Daily Encounter with: ACTS International

Today's Daily Encounter
Communication: Key to Effective Relationships Part I

"Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all
things grow up into him who is the Head, that is,
Christ."1

"Hey, Dad, what do you think of that?" asked one of my
sons on one occasion when I was driving him to school.

"What do I think of what?" I asked as I had no idea
what he was talking about.

"That ad on the radio," he replied rather surprised.

The radio was at a reasonable volume but I didn't hear
a word the advertiser said. Why? It's because we all
have what communicators call a mental filter system.
In other words we have a tendency to hear only what we
want to hear and filter (or block) out everything else.
This is called "selective attention."

This is only one reason why relationships can be so
difficult … too often we don't listen to what the
other person is saying and hear only what we want to
hear. This can leave partners very frustrated. "I said
such and such," one says and the other replies, "No,
you didn't." "Yes, I did." "No you didn't." And the
self-defeating cycle continues.

Not only do we have selective attention, we also have
selective exposure in that we mostly expose ourselves
only to those things we want to see and hear. Like the
wife who leaves the book, Seven Ways to Fulfill Your
Wife's Needs, on the TV hoping her husband will read
it! Chances are he won't see it, let alone pick it up
and read it.

To make matters worse, another filter we use is
selective perception which means that we perceive or
see things the way we want to see them--often based on
our needs, interests, wants, or self-concept. For
instance, the man dying of thirst in the desert sees
mirages of desert springs. Or if I have a poor
self-image and you give me a compliment, I will think
you are lying or wanting something.

To be concluded …

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me to be
always truthful, not only with you, but also with
myself and others, and always speak and communicate
the truth in love. Thank you for hearing and answering
my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Ephesians 4:15 (NIV).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
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Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
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Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
Look Where You're Going

"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so
great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every
weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and
let us run with endurance the race that is set before
us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our
faith…."1

I was amused at the story our now "middle-aged" pastor
recently told about himself when trying to learn
surfing a few short years ago. He had a difficult time
"getting it" and, according to his own confession,
still hasn't mastered the art of successful surfing.

I could identify with him in my trying to learn snow
skiing later in life. I never fully mastered the art
either … my biggest problem was trying to turn. On one
occasion I skied right into the back of one of my
skiing buddies because I couldn't turn quick enough to
get out of the way. On another occasion somehow I
collided with a lady skier and we got locked together
with her facing forwards and me facing backwards as we
continued skiing down the slope totally out of control
until we crashed. Sprawled out on the snow I couldn't
resist making the comment, "We've got to stop meeting
this way!" Fortunately neither one of us was hurt.

The big lesson I needed to learn, like the lesson my
pastor was taught, "You always go where you are
looking so keep looking toward where you want to
go--not to where you don't want to go!"

That's a great lesson regarding most aspects of life
too. If we fix our eyes only on the pleasures and
benefits this world has to offer, that's the direction
our life will take and, while we might gain great
material wealth, we will end up becoming spiritually
bankrupt--morally bankrupt too if all we look for is
the sinful pleasures this life has to offer in
abundance.

On the other hand, if we commit our life to and fix
our eyes on spiritual and eternal values, that's the
direction our life will take--and the rewards will be
eternal, for we always reap what we sow, even if it is
eventually!

As today's Scripture lesson teaches: "Let us lay aside
every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us,
and let us run with endurance the race that is set
before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher
of our faith."

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me to live
with eternal values in view, looking always unto Jesus
for help and direction in every aspect of my life.
Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer.
Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
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Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
On Being a Positive Realist

As the Bible says, "As a man thinks in his heart, so
is he."1

For successful living it is important not only to have
a positive attitude and to think positively but,
equally important, to be a positive realist.

For example, I have read how Admiral Jim Stockdale was
repeatedly tortured during eight years as a prisoner of
war in Hanoi during the Vietnam War--and survived.

Strange as it may at first seem, "In an interview with
author Jim Collins, Admiral Stockdale commented that
the optimists were the ones who were least likely to
survive the camps. They refused to accept reality.
They kept predicting that they would be freed soon.
And every time their predictions failed, they lost a
little more hope, until one day the optimists died of
broken hearts. They had great attitudes, but they
failed to deal realistically with their situation.
Stockdale remarked, 'You must never confuse faith that
you will prevail in the end--which you can never afford
to lose--with the discipline to confront the most
brutal facts of your current reality, whatever they
might be.'"2

To express it another way, if you've been hit by a
"Mack truck," all the optimism and positive thinking
in and of itself won't take the pain away. One needs
to be a positive realist who says to him/herself,
"Yes, I've been hit by a massive problem. I've been
hurt badly and am in deep pain. However, with God's
help and any other help I need, I will do everything
in my power to overcome my circumstances and survive
triumphantly.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, help me to be a positive
realist with great faith in you knowing that no matter
what happens to me, you always have a lesson for me to
learn and always want to use my circumstances to help
me grow and become strong in faith and character.
Also, please help me to see and accept my
responsibility and the part I need to play in
overcoming my difficulties and adverse circumstances.
Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer.
Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Proverbs 23:7.
2. Jim Collins, "Good to Great" (New York: Harper
Business, 2001), pp. 83-85. Cited on www.sermons.com.

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
http://www.actscom.com



Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
Life's Little Frustrations

"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about
everything; tell God your needs and don't forget to
thank him for his answers. If you do this you will
experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful
than the human mind can understand."1

Paul Dickson discovered that the size of the cut he
inflicted on himself while shaving was directly
proportionate to the importance of the event for which
he was shaving. That led him to an interest in other
"universal laws" evident in daily life. The following
are a few of the many he has collected:

"No books you lend are lost except those you
particularly want to keep." "There are three ways to
get something done: do it yourself; hire someone; or
tell your kids not to do it." "You can throw a burnt
match out of the window of your car and start a forest
fire easier than you can start one under dry logs in
your fireplace with a box of matches and the complete
edition of the Sunday newspaper."

Let's face it, more often than not, it's life's little
annoyances that get to us and hit our "frustration"
button. As one humorist put it:

It's the little things that bother us
and put us on the rack,
you can sit upon a mountain,
but you can't sit on a tack!

And most of us have at least one "frustration"
button--by whatever name you call it--which is an area
of weakness that God wants us to overcome. As long as I
have a "frustration button" that is still active, it's
a reminder that I still have some growing to do so I
can get to the place where I quit being frustrated and
trust God for everything!

