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Sunday, December 29, 2013

16 Personality Fun 2 Learning About Yourself



It is important 2 verify your temperament. Read over the descriptions and C if they acurately describe your temperament. Read over the other temperaments as well as it is important 2 understand other temperaments as well as your own. Read either the Teen Colour Descriptions, or the Expanded Colour Descriptions or preferably both.


You might like 2 take another temperament quiz 2 compare your results on it w/your results u received on the worksheet. This time it is a quiz that consists of 20 statements for each of the 4 temperaments. Read the introduction and then rate each statement as it applies 2 u. Add up your totals 4 each temperament and C which one is the strongest 4 u. Temperament Quiz.


David Keirsey was the man who REdiscovered and developed temperament theory which he describes is his book Please Understand Me II. He used different terms 4 the temperaments rather than colours: Artisan (Action Orange), Guardian (Dependable Gold), Idealist (Empathic Blue) and Rational (Analysing Green). Using the following links C how he relates the temperament 2 characters in: Harry Potter, The Wizard of Oz, Sex and the City, Disney Land, and Star Trek. To return 2 this page just close down the link by clicking on the X in the upper right hand corner.


Blended Types: If your top two scores were tied or very close, it would help 2 read how the two colours combine. Even if u have a clear top temperament score, it is useful 2 understand how the second place colour is influencing your outlook on life. Click on the combination below that relates 2 your top two scores. To return 2 this page just close down the link by clicking on the X in the upper right hand corner.
 
Blue and Orange
Sunburst
Blue and Green
Mystic
Green and Gold
Diamond
Orange and Green
Firecracker
Orange and Gold
Torchbearer
Blue and Gold
Homebuilder
Areas of Life: This is a a table that compares various aspects of life as expressed by the four colours.
Table of Contents    Previous Page

(When you've finished with this page, close it down by clicking on the X in the upper right hand corner. This returns you to where you were on the previous page.)

Appreciating Differences Thru Colours Temperament Descriptions
Expanded version By Jack Falt


Action Orange Dependable Gold Empathic Blue Analysing Green
About a couple of 1000 years ago Hippocrates saw that people behaved in roughly 4 basic patterns that are known as temperaments. In more modern times David Keirsey began investigating temperaments again. He called the 4 temperaments: Artisan (SP) [Action Orange], Guardian (SJ) [Dependable Gold], Idealist (NF) [Empathic Blue] and Rational (NT) [Analysing Green],  (The letters represent the preferences based on the work of Jung and Myers: S-Sensing, N—iNtuiting, T-Thinking, F-Feeling, J-Judging and P-Perceiving.)

When reading descriptions of the temperaments, it is important 2 realize that these are very general descriptions. Not everyone will fit the descriptions all the time. In fact we have elements of all four temperaments within us that we can and do use. However, one temperament tends 2 be dominant just as we tend 2 have one hand that is dominant. It doesn’t mean that is the only hand we use. It just means that all things being equal our dominant hand is likely the one we will use first. So it is w/temperaments. Our dominant temperament is the one we mainly use, but there are times when we use the other three as well. In a given day we are likely 2b able 2 identify times when we have used all 4 temperaments. In fact part of our uniqueness comes from how the four temperaments combine in our personalities.
 

Our temperament determines our behaviour, and our behaviour is the instrument 4 getting us what we have 2 have. It is a hunger that must be fed daily. Inquiring Greens hunger  knowledge, 4 w/knowledge comes power over their world. Organized Golds hunger 4 status, knowing where they belong in the grand scheme of life. Resourceful Oranges hunger 4 the freedom 2 obey their inner impulses. Authentic Blues hunger 4 meaning and understanding of what life is all about.

When determining your temperament u are given descriptions of the 4 temperaments and u choose the one u feel is most like u. Another way 2 determine your temperament is 2 go thru these temperament descriptions using a highlighter and mark all the sentences that describe your behaviour generally. Appreciating Differences Thru Colours is a basic workshop u can take that will help u find your dominant colour. You will also find that at certain times in your life u seem 2b in a specific temperament phase. Sometimes your curiosity gets the better of u and u go into an Inquiring Green phase. You can spend enormous amounts of time researching a topic and finding out all u can about it. At other times u may want 2 settle down and take care of business and be in your Organized Gold phase. You may find u just want 2 take off and let go of your responsibilities and be a Resourceful Orange 4 a while. There will be times when the potential of people seems so important. You want 2 help them be all that they can be and this triggers u into your Authentic Blue phase.

