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- Link of the Day:
Psalm 23 (http://www.kids-teens.org/Bible/psalm23.htm) Hear six-year old read Psalm 23
(Thanks Sonja!)
Morning Devotional...[td]
The Shepherd's Psalm--Part (ii) [/td]
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The Lord is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He restores my soul;
He leads me beside the still waters.
He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord
Forever.
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In Part (i) of our studies on the wonderful Shepherd Psalm, we looked a little at the character and saving work of the One to whom David referred as
"My Shepherd". Before we proceed to examine some of the amazing benefits of being one of His sheep, we shall consider the marks which the sheep carry upon them.
Phillip Kellar, writing in his book,
"A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23", tells how upon purchasing his first little flock of thirty-five ewes, the former owner handed him a large sharp killing knife and remarked, "Well, Phillip, they're yours. Now you'll have to put your mark upon them." This would be a painful experience for each sheep, for it meant parting with a chunk of its ear, cut with Kellar's own chosen design. This peculiar cut would thereafter mark each individual member of the flock out as the shepherd's own property.
The person who hears the voice of the Good Shepherd and trustingly follows Him must forever bear the Master's Mark. This mark is described for us in Romans 6. We really should read the whole chapter, but for the sake of space, we will quote only a few verses.
"Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. For he who has died has been freed from sin. Now, if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him. For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all: but the life that He lives, He lives to God. Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:6-12)
Death to self is demanded and can be a very painful process but it is very necessary. You see the Devil has his own flock, which bares his mark of rebellion and sin. When Christ redeems us He expects to mark us out with His own characteristics of love, obedience and holiness. As we read in II Corinthians 5:17,
"Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new." As someone has said, "We are not saved by our works, but if we are truly saved our works will declare our new relationship to the Lord Jesus Christ."
We must realize the kind of sheep we once were and remember the flock to which we belonged;
"All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all." (Isaiah 53:6.). If we also understand the tremendous price He paid for us, then we will not wonder that he demands that we bare his likeness.
Despite what we were, guilty and lost, wandering on the desolate crags of Satan's domain, He redeemed us, called, us, and made us the sheep of His pasture if we are His by faith. In all His own he takes delight and tends them with loving care. Even in the midst of their trials and difficulties, the Good Shepherd leads His lambs with gentleness and grace. We may sometimes feel that He no longer watches over us, but if we wait upon Him the dark clouds of doubt will dissipate to reveal the sunshine of His tender love.
Before we begin looking at the blessings of Psalm 23, let us emphasize the Shepherd's mark upon us. In Ephesians 2:8 & 9, we learn that salvation is by grace (unmerited favour) accepted by faith. It is God's gift to us and it is
"Not of works lest any man should boast". But that is not the end of the saga, because in verse 10, we read,
"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." As James tells us in James 2:26,
"For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." What kind of faith do I have? What kind of faith do you have? If nothing has changed since we first professed faith in Christ, a thorough self examination is called for. There are those who believe, or at least appear to believe, that we can trust in the Saviour and continue to live unrepentant lives. The Word of God emphatically teaches otherwise.
Friend, do you and I have the Shepherd's mark engraved on our hearts? If we can honestly say, "Yes, I have trusted Him and I love Him and seek to follow Him", then we can also truly say,
"The Lord is my Shepherd" and from our hearts we can sing:
The King of Love My Shepherd is (http://christianphotographers.com/sounds/the_king_of_love.mid)
(Click to hear music)
The King of love my Shepherd is,
Whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am His
And He is mine forever.
Where streams of living water flow
My ransomed soul He leadeth,
And, where the verdant pastures grow,
With food celestial feedeth.
Perverse and foolish oft I strayed,
But yet in love He sought me,
And on His shoulder gently laid,
And home rejoicing brought me.
In death's dark vale I fear no ill
With Thee, dear Lord, beside me;
Thy rod and staff my comfort still,
Thy cross before to guide me.
And so through all the length of day
Thy goodness faileth never;
Good Shepherd, may I sing Thy praise
Within Thy house for ever.
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"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want" (Psalm 23:1).
"I shall not want". Reassuring words but what do they mean? David had known poverty, heartache and rebellion in his own family. He had been a fugitive and a refugee. Warfare was fairly constant throughout his reign. Friends and loved ones had been unfaithful on more than one occasion. Few if any of us have experienced more difficulty and more troublesome times than David the sweet singer of Israel. Yet he could confidently declare,
"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want". If David's eyes had focused only on the things of time, he could have found no solace, no place of rest, no shady green pastures for his soul. David had found that place, where none but the redeemed of God can enter. The place of His presence, the place of peace.
"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress. My God; in Him will I trust." (Psalm 91:1, 2).
If we are dwelling in the secret place of His presence, then we can experience the comforting words of the Psalmist
"I shall not want." Perhaps one who is experiencing a difficult situation is asking,
"Where is this place of His presence and how can I find it?" The answer is not tedious or difficult ,
"that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height--to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God." (Ephesians 3:17-19).
If we, by faith, are conscious of the presence of Christ abiding within our hearts we will soon begin to realize the immensity and the immutability of His love for us. Spiritually we need nothing more, and since Christ in us is our hope of glory (See Colossians 1:27), we can truly say,
"I shall not want." I shall not want peace and joy if I realize His inward presence. If I lose my peace and joy, even in the midst of tribulations it is because, for the moment I have ceased to abide in Him and forgotten His abiding presence in me.
Although the blessings of the Psalm are relevant to our spiritual state and our spiritual pilgrimage, it is also true that He meets our physical needs as well.