Hmmm …I'm still working on mine … but God hasn't
finished with me yet. Fortunately.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, thank you that I can
bring all my 'frustrations' to you. When I do this,
please help me to see if there is anything I can do to
resolve the problem that is causing my frustration, and
then do what I need to do to the best of my ability,
and trust the outcome to you so that I will experience
peace of mind. Thank you for hearing and answering my
prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Philippians 4:6, 7 (TLB)(NLT).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
http://www.actscom.com


Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.
Today's Daily Encounter
An Interesting Funeral

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens
me."1

Some time ago, a teacher in Decatur, Georgia, taught
her fourth-grade students an invaluable lesson by
conducting a funeral. She enthused her class because
the funeral was to be conducted for an enemy--the "I
can't" enemy.

"Each child was encouraged to list their 'I Can'ts':
'I can't do math.' 'I can't make any friends.' 'I
can't hit a home run in softball.' 'I can't give a
book report in front of the class,'" and so on.

When the teacher collected all the "I can't" lists,
she put them in a box and took them with the class
outside where they took turns in digging a grave. In
her eulogy she said, "We have provided 'I Can't' with
a final resting place and a headstone that contains
his epitaph. He is survived by his brothers and
sisters, 'I Can,' 'I Will,' and 'I'm Going to Right
Away.' May 'I Can't' rest in peace and may everyone
present pick up their lives and move forward in his
absence."2

Golfer Arnold Palmer has won hundreds of trophies but
apparently he never flaunts these. On his office wall
is a lone framed plaque which reads:

If you think you are beaten, you are.
If you think you dare not, you don't.
If you'd like to win but think you can't,
it's almost certain you won't.
Life's battles don't always go to
the stronger or faster man,
But sooner or later, the man who wins
is the man who thinks he can.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, thank you for the
abilities you have given to me. Help me to acknowledge
what these are, and believe in my heart that as long as
I am living in harmony with your will, I can do
everything you have enabled me to do. Please deliver
me from the sin of disbelief not only in you but also
in myself. Thank you for hearing and answering my
prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Philippians 4:13 (NKJV).
2. Phillip B. Childs, "The I Can't Funeral," North
Texas United Methodist Reporter, January 22, 1999.
Cited on www.sermons.com.

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
http://www.actscom.com


Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
Facing Backward to Go Forward

"But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and
straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the
goal to win the prize for which God has called me
heavenward in Christ Jesus."1

I have read that if flies are placed in a jar with air
holes in the lid, they will fly frantically, banging
into the lid, desperately trying to escape from their
prison. If left there long enough, eventually they
will stop hitting the lid. Later, if the lid is
removed, they won't even try to escape.

Some of us are like the flies. Because of a traumatic
or painful experience in our past, we have been
"conditioned" to believe that we are trapped in a
prison of helplessness without escape, so we are
afraid to try again for fear of failure or of being
hurt again.

To overcome, we need to acknowledge where we have been
hurt and, if necessary, get into a recovery program to
overcome our painful memories and unresolved feelings.

As Peter said, "So get rid of your feelings of
hatred."2 The same principle applies to all negative
feelings--especially the supercharged repressed
negative emotions. Repressing or denying these
feelings doesn't get rid of them. It only adds
"interest" to them and makes matters worse.
Furthermore, we can never truly "get rid of" a
negative painful past until we have resolved it. Only
then are we truly able to forgive any and all who have
ever hurt us. Until we do this, we are still bound to
and controlled by our past.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me to resolve
any hurts from the past that are affecting my life in
any negative way. And, if necessary, find the help
needed to do this, so that I can forgive any and all
who have ever hurt me, and in so doing put all these
matters behind me, and be free to fully live and fully
love and to better serve you. Thank you for hearing and
answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."


1. Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV).
2. I Peter 2:1 (TLB)(NLT).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
http://www.actscom.com



Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
Meekness Is Not Weakness

"Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the
earth."1

I love the title of the country/western song, "What
part of no don't you understand?"

It is a fact that some of us have a hard time saying
no to people. We think we always have to be "nice" to
be a good Christian, and that means giving in to
others' demands or even to their requests.

As popular author, Rick Warren, asked: "Isn't a
Christian supposed to be meek?"

And then, answering his own question, he said, "Yes,
you are supposed to be meek. But meekness is not
weakness. There's a big difference. Meekness literally
means 'strength under control.' Picture a wild stallion
that has been broken and is now tamed. That stallion
still has as much power as when he was wild, but now
that power is bottled up for the master's use.

"Only two people in the Bible were called meek--Jesus
and Moses. Neither of them were weaklings or wimps.
They were strong men of conviction. God doesn't expect
you to just cave in every time somebody wants to
manipulate you or control you. What would you do if
someone asked you to do something immoral or illegal
or unreasonable? You'd say no!"2

When someone tries to make us feel guilty if we say no
to something they want us to do, a simple response like
the following can be very effective: "You're not trying
to make me feel guilty are you?" Of course they will
deny it, but as long as we don't allow them to control
or manipulate us through guilt (false guilt), in time
they will stop trying to put a guilt trip on us. And
by the way, people only make us feel guilty with our
permission.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me to learn
to be genuinely meek and say 'yes' when I need to say
yes, and 'no' when I need to say no--and not feel
guilty about it. Thank you for hearing and answering
my prayer. Gratefully in Jesus' name. Amen."

1. Matthew 5:5 (NIV).
2. Cited on www.sermons.com.

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
http://www.actscom.com


Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
Watch out for Phonies

"Come, let us meet together in one of the villages on
the plain of Ono. But they were scheming to harm me."1

When Nehemiah and the ancient Israelites had almost
completed rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem several
centuries BC, enemies were not happy with their
progress and sought to discourage Nehemiah and get rid
of him. They tried to lure him away from his work by
inviting him to meet with them in the Plain of Ono.

But Nehemiah's reply was, "O no!" He knew their
stories were fabricated and that they were lying. Just
as well he did, otherwise he would have been destroyed
and God's work frustrated. Nehemiah stuck to the job
until the work was finished and the walls rebuilt.

Whenever we get involved in a fruitful work for God,
opposition is usually par for the course. The enemy
attacks at every opportunity and usually at our most
vulnerable points. He is a master of deceit and will
seek to discourage us, sidetrack us from the main task
to waste our time on less important matters, tempt us
to stray from the beaten path, and so on. Whatever
devices he uses we, like Nehemiah, need to be aware of
these, for more often than not he comes as an angel of
light.