Another aspect of personality is Introversion- Extraversion. These are Carl Jung's concepts. However, instead of the popular meaning of these words, Jung meant the words 2 identify where people get their energy from. Introverts get their energy from within themselves. After a day in the outside world, they come home drained and need 2 recharge w/a quiet time by themselves. They tend 2b more focused on what they are doing or thinking. They look at a subject in more depth. They can be more quiet but not necessarily so. If u get them talking about their pet subject, u may have difficulty shutting them up. They are more likely 2 have only a few people that they call their close friends. Extraverts get their energy from the outer world. Having 2 sit quietly by themselves is what drains their energy. Then they need 2 get back out into the world and mix w/people. They have wider areas of interests. They can probably name a hundred people who are their nearest and deepest friends. So when reading the descriptions of the temperaments, remember that being introverted or extraverted will modify the way people express their temperaments.

Temperament is separate from intellectual ability. Each temperament will have the full range of intelligences from the developmentally handicapped 2 the genius. Overall, no one temperament is more intelligent than any other.

We are much too complex 2 fit neatly into 4 pigeon holes. But having some general concepts help us understand ourselves and others better. It is useful 2 know what your dominant temperament is. You can better understand your strengths and biases. For example, knowing that u like everything 2b very orderly, can help u be a little more tolerant of those who are messy. 

You may realize that their temperament is not too concerned about always having things arranged neatly all the time. Now u have a choice. Instead of seeing them as having a major character flaw that needs some serious modification, u can either be more charitable towards them and accept them as they are, or u can remind them that u would prefer if they picked up after themselves. Sometimes they may be quite agreeable 2 do just that if it makes u happy. The important thing is 2 appreciate the differences in each other.

Action Orange
Of the 4 temperaments, the Orange temperament is probably the one that stands out the most. These include actors, sports players, singers, crafts people, as well as the trades people, builders, repair workers, and sales people. Their world is tools. The tool they use might even be their body in the case of a boxer or a singer. They have an instinctive knowledge of how 2 use a tool 2 its best advantage. They use tools in very practical ways. If a tool will get the job done, they’ll use it even if that wasn’t its original purpose.

Another characteristic of this temperament is how Oranges use words. Their words are very concrete and factual. They tend 2 talk about cars, clothing, how fast something will go, or how 2 colours match. If you've been 2 a party where one group talks about skidoos and hockey, and another group talks about babies, cooking and fashion, u are likely in Orange conversations. It's not that Oranges aren’t interested in world peace. It is just that it is not the first topic that comes 2 mind when they gather together.

The symbol 4 Orange is the exclamation point reflecting their high energy, spontaneity and excitement. The colour orange has a vitality and life 2 it, and it is used 2 denote dangerous situations reflecting that Oranges like living in the moment. Their special skill is tactics. They are able 2 look at a situation, know what to do right now and take action.

The fox is the animal metaphor representing the Orange temperament. A fox does not plan its day. It just goes out each morning knowing that it has 2 survive. It is constantly scanning the countryside 2 C if any opportunities present themselves. Oranges function in a similar way. They don't like 2 plan. They want 2 C what turns up, and they have the confidence 2 know they can deal with any situation.

When we are discussing temperament, we are looking at overall behaviours and what motivates them. A core need 4 Oranges is the ability 2 act on impulse. That doesn’t mean being immature and irresponsible, but rather there is that impulse of energy 2 do something right now. They just know what has 2b done and the now is the time 2 do it! This can be a playful and fun-loving kind of behaviour, but it also means being able 2 solve very practical problems, such as how 2 fix a car, put a dress together, or solve a complex engineering problem.

It is thought that over 90% of school dropouts are Oranges, and only 2% of the teachers are Orange. Oranges have the same range of intelligence as any other temperament. They often find formal learning rather tedious and may not like 2b bothered reading the books 2 master an academic subject. When they do go on 2 higher education, they tend 2 go into areas such as engineering or the fine arts. When they want 2, they can have the discipline 2 do the amount of studying needed 2 achieve their goal.

When Oranges are in a restrictive environment, they get bored, restless and stressed. This is very evident in school. When Orange children have 2 sit for long periods of time listening 2 the teacher or having 2 do repetitive work, they turn 2 mischief 2 liven things up. Many get mis-diagnosed as being hyperactive. Lots of variety and hands-on activities can often calm these students down and are much more effective ways 4 them 2 learn. At home parents are advised 2 get them into lots of activities such as sports or just getting them out and playing in a rough and tumble manner.

Adult Oranges need lots of variety as well. They tend 22 avoid committee work but will take on a short term project such as fund raising. When the job is over they move on 2 something else. When they do get on a committee that is running very smoothly, they have even been known 2 create a few problems just 2 liven things up.

Another core need of Oranges is 2 have impact on people. They want recognition 4 how well they perform which can be very graceful and impressive. This could be how well they hit a ball, repair a toilet, act in a play, or write a song. They do things bcoz it is fun 2 do. Oranges will practise hitting baseball flies 4 hours. They do not think of it as drill. It's just fun 2 do. Other temperament might also want 2 be great ball players, but will do the practice bcoz they know it has 2b done.

