Warning In Drifting in Our Lives

A Warning against Drifting Away

1 So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. 2 For the message God delivered through angels has always stood firm, and every violation of the law and every act of disobedience was punished. 3 So what makes us think we can escape if we ignore this great salvation that was first announced by the Lord Jesus himself and then delivered to us by those who heard him speak?

This Big Picture: We "must" be taking heed to all warning's when it is before us all in our Bible! Believe me there are many of them in God's Sword of His Spirit. And to have an intense seriousness of the word that is before us with our own eyes. It's an out right " Alert!" and all of it's very subtle dangers of us "Drifting right back," into our old former life styles in 'Judaism" Which means: (jyoo' day ihssm) "Ancestral Traditions'The religion and way of life of the people of Judah, the Jews. Paul contrasted his Christian calling from his previous life in Judaism (Galatians 1:16-25). Foreigners could convert to Judaism. ( Jer.9:14; Matt.15:2; Mark 7:3; Colossians 2:8).

Living by the Spirit’s Power

16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. 17 The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. 18 But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses.

19 When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, 21 envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.

22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!

24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. 25 Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. (Gal.5:16-25).Instead, they have stubbornly followed their own desires and worshiped the images of Baal, as their ancestors taught them ( Jer. 9:14). “Why do your disciples disobey our age-old tradition? For they ignore our tradition of ceremonial hand washing before they eat.” ( Matt. 15:2).

Jesus discourses about human traditions.

Additions to God's laws reflect upon his wisdom, as if he had left out something which was needed, and which man could supply; in one way or other they always lead men to disobey God. How thankful ought we to be for the written word of God! Never let us think that the religion of the Bible can be improved by any human addition, either in doctrine or practice. Our blessed Lord spoke of their traditions as inventions of their own, and pointed out one instance in which this was very

clear, that of their transgressing the fifth commandment. When a parent's wants called for assistance, they pleaded, that they had devoted to the temple all they could spare, even though they did not part with it, and therefore their parents must expect nothing from them. This was making the command of God of no effect. The doom of hypocrites is put in a little compass; to �In vain do they worship me. to � It will neither please God, nor profit themselves; they trust in vanity, and vanity will be

their recompence. (Mt 15:10-20)(The Jews, especially the Pharisees, do not eat until they have poured water over their cupped hands,^[a] as required by their ancient traditions.

The traditions of the elders.

One great design of Christ's coming was, to set aside the ceremonial law; and to make way for this, he rejects the ceremonies men added to the law of God's making. Those clean hands and that pure heart which Christ bestows on his disciples, and requires of them, are very different from the outward and superstitious forms of Pharisees of every age. Jesus reproves them for rejecting the commandment of God. It is clear that it is the duty of children, if their parents are poor, to

relieve them as far as they are able; and if children deserve to die that curse their parents, much more those that starve them. But if a man conformed to the traditions of the Pharisees, they found a device to free him from the claim of this duty. (Mk 7:14-23)Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers^[a] of this world, rather than from Christ.

He cautions against the errors of heathen philosophy; also against Jewish traditions, and rites which had been fulfilled in Christ.

There is a philosophy which rightly exercises our reasonable faculties; a study of the works of God, which leads us to the knowledge of God, and confirms our faith in him. But there is a philosophy which is vain and deceitful; and while it pleases men's fancies, hinders their faith: such are curious speculations about things above us, or no concern to us. Those who walk in the way of the world, are turned from following Christ. We have in Him the substance of all the shadows of the

ceremonial law. All the defects of it are made up in the gospel of Christ, by his complete sacrifice for sin, and by the revelation of the will of God. To be complete, is to be furnished with all things necessary for salvation. By this one word to �complete, to � is shown that we have in Christ whatever is required. to �In him, to � not when we look to Christ, as though he were distant from us, but we are in him, when, by the power of the Spirit, we have faith wrought in our hearts by the Spirit, and

we are united to our Head. The circumcision of the heart, the crucifixion of the flesh, the death and burial to sin and to the world, and the resurrection to newness of life, set forth in baptism, and by faith wrought in our hearts, prove that our sins are forgiven, and that we are fully delivered from the curse of the law. Through Christ, we, who were dead in sins, are quickened. Christ's death was the death of our sins; Christ's resurrection is the quickening of our souls. The law of

ordinances, which was a yoke to the Jews, and a partition-wall to the Gentiles, the Lord Jesus took out of the way. When the substance was come, the shadows fled. Since every mortal man is, through the hand-writing of the law, guilty of death, how very dreadful is the condition of the ungodly and unholy, who trample under foot that blood of the Son of God, whereby alone this deadly hand-writing can be blotted out! Let not any be troubled about bigoted judgments which related to meats, or the

Jewish solemnities. The setting apart a portion of our time for the worship and service of God, is a moral and unchangeable duty, but had no necessary dependence upon the seventh day of the week, the sabbath of the Jews. The first day of the week, or the Lord's day, is the time kept holy by Christians, in remembrance of Christ's resurrection. All the Jewish rites were shadows of gospel blessings. (Col.2:18-23).

The Bottomline:

And to walk in the Spirit, and not to fulfil the lusts of the flesh: the works of both are described.

If it be our care to act under the guidance and power of the blessed Spirit, though we may not be freed from the stirrings and oppositions of the corrupt nature which remains in us, it shall not have dominion over us. Believers are engaged in a conflict, in which they earnestly desire that grace may obtain full and speedy victory. And those who desire thus to give themselves up to be led by the Holy Spirit, are not under the law as a covenant of works, nor exposed to its awful curse.

Their hatred of sin, and desires after holiness, show that they have a part in the salvation of the gospel. The works of the flesh are many and manifest. And these sins will shut men out of heaven. Yet what numbers, calling themselves Christians, live in these, and say they hope for heaven! The fruits of the Spirit, or of the renewed nature, which we are to do, are named. And as the apostle had chiefly named works of the flesh, not only hurtful to men themselves, but tending to make them so to

one another, so here he chiefly notices the fruits of the Spirit, which tend to make Christians agreeable one to another, as well as to make them happy. The fruits of the Spirit plainly show, that such are led by the Spirit. By describing the works of the flesh and fruits of the Spirit, we are told what to avoid and oppose, and what we are to cherish and cultivate; and this is the sincere care and endeavour of all real Christians. Sin does not now reign in their mortal bodies, so that they obey

it, Ro 6:12, for they seek to destroy it. Christ never will own those who yield themselves up to be the servants of sin. And it is not enough that we cease to do evil, but we must learn to do well. Our conversation will always be answerable to the principle which guides and governs us, Ro 8:5. We must set ourselves in earnest to mortify the deeds of the body, and to walk in newness of life. Not being desirous of

vain-glory, or unduly wishing for the esteem and applause of men, not provoking or envying one another, but seeking to bring forth more abundantly those good fruits, which are, through Jesus Christ, to the praise and glory of God.

Prayer For Us All:
"Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I WILL FEAR NO EVIL!!! I FEAR NOT for thou art WITH ME. I am not dismayed for thou art my God. Thou art HELPING me! Thou art STRENGTHENING me! Thou art upholding me with the right hand of thy!" "Thou hast not given me the spirit of fear, but of power, love and sound mind. I have the SPIRIT OF POWER lN ME! I have the SPIRIT OF LOVE IN ME! I have the SPIRIT OF A SOUND MIND IN ME!" "Over me is the BLOOD OF THE LAMB! The Lord goes BEFORE ME! Jesus is IN me! The angel of the Lord encamps AROUND me! UNDERNEATH me are the everlasting arms of God! AND GOODNESS AND MERCY FOLLOW ME ALL THE DAYS OF MY LIFE! Hallelujah!! FEAR HAS NO PLACE IN MY LIFE!" Amen.I am called and equipped to be a minister of God. I have a destiny to fulfill, given to me before the world was created. I am placed on this earth for such a time as this. I am a born again, Holy Spirit filled ambassador of God. I have been sent to represent God and called to fulfill the Great Commission. I have been given the very righteousness of God through Jesus Christ. The same Holy Spirit given to Jesus has been given to me. The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because God has anointed me to preach His gospel to those in need. The gifts of the Holy Spirit operate in me to discern the works of Satan, to create healings and miracles, to utter words of wisdom and words of knowledge. The word works powerfully in me to stop the works of Satan and release the anointing of God. Just like Jesus, I have been manifest to destroy the works of Satan. When I preach the gospel, the Holy Spirit convicts the sinner. When I lay hands on the sick, they recover. When I cast out devils, they must leave. Angels are my ministering spirits. They respond when I speak God’s word. When Satan tries to defeat me, he will be defeated. God will fight for me. I declare with my mouth, "The battle is the Lord’s". All of this is possible, not because of me, but Jesus in me. I have been given heaven’s power of attorney through the name of Jesus. Amen.

catcmo2006 would like to: Thank You for allow in this site,group sites,web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

COMMERCE

Commercial activity in the ancient Near East took many forms. The economy centered around agriculture, but some manufactured goods were produced and natural resources mined. Farm goods, products, and resources had to be transported to market centers and other countries. Barter and the buying and selling of goods and services held a prominent place in the life of villages and towns. This is demonstrated by the large number of economic texts uncovered in excavations and the importance placed on transactional dialogue and the use of commercial scenes to highlight major events in the biblical text. Products, places of business, business practices (weights and measures, business law), and the means of transport all figure into the commercial picture of the biblical era.

