Dianne Marben

11 hrs

Good morning. God is in control.
(Illustrated Words - Feb 1)
"Sparrows are nothing special. They are common, ordinary birds that can be found pretty much everywhere. But even common sparrows are special to God. The message of Jesus' words here is that God knows what is happening in every bit of His creation. Even sparrows matter to Him. If a plain, unspectacular bird can't fall from the sky without God deciding on that action, then you can believe that He is in control of everything in your life, too."
(See Matthew 10:29)

1 d

Good morning. We can love from afar and pray for those who treat us badly.
(Illustrated Words - Jan. 31)
"Oh, come on. Love your enemies? Seriously? Does Jesus know what He is asking here? Of course, he does. Let's face it - it's easier to love people who love you back and treat you well. Remember that Jesus said the second greatest commandment is to love your neighbor as yourself. The real test of Christian love is loving people who are different from you, lie about you, cheat you say mean things or just generally treat you badly. If you can love these people and pray for them, then you are truly showing Jesus' love."

2 d

Good morning. Trust like a child.
(Illustrated Words - Jan. 3
"Why did Jesus say that God's Kingdom belongs to children? Perhaps because children easily trust, and don't argue about every point or need to have things proven to them. As people grow up, they lose that child like trust. Some adults question everything and demand God's immediate action - therefore, no trust is shown. Childlike faith is much more pleasing to God because it is a faith that just trusts Him. How are you doing at trusting God?"

3 d

Good morning. Jesus is living water. And I love you.
(Illustrated Words - Jan 29)
"Jesus says that he offers everything you need. What does that mean? Well, pretty much everyone is born with a thirst to be loved and to know they matter to someone. They want meaning in their lives. Some people try to quench this thirst by accumulating wealth. Some turn to alcohol or drugs. Those things might work for a while, but the only thing that will quench the thirst to be loved forever is Jesus. He lasts for eternity."

4 d

Good morning. The Lord is our light and our salvation.
(Illustrated Words - Jan 28)
"Things are hidden in darkness. But when a light is turned on, all is revealed. So it makes sense that people who do dishonest unkind or hurtful things to others would want to stay in darkness where no one can see what they are doing. Jesus says that he is the light of the world. People who do evil things would want to stay away from Him so their behavior would not be so obvious. Are you in darkness or are you in the light? If you are in the light, remember that your actions and attitudes are revealed. Make sure they bring honor to God."