When Oranges are too confined and controlled, they follows the motto: “Don't get mad. Get even.” This is particularly noticeable in the teen years. Most teens rebel 2 a certain extent, but Orange teenagers can become quite vindictive when thwarted from their freedom. They still need firm guidelines, but confrontation is not always the best way 2 handle them.

As lovers and spouses Oranges prefer a freewheeling lifestyle. There is often a mutual attraction between the Orange and the Gold temperaments. Oranges want the traditional, organizational part that Golds bring 2 the relationship. However, as frequently happens w/all of the temperaments, they try 2 change their spouses 2b like them. If they do succeed, they may find that their spouses no longer interest them. The answer is 4 them 2 love what they have and appreciate their differences. Oranges have so many gifts everyone can enjoy.

Dependable Gold
Gold individuals have the temperament w/the highest percentage in the total population— nearly half. They are the ones who act as the steadying element in our society. Today, our society is in an ever-accelerating state of change. Without the Gold's stabilizing effect, can u imagine the chaos our lives would be in?
 

Golds tend 2 use more concrete words rather than abstract ones. At social gatherings they tend 2 talk about their everyday lives, the happenings at work and about their families rather than new and different ideas.

Golds tend 2 find satisfaction in doing work that involve details. They do well in accounting. They are good at assembly work where quality control is important. Much of the detail work of an architect would be Gold in nature. They fill jobs from the most basic 2 the highest level of intellectual capacity. They just feel more comfortable w/what they can see and touch.

The Gold symbol is a check mark, indicating another item checked off their "to do" list. The colour Gold denotes security. Gold is also a precious metal indicating worth and value. The special skill Golds have is logistics: getting the right things 2 the right people at the right time, and not getting them 2 the wrong people.
The animal metaphor representing Golds is the beaver that industriously keeps working the whole day long. “Be prepared” is their motto. When thinking of the future, they want 2b prepared 4 any contingency.

The main thing that separates the different temperaments is their behaviour which is in turn influenced by their core needs. One core need of Golds is 2 belong. They need 2 know where they stand in the hierarchy of a group. Even being at the bottom of the ladder is better than being an outsider. They form the backbone of institutions. They fill the places of worship, the service clubs and businesses. Having a title is important and they respect the office even though they may not particularly admire the person holding the position. That is why family is so important 2 them. They know they belong 2 that clan or tribe.

As learners Golds are more interested in the facts rather than ideas. They want the details. They prefer that the teacher just tell them what they need 2 know. Having 2 do research and find out on their own can leave Golds feeling that they might miss out on something that the teacher expects them 2 know. They like learning in groups but expect the group 2 conform so that the task is completed. The majority of elementary teachers are Golds and they get along well w/their Gold charges that follow the rules.

During their teen years Golds take on increasing responsibility. They will want 2 get jobs 2 save 4 their future such as their further education. They will have their rebellious times but these don’t tend 2 last as long as they might 4 other temperaments. They need 2 feel grown up and they want 2 take their place in society.
 

As adults Golds like the predictability of life patterns. They grow up, get a job, find a mate, raise a family, and if all goes well, they'll live long and prosperous lives w/a loving family at their bedside when they pass on. Another aphorism they live by is: “Hope 4 the best but expect the worst.”

Golds expect 2b held accountable and 2 take responsibility. They cheerfully shoulder the load that they know needs 2b done. They just know someone is going 2 come along and ask them if they have finished some specific project and they want 2b able 2 say that it is done. They are not going 2b found wanting. They take on serious responsibilities even though they may grumble about being put upon by others; but when it is suggested that they should let others do it, they will say it's all right, they'll do it. They want 2 C that it gets done when it should and it gets done right.

This temperament is concerned about the welfare of people and will look after the physical needs of one another. It's not that the other temperaments don't also share. It is more that they don't always C the physical needs of others. Some societies have elevated sharing as a sacred duty. Not 2 provide shelter 2 even their enemy is considered a grievous fault in some cultures.

As lovers and spouses Golds value family life and take pride in caring 4 their families both by earning money 2 maintain the home and by looking after the needs of family members. Often they are attracted 2 Orange lovers who provide a vicarious excitement in their lives. The Orange lover benefits by having a stabilizing partner. Unfortunately, Golds like 2 make their lovers over in their own image. The partner will only tolerate this 2 a certain level and then quarrel or leave. 

Golds would be better off if they could learn2 appreciate the differences of others and accept them as they are. This allows people 2 become all that they can be rather than wasting their energies trying 2 live up 2 someone else's standards.

Empathic Blue
The people having a Blue temperament tend 2b future oriented. They are interested in new ideas particularly ones that relate to people. They are eternally optimistic that the world is going to get better and that everyone will live in peace and harmony. While they are concerned about everyday things like seeing that everyone is fed, they are more concerned about seeing that everyone has the opportunity to develop their full potential. For Blues, rules are only guidelines. If there are special circumstances then rules are made to be bent a little or even broken.