Our daily provision for food, health and shelter are from His bountiful hand. He may not always give us what we desire, but in grace He meets our needs.
What a gracious Shepherd He is!
"Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen." (Hebrews 13:20,21).
Discuss this devotional further
Here (http://christianphotographers.com/yabbse/index.php?board=4;action=display;threadid=680) if you wish.
Jack Scott loved his Lord! He passed away on January 10, 2001 after a lengthy illness.
He is missed greatly by his family.
Just as I thought...more gems from the pen ( of Jack Scott of course).
Pat - You have some real nuggets of gold there with Jack's writings. I'm curious - just when did he do sll this sermonettes? Actually they are more than sermonettes, srn't they. It is real "mea" to chew on. Little did Jack know that his messages would be read around the world.
Did you ever think of that?
They are ministering to, and bringing people closer to the Lord well after he has been called Home himself.
I'm sure they are a blessing to you. Many a tear have been shed compiling them together, Pat...am I correct in saying that?
Are you making a booklet for the grandchildren? I think that would be a wonderful idea. What an excelent gift to give them on a special occasion, say for a 16th birthday or something like that, with a graduation photo of their granddad on the front.
It would be a treasured heirloom to pass on to THEIR children, and on and on it goes.
Love....and many thanks for this most treasured blessing!
Judy M.
( I hope what I've written makes sense).
I knew it... I didn't re-read what I wrote. That like should have said "meat" to chew on...I hope you understood that!
...sorry!
- Judy
Oh Soni - Thats so precous hearing your wee treasure reading God's Word. Please do that again!
Love.
JudyM.
9.15 a.m. in England.
Re: Our Sweet Ria and Jan
Ria has written to me this morning
She is very, very tired and will not be posting on C.P. today.
Jan is holding his own but does have bronchitis. His son and daughter-in-law are going to look after him today. Ria is going over later.
11.00AM in Holland
But Ria is on CP i first have read everything of yesterday i was yesterdayevening to tyred.
PAT thank you ver much for part 2 from your dear Jack's
great devotional about Psalm 23 it is given me power
in this days.
Also a lovely link from SONJA thank you dear Sonja.
I thank also all the people who are praying for my dad Jan. This afternoon i go to him now my sister in law is there.
But my fahter is this morning a little bit better. He has called me and his voice was better then yesterday
he is also knowing more yesterday he was knowing
nothing. But then he was also very tired . He has had a very good night. WE also. But today is coming back the doctor. But he may no more use a view days his tablet for his heart
there he has had a slowly haertpulse from. He ia also not dizzy this morning. But he also have a terrible bronchitus he cough and he is very short of breath but
the doctor has say that is coming from the bronchitus
not from his heart. And he is weak.
But today is a difficult day it is the dying day from my mother 2 years ago is she gone. But the last 2 1/2 years from here life has been dificult for booth.
She has had 2 strokes. After the 2e stroke she was
paralysed on one site. Then she must sit in a wheelchair. 1 1/2 year has she been home with home care and my fahter has help here a lot. The last year she has been in a nursing home then she need such a lot help but that year every day he was with here. He was
walking a lot with here in the wheelchair. And that is not easy. Then he was strong. But after she is gone
he has get a breakdown. Then he knows how tired he was and he was at once old. And the radium therapie
for his cancer has also done more then we know.
7 weeks every day to the hospital. After that time he is very weak his walking is also bad.
But we are hoping and praying that we may hold him
a while. Today he is a little bit better we are hoping
that it stay so. But after the death from my mother he is no more the strong fahter from the time that she was alive.
I hope you can understand what i have read.
Jenny thank you also my dear
EXODUS 15:13
In your unfailing love you will
lead the people you have redeemed.
GOD HOLDS MY HAND
Secure in the promise
that God holds my hand,
I look to His leading each day.
Assured that He works
trough all things for my best,
I follow, I trust, and i pray.
Bye prayerfully for you all
RIA
Have a good day everyone, it is snowing her in North Bay. -18*C.
Ria we will continue to pray.
God bless you all
JudyB
good morning everyone,
Today is off to school then home grab my basketball stuff and off to a basketball game! it will be a good one tonight. well i better get going ttyl
Sarah
Brrrrr! It's cold. Below zero here. That is cold for us! And I have to go out in it! Have my mammogram appointment this morning. Ivalou is going with me. Great to have great company!!!
I read last evening's post and used the clickable to come here. It wouldn't work. Tried other websites...still wouldn't work. I had to reboot then all was well. Well, not really. I rebooted and noticed I was logged on at 22kbs. Not good. Logged on again and now 46kb. That is about as good as it gets here. Anyway, I am here.
Soni ~ I sure wasn't pointing fingers at you when I said that everything is getting higher and higher and that we should be thankful for what we have. I get so upset when I think that my retirement company...SBC...yes, Southwestern Bell Corporation....is charging so much for medical insurance now. Three years ago...zero. Two years ago...$32 a month...One year ago...$79 a month and this year...$144 a month. And my retirement check is still the same as three years ago. I thank God that I have other money coming in! That payment is almost as much as what I give God each month. No matter what happens, God is first!!!
Isn't it wonderful that we don't have to do anything to have Christ as our Savior except choose Him as our Savior. We are all created by God. God chooses us to be His child. When we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, we are in God's family....no deeds did that. BUT once we accept Christ and are in God's family, then our deeds from then on counts for our eternity in heaven. Christ even helps in this aspect, too! He changes us from the inside and plants the Holy Spirit within us. I am praying that God has this huge blackboard in heaven with my name on it...and it is full of hash marks for the good things that I do on earth for His name's sake. Everything we do should be for His name's sake!!! God is good.
