Everlasting God Chords & lyrics

Verse 2x
Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord

Pre Chorus
     F                  A     G#m
Our God, You reign forever
     F                A     G#m
Our hope, our Strong Deliverer

Chorus 1
C                        F
You are the everlasting God
                 Am
The everlasting God
                      F
You do not faint you won't grow weary

Intro
Verse 2x
Pre Chorus
Chorus 1

Chorus 2
You're the defender of the weak
You comfort those in need
You lift us up on wings like eagles


Intro
Pre Chorus
Chorus 1
Chorus 2

Chorus 3
C              F
               From Everlasting
          Am
to everlasting
                 F
God You are everlasting

Intro

End on C

GODBLESS...

God is in the House Chords & Lyrics

GOD IS IN THE HOUSE 

Intro: G – Bm – C – C - D (3x) C - G 

 Verse: 

 C B7 

As for me, God came and found me 

 Em A - G 

As for me, He took me home 

 C A7 

As for me, He gave me a family 

 Am C D 

And I’ll never walk alone 

 C B7 

In my life, I’m soaked with blessing 

 Em A 

And in heaven there’s a great reward 

 G Em 

As for me and my house 

 Am D G 

We’re gonna serve the Lord 

  (Repeat) 

Chorus: 

 G Am 

I’ve got Jesus, Jesus 

 C G 

He calls me for His own 

 C Am 

And He lifts me, lifts me 

 C D 

Above the world I know 

 G 

God is in the house 

 C 

There’s no doubt 

 G 

God is in the house 

 C 

Can’t keep Him out 

 G Em 

As for you (as for you) 

 G Em 

As for me (as for me) 

 C D G 

We’re gonna serve the Lord 

 (Repeat Verse) 

 (Repeat Chorus) 

 G 

God is in the house 

 C 

There’s no doubt 

 G 

God is in the house 

 C 

Can’t keep Him out 

 G Em 

As for you (as for you) 

 G Em 

As for me (as for me) 

 C D G 

We’re gonna serve the Lord 

 GOD BLESS ...

TOUCHING HEAVEN CHANGING EARTH

TOUCHING HEAVEN CHANGING EARTH

(2 Chronicles 7:14)

Intro: Brass Section G – C - Em - D (2x)

Verse 1:

G                                  C          D         G - C - D

We will seek Your face Almighty God

Em                               C          D          Em - C - D

Turn and pray for You to heal our land

G                     C         D                     G – C - D

Father let revival start in us

Em                         C

Then every heart will know

D              Em  - D - G - C (break)

Your kingdom comes 

Chorus 1:

   D                   Em7

Lifting up the name of the Lord

C                           D          Em7

In power and in u - ni - ty

C                            D           Em7

We will see the nations turn

C                 G             D              Em7  -  (C7)

Touching heaven changing earth

(Repeat) 

C                 G             D  (do intro)

Touching heaven changing earth 

Verse 2:

G                          C                D            G - C - D

Never looking back we’ll run the race

Em                       C                  D            Em - C - D

Giving you our lives we’ll gain the prize

G                             C             D                   G - C - D

We will take the harvest given us

Em                               C

Though we sow in tears

D          Em - D - G - C (break)

We’ll reap in joy 

Chorus 2:

    D                   Em7

Lifting up the name of the Lord

C                          D           Em7

In power and in u - ni - ty

C                            D           Em7

We will see the nations turn

C                 G             D                          Em7  -  (C7)

Touching heaven changing earth

(Repeat)

C                 G               D             Em7

Touching heaven changing earth 

Bridge: (Slow Tempo)

Am7

Send revival (send revival)

G

Send revival (send revival)

C                          Em7 - D

Send revival to us

Am7

Send revival (send revival)

G/B

Send revival (send revival)

C                          Em7 - D

Send revival to us 

(Repeat Bridge at Fast Tempo)

(Repeat first 3 lines of Chorus 2 going to Coda) 

Coda: (Fast Tempo)

C                 G            D                            Em7

Touching heaven changing earth (5x) 

          (Slow Tempo)

C                 G            D                             G

Touching heaven changing earth

Contentment a fisherman story

 Godliness actually is a means of great gain, when accompanied by contentment

One day a fisherman was lying on a beautiful beach, with his fishing pole propped up in the sand and his solitary line cast out into the sparkling blue surf. He was enjoying the warmth of the afternoon sun and the prospect of catching a fish.