Products The irrigated fields of Mesopotamia and Egypt and the terraced hillsides of Palestine produced a variety of agricultural products. Barley and wheat were crushed, winnowed, sieved, and distributed on the threshingfloor (goren) for local consumption (Deuteronomy 15:14; Ruth 3:15). Surpluses were transported to regional marketplaces and major cities. Whole grain, meal, flax, nuts, dates, olive oil, fish in the Galilee area, and a variety of animal by-products found their way into every home and paid the taxes imposed by the government. The kings like Uzziah (2 Chronicles 26:10) also had large holdings of land and vast herds that contributed to the overall economy.

Village craftsmen produced pottery, metal and wooden implements, weapons, and cloth. Evidence of their commercial self-sufficiency is seen in the recovery of loom weights in excavations of private homes throughout Israel. These balls of clay provide evidence of how widespread the local weaving and cloth-making industries were in ancient times. Manufactured products were distributed among the inhabitants of the village. The finer items were traded to traveling merchants or transported overland to Jerusalem or some other commercial center.

Manufactured goods most commonly introduced into national or international commerce included fine pottery, weapons, glassware, jewelry, cosmetics, and dyed cloth. Distinctive styles or fine workmanship created markets for these products and thus made it worth the costs and hazards of sea and overland transport. Evidence of how widespread trade was in the ancient world can be traced by the different styles and decoration of pottery. Seal markings showing place of origin are also found on many jugs and storage jars used to transport wine, oil, grain, and spices.

Another indication of the diversity of trading products that circulated throughout the ancient Near East is found in Ezekiel's “lamentation over Tyre,” one of the principal Phoenician seaports (Ezekiel 27:12-24). Their ships and those of Tarshish carried iron, tin, and lead, exchanging them for slaves, horses, mules, ivory, and ebony at various ports of call. Aram or Edom (NIV with footnote) traded “emeralds, purple, embroidered work, fine linen, coral, and rubies” (Ezekiel 27:16 NAS), and Judah sent honey, oil, and balm along with wheat as trade goods to Tyre (Ezekiel 27:17). The Phoenicians also supplied their trading partners with wool and cloth dyed purple with a glandular secretion from the murex mollusk.

Merchant quarters were established in many trading centers like that at Ugarit, a seaport in northern Syria (1600-1200 B.C.). The Phoenician seaports of Tyre and Sidon also had their resident alien communities, adding to the cosmopolitan nature of these cities and facilitating the transmission of culture and ideas. The economic and political importance of these trading communities is seen in Solomon's construction of storehouse cities in Hamath (2 Chronicles 8:4 and in Ahab's negotiations with Ben-Hadad of Syria for the establishment of “market areas in Damascus” (1 Kings 20:34 NIV).

Places of Business Metropolitan centers, like Babylon and Thebes, had open areas or market squares where commerce took place. This was also the case in the Hellenistic cities of the Near East which had one or more agoras. The narrow confines of the villages and towns in Palestine, however, restricted commercial activity to shops or booths built into the side of private homes or to the open area around the city gate.

For most Palestinian villages and towns, the gate was a vital place where commercial, judicial, and social activities of all sorts took place. Lot sat in the gate, demonstrating his status as a privileged resident alien (Genesis 19:1). The gate of Samaria served as a market center where the people purchased measures of barley and fine meal (2 Kings 7:18). In Proverbs 31:23, one sign of a prosperous man with a well-ordered house was his ability to sit with the elders in the gate.

Large urban centers, like Jerusalem, had several gates and commercial districts, thus allowing for diversification of commercial activity throughout the city. Jeremiah 18:2 speaks of the Potsherd Gate (author's translation; known as the Dung Gate in Nehemiah 2:13) where Jeremiah enacted a prophecy of doom by smashing a pot. He also mentions the bakers' street as the principal area of production and supply of bread in Jerusalem (Jeremiah 37:21). In the Roman period, Josephus lists several commercial activities in the city: wool shops, smithies, and the clothes market.

Weights and Measures Inscribed stone, clay, or metal weights were used throughout the Near East and have been found in large quantities by archaeologists. They range from the talent (2 Samuel 12:30; 2 Kings 18:14) to the mina (Ezra 2:69 NAS), the shekel (2 Samuel 14:26; Ezekiel 4:10), and various smaller weights. Until the establishment of the monarchy, commercial transactions were governed in each Israelite town by a local standard of exchange. Evidence has been found (markings on the weights) of the use of both the Egyptian standard of weights as well as Babylonian measures. Even these standards were apparently negotiable, however, and sometimes subject to abuse. Thus, Abraham was forced before witnesses in the gate of Hebron to pay an exorbitant rate (400 shekels of silver) for the cave of Machpelah (Genesis 23:16), and Amos condemned those merchants who were “making the ephah small, and the shekel great, and falsifying the balances by deceit” (Genesis 8:5).

Until coinage was introduced after 600 B.C., foodstuffs and other goods were obtained through barter in the marketplace or purchased with weights of previous metals (Genesis 33:19; Job 42:11). When minted coinage came into general use during the Hellenistic period (after 200 B.C.), it created a revolution in commerce. See Coins. Transactions in accepted coinage, known to bear a definite weight, added to the confidence of the public and eliminated some of the abuses of the marketplace. Coins also facilitated the payment of taxes (Mark 12:15-17) and wages (Matthew 20:2).

Business Law Hammurabi's law code (about 1750 B.C.) contains a model of business law in the Ancient Near East. Many facets or trade are governed by this code. They are sometimes echoed in the biblical codes as well. For instance, Hammurabi's law protected a man who consigned a portion of his grain to storage from losses due to natural events and the corrupt practices of the owner of the storage room. (Compare Exodus 22:7-9). Lending at interest to fellow Israelites was forbidden in Exodus 22:25 and Deuteronomy 23:19. This injunction, however, does not seem to apply to the practice of investment of surplus capital found in Matthew 25:14-30 and Luke 19:12-25.

The parables of the pounds and the talents suggest the existence of a sophisticated banking and investment community, which lent out sums for commercial enterprises and garnered profits for those who left their money with them. A portion of the vast sums that came into the Temple treasury in Jerusalem as taxes each year (Matthew 17:24) were probably lent out as investment capital. Several of Hammurabi's laws speak of similar practices requiring that those who engage in commercial transactions obtain receipts to show proof of their investments and sales.

Trade and Trade Routes From earliest times caravans of traders carried goods throughout the Near East. Obsidian, brought by Neolithic traders from Anatolia, has been discovered at sites hundreds of miles from its place of origin. Palestine, situated on a land bridge between Mesopotamia and Africa, naturally became a center of commercial travel. Groups of Semitic traders, like the Ishmaelites and Midianites (Genesis 37:27-28), are recorded in Egyptian texts and on the walls of tombs, such as the Beni-hasen tomb paintings (about 1900 B.C.), which depict whole families with their donkeys transporting “ox-hide” ingots of metal. They used hilltop pathways as well as the Via Maris coastal highway and the King's Highway in Transjordan to move between Mesopotamia and Egypt. Eventually, the introduction of the camel and the establishment of caravansaries (inns where caravans can rest at night) as storage and rest centers, made it possible for merchants to take a more direct route across the deserts of northern Syria and Arabia. These lucrative trade routes were controlled in the Roman period by the city of Tadmor, the capital of the Palmyran kingdom, and by the Nabateans.