I talked to Kevin last night on the phone. He told me what to do to retreive my fonts from the old hard drive. I might as well retreive some other things while I am at it. I won't tell you now what he said to do. AFTER it works, I will tell you. That doesn't sound like I trust his word, does it? I do...just don't trust myself in doing it the way he said. I love talking to Kevin...he is so informative and not cocky like some his age!
Better get going!!!
I am praying that everyone has a God-filled day!
Oh, yes! Pat, thank you so very much for Jack's word today. I agree with Judy...these should be passed on to each and every grandchild........Jack does live on through his words.
Happy Birthday to my Tony today! He is 43.<:))))><<~~<:))))><<~~<:))))><<~~<:))))><<~~<:))))
"A lot of people get through thinking before they get through thinking things through!"(https://www.christianphotographers.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fettasue.homestead.com%2Ffiles%2FAnimations%2FHaveaniceday.gif&hash=4ca8b3483fcc530b82bf08d38ee181956b92a78c)
Just popping in for a quick Hi, again.
Taking Travis swimming this mornign. YeeHaw!!
Laters
karmat
Pat: Once again, I so appreciate reading Jack's messages. The words keep his memory alive for all of us. Thank you, and yes, they should be printed for the family members.
Etta Sue: You talk about thankfulness and I can relate to that as we work with the homeless and those so much less fortunate - be it their own failures from drugs and alcohol or mental illness not medicated, or, job losses and health problems. We walk away from those good people and feel so privleged to go to a warm house and pay our bills - my health coverage is $350 per month and thank goodness, Don has veteran's coverage as we used to pay over $700 per month for the two of us for only catastrophic insurance. I am always thankful for a warm shower as the homeless have to take a bus to a building that allows showering. This year, we hope to build a regular building just for people to have everything in one place. That will be a wonderful thing to have.
Jeanne: Great news from you about your guy and his medical appointment.
Ria: I am so sorry that you are dealing with your father's medical problems now. We are all praying for you and your father.
Judy B: Glad that your guy is home safely - he makes a game out of work and the time goes faster for him - do hope all of your hydro and electricty gets fixed.
Off for coffee with friends this morning. I won't have time to get in here for a while so must sign off.
Soni: Your posts are terrific. Such talent!
Hi to Larry & I do wish your computer would co-operate!
Carol
Good Morning to all who have been here and to al who will come after I have leave here.
Ria I will pray for you father.
I am going for my xrays this morning and to the dr. so I will not stay long at this time. I just wanted to check in with y-all and let you know that I have caught up with the reading here.
TTYL
Good Morning Everyone...
It's a chilly day here in Guelph.
The dog went out and hurried right back in this morning! He usually likes to spend time out there.
How are you all?
Good to see those of you who have been posting and I still think it would be nice to see those members who used to post come back.
What can we do to encourage them? ;D
I hear my kettle so I'm going to have my first cup of coffee for the day.
Hello, everyone! Another cold day here in Kansas. And I am still trying to catch up from being away for a week, but guess I will ge there! Abby wants to come spend the weekend with me, so that will take priority! They are little for so short a time, I fully intend to enjoy every opportunity to spend time with her.
I have more framing to work on, and books to wrap for mailing for the book exchange on SN.
I hope all of you have a good and Godly day! Love you all!
Oh Dear Jan.. I think we crashed and I lost my post..
Try again..
Hi Dear One... :-*
I hope you will all read this letter!
Bush cost me my job, my kids and my houses
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak my mind. I lost my job this past year. When Clinton was president I was secure and prosperous, but in the last year, we had to close our operations. We simply could not compete with foreign labor. This foreign labor worked for low pay under very bad conditions.
They worked very long shifts, and many even died on the job.
This competition could hardly be called "fair." I was forced out of the place where I had worked for 34 years.
Not a single government program was there to help me.
How can Bush call himself "compassionate?" Far worse, I lost two of my sons in Bush's evil war in Iraq. They gave their lives for their country, and for what? So that Bush's oil buddies can get rich. My pain of losing my sons is indescribable.
While it is trivial next to the loss of my sons, I regret to say that I also lost my home. I simply have nothing left. How can Bush call himself a Christian when he neglects people like me? I am a senior citizen with various medical problems. I'm not in a position where I can begin a new career. I was reduced to the point where I had to live in a hole in a ground, all because of President Bush.
And when the authorities found me there, did they have any compassion for my misfortune and ailments? No, I was arrested. Mr. Bush, I dare you to look me in the face and tell me you are a compassionate man! I dare you to look me in the face and tell me you are a Christian. If I had any money left, I would donate it to the Democrat Party.
If Al Gore had been elected in 2000 I would still have a job, a home, and most importantly, my dear sons!
Regards,
Saddam Hussein
4 p.m.England
Hello Everyone,
It's me again, "have scooter will travel". Yes I have been out on my scooter and "Yes" that was a silly thing to do.
I was feeling a bit "shut-in" and it's stopped snowing, just very icy in patches but I decided to take a little "cheer up" card to dear friend of mine, she lives in a street behind this house.
I suddenly felt so very, very cold and praise God, I called on the Blood and the Name above all Names and He brought me safely home.
What else can I sing:-
"There is Power, power, wonder working power
In the blood of the Lamb.
There is power,power, wonder working power,
In the precious blood of the Lamb"
Pat, thanks for the hint ;) I have a pot of tea made to drink, all by myself. Anyone coming to join me? You will be very welcome dear friends.
You "lost lambs" surely you already know what you are missing. Come home to see us on C.P. We love you and miss you.
See you later folks d.v.Love and prayers.
Jenny
Jenny: I am here having a cup of tea with you.