About that time, a businessman came walking down the beach, trying to relieve some of the stress of his workday. He noticed the fisherman sitting on the beach and decided to find out why this fisherman was fishing instead of working harder to make a living for himself and his family.

“You aren’t going to catch many fish that way,” said the businessman to the fisherman, “you should be working rather than lying on the beach!” The fisherman looked up at the businessman, smiled and replied, “And what will my reward be?” “Well, you can get bigger nets and catch more fish!” was the businessman’s answer. “And then what will my reward be?” asked the fisherman, still smiling.

The businessman replied, “You will make money and you’ll be able to buy a boat, which will then result in larger catches of fish!” “And then what will my reward be?” asked the fisherman again. The businessman was beginning to get a little irritated with the fisherman’s questions. “You can buy a bigger boat, and hire some people to work for you!” he said. “And then what will my reward be?” repeated the fisherman.

The businessman was getting angry. “Don’t you understand? You can build up a fleet of fishing boats, sail all over the world, and let all your employees catch fish for you!” Once again the fisherman asked, “And then what will my reward be?” The businessman was red with rage and shouted at the fisherman, “Don’t you understand that you can become so rich that you will never have to work for your living again! You can spend all the rest of your days sitting on this beach, looking at the sunset. You won’t have a care in the world!”

The fisherman, still smiling, looked up and said, “And what do you think I’m doing right now?”

It’s easy to get caught in the world’s trap of working harder and harder to earn more and more, when we may well already have what can provide us with the greatest possible happiness. May you know true contentment today?

“Now Godliness with contentment is great gain, For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain that we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.” (1Timothy 6:6-8).

God Bless to all..

Resolve to read your Bible each day

We should read and study the Bible because it is God's Word to us. The Bible is literally "God-breathed" (2 Timothy 3:16). In other words, it is God's very words to us. There are so many questions that philosophers have asked that God answers for us in Scripture. What is the purpose to life? Where did I come from? Is there life after death? How do I get to heaven? Why is the world full of evil? Why do I struggle to do good? In addition to these "big" questions, the Bible gives much practical advice in areas such as: What do I look for in a mate? How can I have a successful marriage? How can I be a good friend? How can I be a good parent? What is success and how do I achieve it? How can I change? What really matters in life? How can I live so that I do not look back with regret? How can I handle the unfair circumstances and bad events of life victoriously?

 We should read and study the Bible because it is totally reliable and without error. The Bible is unique among so-called "holy" books in that it does not merely give moral teaching and say, "Trust me." Rather, we have the ability to test it by checking the hundreds of detailed prophecies that it makes, by checking the historical accounts it records, and by checking the scientific facts it relates. Those who say the Bible has errors have their ears closed to the truth. Jesus once asked which is easier to say, "Your sins are forgiven you," or "Rise, take up your bed and walk." Then He proved He had the ability to forgive sins (something we cannot see with our eyes) by healing the paralytic (something those around Him could test with their eyes). Similarly, we are given assurance that God's Word is true when it discusses spiritual areas that we cannot test with our senses by showing itself true in those areas that we can test, such as historical accuracy, scientific accuracy, and prophetic accuracy.

 We should read and study the Bible because God does not change and because mankind's nature does not change; it is as relevant for us as it was when it was written. While technology changes, mankind's nature and desires do not change. We find, as we read the pages of biblical history, that whether we are talking about one-on-one relationships or societies, "there is nothing new under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 1:9). And while mankind as a whole continues to seek love and satisfaction in all of the wrong places, God—our good and gracious Creator—tells us what will bring us lasting joy. His revealed Word, the Bible, is so important that Jesus said of it, "Man does not live on bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). In other words, if we want to live life to the fullest, as God intended, we must listen to and heed God's written Word.