Often their speech is peppered with abstract concepts such as truth, love and peace. They can rhapsodize over a good theory. They are less concerned about the details of day-2-day living. The details have to be taken care of, but seeing the big picture is much more fascinating.
Their symbol is caring hands showing their concern 4 the well-being of everyone. Think of the colour blue and the image of calm blue water may come 2 mind. Blue suggests serenity and depth of feeling.
The animal metaphor associated with Blues is the dolphin. Dolphins are very gregarious mammals. They have a complex means of communications. They are playful and fun-loving animals. There have been numerous stories of dolphins rescuing humans in distress. Some people have found it very exciting to swim with the dolphins and hitch a ride on their dorsal fins.

Blues long 2b authentic. They don't like 2 pretend they are something they are not as it is usually very stressful 4 them.. They are not very interested in social position and just want 2b accepted 4 who they are. Wearing a uniform or following a dress code is not comfortable 4 them, although they will do so 2 please others who are important to them. They don't C the need 2 dress in certain ways just 2 impress others, e.g. teachers wearing suits and ties to set them apart from their students.

As learners Blues are most interested in subjects that promote personal growth—theirs and others. They like helping others to learn. They enjoy small group discussions. In their writings they tend 2 focus on the big picture and like to use metaphors to get across their points of view.

In school Blues, above all, like to please and they want to know that the teachers really care about them. They may take subjects that are of no particular interest to them, but they perceive the subject to be important to a parent or a mentor. Some Blues have even followed careers that were of little interest to them personally just to please a parent.

During their teen years Blues are often drawn to creative activities such as drama, the arts and writing for the newspaper. They can be unconventional in their behaviour and their dress. They may have a deep need for privacy, using their time to sort out the meaning of life.

As adults Blues are warm and caring for those around them with the emphasis more on the development of others rather than their physical needs. Their intuitive sense is very strong. They have the knack of knowing what motivates another person. Blues can excel at diplomacy and use this intuition to their advantage.

Another core need is 2b empathic 2 those around them. Often Blues end up in work that involves counseling, teaching and psychology. Even if they are working as an accountant, Blues bring that element of human compassion that belies the more usual bottom line approach 2 the job.

Above all, life must have meaning for Blues. What is the meaning of life and what is their part in the grand scheme of things is a lifelong quest 4 Blues. They strive all their lives 2 “become.” Some even become workshop groupies, believing they have found the Holy Grail, that is until the next new exciting idea comes along.

As lovers and spouses Blues are very caring and considerate. They are usually more aware of their partners' needs and will do everything they can 2 satisfy those needs. They are more likely 2 suffer in silence if they cannot get their partners 2 understand what the problem is between them. Above all they want a harmonious relationship. They will put up w/a great deal b4 admitting a relationship has come 2 an end. Blues are often attracted to Greens particularly 4 their intellectual approach 2 life. Even Blues have 2 learn 2 appreciate the differences of others.

Analysing Green
Greens are constantly trying to figure out the world and why it is the way it is. Knowledge means power to them. If they know how something works they can control it. They are constantly striving to better themselves, so they are their own main competitor. They may be satisfied with what they have done today, but tomorrow they will have to do even better. They want logical answers to everything. They do not access their feelings easily. They much prefer to deal with the world in a logical rather than a values-based way.

They tend to use more abstract words that deal with theory, concepts, and ideas. They are more interested in the big picture than in the everyday details. The details can be filled in later although they are very good at taking care of all the details so as to produce the perfect outcome.
 

The symbol for Inquiring Greens is a question mark. They are always searching for answers. The colour green was chosen as green predominates in nature. It is the colour of abundance and creativity. Their special skill is strategy. Strategy is the ability to look at a long range project and see all the possible situations and choose the right solutions to bring the project to completion in the best possible manner.
The animal metaphor representing Greens is the owl. The owl sits high up in a tree so it can observe what is going on below it. It can sit quietly and then swoop down at the right moment. Because the owl is quiet for the most part, it has the reputation of being wise. Wisdom comes from knowledge and experience. Greens are continually acquiring knowledge and using it to produce better results each time.

Greens love 2 master anything that comes their way. Then they may lose interest in it and move on to another challenge. They may take on a sport until they have mastered it and reached their physical limit in that sport. They tend to play sports giving their total effort and haven't much patience w/those who don't give it their best. They need to feel competent. However, their definition of competence far exceeds that of any other temperament. What was competence 4 them today becomes mediocrity tomorrow.

In school they look up to the competent teacher. They quickly write off teachers whom they deem incompetent. They can often grasp a concept quickly and soon get bored with lessons that go at a slower pace for the less gifted. Of course Greens have the full range of intelligence from the mentally handicapped to those who are gifted as do the other temperaments. The intellectually challenged Green can become very frustrated at not being able to understand a concept.