Be careful on that scooter.
Ria: I am so very thankful that your dad is feeling some better.
Judy M: Your idea for Pat to collect all of Jacks writing and compile them is a great idea.
After my mom passed away I photo copied all of her had written cook book and gave copies to my brother and mom's grandkids.
Pat: Again many thanks for your time to post the daily devotional.
Ruth
Hi again, did you miss me??
I know I miss you , "guys and gals" when I am not here.
I just read a few postings this morning; so please forgive me for not responding to all.
A big welcome to the newcomers--please stay and share with us. Pretty good group of people here.
Ria, dear, Please take care of yourself and I will place your dad in my prayer list.
Jenny, your postings are so close to my heart--you are a dear.
Sonja, just lovely postings from you all the time.
I love seeing Karmet and Sonja's posting on the little ones.
Thrills this grandma's heart to hear your tales and then I
"remember when".
I agree with Kathy and Janet that Jack's posting are marvelous.
I have just printed the Psalms 23 out and will bring it to Penna. Our dear neighbor (who is housebound) will love this and I know it will cheer him through the cold, snowy winter he is facing.
I know that it must be hard and tedious to put Jack's postings in a booklet form ; but think dear Pat, what a
great book this will make.
Think of how many will benefit from Jack's words;
I know that I do.!!!!
Going to check other forums.
Will try to get back before heading to Penna.
Love in Christ,
Joyce
Oh, thanks Ruth. I appreciate your remarks. I appreciate everyone's remarks.
Jenny, I'll have a cuppa with you! I love my tea. Have you seen over there the Dunoon china mugs that are special for Christmas? This year (2003) had cute snowmen on them. My friend who is an flight attendant on Air Canada bought several for friends (me being one of them) and before I got mine, they had an accident (the dog shoved it) and it broke! :'( Are you aware of this special mug that they bring out each year?
HAHAHAHAHA!!! Janet, what a letter! That's the funniest I've read and yes, I was laughing out loud at the last sentence.
Well, we are coming up to 10 months of being in existence and I'm doing a lot of thinking. I'm wondering how much this site called Christian Photographers really means to folks. We have so many people come and register but they never post a message. We have others who come and post for awhile and then they disappear just as we're getting to know them.
Pardon me for the "thinking out loud" post but guess we all have to do that once in awhile.
Maybe we have to make changes so that this site is enjoyed by those who come and register. I'm wondering about whether the site is even necessary on the net... ???
Where's Lee? Where's Rachelle? Where's Jerry? Where's xxxx? We miss you, folks.
Now, back to my thinking... :-\ I have to renew my webhosting contract at the end of March and I must make sure that it's the right thing to do.
I'm so thankful for the words of this hymn this morning...
(https://www.christianphotographers.com/forum/graphics/musicbar.gif)
No One Cared For Me Like Jesus (http://christianphotographers.com/sounds/nocfmlj.mid)
(Click to hear music)
I would love to tell you what I think of Jesus
Since I found in Him a friend so strong and true;
I would tell you how He changed my life completely -
He did something that no other friend could do.
chorus:
No one ever cared for me like Jesus;
There's no other friend so kind as He;
No one else could take the sin and darkness from me -
O how much He cared for me!
All my life was full of sin when Jesus found me;
All my heart was full of misery and woe;
Jesus placed His strong and loving arms around me,
And He led me in the way I ought to go.
Every day He comes to me with new assurance,
More and more I understand His words of love;
But I'll never know just why He came to save me,
Till some day I see His blessed face above.
(https://www.christianphotographers.com/forum/graphics/musicbar.gif)
No One Ever Cared For Me Like JesusCharles Weigle was an Itinerant evangelist. One day after preaching at a gospel crusade, he came home to find a note from his wife. She did not care for the life she led because of being an evangelist's wife and she was leaving him.
The next few years were a time of despair for Weigle. He even wondered if anyone really cared for him. After a time, his faith was again restored and he became active for the Lord again.
During this time he wanted to put to paper a song that would share the feelings he had experienced while during his despondent days.
From his heart came the words and the tune for the hymn, "No One Ever Cared For Me Like Jesus."
From: http://schfrs.crosswinds.net/hymns/cared.htm
Oh, dear Pat,
You were posting while I was "talking
"Maybe we have to make changes so that this site is enjoyed by those who come and register. I'm wondering about whether the site is even necessary on the net...
Did I hear you correctly. "wondering about whether the site is even necessary on the net " ??
Well, I for one says a very, very, LOUD YES , YES.
Okay, I may be being selfish; but I NEED THIS SITE !!!!
How would I meet Ria and learn about Holland--and the dear ones from Canada ( I know you send me the unwanted cold, cold weather) what would I do without them.?????
How about Papa John, Larry and their families ---all the southerners mean a lot to this Northerner girl.
And dear Al , Marilyn, Nita, Janie,
Well, I can go on and on.......
Who else thinks like I do.?
Let's tell Pat our feelings.
O.K.???????
Love in Christ,
Joyce
Quote from: Pat Scott on January 30, 2004, 11:54:21 AM
Well, we are coming up to 10 months of being in existence and I'm doing a lot of thinking. I'm wondering how much this site called Christian Photographers really means to folks. We have so many people come and register but they never post a message. We have others who come and post for awhile and then they disappear just as we're getting to know them.
Pardon me for the "thinking out loud" post but guess we all have to do that once in awhile.
Maybe we have to make changes so that this site is enjoyed by those who come and register. I'm wondering about whether the site is even necessary on the net... ???
Where's Lee? Where's Rachelle? Where's Jerry? Where's xxxx? We miss you, folks.