When in doubt, we need to pray for God to reveal to us
the truth of the situation in which we find ourselves.
Realize, too, that the more authentic and real we are,
the easier we will "smell" (discern) those who are not
for real and are seeking to distract us so that they
can lure us away from what God wants us to do.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please give me the same
kind of insight, wisdom and courage that Nehemiah had
and stick to the work you have for me to do until it
is finished. Help me to say 'no' to any temptation or
distraction that would take me away from following and
serving you. Thank you for hearing and answering my
prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Nehemiah 6:2 (NIV).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
http://www.actscom.com

Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
Almost Persuaded

"King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know
that you do believe." Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You
almost persuade me to become a Christian." And Paul
said, "I would to God that not only you, but also all
who hear me today, might become both almost and
altogether such as I am."1

"In the Peanuts cartoon the team statistician brings
Charlie Brown, the manager, his report [which says]:
'I've compiled the statistics on our baseball team for
last season,' Linus says. 'In twelve games we almost
scored a run and in nine games the other team almost
didn't score before the first out. In right field,
Lucy almost caught three balls and once almost made
the right play.

"'We led the league,' he concludes, 'in almosts.'"2

In Paul's day King Agrippa was also an almost … he was
almost persuaded to become a Christian. We hope that he
did while he had the opportunity. However, if he
didn't, he is lost forever because there is no
indication anywhere in God's Word that anybody is
given a second chance after death to receive Jesus as
their Savior.

So whatever you do, don't be an almost--an almost
persuaded. For help, be sure to pick up your "Passport
for Heaven" at: http://tinyurl.com/heaven-passport.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me not to be
an 'almost' in anything of significance--including
when it comes to fulfilling my God-given life purpose
here on earth, and especially when it comes to being
prepared for life after death. Thank you for hearing
and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name,
amen."

1. Acts 26:27-29 (NKJV).
2. Cited on www.sermons.com

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

* * * * * * *

Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
http://www.actscom.com
Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
Inspiration or Perspiration

"If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never
get anything done. Keep on sowing your seed, for you
never know which will grow--perhaps it all will."1

I'm a writer, but if I always waited for inspiration
to motivate me to write, I wouldn't get much written
because there are lots of other things I enjoy doing.
Not always, but as a general rule, writing for me is
only about five percent inspiration. The rest is 25
percent discipline and 70 percent perspiration or hard
work. I think every writer, from time to time,
struggles with a writer's block, but you have to keep
on writing when it's your work.

When I thought about writing a book some years ago, it
seemed like a daunting task, but when a friend
suggested that I think of writing just one page at a
time, I thought to myself, yeah, I can handle that.

When people ask me if I love writing, I usually answer
by saying, "I love having written." I do like to
communicate ideas, however, and writing is one way to
do that. Teaching in person is a lot more fun for me,
but writing has proven to be more effective especially
with today's electronic means of communication.

Life's like this. Obviously not everybody is called to
write, but we are all called to do that which we are
equipped to do. There's a company where I live that is
called Instant Grassification. It's a clever name for
installing instant lawns. But for achieving something
worthwhile in life means having a clearly defined life
purpose and then discipline, hard work, and
determination to hang in for the long haul--and to
"keep on sowing our seed," and never giving up. There
is no such thing as instant success.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me to know
what my God-given life purpose is and, with your help,
to keep on keeping on so that when I get to the end of
life's journey I will hear your welcoming words, 'Well
done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of
your Lord.' Thank you for hearing and answering my
prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Ecclesiastes 11:4, 6 (TLB)(NLT).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

* * * * * * *

Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
http://www.actscom.com



Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
Insignificant Goals

"Cling tightly to your faith in Christ, and always
keep your conscience clear. For some people have
deliberately violated their consciences; as a result,
their faith has been shipwrecked."1

"Some years ago a headline told of three hundred
whales that suddenly died. The whales were pursuing
sardines and found themselves marooned in a bay.
Frederick Harris commented, 'The small fish lured the
sea giants to their death. They came to their violent
demise by chasing small ends, by prostituting vast
powers for insignificant goals.'"2

Over the years I've asked numerous people in many
groups how many of them believe that God has a purpose
for their life. Almost all hands raise in agreement.
But when I ask what their God-given life- purpose is,
very few have any idea. I get lots of vague
generalities, but very few have a clearly defined
life-purpose.

If we don't know specifically where we are headed in
life, instead of making life happen, we allow life as
it happens to make us. That is, instead of directing
our life, we are directed by life's circumstances. We
become like a rudderless ship with no real sense of
direction, wasting our God-given potential on pursuing
happiness, riches, or insignificant goals. Unless we
know where we are headed, there is a danger that we,
like the whales, may make shipwreck of our faith or
even of our life.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, thank you that you do
have a God-given life purpose for my life. Please help
me to discover what it is and, with your help, do all
in my power to achieve that purpose. Thank you for
hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus'
name, amen."

1. 1 Timothy 1:19 (NLT).
2. John C. Maxwell, Developing the Leader Within You,
(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publications, 1993), p. 31.

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
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Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
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When copying or forwarding include the following:
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Today's Daily Encounter
On the Light Side

"No one lights a lamp and hides it! Instead, he puts
it on a lamp stand to give light to all who enter the
room."1

Lieutenant John Eisenhower, son of the late General
Dwight Eisenhower, was a member of his father's staff
during Word War II. On one occasion General Eisenhower
gave his son a message to deliver to a colonel on the
front line.

The young lieutenant said to the colonel, "My dad says
to watch your right flank." The puzzled officer
replied, "Really? And what does your mommy say?"

Obviously the colonel didn't know who young Eisenhower
was. Eisenhower didn't make himself known. He hid his
light under a bushel as it were.

While we don't want to drop names or ride on somebody
else's coattails, nor make any kind of an impact in
our circle of influence, it is important that we are
known for who we are--not by rank or title--but by our
fruit.

That is, do people know that I'm a Christian--do they
"see" Jesus in me--or do I just melt into the
surrounding group in which I find myself, and thereby
hide my light under a bushel?

No matter how small our light is, "All the darkness in
the world cannot put out the light of one small
candle."

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, help me to be as Jesus to
someone today. Let them see your light shining through
me. And in the words of the hymn writer, 'May your
beauty rest upon me, As I seek the lost to win, And
may they forget the channel, Seeing only Him [you].'
Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer.
Gratefully in Jesus name, amen."