 We should read and study the Bible because there is so much false teaching. The Bible gives us the measuring stick by which we can distinguish truth from error. It tells us what God is like. To have a wrong impression of God is to worship an idol or false god. We are worshiping something that He is not. The Bible tells us how one truly gets to heaven, and it is not by being good or by being baptized or by anything else we do (John 14:6; Ephesians 2:1-10; Isaiah 53:6; Romans 3:10-18, 5:8, 6:23, 10:9-13). Along this line, God's Word shows us just how much God loves us (Romans 5:6-8; John 3:16). And it is in learning this that we are drawn to love Him in return (1 John 4:19).

 The Bible equips us to serve God (2 Timothy 3:17; Ephesians 6:17; Hebrews 4:12). It helps us know how to be saved from our sin and its ultimate consequence (2 Timothy 3:15). Meditating on God’s Word and obeying its teachings will bring success in life (Joshua 1:8; James 1:25). God’s Word helps us see sin in our lives and helps us get rid of it (Psalm 119:9, 11). It gives us guidance in life, making us wiser than our teachers (Psalm 32:8, 119:99; Proverbs 1:6). The Bible keeps us from wasting years of our lives on that which does not matter and will not last (Matthew 7:24-27).

 Reading and studying the Bible helps us see beyond the attractive "bait" to the painful "hook" in sinful temptations, so that we can learn from others' mistakes rather than making them ourselves. Experience is a great teacher, but when it comes to learning from sin, it is a terribly hard teacher. It is so much better to learn from others' mistakes. There are so many Bible characters to learn from, some of whom can serve as both positive and negative role models at different times in their lives. For example, David, in his defeat of Goliath, teaches us that God is greater than anything He asks us to face (1 Samuel 17), while his giving in to the temptation to commit adultery with Bathsheba reveals just how long-lasting and terrible the consequences of a moment's sinful pleasure can be (2 Samuel 11).

 The Bible is a book that is not merely for reading. It is a book for studying so that it can be applied. Otherwise, it is like swallowing food without chewing and then spitting it back out again—no nutritional value is gained by it. The Bible is God's Word. As such, it is as binding as the laws of nature. We can ignore it, but we do so to our own detriment, just as we would if we ignored the law of gravity. It cannot be emphasized strongly enough just how important the Bible is to our lives. Studying the Bible can be compared to mining for gold. If we make little effort and merely "sift through the pebbles in a stream," we will only find a little gold dust. But the more we make an effort to really dig into it, the more reward we will gain for our effort.

God Bless to all,,,

The Scriptures are the inspired Word of God

The Scriptures are the inspired Word of God

When people speak of the Bible as inspired, they are referring to the fact that God divinely influenced the human authors of the Scriptures in such a way that what they wrote was the very Word of God. In the context of the Scriptures, the word “inspiration” simply means “God-breathed.” Inspiration means the Bible truly is the Word of God and makes the Bible unique among all other books.

 While there are different views as to the extent to which the Bible is inspired, there can be no doubt that the Bible itself claims that every word in every part of the Bible comes from God (1 Corinthians 2:12-13; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). This view of the Scriptures is often referred to as “verbal plenary” inspiration. That means the inspiration extends to the very words themselves (verbal)—not just concepts or ideas—and that the inspiration extends to all parts of Scripture and all subject matters of Scripture (plenary). Some people believe only parts of the Bible are inspired or only the thoughts or concepts that deal with religion are inspired, but these views of inspiration fall short of the Bible’s claims about itself. Full verbal plenary inspiration is an essential characteristic of the Word of God.

 The extent of inspiration can be clearly seen in 2 Timothy 3:16, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” This verse tells us that God inspired all Scripture and that it is profitable to us. It is not just the parts of the Bible that deal with religious doctrines that are inspired, but each and every word from Genesis to Revelation. Because it is inspired by God, the Scriptures are therefore authoritative when it comes to establishing doctrine, and sufficient for teaching man how be in a right relationship with God. The Bible claims not only to be inspired by God, but also to have the supernatural ability to change us and make us “complete.” What more can we need?

