spiritualsnippets.com

Seeing life's events in the light of God's Word.

Sep 25

Rewards

by Brenda Poulos

Genesis 39: 4 – “So Joseph found favor in (Potiphar’s) sight, and served him. Then (Potiphar) made him overseer of his house, and all that he had put under his authority.”

You know the story about Joseph being put in charge of Potiphar’s household, while he was still wrongly imprisoned. That’s right. Potiphar noticed his behavior, and God used this incident in his life to prepare Joseph for being administrator in Egypt.

Are there times when you tire of your duties at work or even your service at church? Do you think no one notices… no one appreciates what you do?

Joseph’s story tells us that even though our co-workers, family, or fellow church members may not realize all that we do, we can be sure that God knows. It is His recognition that counts.

So don’t be discouraged. It is God who rewards those who diligently serve Him.

Biblical lessons Encouraging words

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Sep 18

Thought Life

by Brenda Poulos

Psalms 19:14- “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.”

In high school, my Sunday school teacher frequently talked about “thought life,” warning us that impure thoughts lead to impure actions. Conversely, he said that pure thoughts lead to actions that are acceptable to God.

Throughout life, I have found the verse in Psalms to be true. But for teens nowadays, the influences of social media, movies, and literature are even more profound.

So, if what goes into their minds is impure, how can their thoughts (the meditations of their hearts) be pleasing to God? And how can the result be lives lived according to God’s will?

I think the answer to the question is found at the end of the verse: Those that find their salvation and strength in the Lord, will be able to live with clean minds (thoughts) and out of their mouths will come clean speech.

The Bible and prayer—along with the Holy Spirit—will guide teens living in the world today. When their true desire is that their thoughts and actions please God, He will be there to help them do just that. 

As parents and grandparents, daily prayer for our young people to resist the temptations of this world and to follow the truth found in God’s word is more important today than it has ever been.

Biblical lessons Encouraging words

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Sep 11

What is it About Pets?

by Brenda Poulos

1 John 4:19- “We love because he first loved us.”

Angie had a hard time healing emotionally after her Springer Spaniel, Rex, died. She had been shy growing up, and a bit of a “late bloomer” as her mother put it. But once she connected with Rex, her confidence grew by leaps and bounds.

He loved her no matter what and she thrived beyond all her parents could hope for.

Most people will tell you that the dog’s ability to give its owner unconditional love that is the reason they are so drawn to their pets.

The Bible tells us that we love Jesus because he first loved us—while we were sinners. He loves us unconditionally and we are drawn to Him with cords of love and grace.

Do you need someone in your life who will love you no matter what? Turn to Jesus and acknowledge Him as Savior and Lord. Experience His peace and unconditional love.

Biblical lessons Encouraging words

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Sep 4

Victorious Reunion

by Brenda Poulos

I Corinthians 15:54- “ So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.”

My father passed away last week, so instead of writing this blog, I was writing a speech for his memorial. I had an opportunity not only to eulogize a wonderful and godly man, but I also wanted to use my comments to present the gospel message to those in attendance who may not have heard it before.

I had spent a couple of days in tears, missing my dad. But it helped to dig into scripture as I wrote his eulogy. I soon found the comfort I needed and the strength to get through the memorial and for the days ahead.

I was reminded that I will see him again when I join my family in heaven one day. I thought of the joyous reunion he is having now with my mother. I gave thanks for the absence of pain and the renewal of his mind. Most of all, I marveled at the fact that he is now with our Lord. 

He has actually seen the face of God! 

The memorial service was beautiful. My two sisters spoke. My brother played the guitar and sang. The military salute and taps will be unforgettable. 

Our family united in a fitting tribute to a special man who left us a legacy of love, truthfulness, and faith.

Biblical lessons Encouraging words

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