel the inadequacy and hurt of being unable to reach out to the people we love and to show them our love for them.
Jesus, this is the way you have chosen for us to teach us that your grace is sufficient for us, to teach us peace and let peace and faith grow in our hearts. We are far from perfect and we are weak. But we remember your promise that when we are weak, we are strong in You. Please keep on pouring your mercy, grace, Holy Spirit and love and blessings in our life as You have and You promised. Help us to be better servants of You by grace and thru the power of Jesus' blood. Forgive us when we fail You and give us new mercies every morning. We don't put our trust in us but in You and commit ourselves to You. Thank you for Your love and work of salvation in our lives. Help us to live our life for your glory and be useful to others and please use us to help others find You.
Faith
Believing Jesus died for you & me
Upon calvary.
The one & only,
The key!
The key to the gift of Salvation.
Tamara A. Restituto
Upon calvary.
The one & only,
The key!
The key to the gift of Salvation.
Tamara A. Restituto
Call on the name of the Lord and be saved!
Daily Promises
Blue Letter Bible
March 24, 2009
And it shall come to pass, [that] whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Acts 2:21)
How beautiful! How simple! Amazingly, God pours forth all His mercy, love and great blessings to those who call upon His majestic name. By placing all faith in Christ, the believer is given the ultimate promise: glorious eternity with his Creator and Saviour. This demands praise and rejoicing to the Most High God. For He is worthy.
Blue Letter Bible
March 24, 2009
And it shall come to pass, [that] whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Acts 2:21)
How beautiful! How simple! Amazingly, God pours forth all His mercy, love and great blessings to those who call upon His majestic name. By placing all faith in Christ, the believer is given the ultimate promise: glorious eternity with his Creator and Saviour. This demands praise and rejoicing to the Most High God. For He is worthy.
Monday 23 March 2009
Revive us O Lord!
Daily Promises
Blue Letter Bible
March 23, 2009
He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth; (Psalms 104:14)
The Lord is ever our provider! Never shall our souls stand in need of any necessity. When God's child lacks strength in time of trouble, the Lord shall supply it. When Abraham's son is beaten down under worldly woe, his heavenly Father shall certainly revive him. When the believer's soul is parched and dry, then shall the High King of Heaven fill him to overflowing with rivers of living water.
Blue Letter Bible
March 23, 2009
He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth; (Psalms 104:14)
The Lord is ever our provider! Never shall our souls stand in need of any necessity. When God's child lacks strength in time of trouble, the Lord shall supply it. When Abraham's son is beaten down under worldly woe, his heavenly Father shall certainly revive him. When the believer's soul is parched and dry, then shall the High King of Heaven fill him to overflowing with rivers of living water.
Even More on the Resurrection and Sanctification
Day By Day By Grace
Bob Hoekstra
March 23, 2009
That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death. (Philippians 3:10)
Paul's all-consuming passion was "that I may know Him." This verse does not list four matters for which Paul sought an acquaintanceship (a knowledge of God, resurrection power, a fellowship in Christ's sufferings, and conformity to His death). Rather, it points out one great quest (a knowledge of God) and three different arenas in which that knowledge could grow (resurrection power, a fellowship in Christ's sufferings, and conformity to His death). We saw in our last meditation how resurrection power and suffering can increase our knowing of the Lord. Now, we add another amazing aspect to a growing acquaintanceship with Jesus: "being conformed to His death."
There were some unique aspects to the death of Christ upon the cross (for example, His atonement for sins). However, there were other aspects of His death that God wants to repeat in our lives. As Jesus was placed upon the cross, it looked like defeat. It seemed to be the greatest wrong that man could ever do. Yet, God was working out His sovereign purposes. "Him, being delivered by the determined counsel and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death" (Acts 2:23). At times, we are placed in situations that seem certain to lead to a deadly defeat. Yet, the Lord is unfolding His sovereign plan for us. In taking us through such impossibilities (and turning apparent defeat into victory), the Lord is allowing us to become more acquainted with Him and His ways.