1. Luke 11:33 (TLB) (NLT).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
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Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
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Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
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Today's Daily Encounter
You Can't Take Me, I'm Dead.

"Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man,
though for a good man someone might possibly dare to
die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this:
While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."1

I have read how Dwight L. Moody told about a young man
who was called to serve in Napoleon Bonaparte's army
but didn't want to go. A friend volunteered to go in
his place and was accepted as his substitution.
Unfortunately, the friend was later killed in battle.

However, because of a clerical error the same young
man was called up to serve again. "You can't take me.
I'm dead. I died on the battlefield," he told the
astonished officers.

After checking the records, the officers found
documentation of his name and alongside it the name of
the friend who died in his place. The case was
presented to Napoleon who, after examining the
evidence, said, "Through a surrogate, this man has not
only fought, but has died in his country's service. No
man can die more than once; therefore the law has no
claim on him."

And that's exactly what Jesus Christ, the Son of God,
did for you and me. He died in our place to pay the
just penalty for all our sins so we could be freely
forgiven and given the gift of eternal life. When we
accept God's pardon, we will never have to pay the
price for our sins because Jesus did that for us. He
was our surrogate.

The critical question is have you accepted God's
pardon? If not, for help be sure to read the article,
"How to Be Sure You're a Christian." Click on the Know
God link below or go to:
http://tinyurl.com/real-christian.

Suggested prayer: "Dear Jesus God, thank you again for
being my surrogate and dying on the cross in my place
so that I will never have to pay the ultimate penalty
for my sin--eternal death and separation from you.
Because you died for me please help me to always live
for you. Thank you for hearing and answering my
prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Romans 5:7-8 (NIV).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
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Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
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Today's Daily Encounter
The Power of Little Things

"Calling the Twelve to him, he [Jesus] sent them out
two by two."1

Bridge builder, Charles Eliet, had a contract to build
a suspension bridge across the Niagara River. One of
the first problems he faced was how to stretch his
first cable across the wide expanse of raging waters.
If a boat tried to cross the river it would be swept
over the falls. Eliet thought of a simple idea. If a
kite could be flown to the opposite bank using a light
cord, a stronger cord could be attached and pulled
across, and then a stronger cord pulled across and so
on until a cable could be attached and drawn across.

Eliet called for a kite flying contest and a young man
named Homan Walsh succeeded on his second attempt.
Charles Eliet's simple plan worked and the bridge was
built.

In life some of us often feel we don't have a very
important role to play. What we do seems so
insignificant. It isn't so. Every Christian has an
important part to play. It all adds up in the numerous
"little things" we are called to do every day.

Jesus started spreading the gospel to the whole world
by simply sending his disciples out two by two! So,
never underestimate the importance of what God has
called you to do. The important thing is to keep at
it--day by day!

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, thank you that you use
ordinary people like me to do your work on earth. Help
me to realize that my part--no matter how small--is a
vital part of the whole picture. Help me always to be
faithful and responsible, and never let down on
doing my part. Thank you for hearing and answering my
prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Mark 6:7 (NIV).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
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Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
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Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
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Today's Daily Encounter
Mysterious Ways of God

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not
on your own understanding; In all your ways
acknowledge Him, And He shall direct [make straight]
your paths."1

Patricia Saint John wrote about Mary, an English nurse
who at the time was working in a mission clinic in an
Arab country. "One morning she and her assistant,
Fatima, needed to travel eight miles to another
village. They caught a bus that was going in their
direction. But after a few miles, the bus driver
passed their stop and kept on driving. The bus driver
ignored the women's pleas to return to the road that
led to their village. Mary became upset, but Fatima
remained calm, recalling their morning prayers asking
for God's guidance.

"Finally, the bus stopped at the foot of a hill, many
miles from Mary's and Fatima's homes. At this stop,
there was an old woman with a baby in her arms. She
walked up to Mary and presented the baby to her. The
poor child had a severe eye infection and needed
immediate medical attention to save her eyes.

"Mary asked the old woman how she knew to find help
here so far from the main village. The old woman
replied that a man had come to her in a dream and told
her that the English nurse would be waiting at the end
of this road the next day. Mary and Fatima had made no
plans to come anywhere near this village. They couldn't
have anticipated that a rude bus driver would leave
them many miles from their designated stop. Yet God
had told this desperate woman where to find them. Mary
treated the baby's eyes; within days the infection was
gone. Later, Mary and Fatima had the opportunity to
give their Christian testimony to many people in that
village because of their meeting with the old woman
and the baby."2

Years ago I had a similar experience and, though not
quite as dramatic, it helped change a major course in
my life.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, thank you that when I
trust in you with all my heart and continually commit
my life and way to you, you do direct my path. Thank
you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully,
in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV).
2. Patricia Saint John in Finding God Between a Rock
and a Hard Place, compiled by Lil Copan and Elisa
Fryling (Wheaton, IL.: Harold Shaw Publishers, 1999),
pp. 106-110. Cited on www.sermons.com.


<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
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Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
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Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
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Today's Daily Encounter
Authentic Spirituality

"Since you have been raised to new life with Christ,
set your sights on the realities of heaven, where
Christ sits in the place of honor at God's right hand.
Think about the things of heaven, not the things of
earth. For you died to this life, and your real life
is hidden with Christ in God."1

A Daily Encounter reader writes, "We are doing a Bible
study on spiritual gifts. Do you have any ideas on how
Christians can become more spiritual in their everyday
living, and what constitutes a spiritual person?

First, to be genuinely spiritual we need to have a
strong desire for this and be fully committed to it,
because authentic spirituality doesn't come naturally
to most of us. The half-hearted never make it.

Second, ask God to give you the desire to be all that
he has planned for you to be and the desire to do what
he wants you to do.

Third, it is very helpful to pray every day,
committing our life and way to God, including a prayer
such as that of Jabez:

"Oh that you would bless me wonderfully,
Please be with me in everything I do
Greatly expand my [Christian] borders, and
Keep me from all evil, harm and disaster."2

Fourth, also pray every day telling God that you are
available and ask him to use you to be "as Jesus" in
some way to every life you touch.

Fifth, know what God's Word, the Bible, teaches so you
know what to believe and how to live. Strive with God's
help to always live in harmony with God's will as
taught in his Word. To do this you need to read and
study God's word regularly, if not daily.