During the monarchy period, Israel's trade horizon expanded. Solomon imported vast quantities of luxury and exotic goods (ivory, apes, peacocks—1 Kings 10:22) from all over the Near East. He also purchased horses and chariots for his fortress garrisons like those at Gezer, Hazor, and Megiddo (1 Kings 10:26). The nation had no deep water ports on its coastline, so the Gulf of Aqaba became the prime point of entry for goods coming from Africa (spices, precious stones, gold from Ophir, algum wood). The Aqaba port of Elath (Ezion-geber) served the needs of the court of Solomon and subsequent kings as well. The shipping trade of Israel, as well as many other nations, joined with or was carried by Phoenician merchantmen (1 Kings 10:22). These more experienced sailors could avoid the storms and other hazards that sank many ships in the Mediterranean (2 Chronicles 20:37 NIV).

Even in New Testament times, shipping was restricted to particular routes and seasons (Acts 27:12). Travel seems to have been more common in this period as seen by the movements of Paul, the other apostles, and those associated with the establishment of the early church, such as Aquila and Priscilla (Romans 16:3). Passengers and cargo might be transported on one leg of a journey on one ship and then transferred to a number of others to complete their journey (Acts 27:1-8). Underwater excavations off Cyprus and the Herodian port of Caesarea Maritima demonstrate, however, that many of these ships never made it to port (Acts 27:39-44).

For those who chose to take the overland routes, instead, the Romans constructed paved roads that facilitated the movement of their armies, as well as people and wagons loaded with goods for sale. Mile markers set up along these roads show how often they were repaired and which emperors took a special interest in the outlying districts of his domain. See Agriculture; Banking; Economic Life; Marketplace; Transportation and Travel; Weights and Measures.

catcmo2006 would like to:Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

ANOINT

ANOINT

describes the procedure of rubbing or smearing a person or thing, usually with oil, for the purpose of healing, setting apart, or embalming. A person can anoint himself, be anointed, or anoint another person or thing. While olive oil is the most common element mentioned in the Bible for use in anointing, oils produced from castor, bay, almond, myrtle, cyprus, cedar, walnut, and fish were also used. In Esther 2:12, for example, the oil of myrrh is used as a cosmetic.

The Hebrew verb mashach (noun, messiah) and the Greek verb chrio (noun, christos) are translated “to anoint.” From ancient times the priests and kings were ceremonially anointed as a sign of official appointment to office, and as a symbol of God's power upon them. The act was imbued with an element of awe. David would not harm King Saul because of the anointing the king had received (1 Samuel 24:6). Likewise, Israel (Psalms 89:38), and even Cyrus (Isaiah 45:1) are called God's anointed because of God's working through them. Israel came to see each succeeding king as God's anointed one, the messiah who would deliver them from their enemies and establish the nation as God's presence on the earth.

In the New Testament anoint is used to speak of daily grooming for hair (Matthew 6:17), for treating injury or illness (Luke 10:34), and for preparing a body for burial (Mark 16:1).

Christians see Jesus as God's Anointed One, the Savior (Acts 10:38). The same symbolism as in the Old Testament is employed in this usage: God's presence and power are resident in the anointing. Likewise, the Christian is anointed by God (2 Corinthians 1:21; 1 John 2:27) for the tasks of ministry.

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Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

APOTHECARY

(uh pahth' eh cehr ih) KJV translation of a word translated as perfumer in modern versions (Exodus 30:25,Exodus 30:35; Exodus 37:29; 2 Chronicles 16:14; Nehemiah 3:8; Ecclesiastes 10:1). See Perfume, Perfumer.

catcmo2006 would like to:

Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

PERFUME, PERFUMER

Modern translation of a word translated as apothecary by the KJV (Exodus 30:25,Exodus 30:35; Exodus 37:29; 2 Chronicles 16:14; Nehemiah 3:8; Ecclesiastes 10:1). Perfumes mentioned in the Bible include: aloes, balsam (or balm), bdellium, calamus (or sweet or fragment cane), camel's thorn, cinnamon (or cassia), frankincense, galbanum, gum, henna, myrrh, nard (or spikenard), onycha, saffron, and stacte. (See Apothecary; Cosmetics; Oil; Ointment;and separate articles on each for further identification).

catcmo would like to:

Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

Cosmetics

Materials used for personal care and beautification. In the Ancient Near East, cosmetics were used by both men and women. Men primarily made use of oil, rubbing it into the hair of the head and the beard (Psalms 133:2; Ecclesiastes 9:8). Women used cosmetic preparations which included eye paint, powders, rouge, ointments for the body, and perfumes. There are only limited references made to cosmetics in the Bible.

Utensils, Colors, and Manufacture of Cosmetics Cosmetic utensils of glass, wood, and bone have been found in archeological excavations in Palestine, Egypt, and Mesopotamia. In Ur, utensils have been discovered dated as early as 2500 B.C. In Egypt, a scene on a sarcophagus dated about 2000 B.C. depicts a woman holding a mirror. In Palestine, most frequently uncovered are limestone bowls or palettes. These are ordinarily in the form of small bowls, about four inches in diameter, with flat bases and a small shallow hole in the center. The wide rim was usually decorated with incised geometric designs. They were used to prepare colors for making up the face. Mixing was done by means of bone spatulas or small pestles. Possibly imported from Syria, the palettes were common in the northern part of Palestine from about 1000 B.C. on.

Other paraphernalia uncovered include small glass vials and small pottery juglets used as perfume containers, alabaster jars used for ointments, ivory flasks, cosmetic burners, and perfume boxes such as that mentioned in Isaiah 3:20. Ivory combs, bronze mirrors, hairpins, kohl sticks, unguent spoons, and tweezers also were used by women in biblical times. In the excavations at Lachish, an object was discovered which appears to be a curling iron and is dated about 1400 B.C. In the Cave of Letters, one of the hiding places of some rebels of the Bar Kochba War (A.D. 132-135), a woman's possessions found included a mirror and cosmetic utensils of glass, wood, and bone.

The colors for cosmetic preparations came from various minerals. Red ocher was used for lip color. White was obtained from lead carbonate. Green eyelid coloring was derived from turquoise or malachite, and black was often made from lead sulphate. Kohl or manganese was used for outlining of the eyes. Colors were also produced from ivories, bitumen, and burned woods.

Expert craftsmen made the cosmetics. They imported many of the raw ingredients, especially from India and Arabia. Oils for the skin creams were extracted from olives, almonds, gourds, other trees and plants, and animal and fish fats. Fragrances came from seeds, plant leaves, fruits, and flowers, especially roses, jasmines, mints, balsams, and cinnamon.

Eye Paint Women used paint to enhance their eyes and make the eyes appear larger (Jeremiah 4:30 NAS). There may also have been some medicinal value by preventing dryness of the skin of the eyelid or discouraging disease-carrying flies. However, biblical references often seem to associate the practice of painting the eyes with women of questionable reputation (2 Kings 9:30; Ezekiel 23:40).

Dry powders for eye-coloring were stored in pouches, reeds, reed-like tubes of stone, or small jars. The reference to Job's daughter, “Keren-happuch” (horn of antimony or eye-paint, Job 42:14), indicates the powders were also carried in horns. The powders were mixed with water or gum and applied to the eyelids with small rods made of ivory, wood, or metal. Egyptian women favored the colors of black and green, painting the upper eyelid black and the lower one green. Mesopotamian women preferred yellows and reds. Heavy black lines were traced around the eyes to make them appear more almond-shaped.

Ointments and Perfumes Creams, ointments, and perfumes were especially important in the hot Near Eastern climate. Creams protected the skin against the heat of the sun and counteracted body odors. Ointments were applied to the head (Matthew 6:17) or to the whole body (Ruth 3:3) as part of hygienic cleansing. They were considered part of the beautification process (Esther 2:12). Anointing one's head with oil was a sign of gladness (Psalms 45:7). In worship services, anointing was a special part of consecration (Exodus 30:30-32). The formula was given by God and was a priestly secret (Exodus 30:22-38). Ointments were used by prophets in anointing new kings. Elijah anointed Jehu (2 Kings 9:3), and Jehoiada anointed Joash (2 Kings 11:12). In New Testament times a good host displayed hospitality by anointing guests with ointments (Luke 7:37-50). Ointment was sometimes used to anoint the sick (James 5:14). Perfumed ointments were part of the preparation for burial (Mark 14:8; Luke 23:56).

The use of perfume is an ancient practice. The first recorded mention is on the fifteenth century B.C. tomb of Queen Hatshepsut who had sent an expedition to the land of Punt to fetch frankincense. Herodotus (450 B.C.) mentioned Arabia's aromatics. To the Magi who bore gifts to the Christ child, the offering of frankincense symbolized divinity.