When Jesus was dying, He hung helpless upon the tree. He entrusted Himself into the hands of His Father. "Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit" (Luke 23:46). The Father would have to prove faithful, if Jesus were to come forth from the grave. "Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father" (Romans 6:4). At times, we are in circumstances that are personally crucifying. We are in situations where everything so obviously requires a mighty work of God. If He does not prove faithful on our behalf, there will be no way out of the agonizing dilemma. When our Lord is so clearly our only hope (and then He comes through faithfully), we again grow in a deeper knowledge of Him and His ways.
Dear Father of glory, help me to not shrink back in fear and doubt when You are conforming me to the death of Your Son. When everything looks like defeat and disaster, remind me to look to You to work out Your will, in spite of the evil intentions of foolish or godless people. When I am hanging helpless in the midst of crucifying circumstances, remind me to commit myself to You and Your great faithfulness. Lord, I want to know You more through any means You choose, Amen.
Bob Hoekstra
March 23, 2009
That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death. (Philippians 3:10)
Paul's all-consuming passion was "that I may know Him." This verse does not list four matters for which Paul sought an acquaintanceship (a knowledge of God, resurrection power, a fellowship in Christ's sufferings, and conformity to His death). Rather, it points out one great quest (a knowledge of God) and three different arenas in which that knowledge could grow (resurrection power, a fellowship in Christ's sufferings, and conformity to His death). We saw in our last meditation how resurrection power and suffering can increase our knowing of the Lord. Now, we add another amazing aspect to a growing acquaintanceship with Jesus: "being conformed to His death."
There were some unique aspects to the death of Christ upon the cross (for example, His atonement for sins). However, there were other aspects of His death that God wants to repeat in our lives. As Jesus was placed upon the cross, it looked like defeat. It seemed to be the greatest wrong that man could ever do. Yet, God was working out His sovereign purposes. "Him, being delivered by the determined counsel and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death" (Acts 2:23). At times, we are placed in situations that seem certain to lead to a deadly defeat. Yet, the Lord is unfolding His sovereign plan for us. In taking us through such impossibilities (and turning apparent defeat into victory), the Lord is allowing us to become more acquainted with Him and His ways.
When Jesus was dying, He hung helpless upon the tree. He entrusted Himself into the hands of His Father. "Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit" (Luke 23:46). The Father would have to prove faithful, if Jesus were to come forth from the grave. "Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father" (Romans 6:4). At times, we are in circumstances that are personally crucifying. We are in situations where everything so obviously requires a mighty work of God. If He does not prove faithful on our behalf, there will be no way out of the agonizing dilemma. When our Lord is so clearly our only hope (and then He comes through faithfully), we again grow in a deeper knowledge of Him and His ways.
Dear Father of glory, help me to not shrink back in fear and doubt when You are conforming me to the death of Your Son. When everything looks like defeat and disaster, remind me to look to You to work out Your will, in spite of the evil intentions of foolish or godless people. When I am hanging helpless in the midst of crucifying circumstances, remind me to commit myself to You and Your great faithfulness. Lord, I want to know You more through any means You choose, Amen.
Sunday 22 March 2009
Psalm 31, vacations...
We listened to a very good message from our pastor on Psalm 31 today. I posted it below for you to read. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and he shall direct thy path (Proverbs 3:5-6). No matter what goes on in our life, God's promises still hold true and He is still the same mighty and faithful God. He just asks us to trust Him and lean on Him.
Tamara and Joshua were on holidays these past few weeks and before we hardly realized it started, it is over. We have been really busy: dentist, friends, work, relax too... We did so many things. I am very grateful.
Nathalie
Tamara and Joshua were on holidays these past few weeks and before we hardly realized it started, it is over. We have been really busy: dentist, friends, work, relax too... We did so many things. I am very grateful.
Nathalie
The blessed life
Psalm 31
In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust; let me never be ashamed: deliver me in thy righteousness.
Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me.
For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me.
Pull me out of the net that they have laid privily for me: for thou art my strength.
Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.