Now, back to my thinking... :-\ I have to renew my webhosting contract at the end of March and I must make sure that it's the right thing to do.
You better believe it's the right thing to do, from my perspective. Of course, I'm just a consumer who is not footing the bill or doing very much work. I do know that I APPRECIATE VERY MUCH everything YOU do to keep this place going. Those who are the true regulars really enjoy being here and we would be extremely and terribly disappointed if it went away :)
Hello, all!
Just my two cents!
Pat: Keeping the site going is the right thing to do.
Ruth
Hi Ruth,
loved your post ---short and sweet and to the point.
I do have to consider Nard's post though, he brought up a good point --we are the benefactor and we dont
have to do all the work.
BUT, sometimes, work is good and in this case I think the one who is doing the most work, (Pat) WOULD miss this site the most.
So , again , I stand by my YES.
Love in Christ,
Joyce
Sometimes, people come and go.
So true , but , when they are here they are comforted.
They are reading and getting the benefit from the postings.
(we can not see what the benefits are because of lack of
response) BUT they came, read , and if the good LORD wants ; they will return.
Some things or MOST of our daily comings and goings; we can not explain. -- We may never know how much this site would mean to some but we do know what it would mean to the ones who post.
Believe it or not, I benefit most when I "shut up" --
By that I mean, when I come and do not post;you know that I need the comfort and the love that the posters send out in their responses.
They have no idea how they are effecting me because of my lack of response, but they do.
Sometimes we just have to sit by and listen--
I know I do that more than post.
THIS site is my "calming factor" in my work day--without the good LORD leading me here ; I would be at a loss.
Love in Christ,
Joyce
My dear friend Pat Scott:
Don't you dare let this site go by the wayside. It is not your fault that some register and never post. It is not you fault that others no longer post, or only post for a short time and then leave us. This site is a special place for those of us who have remained faithful to come here every day to read the wonderful devotions that you post. Sometime the things we post are just trivial things but that doesn't take anything away from the specialness of this home away from home for so many of us.
Sincerly,
Marilyn Fisher
Dearest Pat, I do understand your discouragement and your questioning at this time. Please know this site is loved and appreciated by many, chief of those---me! I know I think of the people I have "met" here so much, when I am home, or when I am away.
My answer would be a resounding YES! This site is needed on the Net! Where else can we go when we need to just chat, when we need a virtual hug, when we need prayer? We have become a family here.
I know it is discouraging when some register and do not post. I don't know the reason for that, but please know that God is in control. We never know what they are receiving just by coming here, or when they will post, maybe calling out for prayer for a special need.
Please, all of you members who haven't said anything for a while, come and POST and encourage Pat!! We do not want to lose our happy web home here on CP!! :-\
Wow, I slept in till 11:30. I was soooo tired. I guess I needed it. I got water in my ear yesterday and felt a bit dizzy when I walked so I took an allergy pill and slept. I feel much better.
QuoteBy Pat~Maybe we have to make changes so that this site is enjoyed by those who come and register.
Pat~I was thinking the same thing. I miss Rachelle and lee and Jerry! I would love to see the newbies post more.
We (all of us) need to figure out what
we can do to make the newbies post and the ones who were posting post again.
What can you do???
This is what I can do:
Help them feel welcome by talking to them and reply to their posts, not just the first 5 post.
This is how I feel: when I go through a day and reply to everyones post and then come back at the end of the day and see no replies to my post then it hurts my feelings. I feel that no one is reading what I said.
Pat~Another thing~ what about making a forum for just the newbies at the top of the forum page. Maybe we could all help them in there to get started and feel comfortable about being here before actually posting in the NEM. I know there is a practice place but that is so informal. (Is that the right word) Just a thought on how to make this site better.
Just some thoughts. Sorry if it upsets folks.
Luv you all!
Soni[/size]
YES YES YES is my vote. Although I cannot post as often at the rest of you..this is the ONLY site that I go to every day that I get on the computer. This is the first thing I do when I go to my mail. Some days I will go to jigzone or maybe to buy something or research something...but HERE is where I call my home. :)
Please continue, Pat, and if it is financial help let us know. If it is other areas where you find it too much..just let us know.
We are all family here and we can all pitch in.
Your work here is a blessing to so many of us and I pray we never take you for granted.
love, :-* :-* :-* kathy
You did it for one of Mine.
What a lesson to be learned here!
It was a cold winter's day that Sunday. The parking lot to the church was filling up quickly. I noticed as I got out of my car that fellow church members were whispering among themselves as they walked to the church.
As I got closer I saw a man leaned up against the wall outside the church. He was almost laying down as if he was asleep. He had on a long trench coat that was almost in shreds and a hat topped his head, pulled down so you couldn't see his face.
He wore shoes that looked 30 years old, too small for his feet, with holes all over them, his toes stuck out. I assumed this man was homeless, and asleep, so I walked on by through the doors of the Church.
We all enjoy fellowship for a few minutes, and then someone brought up the man who was laying outside. People snickered and gossiped, but no one bothered to ask him to come in, including me. A few moments later church began. We all waited for the Preacher to take his place, and to give us The Word, when the doors to the church opened. In came the homeless man, walking down the aisle with his head down.
People gasped and whispered and made faces. He made his way down the aisle and up onto thepulpit. When he took off his hat and coat my heart sank. There stood our preacher... he was the "homeless man."
No one said a word... the room was silent and still.
Then the preacher took his Bible and laid it on the stand.
"Folks, I don't think I have to tell you what I'm preaching about today." Then he started singing the words to this song...