Perfumes mentioned in the Bible include aloes (Numbers 24:6); balm (Ezekiel 27:17); cinnamon (Proverbs 7:17); frankincense (Isaiah 43:23; Matthew 2:11); myrrh (Song of Solomon 5:5; Matthew 2:11); and spikenard (John 12:3). The perfumes were derived from the sap or gum of the tree (frankincense, myrrh), the root (spikenard), or the bark (cinnamon). They were often quite expensive and imported from Arabia (frankincense, myrrh), India (aloes, spikenard, and Ceylon (cinnamon).

The perfumes could be produced as a dry powder and kept in perfume boxes (Isaiah 3:20), or as an ointment and kept in alabaster jars, such as the spikenard with which Mary anointed Jesus (John 12:3). They could also be obtained in the natural form as gum or pellets of resin. In this form, they were placed in cosmetic burners and the resin burned. In close or confined quarters, the resulting incense-smoke would act as a fumigation for both the body and the clothes, such as that which seems to be described in the beautification process noted in Esther 2:12.See Perfumes; Anointing; Eye-paint; Trade Routes.

catcmo2006 would like to:

Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

The Wisdom Of Solomon

Proverbs Day 71 (KJV): Proverbs 11:12(KJV):"He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace."

Thoughts for the Day Proverbs is a great book for helping us learn how to have good relationships with people. Verse 12 tells us that if we are wise, we must learn how to dwell in harmony with our neighbors. We generally think of our neighbors as those that dwell near us. This is true, but the Bible's description of our neighbor reaches further than this. Luke 10:25-29: 25 And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? 26 He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? 27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. 28 And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live. 29 But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour? If we turn to this chapter in the Bible we will read the parable of the Good Samaritan. Jesus answered the question of "Who is my neighbor?" by telling a story about a traveler who was assaulted by thieves and was left wounded and half dead by the road. A priest came by and saw the man, but went on the other side of the road, so he would not have to help the man. Then another religious man, a Levite, came by and did the same thing. Finally, a Samaritan (a man from the region of Samaria) came along, and had compassion on the injured man, and took care of his wounds, and brought him to an inn where he could be cared for. Samaritans were considered outcasts by the Jews, and they wanted nothing to do with them. This same attitude prevailed when these hypocrites saw a man in need. After Jesus related this parable, He then asked his disciples this question: Luke 10:36-37: "Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that showed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise." The Old Testament also instructs us with these words concerning our neighbor. These are from the Ten Commandments: Exodus 20:16-17: "Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's." Proverbs tells us that if we despise our neighbor, we lack wisdom. It also tells us that we should hold our peace if we have a misunderstanding. This simply means not to get angry with our neighbor, but deal with him in love and wisdom. We must not allow covetousness to cause us to desire those things that belong to our neighbor. The Lord has plenty for all of His children, and if we seek Him, He will bless us with our own special blessings.

Prayer for the Day Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you, Lord for being so loving and kind to us. You are full of mercy and want so much to bless each of us who are called by Your name. Forgive us for the times we have failed to be the "Good Samaritan." We know that we have walked on the other side of the road, as we were selfish and simply did not want to get involved in helping others. Help me to use whatever talents and abilities that I have to be a good and faithful servant in my job, at home and whatever situation I may find myself in. Help me to treat others as I would want to be treated. Lord, give my physical body the energy and strength for the daily tasks before me. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

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Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

Morning & Evening Devotionals

March 12, Morning The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. The brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person. The god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. Make thy face to shine upon thy servant: save me for thy mercies sake. Let me not be ashamed, O Lord; for I have called upon thee. Lord, by thy favour thou hast made my mountain to stand strong: thou didst hide thy face, and I was troubled. Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O Lord, in the light of thy countenance. The Lord will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace. Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. Num. 6:25,26. John 1:18. Heb. 1:3. 2 Cor. 4:4. Ps. 31:16,17. Ps. 30:7. Ps. 89:15. Ps. 29:11. Matt. 14:27.

March 12, Evening Things that are pleasing in his sight. Without faith it is impossible to please him. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. The Lord taketh pleasure in his people. This is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. If, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. The ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, ... is in the sight of God of great price. Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God. I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving. This also shall please the Lord better than an ox or bullock that hath horns and hoofs. I beseech you, ... brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 1 John 3:22. Heb. 11:6. Rom. 8:8. Ps. 149:4. 1 Pet. 2:19,20. 1 Pet. 3:4. Ps. 50:23. Ps. 69:30,31. Rom. 12:1.

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Oil

An indispensable commodity in the Ancient Near East for food, medicine, fuel, and ritual. Oil was considered a blessing given by God (Deuteronomy 11:14), and the olive tree was a characteristic of the land which God gave to Israel (Deuteronomy 8:8).

Preparation In biblical times, domestic oil was prepared from olives. Sometimes oil was combined with perfumes and used as a cosmetic (Esther 2:12). The extraction of oil from olives is abundantly confirmed by archaeological findings of stone presses found at several sites in Palestine. See Agriculture. This oil, called “beaten oil,” was lighter and considered the best oil. After the beaten oil was extracted, another grade of oil was produced by heating the pulp and pressing it again.

Domestic oil was stored in small cruses, pots, or jars (1 Kings 17:12; 2 Kings 4:2); oil used in religious ceremonies was also kept in horns (1 Samuel 16:13).

Use Oil was used in a variety of ways in biblical times; but, most often, oil was used in the preparation of food, taking the place of animal fat. Oil was used with meal in the preparation of cakes (Numbers 11:8; 1 Kings 17:12-16) and with honey (Ezekiel 16:13), flour (Leviticus 2:1,Leviticus 2:4), and wine (Revelation 6:6).

Oil was used as fuel for lamps, both in homes (Matthew 25:3) and in the tabernacle (Exodus 25:6).

Oil was extensively used in religious ceremonies. The morning and evening sacrifices required, in addition to the lambs, a tenth of a measure of fine flour and a fourth of a hin of beaten oil. Other cereal offerings also required oil. Oil was used during the offering of purification from leprosy. In the New Testament, oil was used to anoint a body in preparation for burial (Matthew 26:12; Mark 14:8). Several persons in the Old Testament were anointed with oil: kings (1 Samuel 10:1; 1 Samuel 16:13), priests (Leviticus 8:30), and possibly prophets (1 Kings 19:16; Isaiah 61:1). Some objects were also anointed in dedication to God: the tabernacle and all its furniture (Exodus 40:9-11), the shields of soldiers (2 Samuel 1:21; Isaiah 21:5), altars (Leviticus 8:10-11), and pillars (Genesis 35:14).

As medicine, oil or ointment was used in the treatment of wounds (Isaiah 1:6; Luke 10:34). James 5:14 may refer either to a symbolic use of oil or to its medicinal use.

Oil was used cosmetically as protection against the scorching sun or the dryness of the desert (Ruth 3:3; Ecclesiastes 9:8). Since olives were found in abundance in Palestine, olive oil was also used as a commodity of trade (1 Kings 5:11; Ezekiel 27:17; Hosea 12:1). See Cosmetics; Commerce.

Oil was regarded as a symbol of honor (Judges 9:9), while virtue was compared to perfumed oil (Song of Solomon 1:3; Ecclesiastes 7:1). The abundance of oil was a demonstration of blessing and prosperity (Job 29:6); Joel 2:24). However, as a symbol of affluence, oil was also associated with the arrogance of the rich (Hebrew: “valley of oil”; KJV: “fat valley,” Isaiah 28:1,Isaiah 28:4). Oil was a symbol of joy and gladness (Psalms 45:7), and in time of sorrow, anointing with oil was not practiced (2 Samuel 14:2). See Anoint. catcmo would like to: Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

Bread

The word bread appears 239 times in the NAS Old Testament and 79 times in the NAS New Testament; but the seven Hebrew words which refer to bread, but are not always so translated, appear 384 times in the Old Testament and three Greek words 108 times in the New. Frequency of mention is just one indication that bread (not vegetables and certainly not meat) was the basic food of most people (except nomads and the wealthy) in Bible times. Indeed, several of the words alluded to above are often translated food.

Ingredients A course meal was ground from wheat (Genesis 30:14) or barley (John 6:9,John 6:13). American corn was unknown. (The use of the word in the KJV is a “Britishism” meaning grain in general.) Barley bread was less appetizing but also less expensive and therefore common among the poor. Grinding was done by a mortar and pestle or with millstones turned by an animal or human being (Numbers 11:8; Matthew 24:41). For special occasions and for offerings a fine flour was ground (Genesis 18:6; Leviticus 2:7). The meal or flour was mixed with water, salt, sometimes leaven or yeast, sometimes olive oil, and rarely with other cereals and vegetables (Ezekiel 4:9) and then was kneaded (Exodus 12:34).