I have hated them that regard lying vanities: but I trust in the LORD.
I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy: for thou hast considered my trouble; thou hast known my soul in adversities;
And hast not shut me up into the hand of the enemy: thou hast set my feet in a large room.
Have mercy upon me, O LORD, for I am in trouble: mine eye is consumed with grief, yea, my soul and my belly.
For my life is spent with grief, and my years with sighing: my strength faileth because of mine iniquity, and my bones are consumed.
I was a reproach among all mine enemies, but especially among my neighbours, and a fear to mine acquaintance: they that did see me without fled from me.
I am forgotten as a dead man out of mind: I am like a broken vessel.
For I have heard the slander of many: fear was on every side: while they took counsel together against me, they devised to take away my life.
But I trusted in thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my God.
My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me.
Make thy face to shine upon thy servant: save me for thy mercies' sake.
Let me not be ashamed, O LORD; for I have called upon thee: let the wicked be ashamed, and let them be silent in the grave.
Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous.
Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!
Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
Blessed be the LORD: for he hath shewed me his marvellous kindness in a strong city.
For I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes: nevertheless thou heardest the voice of my supplications when I cried unto thee.
O love the LORD, all ye his saints: for the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer.
Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.
In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust; let me never be ashamed: deliver me in thy righteousness.
Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me.
For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me.
Pull me out of the net that they have laid privily for me: for thou art my strength.
Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.
I have hated them that regard lying vanities: but I trust in the LORD.
I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy: for thou hast considered my trouble; thou hast known my soul in adversities;
And hast not shut me up into the hand of the enemy: thou hast set my feet in a large room.
Have mercy upon me, O LORD, for I am in trouble: mine eye is consumed with grief, yea, my soul and my belly.
For my life is spent with grief, and my years with sighing: my strength faileth because of mine iniquity, and my bones are consumed.
I was a reproach among all mine enemies, but especially among my neighbours, and a fear to mine acquaintance: they that did see me without fled from me.
I am forgotten as a dead man out of mind: I am like a broken vessel.
For I have heard the slander of many: fear was on every side: while they took counsel together against me, they devised to take away my life.
But I trusted in thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my God.
My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me.
Make thy face to shine upon thy servant: save me for thy mercies' sake.
Let me not be ashamed, O LORD; for I have called upon thee: let the wicked be ashamed, and let them be silent in the grave.
Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous.
Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!
Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
Blessed be the LORD: for he hath shewed me his marvellous kindness in a strong city.
For I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes: nevertheless thou heardest the voice of my supplications when I cried unto thee.
O love the LORD, all ye his saints: for the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer.
Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.
Friday 20 March 2009
Only believe!!!
Daily Promises
Blue Letter Bible
March 20, 2009
That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:15-16)
The promise of salvation is offered to those who simply believe. Eternal life is the gift to the believer who places their trust in Jesus Christ, God's one and only son.
Blue Letter Bible
March 20, 2009
That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:15-16)
The promise of salvation is offered to those who simply believe. Eternal life is the gift to the believer who places their trust in Jesus Christ, God's one and only son.
Sunday 8 March 2009
Trust in the Lord
Daily Promises
Blue Letter Bible
March 8, 2009
The LORD openeth [the eyes of] the blind: the LORD raiseth them that are bowed down: the LORD loveth the righteous. (Psalms 146:8)
Be comforted, O child of the Redeemer! The Lord will always be there for you. Your every need will be filled. Your every sorrow will be mourned. The Lord shall faithfully lift your head and strengthen you in your time of adversity. Lean on Him. Trust in Him. For He is worthy. And He will care for you.
Blue Letter Bible
March 8, 2009
The LORD openeth [the eyes of] the blind: the LORD raiseth them that are bowed down: the LORD loveth the righteous. (Psalms 146:8)
Be comforted, O child of the Redeemer! The Lord will always be there for you. Your every need will be filled. Your every sorrow will be mourned. The Lord shall faithfully lift your head and strengthen you in your time of adversity. Lean on Him. Trust in Him. For He is worthy. And He will care for you.