"If I can help somebody as I pass along,
If I can cheer somebody with a word or song,
If I can show somebody that he's traveling wrong,
Then my living shall not be in vain."
Jack Scott would have easily gone over to this man, he wouldn't have passed by on the other side.
Pat, you have carried on where he left off, you will never understand how great a part you have played in managing this website, it is, and has been, and still will be a blessing to many.
If there is a problem in raising funds to renew this site, then just let us know, and we will all send some donations. ok?
If it's you yourself suffering depression, then we will pray for this to lift, and for the Lord to encourage you, as you encourage us, ok?
Love you ;)
Chris and Margit.
Alison Krauss
Jesus Help Me To Stand
Through trials, troubles and care
I know jesus my savior is there
Giving me faith through darkest days
Keeping me on the narrow way
Jesus savior, help me each day
Fill me with hope, fill me with faith
Darkness retreats at the touch of your hand
Jesus savior, help me to stand
Jesus lived through darkest pain
Rejected by men, despising the shame
Man of sorrows, acquainted with grief
He gave his life so we may be free
Jesus savior, help me each day
Fill me with hope, fill me with faith
Darkness retreats at the touch of your hand
Jesus savior, help me to stand
I know that jesus died for me
Cancelled my debt at calvary
Rose from the dead, unlocked heaven's door
Trust in his love and live evermore
Jesus savior, help me each day
Fill me with hope, fill me with faith
Darkness retreats at the touch of your hand
Jesus savior, help me to stand
http://smickandsmodoo.com/aaa/rocknroll/lean.mid
"Is this site necessary to the web?"....
No, but it is necessary to US the C.P. brethren and thus to Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
If you closed shop Pat, I assure you someone else would take over, but It wouldn't be the same. This is a work which the Lord gave you to do and He brought us all together for fellowship.
I would miss you all so much. I have learned so much about Canadian and American folks on here, where else would I go?.I don't browse the web I stop here.
Pat I asked you last year if you needed any help with the funds. I am not wealthy but I am happy to help and I am sure others would also.
You have worked so hard here Pat and have provided us all with a place of loving kindness. Its wonderful to see the beautiful pictures which you and other photographers have taken., also its fun now and again to "party".
I for one have made some lasting friendships on this site despite what some folks think it is possible to do so on this web site.
We all know how hard you work Pat. It's no good telling you to slow down...you would be looking for another venture and guess what, we would all follow you there.
I Love you Pat. Very, very much. Who else can I tell to "go to bed when I get up at 5 a.m. in England and find you awake at Midnight in Canada...???
"He will work it out for you...He will work it out"
Prayerfully,
With Christian Love.
Jenny
Pat
Never heard of Dunoon mugs! I would love to share a pot of tea with you though..Hows about Sainsbury's Red Label? I'll get some in..O.K?
Please bring Geordie with you. I want to {{{Hug}}} him!
Jenny X
Ruth.........{{{Hugs}}}
Joyce........{{{Hugs}}}
Good evening everyone, It is a cold wintery snowy day here in the north.
Pat you will get my IM about the CP and its direction.
Ria I will continue to pray for you and your dad.
Good night all, I have a furnace to get more heat out of.
JudyB
I have come home to so many wonderful posts each day right here on CP. You all have prayed for me and the other prayer requests I have posted here. I know I have not responded to everyone on here, sometimes I am in sucha hurry I only respond to those that really stood out or those that I can remember. I love all of you and I miss those who haven;t been here in quite awhile.
Pinkie, Alan, Jerry, Rachelle, Lee, Papa John, Janice, Cindy, Diana, Ursula, Jen, Trish, Cami, to name only a few that are sorely missed. Please come back an join us here even if it is only to way HI y-all or Thanks Pat.l,
Pat please let us know what it will take to keep us online. If we all pitch in it won't be too much for any oneof us. You can let us know by private IM or emails. But DO LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN HELP.
I love you Pat
Hi Everyone...
I've got my Avon done, cleared out some boxes that needed to be done, had unexpected company and some unexpected phone calls to deal with and now I'm back here.
Thanks so much for the vote of confidence. I will be praying about your comments in the coming days.
Janet - that thing about Saddam and Bush was priceless!
Pat - I honestly don't know which of those who have posted about CP to echo! All of them I think. I'll try to post more. Honest I will! I don't honestly think we should worry too much about Lee, Rachelle, etc. yet - I think they'll be back in here. Probably have a reason.
I won't be here February 7, 8, and 9. I'll be going down to Davis California (not too far from Sacramento) to preach at Grace Valley Christian Center there. Who knows, I might even take my camera (!).
And by the way - I don't think we need to change ANYTHING!!!
Honestly, Pat - I don't know how you could improve it at all. To me... its asolutely perfect!
I for one would really miss C.P. Often I am at a loss as to what to say, but usually, once I get started, "something" comes to mind...LOL
Not having my cleaning help, has really lessened my time that I can spend on here, as it takes all my energy to keep up my home the way I like, meal prep., laundry, shopping etc., and trying to encourage a husband who has been ill for the last three years!
Well, I don't know what more I can add, except to agree with Soni, and try and give encouragement to thhe newbies to keep posting....even if they only come in and say a quick hello!
and..... we wouldn't hear from Meika if we shut down :'(
Love....Judy M.
Oh... and Janet.... when I first started reading your post, I thought you were really talking about YOURSELF losing your job....then when I read the ending, I laughed 'til the tears came..ran down my face. Now my mascara is burning my eyes....LOL
thanks, Janet... this was the medicine we all needed right now! ;D
Pat, words can't express for me the love I feel for this site. As you know, I've had lots of screen display problems, but come to read as often as I can, even if I don't have time to post.