Baking Baking was usually the work of wives (Genesis 18:6) or daughters (2 Samuel 13:8), although in wealthy households it was done by slaves. Large cities or the royal court had professional bakers (Genesis 40:2; Jeremiah 37:21). There were three means of baking: on heated rocks with the dough being covered with ashes (1 Kings 19:6); on a clay or iron griddle or pan (Leviticus 2:5); and in a clay or iron oven (Leviticus 2:4). Most bread that was so baked had the appearance of a disk (Judges 7:13) about one-half inch thick and twelve inches in diameter. Some was perforated. Some had a hole in the middle for storing or carrying on a pole. Some was heart-shaped (the word for cakes in 2 Samuel 13:6,2 Samuel 13:8,2 Samuel 13:10 literally means heart-shaped). Some took the shape of a small modern loaf (suggested by the arrangement of the Bread of Presence). Bread was broken or torn, not cut.

Use In addition to being used as a staple food, bread was used as an offering to God (Leviticus 2:4-10). It was used in the tabernacle and Temple to symbolize the presence of God (Exodus 25:23-30; Leviticus 24:5-9). Bread was also used in the Old Testament to symbolize such things as an enemy to be consumed (Numbers 14:9, KJV, RSV), the unity of a group (1 Kings 18:19), hospitality (Genesis 19:3), and wisdom (Proverbs 9:5). It is prefixed to such things as idleness (Proverbs 31:27 , wickedness (Proverbs 4:17), and adversity (Isaiah 30:20). In the New Testament it symbolizes Jesus Christ Himself (John 6:35), His body (1 Corinthians 11:23-24), His kingdom (Luke 14:15), and the unity of His church (1 Corinthians 10:17).

catcmo2006 would like to:

Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

PLANTS IN THE BIBLE

By plants we include all plant life such as wild and cultivated trees, shrubs, and herbs.

Lily and Rose Red lips of Song of Solomon 5:13 indicate a red-flowered “lily,” such as scarlet tulip or anemone. Other references, such as Song of Solomon 2:1-2, may refer to the actual white madonna lily (Lilium candidum), now very rare in the area, or wild hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis) wild crocus (Croccus species), the rose of Isaiah 35:1-2 (see NAS). It is impossible to be sure to which “lilies” Jesus referred (Matthew 6:28; Luke 12:27): it may have been the anemone or any of the conspicuous wild flowers such as crown daisy (Chrysanthemum coronarium).

The biblical “rose” is similarly difficult to identify. The “rose of Sharon” (Song of Solomon 2:1) has been equated with anemone, rockrose, narcissus, tulip, and crocus.

Reeds Certain water plants may be distinguished from the several Hebrew words used. The following species are likely to be the ones referred to

Common reed (Phragmites communis) forms great stands in shallow water or wet salty sand. The plumed flower head may have been given to Jesus in mockery (Matthew 27:29). Pens (3 John 1:13) were made from the bamboolike stems.cr

Papyrus sedge (Cyperus papyrus) also grows in shallow water in hot places such as in Lake Huleh and along the Nile, but it is now extinct in Egypt except in cultivation. Its tall, triangular, spongy stems were used for rafts (Isaiah 18:1-2) and for making baskets (Exodus 2:3) and papyrus paper, on which much of the Bible may have been written.

Cattail or reed mace (Typha domingensis) is often associated with the above-mentioned reeds, and it seems to have been the one among which Moses was hidden (Exodus 2:3). This is often referred to as bulrush, but the tree bulrush (Scirpus lacustris) is a sedge with slender stems, which also occurs in lakes and pools.

Thorns Jesus' crown of thorns has led to two shrubs known as christthorn (Ziziphus spina-christ, Paliurus spina-christi). The former grows near the Dead Sea not far from Jerusalem (Matthew 27:29; Mark 15:17; John 19:5), while the latter does not grow nearer than Syria. However, it may have occurred on the Judean hills in biblical times. Some authors consider the common spiny burnet (Poterium or Sarcopoterium spinosum) to be the species concerned.

Even today nobody can walk far in the Holy Land without seeing prickly weeds. The ground is cursed with them (Genesis 3:18; Numbers 33:55). Many different Hebrew words have been used to distinguish them, and some are identifiable. Thorns are usually woody plants, such as Acacia, Lycium, Ononis, Prosopis, Rubus, Sarcopoterium, while thistles are herbaceous, such as Centaurea, Notobasis, Silybum. The latter could have been the “thorns' that suffocated the grain in Jesus' parable (Matthew 13:7).

Fragrant Plants In biblical times strong smelling plants included the following kinds:

1. Cassia and cinnamon are traditionally identified with the Far Eastern trees Cinnamomum cassia and C. zeylanicum. The ground bark was used in the holy anointing oil for priests (Exodus 30:24), and cinnamon was used for perfumery (Proverbs 7:17; Revelation 18:13).

2. Calamus or sweet cane (Acorus calamus) was the dry rhizome of this water plant imported from temperate Asia used for perfume (Isaiah 43:24 NRSV).

3. Galbanum, a very strong-smelling resin burnt as incense (Exodus 30:34), was obtained from the stem of Ferula galbaniflua, a relative of parsley growing on dry hills in Iran.

4. Henna (Lawsonia inermis) leaves were crushed and used both as a perfume (Song of Solomon 1:14 NIV) and as a yellow dye for skin, nails, and hair. It is a subtropical shrub with white flowers.

5. Hyssop used for ritual cleansing (Leviticus 14:4,Leviticus 14:49) and sprinkling of blood in the tabernacle (Exodus 12:22) was the white marjoram (Origanum syriacum or Majorana syriacu) which grows commonly in rocky places and is related to the mint.

6. Myrtle (Myrtus communis) is a shrub with fragrant leaves and white flowers frequent in bushy places. It was especially favored for temporary shelters in the fields at the Feast of Tabernacles (Leviticus 23:40; Nehemiah 8:15).

7. Rue (Ruta chalepensis) grows on the hills of the Holy Land as a low straggling shrub with pungent smelling leaves. Jesus referred to it being tithed (Luke 11:42).

8. Spikenard or nard, an expensive perfumed oil (Song of Solomon 4:13-14; John 12:3), obtained either from the leaves of a desert grass (Cymbopogon schoenanthus) or, traditionally, the valerian relative Nardostachys jatamansi from the Himalayas.

9. Stacte, one of the spices referred to in Exodus 30:34 to be used in the incense, may be the resin of the balm-of-Gilead (Commiphora gileadensis) from southern Arabia.

Culinary Herbs Bitter herbs for Passover are certain wild plants with sharp-tasting leaves. The desert plant wormwood (Artemisia) was also bitter and depicted sorrow and suffering (Proverbs 5:4 Lamentations 3:15,Lamentations 3:19).

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) provides both salad leaves and spicy seeds (Exodus 16:31) which were likened by the Israelites to the manna in the desert.

Cummin (Cuminum cyminum) and dill (Anethum graveolens), like coriander, are members of the parsley family with spicy seeds (Isaiah 28:25-27; Matthew 23:23).

Fitches or black cummin (Nigella sativa) is an annual plant with black oily seeds easily damaged in harvesting (Isaiah 28:25-27).

Mint (Mentha longifolia), a popular seasoning herb, was tithed by Jewish leaders (Luke 11:42)

Mustard (Brassica nigra) well known for its hot-flavored seeds is referred to by Jesus for having small seeds which grow into a tree (Matthew 13:31-32).

Saffron (Crocus sativus), a yellow powder prepared from the stigmas, is used as a subtle flavor (Song of Solomon 4:14) and also as a food coloring and a medicine.

Frankincense and Myrrh are resins produced by certain trees that grow in dry country in southern Arabia and northern Africa.

Frankincense is a white or colorless resin yielded by several species of Boswellia, chiefly B. sacra, which is a shrub or small tree growing on both sides of the Red Sea. The resin is obtained by cutting the branches and collecting the exuding “tears' which are burnt as incense in religious rites or as a personal fumigant. In the Bible, frankincense was prescribed for holy incense mixture (Exodus 30:31,Exodus 30:34; Luke 1:9). It was also brought by the wise men to the infant Jesus, together with gold and myrrh (Matthew 2:11).

Myrrh is a reddish-colored resin obtained from a spiny shrub, Commiphora myrrha in a similar manner to frankincense. This resin was not usually burnt but dissolved in oil and either eaten or used as a medicine and cosmetically (Psalms 45:8; Matthew 2:11).