 Another verse that deals with the inspiration of the Scriptures is 2 Peter 1:21. This verse helps us to understand that even though God used men with their distinctive personalities and writing styles, God divinely inspired the very words they wrote. Jesus Himself confirmed the verbal plenary inspiration of the Scriptures when He said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law...” (Matthew 5:17-18). In these verses, Jesus is reinforcing the accuracy of the Scriptures down to the smallest detail and the slightest punctuation mark, because it is the very Word of God.

 Because the Scriptures are the inspired Word of God, we can conclude that they are also inerrant and authoritative. A correct view of God will lead us to a correct view of His Word. Because God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and completely perfect, His Word will by its very nature have the same characteristics. The same verses that establish the inspiration of the Scriptures also establish that it is both inerrant and authoritative. Without a doubt the Bible is what it claims to be—the undeniable, authoritative, Word of God to humanity.

God Bless to all,,

Ways to Build a Healthy and Happy Family ACCORDING TO THE BIBLE

Ways to Build a Healthy and Happy Family ACCORDING TO THE BIBLE

Since every family and each person in it is unique, there's no magic, one-size-fits-all parenting plan that's guaranteed to give you a healthy and happy family.  And since nobody is perfect in this fallen world, there's no such thing as a perfect family.  But there are some basic principles that will help you create a family which each member can grow spiritually, emotionally, and relationally - which will help you build the healthy, happy family God wants you to enjoy.

Here's how you can healthy and happy family: 

Be there.  Your kids regard your very presence as a sign of caring and connectedness.  It's crucial for you to spend as much time as possible with them.  Keep in mind that your job as a parent is a calling from God - more important than any other work you do, including the job you get paid to do - and your influence on your kids will be your greatest legacy.  Ask God to help you make whatever sacrifices you need to make to free up your time and energy to be there for your kids often.  Be available to talk with them, help them, attend their events, and cheer them on in their various pursuits.  Your kids crave your presence, and nothing can make up for your absence.  Be creative about how you can spend time with each of your kids one-on-one regularly, from going of a hike to playing a board game together. 

Express affirmation, warmth, and encouragement.  Parents who practice loving parenting, as opposed to shame-based parenting, will create a home where children and spouses feel more secure.  So avoid shame-based parenting, which is performance-oriented and approval-focused, using words and actions that cause kids to think that they aren't loved or valuable.  Instead, aim to make your kids feel accepted, appreciated, listened to, and loved.  Give your kids confidence by letting them know that you believe in them, value them, and enjoy them.  Say "I love you" to them often, and give them plenty of physical affection like hugs, kisses, and back rubs.  Rather than just jumping into their to-do lists with them, share some relaxed conversations with them after they get home from school and before they go to bed.  Let go of unrealistic expectations for them.  Encourage them to pursue their areas of interest and become the people God wants them to become. 

Build healthy morals and values.  The decisions that kids make today will often affect them for the rest of their lives.  Study the culture so you can understand what cultural influences currently pose a danger to your kids spiritually.  Pray for God's help to teach biblical values and morals to your kids in ways they can best learn.  Talk openly and honestly with your kids about sex, alcohol, and other drugs from when they're young, all the way through their teen years, answering their questions and discussing issues in age-appropriate ways.  Encourage them to commit to living a lifestyle of purity, including honoring God with their bodies, renewing their minds for good, turning their eyes and ears away from what's worthless, and guarding their hearts above all else.  Get to know what your kids watch on TV and in the movies, what websites they visit, what music they listen to, and what video games they play.  Watch and listen together with them as often as possible, and talk with them about the content to help them learn to think critically about it.  Restrict their access to vulgar media content. 

Discipline with consistency.  When you clearly express expectations and consistently follow through, you'll produce responsible kids.  Keep in mind that consistent discipline takes lots of time and energy.  Ask God to give you the strength you need to devote the necessary time and energy rather than taking the easy way out when you're tired and having your kids fail to learn important lessons.  Remember the Bible's promise that if you train your kids in the way they should go, when they're old they won't depart from it.  Set and clearly communicate healthy boundaries about doing homework and chores, telling the truth, talking to you respectfully, and a myriad of other issues - and follow through with consequences when your kids make poor choices.  Help your kids decide what consequences they should get for various infractions.  Stay calm - not angry - when you're disciplining them, refrain from nagging, choose your battles wisely, and show empathy.  Your willingness to be the parent they need - not merely a friend - will give them security and confidence. 