Should we need to be supportive of this wonderful ministry, I'll be happy to contribute.
Ruth Ann
Well, for me...I read/look at my email and then come to CP. Sometimes I read word for word...sometimes I scan over. Sometimes I reply to all...sometimes I reply to a few that stood out for me. Sometimes I just tell what I plan to do for the day! Just like me thinking people are getting tired of my little red thoughts at the end of my first post of the day. Then someone mentions that they got a great laugh out of one and then I think they are all worth it. I sometimes fee,l why post some pictures when only a few respond to the pictures. Then other times, I get a bunch of posts on my pictures. I guess no one is the same day after day. Everyone has other things to do...and for me, I am trying to stay away from the pc because I am sure and positive that the pc or at least, the way I was sitting and looking at the monitor is what caused me to have to have the injection in my neck. Which reminds me, Marilyn, what did you find out from your x-rays and your doctor today???? Hunh????
Anyway, I enjoy CP. I enjoy the people I have met on CP. We are family!!!!!
Now, Kevin told me to unplug my new hard drive in my new pc. Then plug in the old hard drive in the new pc. I did. Turned it on. And after finding new hardware, I burned my Fonts on a CD. Then plugged my new hard drive back up and unplugged the old one. Something happened. Some of the fonts didn't have names on them...just gobbly gook! So I opened each one and renamed. I started out with 200+ already in my new pc. Now I have 562 fonts! Now at least, if and when I decide to do some things on PSP that I learned way back, I have the fonts to use!!!
Now my neck is tired!!!!
Yep, you guys are my family!!!!
Etta Sue you asked about my xrays today. Ok here goes. I have a pinched nerve in between the 4th and 5th vertabra in my neck.
Some arthritis showed up. The Doctor gave me some more stretching excersizes to do daily to stretch that muscle on the left side of my neck out so it won't keep pulling my neck out of place.
Right now no pain thanK you Jesus. He said that the when the muscle on top of my left shoulder tightens up it causes the pain in my arm elbow and wrist. Computer related tension and stress. So I too am staying off the computer so much.
Hello Everyone
I have been darting in and out of here reading the messages, but not writing anything. sorry! :'( :( :-[
Pat Thanks so much for those last two messages from Jack. It is such a blessing to read his works as I can really relate to what he is saying. :)
I have been quite busy of late. I am writing a book of my life, dedicated to my Grandchildren.
Many of them will only remember me as an old man. I want them to understand what I did as a child and right on up to the present time.
As I look back on my 75 years I would not have had it any other way. I look back at the great depression 1932 right up into WW2 1940 and am thankful I was able to experience it all. The hard times are so much out numbered by the pleasant memories. ;D
God has blessed me so much and I praise His Holy Name for it.
Have a good evening.
Pat, I have to add my hopes that God will lead you to continue with CP. I'm sure that you'll be praying about it, as will all of us, and that He'll show you what He has planned.
Boots, what a wonderful thing you are doing for your grandchildren.
Let's sing together...
(https://www.christianphotographers.com/forum/graphics/musicbar.gif)
Have Thine Own Way. Lord! (http://www.christianphotographers.com/sounds/adelaide.mpga)
(Click to hear music)
Author: Adelaide A. Pollard, 1862-1834
Musician: George C. Stebbins, 1846-1945
Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Thou art the Potter, I am the clay.
Mold me and make me after Thy will,
While I am waiting, yielded and still.
Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Search me and try me, Master, today!
Whiter than snow, Lord, wash me just now,
As in Thy presence humbly I bow.
Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Wounded and weary, help me, I pray!
Power, all power, surely is Thine!
Touch me and heal me, Savior divine.
Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Hold o'er my being absolute sway!
Fill with Thy Spirit 'till all shall see
Christ only, always, living in me.
(https://www.christianphotographers.com/forum/graphics/musicbar.gif)
HYMN HISTORY:A young woman sat in a prayer meeting over eighty years ago. She was so pressed down by the weight of despair that she was hardly able to concentrate on what the speaker was saying.
Adelaide Pollard had a burden for the continent of Africa and was convinced that God wanted her to go there as a missionary. She had been on the very point of sailing away but then had to cancel everything, because the necessary funds just couldn't be raised. You can imagine her disappointment.
As she sat there the words of a prayer, often uttered by an old lady she knew, came into her thoughts: 'It's all right, Lord! It doesn't matter what you bring into our lives; just have your own way with us!'
In a moment her burden had lifted as she bowed in submission to the will of God.
Running home that night she meditated on the story of the potter, recorded by Jeremiah:
'Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels.
And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand oft he potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.' Jeremiah 18:34.
These words seemed to fit Miss Pollard's own life and experiences exactly.
Adelaide Pollard had been born in Iowa in 1862. She had been well educated and for several years taught in a girl's school. She also had a talent for writing, both prose and poetry, and produced many religious artides, as well as a few hymns.
But her real concern was for the lost. She longed to see them reached with the message of Christ Jesus. Eventually, she began a ministry in Bible teaching and, travelling widely throughout the United States, spoke to numerous groups and churches.
Miss Pollard was also passionately interested in foreign missions. For a while she taught at the Missionary Training Institute at Nyack, New York and hoped that she would, herself, be a missionary one day. However, now it seemed that God, who had been with her all her life, was suddenly deserting her.
'But,' she thought, 'perhaps my questioning of God's will shows a flaw in my life, so God has decided to break me, as the potter broke the defective vessel, and then to mould my life again - in His own pattern,'
As she bowed in humble consecration before God, the words of a poem took shape in her mind, and she wrote:
Have Thine own way, Lord!
Have Thine own way!