Sixth, maintain strong connections with fellow
Christians to help support and encourage each other in
your Christian walk.

Seventh, be faithful in worship in your church and in
service to others, using the spiritual gift/s that God
has given to you. Remember, too, that while using
spiritual gifts is very important, having these gifts
is not the measure of spirituality. The real test is
the test of love. As the Apostle Paul wrote: "If I
speak in the tongues [languages] of men or of angels,
but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a
clanging cymbal…. And now these three remain: faith,
hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."3

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me to be an
authentic Christian and be genuinely spiritual in a
quiet, down to earth, and humble way. Help me to know
what my spiritual gifts are, and find a way to use
them where you can best use me--and always serve and
act in a genuine spirit of love. Thank you for hearing
and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name,
amen."

1. Colossians 3:1-3 (NLT).
2. See 1 Chronicles 4:10.
3. Corinthians 13:1, 13 (NIV).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
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please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
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Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
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Today's Daily Encounter
The Power of One

"Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of the two who
heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus.
The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother
Simon and tell him, "We have found the Messiah" (that
is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus."1

Did you ever stop to think how very important you are
in God's economy and his plans? Pretty much throughout
the entire Bible when God had a work to be done, he
chose and called an individual to lead. True he chose
the nation of Israel to be his special people, but he
chose individuals to lead this nation to do his work.
God also has a place for you and me in his plan. It
may not be a gigantic role, but it is an important
one.

Think of the twelve disciples, for example, who were
all a vital part of God's mission. Half of them never
said anything that is recorded in the New Testament.
And if I remember correctly, three of them said only a
word or two that was recorded. And Andrew, who didn't
have much to say, brought Peter, who became the early
church leader and evangelist, to Jesus. Andrew was
also the one who brought the boy with the two loaves
and fishes to Jesus that Jesus used to feed the
multitude. It was only Peter, James, Matthew and John
that we heard much from, but every one of Jesus'
disciples had an equally important role to play in
God's program.

Whether your task is great or small, God wants to use
you to be a part of his plan in what he is doing in
your world today. All we need is to be available.
Remember, as an anonymous poet wrote:

One song can spark a moment,
One flower can wake the dream.
One tree can start a forest,
One bird can herald spring.
One smile begins a friendship,
One handclasp lifts a soul.
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One word can frame the goal.
One vote can change a nation,
One sunbeam lights a room.
One candle wipes out darkness,
One laugh will conquer gloom.
One step must start each journey,
One word must start each prayer.
One hope will raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.
One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what's true.
One life can make the difference,
You see it's up to you!

In the words of Edward Everett Hale: "I am only one.
But still I am one. I cannot do everything, But still
I can do something. And because I cannot do everything
I will not refuse to do the Something that I can do."

Don't ever forget how very important you are, not only
to your loved ones, your work, but also to God.
Remember, too, "if it's going to be, it will be up to
you and me!"

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, I'm available, please use
me to be a part of your plan and what you are doing in
the world in which I live. Use me to be 'as Jesus' in
some way to make a difference in someone's life today.
Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer.
Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. John 1:40-42 (NIV).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
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Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
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Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
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Today's Daily Encounter
Making Use of What You Have

"What is that in your hand?" God asked Moses.1

At the close of World War II, Jimmy Durante, the
famous comedian, was invited to entertain wounded
soldiers at a veteran's hospital. He said he would be
able to do only one very short routine as he had two
radio shows to do that day.

The man who invited him was amazed when Durante didn't
rush off but gave three complete routines.

"Why did you stay so long," the man asked, "you've
probably missed your radio shows?" Durante answered,
"Look at the men and you will see for yourself."

There on the front row were two men, each of whom had
lost an arm, who were applauding by clapping their two
remaining hands together."

Whether we have little or much doesn't matter in God's
economy. What we do with what we have is what counts
with him. When we bring what little we have and give
that to God for him to use in his plans--and work
together--God can do great things with and through us.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, I am available. Please
use me today to help lighten another person's load, to
encourage a friend, to love my family, to be a witness
for you, or in some way to be 'as Jesus' to every
person I touch today. Thank you for hearing and
answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name,
amen."

1. Exodus 4:2.

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
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Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
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When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
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Today's Daily Encounter
Never Forget

"Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man,
though for a good man someone might possibly dare to
die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this:
While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."1

I have read that, back in the 19th century, when many
people from Ireland were seeking passage to move to
the New World, a young boy who didn't have the fare
secretly boarded a ship as a stowaway. At sea the ship
ran into an iceberg and began to sink. When the boy
realized what was happening, he came out of hiding and
rushed to the deck only to see the captain taking the
last seat in the last lifeboat. In the tradition of
the sea the captain got out of the lifeboat and gave
his seat to the boy. The last thing the captain said
to him was, "Never forget what's been done for you."

In the years ahead the boy grew up to be a very
successful man. When asked what was the secret of his
motivation, he said, "Whenever I begin to doubt myself
or let up from what I ought to be doing, I always
remember a captain standing on a deck and saying,
'Never forget what's been done for you.'"2

May you and I never forget what Jesus Christ has done
for us in giving his life on the cross in your place
and mine to pay the penalty for all our sins, to grant
us a full and free pardon, and to give us the gift of
eternal life. May our manner of life and how we live
for God and others be evidence of our heartfelt
gratitude.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, how can I ever thank you
enough for giving your Son, Jesus, to give his life in
my place so that I could be totally forgiven and
receive your gift of eternal life in Heaven forever.
Help me never to forget this in the way that I live,
in what I do, and how I serve you and help others.
Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer.
Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Romans 5:7-8 (NIV).
2. Cited on KneEmail, Mike Benson, editor.

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
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Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
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please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
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When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
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Today's Daily Encounter
When What Bothers Me Is My Problem

"The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who
call on him in truth."1

According to an old joke which you probably have
already heard, a construction worker took a sandwich
out of his lunch bag and threw it on the ground,
complaining loudly, "Baloney again! I hate baloney."
When a coworker suggested, "If you hate baloney so
much, why don't you ask your wife to make you
something else?" he replied, "That's the problem. I
can't. I make my own lunches."

The baloney sandwich can also represent the things
that we do to ourselves-- and keep on doing no matter
how much we hate doing them. I believe it was Einstein
who first said, "Insanity is doing the same thing over
and over and expecting different results." Another
said, "If we keep doing what we've always done, we'll
keep getting what we've always got, and we'll keep
feeling what we always felt." And as another saying
goes, "Nothing changes if nothing changes." Simplistic
statements to be sure, but very true.