 Ruthlessly eliminate stress.  The unbalanced life will not be kind to the areas you neglect.  Ask God to help you decide which activities to eliminate from your family's schedule if you're too busy to get enough rest and free time every day and evening.  Don't neglect spending lots of time with your family for anything, including your career.  Make whatever sacrifices you need to make so you can enjoy plenty of relaxed family time together.  Spend time reflecting and praying in solitude regularly to keep your life in the proper perspective.  Get enough sleep and exercise regularly, and make sure that your spouse and kids do, too.

Communicate well.  Positive communication is the language of love for your kids.  Make a habit of listening carefully to your kids whenever they share their thoughts and feelings with you.  Also figure out what other ways you can best express your love for your kids in ways that each of them will receive well.  Apologize them to them when you've made a parenting mistake.  Allow the conflicts you experience with your spouse and kids to be a path to deeper communication by helping you all understand each other better and work as a team to solve problems.


Play together.  There is nothing like play to bring about family togetherness.  Make time for vacations together, have fun at home, go on frequent outings (from getting ice cream out to taking music or sports lessons together), share holiday traditions, enjoy humor together, and work on service projects together.  Sharing playful experiences will build family memories that will bond you all in powerful ways.


Love your spouse.  If you're married, work on your marriage regularly and invest in it through activities like frequent dates, since a loving marriage brings hope and security to your kids.  If you're a single parent, build relationships with others at your church who care about your kids and are willing to invest in their lives.


Remember that the best things in life aren't things.  Healthy stewardship and sound financial decisions produce positive family priorities.  Follow a budget to live below your means, avoid debt, tithe and give in other generous ways, and save regularly.  Modeling these healthy financial practices will teach your kids valuable practical and spiritual lessons.


Energize your family's spiritual growth.  Your greatest calling in life is to leave a spiritual legacy for your kids.  So make your relationship with God through Christ your top priority.  Grow closer to Christ individually and as a couple with your spouse.  Pray for and with your kids in a regular family devotional time, write a family constitution that describes your family's values, and talk about God often as you go through your everyday activities together.

GodBless to all...

MUSIC MINISTRY VISION

 

Our vision is for the creation of an environment that encourages and

enables participants to be equipped to lead the congregation in worship.

MUSIC MINISTRY GOALS     

to identify and develop the musical talent of the

Church to inspire fellow musicians, fellow worship leaders and the

congregation through the use of musical talents                                 

to bring together the choir, organists, and praise teams in unified

expression to provide a variety of instruments/styles with different teams, in

order to allow the congregation to fully express praise to our Lord

to emphasize a spirit of worship while maintaining musical excellence

to allow for spiritual expression in all of its dimensions: thanks,

praise, confession, supplication

Scriptural Foundation

It came to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one

sound to be heard in praising and thanking the Lord; and when they

lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of

music, and praised the Lord, saying, For He is good; for His mercy

endureth forever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the

house of the LORD; So that the priests could not stand to minister by

reason of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the House of

God (2 Chronicles 5:13-14).

Purpose
The music ministry is to act as a vehicle to usher in the presence of
God. It is to set and establish an atmosphere that is conducive to
worship, enabling (a) the presence of God to move freely among the
congregation and (b) each person in the congregation to experience
Christ on a personal level. The music ministry should serve as an
enhancement to the worship service (Not distraction), preparing the
people for the delivery of the Word of God. It is not an end in itself,
but neither is it a means of filling gaps in the worship experience. The
music ministry should not be used as a piece of scenic background, but
rather as an active, participatory, and integral part of the worship
service.