Stripped of his peacock feathers
(Arthur Pink, "Unworthiness" 1940)
GRACE is favor shown to the undeserving and ill-deserving.When Divine grace bestows salvation upon the ill-deserving, it makes them conscious of the infinite favor that has been shown them. Fallen man is naturally proud, self-complacent, and self-righteous. But wherever the miracle of regenerating grace is wrought--all this is reversed. Its subject is stripped of his peacock feathers, made poor in spirit, and humbled into the dust before God. He is made painfully aware of the loathsome plague of his heart, given a sight of his vileness in the light of God's holiness, and brought to realize that he is a spiritual pauper, dependent upon Divine charity. He now readily acknowledges that he is a Hell-deserving sinner."I am not worthy of the least of all Your mercies and unfailing love, which You have shown to me, Your servant" (Genesis 32:10). This is the confession made by all who are the recipients of the saving grace of God. Whenever a miracle of saving grace is wrought in the heart--pride is subdued, self is effaced, and a sense of ill-desert takes possession of the heart. One of the elements of great faith--is deep humility. "For I am the least of the Apostles, that am not worthy to be called an Apostle" (1 Cor. 15:9). "I am less than the least of all saints" (Eph. 3:8). What complete self-abasement! The most eminent Christians--are always the most lowly ones; those most honored in Christ's service--are deeply conscious of their unprofitableness.
GRACE is favor shown to the undeserving and ill-deserving.When Divine grace bestows salvation upon the ill-deserving, it makes them conscious of the infinite favor that has been shown them. Fallen man is naturally proud, self-complacent, and self-righteous. But wherever the miracle of regenerating grace is wrought--all this is reversed. Its subject is stripped of his peacock feathers, made poor in spirit, and humbled into the dust before God. He is made painfully aware of the loathsome plague of his heart, given a sight of his vileness in the light of God's holiness, and brought to realize that he is a spiritual pauper, dependent upon Divine charity. He now readily acknowledges that he is a Hell-deserving sinner."I am not worthy of the least of all Your mercies and unfailing love, which You have shown to me, Your servant" (Genesis 32:10). This is the confession made by all who are the recipients of the saving grace of God. Whenever a miracle of saving grace is wrought in the heart--pride is subdued, self is effaced, and a sense of ill-desert takes possession of the heart. One of the elements of great faith--is deep humility. "For I am the least of the Apostles, that am not worthy to be called an Apostle" (1 Cor. 15:9). "I am less than the least of all saints" (Eph. 3:8). What complete self-abasement! The most eminent Christians--are always the most lowly ones; those most honored in Christ's service--are deeply conscious of their unprofitableness.
Saturday 7 March 2009
God's Love for me
God loves you and I,
With a green or brown eye.
His love is so great,
For Christ's arrival, I can't wait!!!
By Tamara Restituto
With a green or brown eye.
His love is so great,
For Christ's arrival, I can't wait!!!
By Tamara Restituto
The Lord Loves Me
On a lonely hill I stray,
But the Lord is with me all the way.
He loves me! The Lord loves me!
That is why the Lord is with me,
All through sin's old
Dreaded way.
By Joshua Restituto
But the Lord is with me all the way.
He loves me! The Lord loves me!
That is why the Lord is with me,
All through sin's old
Dreaded way.
By Joshua Restituto
I Am Bought With A Price
I Am Bought With A Price
Two natures striving within me,
Each would have the upper hand;
Each wants to rule over me,
This I must understand.
My flesh would like a life of ease,
For the things of the world it loves;
But God, my spirit wants to please,
And has set it's affections above.
Satan often comes to entice,
And my will power seems to have flown;
But I hear God's word; you are bought with a price,
And you are not your own!
Be ye holy, for I am holy,
Put on God's armour and stand,
Do all things for My glory,
These are God's solemn commands.
The example, my Saviour has set;
For when Satan tempted Him sore,
With God's word temptation was met,
'Til Satan left to tempt Him no more.