I've seen people repeatedly get into toxic and harmful
relationships. Others stay in abusive situations, or in
positions that are far below their interests and
abilities. Others keep repeating the same mistakes on
the job or in their relationships, and don't do
anything to change their behavior patterns. In other
words they keep making themselves "baloney sandwiches"
that they hate.

The fact is that what we don't resolve, we're destined
to repeat … repeat … repeat--endlessly, ad infinitum!

So how do we/you change? First, be courageously honest
and admit that you have a problem and that you are
causing the problem. Second, ask God to confront you
with the truth and reality of what you are
contributing to the frustrating and even painful
situations in which you find yourself. Third, ask God
to give you the courage to see and accept your
responsibility in overcoming your problem, and where
necessary, seek and find the help you need to
overcome--even if that means seeking help from a
capable Christian counselor.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me to be
courageously honest with myself and with you. Help me
to face and confront every unresolved issue in my life
and lead me to the help I need to overcome. Thank you
that you always hear the prayers of honest people and
that you always answer them in the way that is best
for us. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Psalm 145:18 (NIV).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
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Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

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Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
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When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
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Today's Daily Encounter
More About Flak

"Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes
minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I
was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked … I have
been in danger from bandits, in danger from my own
countrymen, in danger from Gentiles … and in danger
from false brothers."1 -- The Apostle Paul

Flack (strong negative criticism) is a normal part of
front line action. Whenever a person invests his or
her life in a worthwhile cause and does a good job,
people who oppose him or her, or feel threatened or
jealous, will inevitably criticize what he or she is
doing. The Apostle Paul's life was a prime example.
The point is flack is a part of the price of
leadership. If we don't want any flack, all we need to
do is keep the status quo, don't rock the boat, be
politically correct, or stay at home. But safety is
not the way of investing your life in a worthwhile
cause. As one anonymous poet wrote:

I would rather stumble a thousand times
Attempting to reach a goal,
Than to sit in a crowd
In my weather-proof shroud,
A shriveled and self-satisfied soul.
I would rather be doing and daring
All of my error-filled days,
Than watching and waiting, and dying
Smug in my perfect ways.
I would rather wonder and blunder,
Stumbling blindly ahead,
Than for safety's sake
Least I make a mistake
Be sure, be safe, be dead.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please give me a passion
to live for you and invest my life in a worthwhile
cause. Give me the courage to not shrink back because
of criticism from those who oppose truth and your
work. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer.
Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. 2 Corinthians 11:24-26 (NIV).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

* * * * * * *

Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
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and made possible through the donations of
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Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
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Today's Daily Encounter
On Hurricanes and Cyclones

"For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a
chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your
endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in
character and ready for anything."1

I happened to grow up in a part of Australia that was
subject to cyclones (the Southern Hemisphere
equivalent of hurricanes). I once saw the roof of a
neighboring house ripped off by the ferocious winds
and pieces thrown high up into the air. But I never
experienced the velocity of hurricanes that have
plagued Florida and the Caribbean.

King Duncan reported how he had always thought of
hurricanes as something mankind could do without.
"But," said Duncan, "recently I learned that they are
necessary to maintain a balance in nature. These
tropical storms, with winds up to 150 miles an hour
and accompanied by torrential rains, glaring
lightning, and rumbling thunder, can be devastating.
Yet scientists tell us they are tremendously valuable.
They dissipate a large percentage of the oppressive
heat which builds up at the equator, and they are
indirectly responsible for much of the rainfall in
North and South America. Meteorologists therefore no
longer use cloud-seeding techniques to prevent them
from being formed. They are convinced that hurricanes
actually do more good than harm."2

Forest fires are also necessary for the health of
forests. And often we need hard times in our lives,
even though they bring temporary distress, as God
allows them to help us grow and become stronger
Christians--"strong in character and ready for
anything."

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, when trials and
tribulations seem more than I can bear, please help me
to learn the lesson you are seeking to teach me, and
through these afflicting circumstances help me to grow
and become strong in character and ready for anything.
Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer.
Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. James 1:3-4 (NLT).
2. King Duncan of www.sermons.com.

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

* * * * * * *

Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
http://www.actscom.com


Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
The Need for Precaution
"Conies [rabbits or rock badgers] are creatures of
little power, yet they make their homes in the
crags."1
While tiny ants teach us many lessons, including the
importance of being prepared as much as possible for
whatever might come our way, the conies or rock
badgers show us the need for precaution and being
responsible for taking care of ourselves.
These small animals hide behind the rocky crags
jutting up in the mountains where eagles can't get to
them. They also hide close to the rocks where they
remain unseen by prowling lions. Away from the safety
of the rocks they would be dead meat.
Some of us are too overdependent, depending on
somebody else or the government to take care of us.
God's goal for each of us is that we mature and grow
up, not be dependent or overdependent, but
interdependent. If we don't take care of ourselves and
protect ourselves from the many temptations and
potential pitfalls that come our way, nobody else is
going to do it for us.
As Peter put it, "Be self-controlled and alert. Your
enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion
looking for someone to devour."2
We don't want to become cynics, but we do need to be
careful, take necessary precautions, and accept full
responsibility for every area of our life. And, above
all, we need to trust our life to God daily as did
David who said, "The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and
my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge
… He is my stronghold."3
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me to always
put my trust and take refuge in you. Deliver me from
evil, temptation, harm and disaster. And guide me in
the way that I should go. Thank you for hearing and
answering my prayer. Gratefully in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Proverbs 30:26 (NIV).
2. I Peter 5:8 (NIV).
3. Psalm 18:2 (NIV).
<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