Medicinal Plants Many medicinal herbs were gathered from the hills and valleys where the wild plants grew. Local people were well-versed in plant lore, but these common weeds are not specially mentioned in the Bible. Some special imported medicines are referred to. See Frankincense and Myrrh above.

Aloes of the New Testament (Aloe vera) were succulent plants with long swordlike leaves with serrations and erect flower heads up to three feet high imported from Yemen. The bitter pith was used as a medicine and for embalming (John 19:39). In the Old Testament, aloes refers to an expensive fragrant timber obtained from a tropical Indian eaglewood tree (Aquilaria agallocha).

Balm (Genesis 37:25) is a general term for medicinal ointment prepared from resin-bearing plants such as the rockrose Cistus laurifolius, which produces ladanum. The balm of Gilead or opohybalsam is yielded by Commiphora gileadensis, a non-spiny shrub of dry country in Southern Arabia and said to have been cultivated by Solomon at En-Gedi near the Dead Sea (Song of Solomon 5:1, “spice”). Gum was imported with balm by the Ishmaelites (Genesis 37:25). It is extruded from cut roots of a spiny undershrub (Astragalus tragacanth) grown on dry Iranian hillsides.

Some plants, such as the gourd Citrullus colocynthis, could be medicinal purges in very small quantities but bitter poisons otherwise (2 Kings 4:39-40).

Cereal Grains for Bread Well-to-do citizens made bread primarily from wheat, but the poor man had to make do with coarse barley (2 Kings 4:42 John 6:9). No other cereals were grown, these being the Old Testament “corn.” About New Testament times, however, sorghum was introduced. Rice came later still, and maize, not until America was opened up.

Wheat (emmer wheat Triticum dicoccum; bread wheat T. aestivum) is an annual crop which grows about three feet, though the primitive varieties were taller in rich soil, and with bearded ears.

Grains of wheat are hard and dry and easily kept in storehouses as Joseph did in Egypt before the time of famine (Genesis 41:49; KJV “corn”). It was important to retain seed for sowing (Genesis 47:24), but ancient tomb grain will not germinate. See Bread.

Barley (Hordeum vulgare) tolerates poorer soil than wheat, is shorter, has bearded ears, and ripens sooner (Exodus 9:31-32). It was also used for brewing beer and as horse and cattle fodder (1 Kings 4:28). Sometimes barley was eaten roasted as parched grain (Ruth 2:14).

Wheat and barley straw remaining after threshing was used for fuel (Isaiah 47:14), and the fine chaff for instant heat in the oven.

Fruits Olive trees (Olea europaea) are small rounded orchard trees with narrow gray-green leaves and small cream-colored flowers in May. The stone fruits ripen toward the end of summer and are pickled in brine either unripe as green olives or ripe as black olives. However, the bulk of the crop was gathered for the sake of the olive oil. See Oil.

Grape vines (Vitis vinifera), grown either in vineyards or singly as shady bowers around houses and courtyards, have long flexible stems with tendrils and lobed leaves. Short flower heads grow among the new leaves in early summer, and the numerous tiny flowers develop into a cluster of round sweet grapes which ripen either as green or black fruits. The fruits are eaten fresh as grapes, or dried and stored as raisins (1 Samuel 30:12). Wine was prepared from the fermented juice. See Wine.

The common fig tree (Ficus carica) has a short stout trunk and thick branches and twigs bearing coarsely lobed rough leaves (Genesis 3:7). Rounded fruits ripen during the summer. These sweet fig fruits have numerous small seeds in their interior cavity. Fresh figs were favored as first fruits (Isaiah 28:4; Jeremiah 24:2). Figs dry very well and were stored as cakes for future use (1 Samuel 25:18; 1 Samuel 30:12)Jesus referred to figs and fig trees several times (Matthew 7:16; Luke 21:29-31).

Another kind of fig tree, the sycomore (Ficus sycomorus) grew in Egypt and in the warmer areas of the Holy Land. This large tree usually has low-growing branches such as would have enabled the short Zacchaeus to climb one to see Jesus passing along the streets of Jericho (Luke 19:4).

The juicy fruit of the pomegranate (Punica granatum), about the size of a tennis ball, is full of seeds and sweet pulp. It develops from beautiful scarlet flowers that cover the twiggy bush in spring. Pomegranate bushes were often grown in gardens and beside houses (Deuteronomy 8:8; Song of Solomon 6:11). Moses was instructed to embroider pomegranate fruits on the hem of the priests' robes (Exodus 28:33), and their form ornamented the columns of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem (1 Kings 7:18; 2 Chronicles 3:16).

Only one palm, the date-palm (Phoenix dactylifera), yielded fruit in biblical times. This very tall tree with a rough unbranched trunk bearing a terminal tuft of huge feather leaves, fruits best in hot conditions of the Dead Sea oases. Hence, Jericho was known as the city of palm trees (Judges 1:16). The wandering Israelites reached Elim where there were seventy palm trees (Exodus 15:27). Te psalmist considered it to be such a fine tree that he compared the righteous flourishing to one (Psalms 92:12). Revelation 7:9 refers to the symbolic use of palm leaves (as “branches”) denoting victory, as when Jesus entered Jerusalem and the people strewed the way with leaves (John 12:13).

It is doubtful whether the black mulberry (Morus niger) was present in the Holy Land until New Testament times as it originated in the Caspian Sea region. The only probable reference to it is (as “sycamine”) when Jesus spoke of believers having enough faith to destroy one (Luke 17:6)—perhaps because old trees are stout, gnarled, and long-lived.

Another questionable fruit is that referred to as “apple” (Song of Solomon 2:3,Song of Solomon 2:5; Song of Solomon 7:8), although some versions translate the word as “apricot.” Either could be possible, but it is unlikely that fine varieties of apples were available so early.

Nuts Nuts are popularly considered to be hard dry fruits and seeds, as distinct from the more succulent fruits described above.

The most important biblical nut was the almond (Prunus dulcis), which is a small tree with delightful whitish flowers in early spring before the leaves have sprouted. The nuts are well-known today either fresh or as marzipan; the kernel is contained in a very hard thick casing. Almond nuts were carried to Egypt by Joseph's brothers (Genesis 43:11). Aaron's walking stick budded and produced almonds overnight and proved that Aaron was God's man to assist Moses (Numbers 17:8). The holy lampstand had cups like almond flowers (Exodus 25:33; Exodus 37:19).

The walnut tree (Juglans regia) originated in the Caspian region and may not have been commonly planted in the Eastern Mediterranean region until after the biblical period. However, it is possible that Solomon grew it in his garden (Song of Solomon 6:11). The tree grows to a considerable size. The leaves are compound, and the oily edible nuts look like a miniature brain—hence the ancient name Jovis glans and the scientific adaptation Juglans.

True pistacio nuts (Pistacia vera) also arrived late. The pistache nuts referred to in the Bible (Genesis 43:11 NIV) would be from the native terebinth trees (Pistachia terebinthus, P. atlantica) of the hillsides. One is a small shrubby tree, while the other is as large as an oak. Both yield small round edible fruits.

Vegetables The wandering Israelites longed for vegetables in the desert after they had left Egypt (Numbers 11:5). Onions, leeks, and garlic are mentioned, as well as cucumbers and melons. Elsewhere, we read of lentils and other pulses (2 Samuel 17:28; Daniel 1:12).

Onions (Allium cepa) are the bulbs familiar to us nowadays. They are white or purple and grow quickly from seeds in one season. Leeks (Allium porrum) do not form such a distinct bulb. They are cooked, or the leaves were chopped up. Garlic (Allium sativum) is a strongly flavored onion that produces a bulb composed of separate scales.

The cucumbers of biblical Egypt were most likely the snake- or muskmelon Cucumis melo, which has longitudinal lines on its exterior. The melons were the watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and not the squash or honeydew melon which are of American origin and now widely grown in the Middle East.

Several beans or pulses were grown in biblical times, especially lentils (Lens culinaris) in the more arid areas. The red pottage or soup made of lentils enabled Jacob to obtain Esau's birthright (Genesis 25:29-34). Lentil plants are small and slender with pealike flowers and small flat pods containing two seeds.

Of the other pulses the broad bean (Vicia faba) and the chick pea (Cicer arietinum) were important and may have been the vegetables Daniel and his friends ate in Babylon (Daniel 1:12).

Trees From Genesis to Revelation trees have a special place, both factually and symbolically. We can divide them into groups according to their natural habitats.

1. Trees of dry and desert areas Rainfall is erratic and trees may be restricted to dry water courses where residual water remains.

Several species of acacia (KJV shittim, using the Hebrew word) occur in Sinai. Their timber was used for the construction of the tabernacle, the tent of meeting (Exodus 25:1). Acacias are usually flat-topped trees which possess strong thorns.