If I make this wise decision,
To read God's word and obey,
And for the flesh make no provision,
I'll grow stronger in Christ each day.
By Kathryn Parrish
Two natures striving within me,
Each would have the upper hand;
Each wants to rule over me,
This I must understand.
My flesh would like a life of ease,
For the things of the world it loves;
But God, my spirit wants to please,
And has set it's affections above.
Satan often comes to entice,
And my will power seems to have flown;
But I hear God's word; you are bought with a price,
And you are not your own!
Be ye holy, for I am holy,
Put on God's armour and stand,
Do all things for My glory,
These are God's solemn commands.
The example, my Saviour has set;
For when Satan tempted Him sore,
With God's word temptation was met,
'Til Satan left to tempt Him no more.
If I make this wise decision,
To read God's word and obey,
And for the flesh make no provision,
I'll grow stronger in Christ each day.
By Kathryn Parrish
March break
Tamara and Joshua are on March break since last night. Very happy and getting a much needed rest. They have been very busy. They enjoyed playing with the neighbor's son last night. It was beautiful and they got the dust out of their bikes and balloon... by getting them out for the first time this year. They are fun getting reacquainted with Andy after winter too.
I am glad that they are here for two weeks. It will be very busy for me at least but I love having them around.
I am glad that they are here for two weeks. It will be very busy for me at least but I love having them around.
Put all your trust in the Lord
lt is better to trust in the Lord, than to put confidence in man.--Psalm 118:8
Doubtless the reader has been tried with the temptation to rely upon the things which are seen, instead of resting alone upon the invisible God. Christians often look to man for help and counsel, and mar the noble simplicity of their reliance upon their God. Does this evening's portion meet the eye of a child of God anxious about temporals, then would we reason with him awhile. You trust in Jesus, and only in Jesus, for your salvation, then why are you troubled? "Because of my great care." Is it not written, "Cast thy burden upon the Lord"? "Be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication make known your wants unto God." Cannot you trust God for temporals? "Ah! I wish I could." If you cannot trust God for temporals, how dare you trust Him for spirituals? Can you trust Him for your soul's redemption, and not rely upon Him for a few lesser mercies? Is not God enough for thy need, or is His all-sufficiency too narrow for thy wants? Dost thou want another eye beside that of Him who sees every secret thing? Is His heart faint? Is His arm weary? If so, seek another God; but if He be infinite, omnipotent, faithful, true, and all-wise, why gaddest thou abroad so much to seek another confidence? Why dost thou rake the earth to find another foundation, when this is strong enough to bear all the weight which thou canst ever build thereon? Christian, mix not only thy wine with water, do not alloy thy gold of faith with the dross of human confidence. Wait thou only upon God, and let thine expectation be from Him. Covet not Jonah's gourd, but rest in Jonah's God. Let the sandy foundations of terrestrial trust be the choice of fools, but do thou, like one who foresees the storm, build for thyself an abiding place upon the Rock of Ages.
Spurgeon
Doubtless the reader has been tried with the temptation to rely upon the things which are seen, instead of resting alone upon the invisible God. Christians often look to man for help and counsel, and mar the noble simplicity of their reliance upon their God. Does this evening's portion meet the eye of a child of God anxious about temporals, then would we reason with him awhile. You trust in Jesus, and only in Jesus, for your salvation, then why are you troubled? "Because of my great care." Is it not written, "Cast thy burden upon the Lord"? "Be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication make known your wants unto God." Cannot you trust God for temporals? "Ah! I wish I could." If you cannot trust God for temporals, how dare you trust Him for spirituals? Can you trust Him for your soul's redemption, and not rely upon Him for a few lesser mercies? Is not God enough for thy need, or is His all-sufficiency too narrow for thy wants? Dost thou want another eye beside that of Him who sees every secret thing? Is His heart faint? Is His arm weary? If so, seek another God; but if He be infinite, omnipotent, faithful, true, and all-wise, why gaddest thou abroad so much to seek another confidence? Why dost thou rake the earth to find another foundation, when this is strong enough to bear all the weight which thou canst ever build thereon? Christian, mix not only thy wine with water, do not alloy thy gold of faith with the dross of human confidence. Wait thou only upon God, and let thine expectation be from Him. Covet not Jonah's gourd, but rest in Jonah's God. Let the sandy foundations of terrestrial trust be the choice of fools, but do thou, like one who foresees the storm, build for thyself an abiding place upon the Rock of Ages.