* * * * * * *

Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
http://www.actscom.com


Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
Opportunity
"Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise
but as wise, making the most of every opportunity,
because the days are evil. Therefore do not be
foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is."1
Some time ago in a Daily Encounter I talked about
having Jesus as our co-pilot. Several readers
disagreed in that they said Jesus was their pilot and
they were the co-pilot. That sounds noble but it's not
being real or responsible. The fact is that we are
totally responsible for "where we fly" (how we act,
how we live, and what we do with our life). True, God
will do for us what we cannot do for ourselves (that's
why he sent Jesus to die to save us from our sin), but
he will not do for us what we can and need to do for
ourselves. If he did, he would be keeping us
overdependent on him instead of being interdependent
with him. We need to learn that God is not a
codependent--and never will be.
God has promised to give us wisdom, guidance, and
direction if we ask for it, but we are still in charge
of our life. We can go God's way or we can go our own
way. The choice is ours. We are the ones admonished to
make the most of every opportunity, and we are the ones
responsible for every part of our life.
The following poem, "A Bag of Tools," by Roy L. Sharpe
states it well:
Isn't it strange
That princes and kings,
And clowns that caper
In sawdust rings,
And common people
Like you and me
Are builders for eternity?
Each is given a bag of tools,
A shapeless mass,
A book of rules;
And each must make -
Ere life has flown -
A stumbling block
Or a stepping stone.
Realize that what you and I do with our life is our
choice, and let us be wise enough to take advantage of
every opportunity that comes our way to do what is
right and what is honoring to God.
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, thank you that no matter
where I live I have the opportunity to live for, and
serve you. Please give me the wisdom and direction I
need to always know what is the right thing to do, and
the courage to do it, and to always act responsibly in
every area of my life. Thank you for hearing and
answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name,
amen."
1. Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV).
<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

* * * * * * *

Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
http://www.actscom.com
Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
My Friend the Atheist
"It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this
the judgment."1
A Daily Encounter reader writes, "I have an atheist
friend with whom I am trying to share the gospel. His
response to me is that he can't find one shred of
evidence that Jesus ever existed. He believes that the
Bible is nothing but a bunch of stories. He claims that
extraordinary stories require extraordinary proof. Any
hint on what I can present to him? My faith is firm,
but I cannot seem to budge him."
Hello Kevin (name changed), there's an old saying that
says, "A man convinced against his will is of the same
opinion still." There is much truth in this.
The fact is that most people basically believe what
they want to believe--what is the most convenient for
them--regardless of the facts. Oftentimes refusing to
believe in God isn't so much an intellectual problem
as it is a moral problem. That is, if a person
believes in God, he knows that he is responsible and
accountable for how he lives and behaves. To not
believe in God gives him the false security that he is
accountable to no one but himself. In a sense he
becomes a god unto himself--and a law unto himself.
Ultimately, this is a dangerous path to follow.
So what can you do to convince an avowed atheist of
the reality of God? Not likely through an intellectual
argument because he is bound to be too defensive and
closed-minded. Regarding his claim that Jesus never
existed, you could ask him if he believed that Julius
Caesar existed. However, because his mind is already
made up--that is closed to any evidence--he won't be
convinced even though both persons are as valid as
each other. The existence of both persons is a fact of
history.
One of the most positive things you can do is to pray
that God will help you to be "as Jesus" to your
atheistic friend, and grant that he will see Jesus in
you, and, in time, want the same for himself. This may
or may never happen. However, if he is ever going to
"see" Jesus, chances are it will need to be through
you. Also, let him know in a low key way that you are
always available should he ever need you. Years ago,
when I was in the Australian national service, I gave
my weekend leave pass to a fellow serviceman who
desperately wanted to be home for that weekend. He was
so impressed that he, knowing that I was a Christian,
wanted to become a Christian too.
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please help me to so live
that others will 'see Jesus' in me, and grant that
they, seeing Jesus in me, will want you in their life
too. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer.
Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."
1. Hebrews 9:27 (KJV).
<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

* * * * * * *



Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
The Way
"Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the
life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.'"1
Another subscriber asks, "I need help and don't know
whom to turn to. I am a Moslem and just met a
wonderful man who is a Christian. We want to explore
the possibility of a long-term relationship. However,
can a Christian and Moslem have a life together? I
believe in God but I have a difficult time figuring
out why every religion says, 'We are the one. We are
the true way to God and to eternal life.' So how does
one determine which one is The Way?"
Hello Friend, "Thank you for sharing your heart with
me. I can appreciate the dilemma you are facing. You
have asked two questions the first one being, "Can a
Christian and a Moslem have a life together?" It is
not impossible to have a relationship with someone of
a totally different religion, but it is certainly not
a good foundation upon which to build a lasting
marriage relationship and especially for bringing up
children. There is bound to be discord later on and it
is very likely to lead to major conflict. In fact,
God's Word, the Bible, warns us not to be unequally
yoked with someone of a totally different faith."2 So
as long as you have different religious beliefs, it
would be very unwise to pursue this relationship.
However, your second question could be the answer for
the dilemma you are facing. That question is, "How can
one know The Way to God and to eternal life?"
Furthermore, I strongly urge you not to make any
lasting commitment to any man until you first resolve
this critical life issue. When you settle this issue,
you will know what is the right decision for you to
make.
First, I suggest you pray to God and ask him to reveal
to you the Truth about the way to God and eternal life.
As Jesus said, "…you will know the truth, and the truth
will set you free."3
Because you asked, please allow me to share the way to
God from a Christian viewpoint. It is true that Jesus
claimed to be the Son of God and the only way to God
and to eternal life. But how can we know whether Jesus
was just a good prophet or was he the Son of God? Many
people over the centuries have claimed to have the
truth about God and the way to him, but Jesus Christ
is also the only leader who ever claimed that he would
rise from death.4 And according to historical evidence,
he did. Following his crucifixion and resurrection, he
was seen by the women who visited his tomb and found
it empty, by the disciples, and by more than 500 other
witnesses.5
For more evidence regarding the validity of Jesus
Christ be sure to read the article, "Jesus Christ: Is
He God or Man?" online at: http://tinyurl.com/lu577.
Also, for evidence regarding the validity of the Bible
read the article, "Is the Bible God's Word?" at:
http://tinyurl.com/yulazq. And if you would like to
compare the beliefs of Christianity with those of
Islam, the following website might be very helpful for
you. It's at: http://tinyurl.com/christianity-islam.
Again, as you read each of these articles and consider
which way is "The Way" [God's Way] always pray and ask
God to reveal to you His Truth and help you to see
"the Way." To see what the Bible teaches on how to
become a Christian, please read the article, "How to
Be Sure You're a Real Christian" at:
http://www.actsweb.org/christian.
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, in today's world there
are many voices claiming that their way is the way to
God and eternal life. I earnestly pray that you will
always lead me into the pathway of Truth so that I
will know that I know what the true and only way to
you and to eternal life is, and that all of my sins
are forgiven. Thank you for hearing and answering my
prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."
1. John 14:6 (NKJV).
2. 2 Corinthians 6:14.
3. John 8:32 (NKJV).
4. Matthew 16:21.
5. Luke 24:13-43.
<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

* * * * * * *

Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
Tormented by Demonic Power

"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil,
and he will flee from you."1

Another subscriber writes: "When I was in my twenties
I made a deal with a demon [and did many things I
should have been ashamed of]. Ever since that time I
have been haunted by the presence of a face that
appears to be that of an old woman who watches me
every night. This has happened in every house I have
ever lived in since my 'deal with the devil.' I know
this sounds crazy, but it is the truth. Please tell me
what I can do to be freed from this nightmare."

