THORNS
Today’s Reading: 2 Corinthians 12-13
Click scripture link to read online or HERE to listen online (then click the symbol of the audio speaker above the scripture portion).
Smyrna was the second city to receive a letter from the Apostle John in the book of Revelation. Acts 19:10 suggests that the church there was founded during Paul’s third missionary journey. Scholars believe the city grew to about 100,000 by the time of the Apostles Paul and John. That’s my eldest son and photographer Reynold in the picture.
GOOGLE MAPS – To see where the photo was taken, click HERE.
Key Verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”
The smaller we are in our own eyes, the bigger we see Christ to be. There’s more room for Jesus who lives in the believer when the believer does not have a large opinion of himself. We start next week in 1st Samuel where we will find King Saul. Samuel said of him, “When you were little in your eyes, were you not head of the tribes of Israel?” (1 Samuel 15:17). Saul became so big that he thought he no longer had to obey God. This resulted in his loss of the throne. The Apostle Paul, before his conversion, was a “Mr. Big.” He went directly to the High Priest and received the authority to persecute the Christians. We don’t know what the “thorn in the flesh” was, but we do know God gave it to him to keep him from becoming “Mr. Big” again. When Paul was “Mr. Small,” God could be “Big” in his life and ministry. Paul, a most powerful man, was blinded and confused on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-9). For God to be strong in Paul, he had to become weak in himself, not depending on his own abilities, but in the strength of Christ, Himself.
PRAYER FOR TODAY:
Lord Jesus, Your servant Paul prayed three times for deliverance from the “thorn.” Each time You answered, “No.” Please help me to learn this difficult lesson. You said that “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:12). I bow at Your feet, and I exalt You above all in praise and worship. Use me, O Lord, in any way You desire. In Your exalted Name I pray, Amen!
100 PERSONAL WORDS:
There is a big man (physically) who is one of my heroes in the Christian ministry. He’s also a humble man. He would never claim any exalted status for himself, but God exalted him. Many years ago, he was elected by those of us who are his peers as our District Superintendent for Western Ontario for the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. He was over 90 when he passed into the immediate Presence of Christ. I’m sure that if he were to write here, he would speak of weakness, and most of all he would testify to God’s strength in him. I’m referring to Rev. Homer Cantelon. His son, Jim, who hosted the 100 Huntley Street telecast for years and founded Visionledd, a mission to the AIDS sufferers of Africa, said on one occasion, “When I grow up, I want to be like Homer.” I feel the same way. I used to remind Homer from time to time that years ago he agreed to preach my funeral service. We had a good laugh. Here is a video of Jim interviewing his dad Homer a few years back on 100 Huntley Street (part one click here…part two click here). Throughout the years, I’ve found humble people who may be leaders or may be everyday people. I’ve sat at their feet and learned from them. I’m still learning!
Yours for growing bigger in Christ and smaller in self,
David
Yes, amen, I’ve had the privilege of meeting Rev. Homer Cantelon in Africa; actually sat at our table as one of his former church members was on the same mission station and a former roommate; also you Pastor David Mainse, Norma Jean; Ron and Ann. God bless you. Would be wonderful to meet all of you fellow bloggers who have been faithful to 100words.ca. Blessings to all.
Pastor David, I hope you are feeling much better, I remember that interview Jim did with his father . What a lovely man and I could say the same about you and your family. Thank you for blessing us everyday
Ger I was thinking the same as you about meeting all the bloggers, I guess we will one day in heaven , won’t that be wonderful.
Hope everyone has a good day.
PS. I have been thinking about Mary and her husband. Praying that they will make a complete recovery.
Amen, Eleamor. God bless you too in all you do!!
Thanks for your reply to The Shack, Ger. I agree, it would be great for all of us to get together, though difficult with everyone living from east to west coast and in between. We should make an effort to do it, though.
From Streams in the Desert, March 10:
Distinguish between the fact of God’s presence, and the emotion of the fact. It is a happy thing when the soul seems desolate and deserted, if our faith can say, “I see Thee not. I feel Thee not, but Thou art certainly and graciously here, where I am as I am.” Say it again and again: “Thou art here: though the bush does not seem to burn with fire, it does burn. I will take the shoes from off my feet, for the place on which I stand is holy ground.” —London Christian
Believe God’s word and power more than you believe your own feelings and experiences. Your Rock is Christ, and it is not the Rock which ebbs and flows, but your sea. —Samuel Rutherford
How true, Beverlee…thanks for sharing!
Endearing scripture, message, prayer, and link to Jim and Homer Cantelon. Hope you and your family are enjoying Florida together, David! Blessings fellow saints in the Lord!
“being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Phil 1:11 NKJV
The Old Barn by Bobby G. Berney
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sj823SIxC8s
Well I certainly enjoyed the interviews, thank you for including them. As always, I pray for The Father’s angels to take charge of you and yours from generation to generation ❤️
What a wonderful interview between Jim and Homer Cantelon. Homer Cantelon was so humble and down-to-earth. Also, the bible readings where just what I needed to hear today, since yesterday was my 1st active day ministering on a prayer line. It’s so good to know that when I am weak or insecure He is strong. God is good!
Reynold, I join with you in praising the Lord,: And I’m asking Him to Bless you mightily in all you do, both you and Kathy and your loved ones.
Unfortunately, I’m unable to restore the sound on my computer, so did not click on the interview link. However, I do recall that interview when it originally on TV. Yes, what great men of God! And that includes you Pastor David!!
I need help! I need prayers! My car blew up, need another vehicle immediately! Mental illness is increasing as full moon and time change approaches! Can’t leave the house because have no car!
Lord God please help Crystal find a vehicle for me asap! Bless Al as he is also looking for me!! Please pray someone would be willing to donate a good vehicle to me! would be so thankful for this action!
Lord You provided another ticket for me to see Cinderella, You revealed I can’t eat cheese! I thank you Lord for all the blessings You have given me! In Jesus Name I Pray amen
It was good to hear those interviews again and have a laugh thanks David God is good.
Sah you are in my prayers God help you
Sah, I pray for peace of mind for you, the Peace that comes from the Lord to guard your heart and mind, in Christ Jesus. Lord, I ask, in your Mighty Name Jesus, that Your Will be done in Sah’s life. Your Word says to ask for what we need, Lord Sah is in need of a vehicle: In your Mighty Name Jesus, I call forth that vehicle for Sah; Thank you Jesus for hearing our prayer, Amen!!
I agree in prayer with Irene and Lianne… God Bless you, SAH!
SAH…I pray for, The peace of God to fill your heart and mind! I pray for God”s love and strength and protection to surround you!!… and may HE give you another car!