Spurgeon
Have faith in God
Have faith in God Mark 11:22
Faith is the foot of the soul by which it can march along the road of the commandments. Love can make the feet move more swiftly; but faith is the foot which carries the soul. Faith is the oil enabling the wheels of holy devotion and of earnest piety to move well; and without faith the wheels are taken from the chariot, and we drag heavily. With faith I can do all things; without faith I shall neither have the inclination nor the power to do anything in the service of God. If you would find the men who serve God the best, you must look for the men of the most faith. Little faith will save a man, but little faith cannot do great things for God. Poor Little-faith could not have fought "Apollyon;" it needed "Christian" to do that. Poor Little-faith could not have slain "Giant Despair;" it required "Great-heart's" arm to knock that monster down. Little faith will go to heaven most certainly, but it often has to hide itself in a nut-shell, and it frequently loses all but its jewels. Little-faith says, "It is a rough road, beset with sharp thorns, and full of dangers; I am afraid to go;" but Great-faith remembers the promise, "Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; as thy days, so shall thy strength be:" and so she boldly ventures. Little-faith stands desponding, mingling her tears with the flood; but Great-faith sings, "When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee:" and she fords the stream at once. Would you be comfortable and happy? Would you enjoy religion? Would you have the religion of cheerfulness and not that of gloom? Then "have faith in God." If you love darkness, and are satisfied to dwell in gloom and misery, then be content with little faith; but if you love the sunshine, and would sing songs of rejoicing, covet earnestly this best gift, "great faith."
Spurgeon
Faith is the foot of the soul by which it can march along the road of the commandments. Love can make the feet move more swiftly; but faith is the foot which carries the soul. Faith is the oil enabling the wheels of holy devotion and of earnest piety to move well; and without faith the wheels are taken from the chariot, and we drag heavily. With faith I can do all things; without faith I shall neither have the inclination nor the power to do anything in the service of God. If you would find the men who serve God the best, you must look for the men of the most faith. Little faith will save a man, but little faith cannot do great things for God. Poor Little-faith could not have fought "Apollyon;" it needed "Christian" to do that. Poor Little-faith could not have slain "Giant Despair;" it required "Great-heart's" arm to knock that monster down. Little faith will go to heaven most certainly, but it often has to hide itself in a nut-shell, and it frequently loses all but its jewels. Little-faith says, "It is a rough road, beset with sharp thorns, and full of dangers; I am afraid to go;" but Great-faith remembers the promise, "Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; as thy days, so shall thy strength be:" and so she boldly ventures. Little-faith stands desponding, mingling her tears with the flood; but Great-faith sings, "When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee:" and she fords the stream at once. Would you be comfortable and happy? Would you enjoy religion? Would you have the religion of cheerfulness and not that of gloom? Then "have faith in God." If you love darkness, and are satisfied to dwell in gloom and misery, then be content with little faith; but if you love the sunshine, and would sing songs of rejoicing, covet earnestly this best gift, "great faith."
Spurgeon
Tied to their minister's apron strings?
(Arthur Pink, "Spiritual Nurses")
It is lamentable when a boy in his teens is still tied to his mother's apron strings. Yet is it not equally deplorable for those who have been Christians many years--to be tied to their minister's apron strings? Yet how often we witness this very thing. There is a certain class who seem to be afraid, or at any rate unwilling, to think for themselves--to search the Scriptures for themselves, and act accordingly--and we suspect that in many cases the preacher is as much to be blamed as they are. It is true that he is their teacher, and as such he should possess a wider and deeper knowledge of spiritual things than they have. Yet it is his duty to instruct them--to familiarize themselves with God's Word, and thus become qualified to "Test all things--and hold fast that which is good." (1 Thess. 5:21). In other words, the preacher is not to be a nurse unto them all their lives!