Tamarisk (Tamarix species) is a shrub or small tree with fine branchlets, scale leaves, and pink or white flowers, inhabiting salty places in the desert. Abraham planted one at Beersheba (Genesis 21:33 NIV).

2. Trees of streams, rivers and lakes Water is usually available throughout the year in these habitats.

Oleander (Nerium oleander) is an erect shrub with long, narrow poisonous evergreen leaves and beautiful pink flowers in summer. Although it may be found in stream beds in dry country, it is also in the marshes and streams such as those of Mount Carmel. It may be the “roses” at Jericho and the “roses” planted by the brook (Sirach 24:14; Sirach 39:13 . Even some of the references to willow trees may mean oleanders.

Plane (Platanus orientalis) is a large tree with flaking bark and digitate leaves. Its minute flowers are clustered in several hanging balls. The Plane tree inhabits rocky stream beds. It was one of the rods Jacob peeled (Genesis 30:37; also Ezekiel 31:8, KJV, “chesnut”).

Poplar (Populus euphratica) is another of the trees Jacob peeled (Genesis 30:37). It grows beside water, especially the rivers Euphrates and Jordan. It is a tall tree with shaking leaves and numerous suckering shoots around its base. The white poplar (P. alba) or the storax (Styrax officinalis) were more likely to be the trees upon the mountains (Hosea 4:13).

Willow (Salix acynophylla) Like poplars, willows root easily in wet places, but they are not as tall and usually have long narrow leaves (Job 40:22; Isaiah 44:4; Ezekiel 17:5).

3. Trees of hills and plains In biblical times, certainly before the Israelite conquest of Canaan, the hills of the Holy Land were well wooded, while Lebanon was famous for its dense forests. Agriculture, terracing, sheep and goat grazing, and the constant demand for fuel and timber has left little woodland at the present day. Only isolated trees remain in many places. Even the plains between the Mediterranean and the hills were covered with oaks until recent times.

Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) is a dense coniferous forest tree typically with spreading branches, although often seen as a tall narrow tree planted beside cemeteries. References in the Bible to coniferous trees are confusing, but the cypress is evidently intended in Isaiah 40:20; Isaiah 60:13, among others.

Cedar (Cedrus libani), the famous cedar of Lebanon, grew in extensive coniferous forests which are now sadly depleted. The stout flat-topped trees provide excellent timber which was used for David's house (2 Samuel 5:11) and Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 5:6-10), as well as the later one (Ezra 3:7).

Oak (Quercus species) trees provide excellent timber for ships (Ezekiel 27:6) and other construction, although the evergreen kermes oak often grows no more than a shrub. The deciduous oak still forms woodland on some hills of Palestine, such as Carmel, Naphtali, and Bashan (Isaiah 2:13). Oaks were used to mark graves (Genesis 35:8) or as landmarks (1 Samuel 10:3) or for sacrilegious ceremonies (Hosea 4:13).

Pine (Pinus halepensis), especially the Aleppo pine, is a tall coniferous tree with long needle-leaves and cones containing winged seeds. Its timber is workable and used for construction; probably the tree referred to in Isaiah 44:14 (KJV, ash; NRSV, cedar).

Terebinth (Pistacia terebinthus, P. atlantica) produced fruits used as nuts, but the timber of the large oaklike P. atlantica is also useful. The shade of terebinths was used for pagan sacrifices and offerings (Hosea 4:13 NIV).

4. Foreign trees Expeditions brought back rare timbers during the Old Testament period, and, in New Testament times, foreign timbers entered through normal trade routes.

Almug wood, traditionally identified as sandal wood (Pterocarpus santalinus), was imported from Ophir to Judah by Hiram's fleet for Solomon (1 Kings 10:10-11). Whether algum and almug are synonymous is a matter of dispute, since algum is clearly stated to be from Lebanon (2 Chronicles 2:8), in which case it could have been the Cilician fir (Abies cilicia) or the Grecian juniper (Juniperus excelsa).

Ezekiel 27:15 links ebony with imported ivory tusks. The black-red ebony of Ancient Egypt was an African leguminous tree Dalbergia melanoxylon, while later the name was transferred to the tropical Asian Diospyros ebenum which has jet black timber.

Thyine wood is timber from the North African sanderac tree (Tetraclinis articulata), a coniferlike cypress, which was used by the Greeks and Romans for cabinetmaking. It is dark, hard, and fragrant (Revelation 18:12).

catcmo2006 would like to:

Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

Proverbs: The Wisdom of Solomon

Proverbs Day Proverbs 11:10-11(KJV): 10 When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is shouting. 11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

Thoughts for the Day As we continue to look at the wisdom in the book of Proverbs we see that individual righteousness influences corporate righteousness, especially when a righteous person is in a position of leadership. Truly "no man is an island" unto himself. Each of our individual actions will have an effect on those around us. We can influence the world by our good deeds or our evil deeds. We each have a choice as to how we will live. Verse 10 tells us that when there are good reports in a city, the city rejoices. The city also has shouts of joy when criminals are arrested or evil is overthrown in a city. It is sad to say in our day, there seems to be more reports of evil than reports of good. When leadership is corrupt in high places, it filters down to all levels of our society and whole cities suffer. In countries where there is democracy and the people are allowed to vote, the people have a responsibility to elect qualified moral leaders to their leadership posts. The devil uses lies to keep many people from voting. He wants to keep godly men and women away from the voting booth and get the candidates of his choice elected instead. If we do nothing, it makes it easy for the enemy to help those who could become the wrong leadership for our nations. Here are some of the lies the devil whispers to people to attempt to keep them from voting: "My one vote doesn't count anyway." "I'm disillusioned by the whole political process." "I'm already too busy to take the time to cast an informed vote, so I just don't vote at all." "Politics are corrupt anyway and as a Christian I don't want to be involved." These are just some of the excuses that people use to justify their failure to exercise their civil responsibility to vote. Only heaven will reveal the many opportunities that we had to change things for the better in our nations, yet we failed to do so because we did not use our right to vote. We do not realize the privilege we have to be able to have a voice in the choice of who shall be our leaders and what kind of laws should govern our land. If we were to go to a country that did not afford its people this right and live under the usual dictators that rule those countries, we might be more thankful for this advantage. The heart of God is expressed in the Bible for His concern for government leaders by telling us that we should pray in this vein when we look at the admonition in the following verses: 1 Timothy 2:1-4: "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. " Should we not assume that if the Lord would have us pray for leaders, would He not also want us to use every opportunity to assist in electing the leaders that would be the best ones for promoting peace and righteousness? Yes, Jesus, himself said in Luke 20:25: "And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar's, and unto God the things which be God's." If we have been given a civil responsibility by government (Caesar) to vote, we should take that opportunity. Caesar was the Roman emperor at that time, so Jesus was telling them they were to pay their taxes, as well as support the work of God. These scriptures tell us as Christians that we are to be good citizens as well and pay our taxes. As good citizens in our nations, we should not leave the operation of the government to ungodly men if we have opportunity to change things. How can we prevent that? One way is to use our one vote wisely. We will be accountable before God as to how we voted. Another issue is to spend time in study and prayer so that we can vote wisely for the proper candidates, as well as the right issues. Recently, in the presidential election of 2000 in the U.S.A. we have seen how one vote does make a difference. As Christians, our lives should make a difference in the circle of influence that we each have. Let us each live righteous lives wherever we are, so that our nations are changed. Proverbs 14:34: "Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people."

Prayer for the Day Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for all the blessings You have given us this day. Even when we face troubles, we know we can face them with Your guidance as to how to solve them. Thank You for the promise that You are with us in everything. I love and appreciate You, Lord. You are very kind and merciful to us. Help me to live a righteous life before those whom You have allowed me to influence. May I never bring reproach upon You, Lord. Help me to change my corner of the world for the better through Your power and help. I humbly ask this in Your son, Jesus' name. Amen.

catcmo2006

Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

Morning & Evening Devotionals

MORNING DEVOTIONAL Sunday Morning 11 The Lord bless thee, and keep thee. The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. Thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand. The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. I the Lord do keep it; I will water it every moment: lest any hurt it, I will keep it night and day. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept. The Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Num. 6:24. Prov. 10:22. Ps. 5:12. Ps. 121:3,5,7,8. Isa. 27:3. John 17:11,12. 2 Tim. 4:18.