Thou art the potter;
I am the clay.
Mould me and make me
after Thy will,
While I am waiting,
yielded and still.
Adelaide Pollard had learned that even Christians can be self-centred, self-possessed and self-willed. Even when doing God's work, like her planned trip to Africa, she had to be careful lest it be done in the wisdom and strength of self.
In God's own time he allowed her to go to Africa. She also spent several years in England during the first World War, returning later to her travelling ministry in the USA.
She continued to speak publicly until the age of 72 when, on her way to yet another meeting, she was taken ill in a railway station in New York City and died soon after.
The world will always have cause to be thankful for the life and ministry of that frail little woman who wrote:
Have Thine own way, Lord,
Have Thine own way;
Hold o're my being
Absolute sway.
Fill with Thy Spirit
Till all shall see
Christ only, always,
Living in me.
Quote from: Boots on January 30, 2004, 09:31:35 PM
I have been quite busy of late. I am writing a book of my life, dedicated to my Grandchildren.
Many of them will only remember me as an old man. I want them to understand what I did as a child and right on up to the present time.
As I look back on my 75 years I would not have had it any other way. I look back at the great depression 1932 right up into WW2 1940 and am thankful I was able to experience it all. The hard times are so much out numbered by the pleasant memories. ;D
God has blessed me so much and I praise His Holy Name for it.
Boots!!!I would love to have one of those books when you get done writing it.
I am sure your grandkids will love it! I would love to learn more about my great grandma and her life growing up. I hope I get that chance when I see her this year in April. She will be turning 95 years old on April 1. woohoo...
I share the feelings of those who have posted, telling you how important this site is in their lives. It is never possible to please all of the people, all of the time. Remember that old cliche? We come from many different backgrounds and have different ways of worshipping the Lord. What is important is that we do worship Him. Coming together like this and feeling the power of God at work in so many lives.....how can that every be a waste of time or money. For many of us, it is a lifeline. You make that possible, Pat.
Who knows how many people only visit and still come away blessed. I know that Amanda is very busy with Schoolwork and has so little time...yet you say she comes to the site to read the posts. Like for so many her age, life is confusing and frightening and they are searching for truth. They can find it here.
This site has helped me to stay centered on what is important. Sure, our feelings can be hurt at times. Christians are not without egos, arrogance...and just plain 'attitudes.' Sometimes these things are hard to ignore...but it gives one a chance to practise tolerance, forgiveness and kindness. Isn't that what Jesus wants from us?
I am grateful to you every day Pat. Will help in whatever way is necessary, financial, learn to post my own pictures....even try to learn those tricky graphics.
To those who no longer post...I hope it will be in their hearts to forgive whatever has made they leave and remember that we are not perfect.
God Bless. Liz
Troy had his swim meat in Buffalo Wy.
He got 27.5 sec on his 50 free in a relay. It was 28.4 or something. So he is getting it down. If he gets it to 24 he will make it to state. He doesn't think he will make it but I sure hope so.
He will be heading to Casper, Wy. Tomorrow for a meet. Not sure when he will get back, maybe 7:30 or so.
I am heading to bed.
Night folks.
Be back tomorrow.
Love
Soni
Pat, I just got in from a Weekender fashion show and got reading the posts from the day. I agree with everyone who has posted today. CP is a wonderful site and very needed and I for one appreciate all the time and effort that you have put into it.
I want to thank you again for showing me how to post pictures and hope to do more in the coming days.
Pat, if you need financial support, I agree with others who have posted that we all can help by giving a donation.
I hope over the next few days you will agree that we all want and need Christian Photographers to continue. I will be praying for God's leading and wisdom.
God Bless
Love Ruthie
Pat, I know that this site is very special. I'm not online much, as some know, but when I do come.....I check email and then to CP. I don't always post, but read and pray for the needs posted. I guess I should be better about posting, but sometimes (like lately......so many sad things happening in our church)there are no words.....or you try to post something, and then erase all of it. That's just me. Others NEED to come and say what they are feeling, while sometimes I can't.
You know where the Lord is leading you, honey. He'll speak to you and you'll follow. We, those who want the site to stay, can't say what God is doing. As those who love you and want the best for you, there isn't one of us who would urge you to continue hosting this site if you really felt God telling you to do something different now. On the other hand, as other's have posted, I, too, felt the need to let you know that we would help financially to keep the site up, and wrote that to you.
I've always been ready to receive and to let go just as easily. I know that we are on a journey and there are seasons for everything. God is teaching us all.
We can all pray for Pat and with Pat, and surrender our desire for this site to continue to the Lord. Our Precious Father knows just what Pat needs to be doing, and if it's to continue here, I trust Him. He will move on her heart and put a new joy in her for this place and a new vision of what is already happening here. Some people leave because they do not need a site like this. That is the truth. Some have so much going on that it takes determined time to come here and post, and then they feel quilty if they've been gone awhile so they don't come to post. We are all so different. All busy on the journey God has layed out before us.
Soni, I think your idea is a good one if Pat continues. Have a place where newcomers can come and post in one place for awhile......get a feel for the site and the other members...a safe place to be. There are still people who are not too comfortable with the internet yet, and getting used to a site like this would be hard.
I've said way too many words. Initially, I just wanted to come and say that I've had a really good day. And my daughter from Arizona is coming tomorrow !! Yippee.
Thanks so much folks for all of the ideas and lovely comments. I appreciate you more than I can tell you in words.
Now, it's time to lock this door and go to Part 3 of Psalm 23 with Jack.
CLICK HERE (http://christianphotographers.com/yabbse/index.php?board=2;action=display;threadid=2277)