It has long been our conviction that the preacher who is really of greatest service to his people--is the one who makes them most independent of human help, and casts them back directly upon God Himself. For souls to run to their pastor every time they are in trouble, or look to him to solve all their spiritual problems--is virtually to give him the same place in their lives, as the deluded Papists accord their "priests." This is not only to rob God of His glory--but also retards their spiritual progress. It is with God Himself, that I most need to deal, and any man who comes between me and the Lord is really a hindrance, no matter how good his intentions may be. Moreover, the preacher is human, and therefore liable to err--but God is omniscient and never misdirects. "If any of you lacks wisdom--let him ask of God." (James 1:5).
Sooner or later there comes a time in the lives of most real Christians, when those words, "Stop trusting in man!" (Isaiah 2:22) are applied to their hearts in Divine power. This will not mean that they now refuse to hear God's servants or read their writings--but that they will no longer place the same blind confidence in their teachers as the Papists do in their priests. Instead, they will emulate the Bereans, who did not mechanically accept what they heard, even from the lips of the Apostle Paul--but "examined the Scriptures every day--to see if what Paul said was true." (Acts 17:11).
It is lamentable when a boy in his teens is still tied to his mother's apron strings. Yet is it not equally deplorable for those who have been Christians many years--to be tied to their minister's apron strings? Yet how often we witness this very thing. There is a certain class who seem to be afraid, or at any rate unwilling, to think for themselves--to search the Scriptures for themselves, and act accordingly--and we suspect that in many cases the preacher is as much to be blamed as they are. It is true that he is their teacher, and as such he should possess a wider and deeper knowledge of spiritual things than they have. Yet it is his duty to instruct them--to familiarize themselves with God's Word, and thus become qualified to "Test all things--and hold fast that which is good." (1 Thess. 5:21). In other words, the preacher is not to be a nurse unto them all their lives!
It has long been our conviction that the preacher who is really of greatest service to his people--is the one who makes them most independent of human help, and casts them back directly upon God Himself. For souls to run to their pastor every time they are in trouble, or look to him to solve all their spiritual problems--is virtually to give him the same place in their lives, as the deluded Papists accord their "priests." This is not only to rob God of His glory--but also retards their spiritual progress. It is with God Himself, that I most need to deal, and any man who comes between me and the Lord is really a hindrance, no matter how good his intentions may be. Moreover, the preacher is human, and therefore liable to err--but God is omniscient and never misdirects. "If any of you lacks wisdom--let him ask of God." (James 1:5).
Sooner or later there comes a time in the lives of most real Christians, when those words, "Stop trusting in man!" (Isaiah 2:22) are applied to their hearts in Divine power. This will not mean that they now refuse to hear God's servants or read their writings--but that they will no longer place the same blind confidence in their teachers as the Papists do in their priests. Instead, they will emulate the Bereans, who did not mechanically accept what they heard, even from the lips of the Apostle Paul--but "examined the Scriptures every day--to see if what Paul said was true." (Acts 17:11).
Friday 6 March 2009
Psalm 10
From the Pastor: Dr. M. J. Seymour, Sr.
Often it seemingly appears that God is standing afar off and does not see the plight of victims nor hears the cries of the oppressed. Therefore, the wicked presumptuously begin to think that if there is a God, He must be too feeble to do anything about their wickedness. With brutish haughtiness they fancy themselves to be above the power of God. Their hearts disdain the very NAME of God, and their hearts vigorously reject even the slightest thought of a true living God. They say within themselves they have no adversary equal to them and shall never suffer the judgment of God. They feel they are beyond the reach of God. They deceive themselves in their ignorance, for the Eternal One is forever omniscient and omnipotent!