During their teen years Greens are often involved in intellectual activities such as computer or debating clubs, or school newspaper production. Socially, their friends may be a bit on the eccentric side. Greens are the temperament with the fewest numbers in the population, with males being three times more numerous than females. Being Green can sometimes be difficult for young women because of the stereotype that females should be more feeling and emotional. It is helpful for a young Green woman to have an older Green woman to be a model for her.

Greens need 2b achieving. Even a vacation is a time 2 accomplish something. They have 2 read X number of books. They want to able to cross the country in a specified amount of time. Even relaxing for Greens has to be done in an efficient manner.

They can be very resolved. When something attracts their interest, they tend to follow it up to its full conclusion. They may multi-task with each task being worked on if only at the intellectual level. They are not ones to start things and then just abandon them without giving maximum effort, although they may skim over a number of topics to see what interests them.

Adult Greens live more studious lives. If their work falls into the intellectual category, it can be the main focus of their lives. If their work is more mundane, they will often have outside mental pursuits to satisfy their needs. Justice issues are often a concern for Greens. They can become very passionate when they see others being treated unfairly. Other temperaments respond 2 the situation itself: poverty, lack of water, etc. Greens are more likely 2 compare how one group has all the resources while others have little or nothing, and try 2 bring about changes 2 the overall system.

As lovers and spouses Greens can be quite critical. They don't C themselves that way. They C their comments as being helpful. Most partners don't really appreciate the error of their ways being pointed out 2 them, even if the remark was right on the mark. Greens don't need the same amount of emotional connectedness that other temperaments do and so may appear 2b cold or aloof. However, once Greens realizes what their partners need, they can use their skills 2b very attentive lovers. It is just that it tends 2b a more intellectual procedure rather than a spontaneous emotional heartfelt gesture. It doesn’t mean that Greens are any less capable of love. It is just that they express it in their own way. They have 2 learn 2 appreciate the differences in other temperaments. Greens are often attracted 2 Blues bcoz of their more nurturing nature.

U Are Perfect In God’s Eyes


Hebrews 10:12, 14, KJV - But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God... 14For by one offering He hath perfected forever them that are sanctified.
God sees u with no flaw, spot or imperfection, so honor His Word & the finished work of His Son by saying, “Amen!” Don’t doubt your perfection in Christ.

To see yourself as far from being perfect is not modesty, but a failure 2 understand the perfect sacrifice that Jesus has made for u.

The Bible tells us, “For by one offering [Jesus death 4 us] He hath perfected forever them that are sanctified”. Did u get that? You have not only been sanctified, that is, made holy, but by the same offering of His body, u have been perfected. You are both holy & perfect in God’s eyes!

Your sins have been purged perfectly. Today, Jesus is seated at His Father’s right hand not bcoz He is the Son of God (although that is true), but bcoz His work of purging your sins is completely finished & perfect!

So instead of being conscious of your sins, which is 2 have an evil conscience (Hebrews 10:22), u can have a perfect conscience, a conscience that is free from the guilt & condemnation of sins.

When u find yourself conscious of your sins, just say, “Thank You, Lord Jesus, for Your wonderful work at the cross. It is a perfect work that has removed all my sins completely.

“Holy Spirit, thank You for convicting me of righteousness, not my own, but God’s righteousness given 2 me as a gift. Keep on convicting me in the days 2 come, reminding me especially when I fail that I am still the righteousness of God in Christ.”

My friend, God sees u perfect without any spot of sin. He sees u covered in the beautiful white robes of His own righteousness. He treats u like a righteous man bcoz that is what He has made u. So expect good things 2 happen 2 u bcoz blessings are on the head of the righteous! (Proverbs 10:6)

Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Jesus Can Identify With Your Pain


Leviticus 2:4 -  ‘And if u bring as an offering a grain offering baked in the oven, it shall be unleavened cakes of fine flour mixed w/oil, or unleavened wafers anointed w/oil.

Private pains, deep hurts, shameful addictions. You may think that nobody understands what u are going through, but God does. He can identify with all your pains & is able 2 help u. (Hebrews 2:18, 4:15)

In the Old Testament, the grain offering brought 2 God speaks of Jesus’ life on earth. The fine flour, which the grain offering is made with, is flour that has been pounded, ground, beaten & sifted through 2 get it consistently even & fine. Therefore, it typifies the humanity & sufferings of Jesus. One of the ways the Jewish women prepared the grain offering was 2 bake it. The baking done in the depths of the oven speaks of the “hidden” sufferings that Jesus went though. I believe that

Jesus faced sufferings that we cannot fully understand. Even as a young boy, He must have gone through sufferings that prepared Him 2 die for all humanity at the cross. And during His ministry years, it must have grieved Him when time & time again, He found unbelief not just in the people around Him, but even in His disciples.