Vision/Mission Statement

As a music ministry, our primary mission is to magnify and glorify
Jesus Christ (Colossians 3:16-17) in everything we do. Furthermore, it
is also the mission of the music ministry to facilitate the fulfillment
of the overall mission and vision of this church through the delivery
of: (A) Spiritual and spirit-led music that enhances the worship
service; (B) Anointed music that edifies, inspires, and challenges the
body of Christ and further enables them to experience Christ on a
personal level; (C)Through-provoking and intelligent music that
continues to raise the level of consciousness of the people to the
awesome nature of the God we serve through praise and worship; (D)
Christ-centered music that boldly shares the “Good News” with those
who are lost; (E) Dynamic, multifaceted music for a diverse congregation
that will not be mired in mediocrity or tradition, but continues to push
the edges of the envelope so that effective ministry can take place in
any atmosphere and at anytime; (F) Innovative, fresh, and creative music
that is unique to this church while also reaching into the past to
bridge the gap between young and old Christians alike; and (G) Training
that equips, empowers, and enables others to grow and realize their full
potential in the area of music ministry.


God Bless to all...

The Definition of Music Ministry

  The Definition of Music Ministry

The profession, duties and services of a musician in a religious setting define a music ministry. Those in the music ministry are responsible for directing and making music for religious worship during church services.Music ministry is focused on serving, rather than performing. All the music made is meant to bring both the musicians and congregation closer to God. As part of the ministry, music directors also lead the  musicians in prayer before services..

Responsibilities of Praise & Worship Teams

A church praise and worship teams lead the congregation in song during weekly services and other gatherings. The team may include a full choir and a full band or just a handful of singers and musicians. The specific duties of the praise and worship team may differ from church to church, but generally these teams carry the responsibility of selecting and preparing music for Sunday morning worship. Worship teams may also organize other artistic means of worshiping such as dance, drama and visual art.

Musical Worship

o    Many churches have praise and worship teams instead of more traditional church choirs to lead the congregation in worship through song. The praise team's leader or the music minister selects songs to sing at each service. The team of musicians and singers practices the songs throughout the week in preparation for the weekly worship service. Praise and worship teams differ from choirs in that they tend to sing more contemporary, upbeat worship songs rather than traditional hymns. The praise and worship team is also responsible for setting the mood and engaging the congregation during the worship service. You might see a praise team leading people to clap their hands.

Private Worship

o    Members of praise and worship teams are expected to remain worshipful throughout the week. As leaders of the worship life of the church, the team holds the responsibility of leading others by example. Daily time spent giving praise privately through song, prayer or acts of kindness is expected of members of the team. Additionally, the praise and worship team holds the responsibility of entering each rehearsal and worship service with a genuine spirit of thankfulness and a heart for worship.

Prayer and Encouragement

o    Every position of leadership in a church involves regular prayer for the life of the church. Praise and worship teams should regularly pray for church members, leaders and pastors, with special emphasis placed on the spirit of worship cultivated in the church body. Members of the praise team should pray as a group and individually for the effectiveness of public worship services. Praise team members should encourage one another as well as members of the church body in spiritual growth.

Committment

o    The praise and worship team members must have a high level of commitment to their beliefs, the church and their instruments. All members of praise and worship teams should attend every weekly practice and  warm-up. Likewise, the team holds a responsibility to present a high-quality worship service, polishing songs and doing their best to avoid technical glitches. Individual members should continue to practice their musical instrument or vocal technique as a way of giving back.

o     

Non-Musical Worship

o    In some churches, praise and worship teams may also be responsible for coordinating non-musical forms of worship. The team may organize a dance ministry or a drama group as additional means of offering praise and reaching out to others. These groups may perform alongside the musical praise and worship team or separately. Praise teams also organize worship-based outreach events, taking music, dance and drama to schools, prisons or other places in the community.

GOD BLESS TO ALL,,

Comparing yourself to others

Comparing yourself to others

Definition: Comparing means examining the similarities and differences of two or more things, ideas or people. When we compare ourselves with others, it can be a form of jealousy that results from not trusting in the Lord's love and fairness.

 

Comparing myself with others

 Read 2 Corinthians 10:12, which speaks about how we compare and contrast ourselves with   others something that is very human but very unwise.

QUESTIONS

a. If you find yourself comparing yourself with others, why do you think you do it?

b. What are usually the results of this comparing?

c. If necessary, what can you do to change this habit?

d. When you think about yourself, what are you especially thankful to God for?