This psalm reveals the very character of anti-God and anti-Christ. The spirit of Satan in a man of sin is manifested by pride, immorality, homosexuality, blasphemy, arrogance, debauchery, and self-aggrandizing boastings. The spirit of antichrist presumes itself to be immune to the judgment of God; therefore, he persecutes, plunders, murders, and oppresses the poor and the godly. Verse 4: “The wicked through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.” He is void of God-ward fear and reverence.
But thanks be unto God, there is a day of reckoning when all the righteous ones will be vindicated and all the wicked will receive the just recompense for their evil deeds. It may not seem like it at times, but the Father is ever near His children and will not hold those guiltless that oppress them. God will glorify His people! Faith will triumph under the kingship of the King of kings and Lord of lord. There is none like unto the great “I AM.”
“A spiritual prayer is a humble prayer, the lower the heart descends, the higher the prayer ascends.” – Thomas Watson. God causes His ears to hear the prayers of the humble and oppressed. None of their words fall to the ground, but are carried by the Holy Spirit into the ear and the heart of the loving Father.
Verses 16-18 are the grand finale of the psalm; which bring forth the thanksgiving and the praises of the LORD who is King forever and ever. Come what may, the LORD is ever near and hears, and in the fullness of time He will vindicate the righteous. PRAISE HIM!!!
Often it seemingly appears that God is standing afar off and does not see the plight of victims nor hears the cries of the oppressed. Therefore, the wicked presumptuously begin to think that if there is a God, He must be too feeble to do anything about their wickedness. With brutish haughtiness they fancy themselves to be above the power of God. Their hearts disdain the very NAME of God, and their hearts vigorously reject even the slightest thought of a true living God. They say within themselves they have no adversary equal to them and shall never suffer the judgment of God. They feel they are beyond the reach of God. They deceive themselves in their ignorance, for the Eternal One is forever omniscient and omnipotent!
This psalm reveals the very character of anti-God and anti-Christ. The spirit of Satan in a man of sin is manifested by pride, immorality, homosexuality, blasphemy, arrogance, debauchery, and self-aggrandizing boastings. The spirit of antichrist presumes itself to be immune to the judgment of God; therefore, he persecutes, plunders, murders, and oppresses the poor and the godly. Verse 4: “The wicked through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.” He is void of God-ward fear and reverence.
But thanks be unto God, there is a day of reckoning when all the righteous ones will be vindicated and all the wicked will receive the just recompense for their evil deeds. It may not seem like it at times, but the Father is ever near His children and will not hold those guiltless that oppress them. God will glorify His people! Faith will triumph under the kingship of the King of kings and Lord of lord. There is none like unto the great “I AM.”
“A spiritual prayer is a humble prayer, the lower the heart descends, the higher the prayer ascends.” – Thomas Watson. God causes His ears to hear the prayers of the humble and oppressed. None of their words fall to the ground, but are carried by the Holy Spirit into the ear and the heart of the loving Father.
Verses 16-18 are the grand finale of the psalm; which bring forth the thanksgiving and the praises of the LORD who is King forever and ever. Come what may, the LORD is ever near and hears, and in the fullness of time He will vindicate the righteous. PRAISE HIM!!!
Thursday 5 March 2009
Tracy Westerby
Tracy Westerby, a good friend of mine (that had cerebral palsy, could not talk, spent all her life in a wheelchair and was a great inspiration to me) died last Sunday. It was really unexpected and a big shock to all who knew her. She just died in her sleep. How sweet to fall asleep and wake up in Jesus' arms!!!
Remembering Tracy's smile when I told her many years ago that Jesus is the only true friend. Knowing that I will see her again and we will spend eternity together! Nothing will ever separate us again. Next time I see her she will talk, walk and laugh as she used to be very fond of. Father please tell Tracy and Rosy I love them very much and we miss them lots til we meet again!!!
Nathalie
Remembering Tracy's smile when I told her many years ago that Jesus is the only true friend. Knowing that I will see her again and we will spend eternity together! Nothing will ever separate us again. Next time I see her she will talk, walk and laugh as she used to be very fond of. Father please tell Tracy and Rosy I love them very much and we miss them lots til we meet again!!!
Nathalie
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