Jesus also suffered at the hands of men — slanderers who misunderstood Him. Once, the Pharisees insinuated that He was born out of wedlock bcoz His mother was with child before she married Joseph. (John 8:39, 41) That scandalous remark, probably not the first, must have hurt Him.

Consider also the temptations He faced. There were not only three. God’s Word says that He was tempted for 40 days! (Luke 4:2) Not all the temptations were recorded. Those 40 days must have tried Him sorely.

What do all these mean? 

My friend, Jesus went through all those temptations & sufferings for u, yet He did not sin. (Hebrews 4:15) There is no temptation or suffering that u are going through that He cannot identify with. So come 2 His throne of grace today & receive His superabounding grace 2 face and overcome those trials in your life!

Monday, December 16, 2013

Never Alone, Always Cared For


1 Peter 5:7 - casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

It does not matter how tightly knit our families are or how many close friends we have. When we go through a difficult time or trial, many a time, we still feel all alone and that no one really cares or understands.

Martha knew that feeling. She had on one occasion cried out 2 Jesus, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me 2 serve alone?” (Luke 10:40) Jesus’ disciples also knew what it was like 2 feel small, alone and in trouble. They cried out, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” when they were swept up in a terrifying storm. (Mark 4:38)

Today, maybe the cry of your heart is also, “Lord, do You not care that I am left all alone… that I am going under… that I am perishing?”  My friend, the Lord does care 4 u. He loves u so much that He wants u 2 cast all your cares upon Him — not just some but all your cares. He wants both your big and small cares. There is nothing too small or big for Him. If it is a care in your heart, He wants u 2 cast it upon Him.

When the apostle Peter wrote “casting all your care upon Him”, he was talking about the continuous act of casting all your cares upon the Lord. As a care comes, God wants u 2 cast it 2 Him. That is the lifestyle He wants u 2 adopt.

Why? The verse gives us the reason — “for He cares 4 u”. You are casting all your cares upon the One who loves u, and who left all of heaven 2 come and die 4 u. That is who u are casting your cares to. It is not just any person, but it is the One who gave His life 4 u!

When u are going through a difficult time, God wants u 2 believe that u are never alone bcoz He Himself has said that He will never leave u nor forsake u. (Hebrews 13:5) As the object of His care, He will take care of u for the rest of your life. You are never alone and always cared for!

Your Problem Must Bow 2 Jesus’ Name


 Philippians 2:10 - … at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth,

Whatever is troubling u, if it has a name, it must bow 2 the name of Jesus! Cancer must bow 2 the name of Jesus. Poverty must bow. Shame must bow. The Bible tells us that God has highly exalted Jesus and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee must bow!

That is exactly what happened when a severely demon-possessed man saw Jesus. The demons in him — called Legion for there were many of them — not only begged Jesus not 2 torment them, but they also fled when Jesus commanded them 2 go. The man was left whole, healed and in his right mind. (Luke 8:26–35)

My late father was similarly delivered from his drinking addiction of many years. I remember how he was in a drunken stupor one day. I prayed over him in Jesus’ name 4 him 2b loosed from his addiction 2 alcohol. He threw up violently soon after that and from that moment on, he never touched the bottle again!

Beloved, if your child is sick, lay hands on him and say, “In Jesus’ name, cough, stop. Fever, go in Jesus’ name. Health flows in your body in Jesus’ name!” If there is strife n confusion at home, deal with it the same way. I have used the name of Jesus as I prayed for a couple who were quarreling in a food center. It was amazing. All the strife between them seemed 2 melt away and they started 2 talk calmly after that.

That is the power of the name of Jesus bcoz that is the name of the one who died 4 u, who rose again and today is at the right hand of God, 4 u! That is the name which is above every name, and at which every knee must and will bow!

Friday, December 13, 2013

Redeemed From Every Type Of Sickness


Galatians 3:13 - Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse 4 us (4 it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”),

The One who cleansed lepers, opened blind eyes and made the lame 2 walk took your sins, sicknesses and every curse when He hung on Calvary’s tree. The curses that were meant 4 u bcoz of your sins fell on Him instead. He was cursed in your place 2 redeem u from every curse that comes as a result of breaking God’s laws.

What are these curses? They are listed in Deuteronomy 28. It is a long and detailed list. Don’t get frightened when u read the curses, but rejoice bcoz Christ has redeemed u from every single one of them, including those curses of sicknesses!

Are u stricken with tuberculosis, fever or inflammation? (Deuteronomy 28:22) Christ has redeemed u from every one of these conditions! Do u have painful boils, tumors or an itch which doctors say cannot be healed? (Deuteronomy 28:27) Christ has redeemed u from every one of these conditions! Perhaps yours is a serious and prolonged sickness. (Deuteronomy 28:59) It doesn’t matter. Christ has redeemed u from every prolonged sickness! “Well, Pastor Prince, u have covered tuberculosis, fever, itch… but what about my disease? It is not covered in Deuteronomy 28. Did Jesus forget my disease?”