EFFECTS  & RESULT Comparing yourself to others

1. Comparing ourselves negatively with others leads to discontment, discouragement and jealously.

* Romans 9:20,21 [Comparing ourselves unfavorably can lead to feeling inferior and then to murmuring:] Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to Him that formed it, Why hast Thou made me thus? 21 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?

* Acts 7:9 [Joseph's brothers envied him to the point of conspiring to kill him, but God blessed and protected Joseph and made his brothers come and beg before him.] And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him. [For the whole story, see Genesis chapters 37-50.]

* 2 Corinthians 10:12 For we dare not make ourselves of the number [classify ourselves], or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

[See also Jealousy and Envy, #1-5.]

2. Comparing ourselves favorably with others can lead to pride and self-righteousness. (However, it can also be encouraging if done for the humble purpose of counting our blessings.)

* Luke 18:9-14 And He spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: 10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. 11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank Thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. 12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. 13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto Heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. 14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

* Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

* Romans 14:13 [Thinking of ourselves as superior compared to others can cause others, in turn, to look upon themselves negatively.] Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.

3. Comparing results from carnal mindedness and spiritual immaturity.

* Romans 8:5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.

* 1 Corinthians 3:1-8 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. ... 3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? 4 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? 5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? 6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. 7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. 8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.

* 1 Corinthians 4:5,6 [Let the Lord be the judge. He sees the hidden man of the heart.] Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, Who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. 6 And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another. [See also 2 Corinthians 5:12.]

4. The tendency to compare and be jealous seems to be part of human nature, but the Lord can help us overcome it.

5. The best antidote for comparing is thankfulness for what we are and all that we have and trusting in the Lord's love and fairness.

* Romans 7:25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

* 1 Corinthians 12:4-7,11,12,14-18 [Remember, we have each been fashioned to fulfil a special role and all are equally important and necessary members of the body of Christ, His Church.] Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. ... 11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as He will. 12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. ... 14 For the body is not one member, but many. 15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him.

* 1 Corinthians 15:9,10 [Let's learn to be thankful for how God made us, in spite of our faults. The example of Paul the Apostle.] For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the Church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and His grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

* Philippians 4:11,12 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

* 1 Timothy 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, Who hath enabled me, for that He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry.

* 1 Timothy 6:6 But Godliness with contentment is great gain. [See also verse 8.]

* Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation [conduct, behavior, way of life] be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

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6. Pleasing Jesus is all that really matters.

* John 5:44 How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?

* Romans 14:12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

* 1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, Who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.

* 2 Corinthians 10:17,18 But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. 18 For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

* Galatians 6:4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

7. If you must compare, compare yourself to Jesus.

* Isaiah 53:2b-4,6b,7-10 He hath form nor comeliness; and when we shall see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him. 3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from Him; He was despised, and we esteemed Him not. 4 Surely He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. 6b The Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth: He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He openeth not His mouth. 8 He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare His generation? For He was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was He stricken. 9 And He made His grave with the wicked, and with the rich in His death; because He had done no violence, neither was any deceit in His mouth. 10 Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise Him; He hath put Him to grief: when thou shalt make His soul an offering for sin, He shall see His seed, He shall prolong His days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in His hand. [See Isaiah 53: all.]

* Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an High Priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

* Hebrews 12:2-4 Looking unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith; Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. 4 Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin. [See also Hebrews 3:1.]

* 1 Peter 2:21,23 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example that we should follow His steps. 23 Who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him [God] that judgeth righteously.

ONCE WE'RE CONVINCED of God's love and wisdom, it's natural to thank him for the care with which he
made us, and say, "Lord, you did it well." This is the beginning of accepting ourselves. God created us,
and he can give us profound insight into ourselves.
God is also the first to be concerned with our development. He knows what we are meant to be. Any
father is pleased when his children develop well, and God, our heavenly Father, is just as pleased when
his children conform to the plans he has for us.
In his love, he wants to help us develop and bloom. Realizing this about him-that he knows, loves, and
accepts us, and will help us grow-is the basis for a healthy self-image.

GOD BLESS US ALL ,