Evening Deovotional Sunday Evening 11:Jesus wept. A man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. We have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities. It became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered. I was not rebellious, neither turned away back. I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting. Behold how he loved. He took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. In all things it behooved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. John 11:35. Isa. 53:3. Heb. 4:15. Heb. 2:10. Heb. 5:8. Isa. 50:5,6. John 11:36. Heb. 2:16,17. catcmo2006

Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.

God Is Holding Us

God Is Holding us :

_______________ God Is Holding Us: Scriptures are as follows:

For I, the LORD your God, will hold your right hand,
Saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you.’ [Isa.41:13].Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’ [Isa.41:10].Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer,
The Holy One of Israel: “ I am the LORD your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you by the way you should go. [Isa.48:17]. ________________________________________________________ The Big Picture:

THEY ARE ENCOURAGED NOT TO FEAR. 41:10-20

God speaks with tenderness; Fear thou not, for I am with thee: not only within call, but present with thee. Art thou weak? I will strengthen thee. Art thou in want of friends? I will help thee in the time of need. Art thou ready to fall? I will uphold thee with that right hand which is full of righteousness, dealing forth rewards and punishments. There are those that strive with God's people, that seek their ruin. Let not God's people render evil for evil, but wait God's time. It is the worm Jacob; so little, so weak, so despised and trampled on by every body. God's people are as worms, in humble thoughts of themselves, and in their enemies' haughty thoughts of them; worms, but not vipers, not of the serpent's seed. Every part of God's word is calculated to humble man's pride, and to make him appear little in his own eyes. The Lord will help them, for he is their Redeemer. The Lord will make Jacob to become a threshing instrument. God will make him fit for use, new, and having sharp spikes. This has fulfilment in the triumphs of the gospel of Christ, and of all faithful followers of Christ, over the power of darkness. God has provided comforts to supply all their wants, and to answer all their prayers. Our way to heaven lies through the wilderness of this world. The soul of man is in want, and seeks for satisfaction; but becomes weary of seeking that in the world, which is not to be had in it. Yet they shall have a constant supply, where one would least expect it. I will open rivers of grace, rivers of living water, which Christ spake of the Spirit, [John 7:38 39]. When God sets up his church in the Gentile wilderness, there shall be a great change, as if thorns and briers were turned into cedars, and fir-trees, and myrtles. These blessings are kept for the poor in spirit, who long for Divine enlightening, pardon, and holiness. And God will render their barren souls fruitful in the grace of his Spirit, that all who behold may consider it.
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WARNINGS OF JUDGMENT UPON THOSE WHO PERSISTED IN EVIL. 48:16-22

The Holy Spirit qualifies for service; and those may speak boldly, whom God and his Spirit send. This is to be applied to Christ. He was sent, and he had the Spirit without measure. Whom God redeems, he teaches; he teaches to profit by affliction, and then makes them partakers of his holiness. Also, by his grace he leads them in the way of duty; and by his providence he leads in the way of deliverance. God did not afflict them willingly. If their sins had not turned them away, their peace should have been always flowing and abundant. Spiritual enjoyments are ever joined with holiness of life and regard to God's will. It will make the misery of the disobedient the more painful, to think how happy they might have been. And here is assurance given of salvation out of captivity. Those whom God designs to bring home to himself, he will take care of, that they want not for their journey. This is applicable to the grace laid up for us in Jesus Christ, from whom all good flows to us, as the water to Israel out of the rock, for that Rock was Christ. The spiritual blessings of redemption, and the rescue of the church from antichristian tyranny, are here pointed to. But whatever changes take place, the Lord warned impenitent sinners that no good would come to them; that inward anguish and outward trouble, which spring from guilt and from the Divine wrath, must be their portion for ever.

_______________________________________________________ That I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth, That I may fill their treasuries. [Prov.8:21]. Commit your works to the LORD, And your thoughts will be established. [Prov.16:3].Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men[Prov.22:29].Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.” [Lk.6:38].Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. [3 John 1:2].

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The Big Picture: Roll the burden of thy care upon God, and leave it with him, by faith and dependence on him. (Pr 16:4).Though now he is employed by them,yet he will rise, and is likely enough to stand before kings, as an ambassador or prime minister [Prov.22:29].

And to justice and sincerity.

All these sayings Christ often used; it was easy to apply them. We ought to be very careful when we blame others; for we need allowance ourselves. If we are of a giving and a forgiving spirit, we shall ourselves reap the benefit. Though full and exact returns are made in another world, not in this world, yet Providence does what should encourage us in doing good. Those who follow the multitude to do evil, follow in the broad way that leads to destruction. The tree is known by its

fruits; may the word of Christ be so grafted in our hearts, that we may be fruitful in every good word and work. And what the mouth commonly speaks, generally agrees with what is most in the heart. Those only make sure work for their souls and eternity, and take the course that will profit in a trying time, who think, speak, and act according to the words of Christ. Those who take pains in religion, found their hope upon Christ, who is the Rock of Ages, and other foundation can no man lay. In

death and judgment they are safe, being kept by the power of Christ through faith unto salvation, and they shall never perish. [Luke 6:38].

Declares when, where, and how, the revelation was made to him.

Those who are beloved of Christ, will love the brethren for his sake. Soul prosperity is the greatest blessing on this side heaven. Grace and health are rich companions. Grace will employ health. A rich soul may be lodged in a weak body; and grace must then be exercised in submitting to such a dispensation. But we may wish and pray that those who have prosperous souls, may have healthful bodies; that their grace may shine where there is still more room for activity. How many

professors there are, about whom the apostle's words must be reversed, and we must earnestly wish and pray that their souls might prosper, as their health and circumstances do! True faith will work by love. A good report is due from those who receive good; they could not but testify to the church, what they found and felt. Good men will rejoice in the soul prosperity of others; and they are glad to hear of the grace and goodness of others. And as it is a joy to good parents, it will be a joy to

good ministers, to see their people adorn their profession. Gaius overlooked petty differences among serious Christians, and freely helped all who bore the image, and did the work of Christ. He was upright in what he did, as a faithful servant. Faithful souls can hear their own praises without being puffed up; the commendation of what is good in them, lays them at the foot of the cross of Christ. Christians should consider not only what they must do, but what they may do; and should do even the

common actions of life, and of good-will, after a godly sort, serving God therein, and designing his glory. Those who freely make known Christ's gospel, should be helped by others to whom God gives the means. Those who cannot themselves proclaim it, may yet receive, help, and countenance those who do so. (3Jn 1:9-12). ________________________________________________________ Ending of thought's: That the readings and those precious endings of our lives have truly get's the big picture in gainning access and by leaving all of those wounds that we have inside of us that has caused old hurts, habits, and above all hang-up that it can be turned around in such a postive way in our lives. Jesus Christ is our healing solutions and it's how that we've come from all forms of darkness unto Jesus Christ's glorious freedom. Even though society tells us it's all useless. Give Him such a glorious lattitude He wants to use as He sees fits. We do that by presenting everything single thing unto Him then he will be able to use us in one's own talents and tresures - to Him, We, then hold loosely all that we have yeilded to Him, God uses us as His intruments to carry all messages to others in word and in action. It's our actions the the world sees in us then to decide for one self if what we have that they come to follow deeply inside themselves . In that which reflects Jesus Christ in what He's done for us as His. ________________________________________________________ Prayer: Lord Jesus, I commit my life to You totally, spirit, soul, and body. I ask that You bend, break, and mold me into the person that You want me to be. Lord, teach me to trust in You and to live and walk by faith in You and Your Word. I commit to You, Lord, to take accountability and responsibility in my walk with You and Your Word. No more will the enemy’s devices and the deceptions of the old man easily sway me. I purpose to firmly fix my eyes and heart on You, Lord, totally today. I press, push and apprehend all that you have for me today, keeping in the back of my remembrance that the enemy loves a lazy or slothful mind. satan, I come against you and all hosts of hell and I reject everything that you would have for me today. satan, I refuse all snares, pits, and traps that you have set to draw me away from my Lord Jesus Christ. I rebuke you, satan, and all your hosts in the name of Jesus from every assignment you have assigned against me or my family, my property, my health and my finances. Father I ask and believe for Your best in my life today and that Your will and purposes be done in and through me. I also ask that You keep me in Your perfect will and make me a yielded vessel fit for Your work today. I place myself under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust", for I chose to dwell in the secret place of the Most High. In Jesus Name, Amen. catcmo2006

Thank You for allow in this site,group sites, web sites and other prayer sites as well in holding one another up for prayer's being totally united in everyone around this world, it's about Jesus Christ first and prayers,intecessory prayer's and at other times about this vast world we live in today which this old world as we all know it is slowly departing to be reaching our home in glory.