No, His work is perfect! Look at Deuteronomy 28:61: “Also every sickness and every plague, which is not written in this Book of the Law, will the Lord bring upon u until u are destroyed.” That covers everything. So if Christ has redeemed u from this curse, then He has redeemed u from every type of sickness! I don’t care what new type of sickness the world discovers bcoz Christ has redeemed us from every type of sickness!

Now, if u have a particular sickness, say, “This (name the sickness) is part of the curse of the law. But Galatians 3:13 says that Christ has redeemed me from the curse of the law. Therefore, I have been redeemed from (name the sickness)!” Believe and confess that every day, and as surely as Jesus took every curse of sickness, your healing will break forth!

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Encouraging Others

                                                                   
There is no greater feeling, than to help or encourage one another.  Tiny deposits into another person's life; A small SEED planted today for a harvest Tomorrow. Many people reach for the 'large' but the secret are the tiny steps. The deposit I make today in another life, is the worth I discover in myself.


How I miss you Mr Winter, but atlas Miss Spring must begin growing my seeds. Thank you for allowing me to capture a memory to treasure b4 the bus-i-ness of this year.
Encouragement is an amazing thing, While we try to bring hope to others, we end up

discoverying that a blessing has come back to us! God is so Awesome!

At times, I wonder how to find time 2b a blessing to others, those who are attached to us from other Internet streams or in real life. What words do we speak to them, how shall we know which word is for which friend, O Lord, how marvelous that You would make us all a Family and one day we will be together where there are no hurt offenses or things that get in the way of us loving one another as You desire.


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Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Heart Confessions - DAY 10

Introduction:  As the world is celebrating Holidays in one way or another, there seems 2b Peace and Love in our midst more than any other time during the year.   Many times we have 2 stop the world and just BE STILL and quiet within ourselves 2 think about what really matters 2 'us.'
                       Too often the answers we seek in life are right in front of us, but 2 often ....forgotten or neglected. Let's come back 2 Basics and the foundation of life. Only then can we find answers we seek B4 we freak out during a new storm...


DAY 10  The BEGINNING of KNOWLEDGE
             
1  The proverbs of Solomon, the son of King David, king of Israel:

2  To know wisdom and instruction
    To perceive the words of understanding,

3  To receive the INSTRUCTION/ (the answers I seek) of Wisdom, Justice, Judgment, and Equity;

4  To give prudence 2 the simple (those of us who were never taught in love for one reason or another),
    To  the young man (and woman) knowledge and discretion--

5  A wise man will hear and increase learning,
    And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel,

6  To understand a proverb and an enigma,
    The words of the wise and their riddles.

7  The fear of the Lord is the BEGINNING of Knowledge,
   But fools despise wisdom and instruction.

How often oh Lord, I have desired 2 find my answers in life, but never had anyone explain or teach me Your loving ways.

The Beautiful Discovery, that even I, a simple, ignorant and innocent person, can discover Your LOVE and care. For when noone is there 2 teach me the Truths in life, You step in, step by step and teach me in ways I am able 2 understand Your Love. Thank you that I can come 2 encourage....even if at nights like this,...only 2 myself.... in hope, that it blesses someone else out there in the world.

Thank You Lord that we are never alone, even when we feel like it.  I feel better already.

Monday, December 9, 2013

Call It The Way God Calls It




Romans 4:17 - …God, who gives life 2 the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though 
they did; 

Many a time, when we look at ourselves, we don’t see what we can become. But when God looks at
us, He sees what we can become by His grace.

When Jesus first saw Simon, whose name in Greek means “reed”, He changed his name 2  “Peter”,  which means “rock”. But did Peter instantly become someone with the characteristics of a rock—solid, stable and unshakable? No, 4 a long time, he continued 2 act like a reed that bends every which way the wind blows.

Once, when Peter saw Jesus walking on water, he took a bold step of faith and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me 2 come 2 You on the water.” Then, as he was walking on the water, he saw the boisterous wind, got scared and when he began 2 sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” (Matthew 14:28–30) Another time, he said, “Lord, I am ready 2 go with You, both 2 prison and 2 death.” (Luke 22:33) Then, a few hours later, he denied knowing Jesus not once, but 3 times. (Luke 22:54–62).

Yet, throughout his reed-like behavior, Jesus kept calling him “rock” until one day, how Jesus saw him began 2 take root in him. That day, on the Day of Pentecost, Peter stood up 2 preach and 3,000 people were saved! (Acts 2:41) Peter had indeed become a rock, a pillar in the early church.