To make a deal with the devil (or a demon) is without
question an extremely dangerous path to follow.
According to the Word of God, Satan (the devil) and
demons are certainly real and not to be taken lightly
or scoffed about. Realize too, that the devil is the
father of lies and his demons are an integral part of
this deception.

To be freed from this demonic grip the first thing you
need to do is confess your sin (of making a deal with
the devil) to God, ask for his forgiveness, and pray
for deliverance. Most important of all, if you have
never received Jesus Christ, the Son of God, as the
Lord and Savior of your life, I would urge you to do
this immediately. For help read the article, "How to
Be Sure You're a Real Christian," online at:
http://tinyurl.com/real-christian.

There are some pastors who are gifted in praying for
demonic deliverance so it may be advisable to seek the
guidance of a sound Bible believing pastor with this
gift and training--a pastor who is approved of by his
denomination. There is never a shortage of "religious
crackpots" so be sure to ask God for guidance in
finding a wise pastor who can help you.

Immediately, however, there is much you can do
yourself. The Word of God assures us that if we resist
the devil, he will flee from us.1 To resist the devil
(and/or his demons), realize that Satan and his demons
hate the name of Jesus Christ, so every time you are
haunted by this evil face or being, say to this being
directly, and repeat it over and over till this evil
being leaves you, "Jesus Christ is Lord. Jesus Christ
is the Son of the Living God. Jesus Christ is God.
Jesus Christ is Lord of my life. I rebuke you, evil
being, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Go to
where God sends you." And then pray repeatedly, "Jesus
Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on me for I
am a sinner. Be Lord of my life. Please deliver me
from this evil being."

Realize that this being who has been haunting you for
many years will not give up without strong resistance.
So go though the above exercise as often as necessary
until you are totally delivered. And always remember
what God's Words says, "Submit yourselves, then, to
God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."1
And always remember, no matter how you feel, God is
always with you and is only ever a prayer away. He
will never abandon you. His Word declares: "I will
never leave you nor forsake you."2

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, I believe in and accept
your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, as Savior and Lord of
my life. Please fill me with your Holy Spirit and
thereby empower me to resist the devil so that he will
flee from me whenever he comes to tempt or to plague
me. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer.
Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. James 4:7 (NIV).
2. See Hebrews 13: 4-6 (NKJV).

<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

* * * * * * *


Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.

Today's Daily Encounter
Overcoming Lust
"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true,
whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is
pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if
anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about
such things."1
A Daily Encounter subscriber shares his struggle
saying, "I have a challenge in overcoming the problem
of lust. I have tried several times to overcome this
problem, and have had momentary success only to fall
after a short time. However, I am determined to
conquer this weakness but need help to overcome.
Dear Joel (name changed), thank you for your honesty
in sharing your problem with lust, which, by the way
is a problem that many of us struggle with or have
struggled with at some time in our life.
First, understand that sexual feelings are normal and
are a God-given gift to humanity. The important issue,
however, is that we remain in control of this drive and
don't allow it to control us. We also need to control
it in our mind because, as Jesus said, "But I tell you
that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already
committed adultery with her in his heart."2 Doing
this, of course, is not merely a weakness, it is sin.
The fact is, what we consistently think about
eventually comes about.
Second, besides struggling with our sinful nature,
lust can be a symptom of, and further aggravated by, a
deeper fault or problem. For example, lust can be
caused by repressed love; and when it is, it is a
false and empty substitute for love. If this is the
case, wise counseling may be needed to resolve this
problem.
Third, when we don't get our needs met in healthy
ways, it can be very tempting to get them met in
unhealthy ways such as through illicit sex. Thus,
especially when single, it is very important to have
several healthy non-sexual friendships with both sexes
in mixed company to get legitimate social needs met in
healthy ways.
Fourth, until married it is advisable to find healthy
ways to sublimate your sexual drive by being involved
in creative projects that provide a means for you to
use your gifts and talents and, in so doing, help burn
up some of your sexual drive/energy. Intense physical
exercise can also help burn up some of this energy.
Fifth, the goal is to become an emotionally and
spiritually mature person so that you will, when the
time is right, be attracted to a mature marriage
partner so your sexual needs can be met in healthy
ways in a good marriage. As the Apostle Paul said, "It
is better to marry than to burn with passion."3
Sixth, if you feel totally defeated by your sexual
lust and/or actions, it is wise to seek capable
Christian counseling to help you work through and
resolve the issues behind your out-of-control lust. If
you live in North America you could call the Narramore
Christian Foundation at 1-800-477-5893 and press "1"
for Dianne and she may be able to give you the name of
a good Christian counselor in your area.
Finally, pray. At the beginning of every day I suggest
that you commit and trust your life and way to God,
asking him to lead you in the way you should go.
Furthermore, every time you are tempted to lust after
a woman (or a man if you are a woman) keep praying,
"Lord Jesus, have mercy on me a sinner. Lord Jesus,
help," until the temptation subsides. This is a very
effective way to guard your thinking and help keep
your mind pure.
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, I acknowledge the fact
that I have a sinful nature and without your help, am
prone to go astray. I surrender my heart and life to
you; please help me to become whole in every area of
my life so that my lifestyle, my actions, and my
relationships will all be wholesome. Thank you for
hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus'
name, amen."
1. Philippians 4:8 (NIV).
2. Matthew 5:28 (NIV).
3. 1 Corinthians 7:9 (NIV).
<)))><

NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness
for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon
Click on: http://www.actsweb.org/invitation.php. Or
if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ,
please click on http://www.actsweb.org/decision.php to note this.

* * * * * * *

Daily Encounter is published at no charge by
ACTS International, a non-profit organization,
and made possible through the donations of
interested friends. Donations can be sent at:
http://www.actscom.com
Copyright (c) 2011 by ACTS International.

When copying or forwarding include the following:
"Daily Encounter by Richard (Dick) Innes (c) 2011
ACTS International.