That was how Jesus transformed Peter. And that is how God wants us 2 change the people and situations in our lives. “Pastor Prince, are u telling me 2 call my wife ‘a fruitful vine’ as in Psalm 128:3?  You should see my wife. She looks more like a dried-up sour prune!”

My friend, God did not tell us 2 call those things which exist as they exist. What is the point of stating the obvious? It is not going 2 change anything. No, God tells us 2 call those things which do not exist as though they did, and they will!

Sunday, December 8, 2013

Blessed With The Excellent And The Plenty

Deuteronomy 28:4 - “Blessed shall be the fruit of your body, the produce of your ground and the increase of your herds, the increase of your cattle and the offspring of your flocks.
Would u want 2 buy a chair that Jesus made? I would, even if it cost US$1,000 bcoz it would be of superb quality. Whatever Jesus did, He did it with perfect excellence. 

And bcoz Christ is in u, the things which u produce will be of exceptional quality too. That includes your children, who will be champions. Deuteronomy 28:4 says, “Blessed shall be the fruit of your body, the produce of your ground and the increase of your herds, the increase of your cattle and the offspring of your flocks”. 

God was using terms that the Israelites understood since they were farmers and shepherds. Today, “your ground” is the place of your work. This means that “the produce” of your work shall be of excellent quality.

That is not all. God promises that quantity will always follow quality bcoz Deuteronomy 28:11 says that the Lord will “grant u plenty of goods, in the fruit of your body,” which means that u will have plenty of children, “in the increase of your livestock, and in the produce of your ground,” which means that your business will flourish and u will be a leading producer in the area of your specialty.

My friend, your excellence and plenty do not come by your efforts. They come by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, who paid 4 your prosperity — “though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that u through His poverty might become rich”. (2 Corinthians 8:9)

Jesus was made destitute of all material things at the cross. He had nothing! As He hung on the cross, He watched the Roman soldiers gamble 4 His robe. His last possession on earth was gambled away. He became poor, so that u could be blessed with the excellent and the plenty!

Don’t Put Your Faith In Diets and Exercise


Psalm 118:8 -  It is better 2 trust in the Lord than 2 put confidence in man.

Alot of people think that the way 2 get health is 2 watch what they eat. For example, many people say that the Mediterranean diet is a very healthy one. I agree, generally. But do u know that the people whom Jesus healed were also on a Mediterranean diet? They did not eat pork and prawns, for example, bcoz they were Jews and these things are not kosher for them.

I know that u want 2 walk in divine health. But God does not want your focus 2b on food — what 2 eat, what not 2 eat — or even exercise — how 2 exercise, when 2 exercise. All these are natural means which the people of the world trust in. It is better 2 trust in the Lord and His finished work, than 2 put your confidence in the latest man-made diet plans and exercise regimes.

At the cross, Jesus took your sicknesses and carried your pains, and by His stripes u were healed. (Isaiah 53:4–5) The Bible even tells us how 2 escape sickness and premature death — by discerning the Lord’s body when we partake of the Lord’s Supper. (1 Corinthians 11:29–30) But instead of focusing on these truths, many of us prefer 2 focus on dieting and exercising.

Now, I am not against eating well or exercising. I myself exercise and I do watch what I eat. For example, I don’t like 2 eat oily stuff bcoz it makes me feel uncomfortable. And when I have 2 preach, I do my best not 2 eat foods that make me burp!

But I eat generally healthy stuff not bcoz I trust dieting 2 make me healthy. I exercise not bcoz I trust exercising 2 make me healthy. No, I trust the finished work of Christ 2 make me healthy. I eat well bcoz I like 2 feel good and I exercise bcoz I enjoy the rush, the sweat!

God wants u 2b free when it comes 2 eating and exercising. Don’t make laws for eating and exercising, and then trust these laws 2 give u “divine” health. Trust in the finished work of Christ. Discern His body when u partake of the Holy Communion. And just enjoy your food and workout!

Use Your Double Portion Of Speaking Power


God calls us “a royal priesthood”. This means that we are kings as well as priests under the king-priesthood of Jesus Christ. This has never happened b4 in the history of God’s people. In the Old Testament, kings and priests were two distinct groups of people. You were either a king or priest, but not both at the same time.

Today, bcoz we are in Christ, we are king-priests — a royal priesthood.
This means that we have a double portion of speaking power bcoz as kings, “Where the word of a king is, there is power” (Ecclesiastes 8:4), and as priests, “by their word every controversy and every assault shall be settled”. (Deuteronomy 21:5)

So if u are a Christian businessman, u will have an edge over worldly businessmen. What u say about your business deals will come 2 pass. And if u are falsely accused, know that by your very word, every controversy and every assault will be settled!

And as a king-priest parent, when u bless your children, your words have the power 2 set in motion supernatural events which will bring them into God’s prosperous abundance and super abounding grace. And there will be such a courage and resilience about them that it will empower them 2 win the fights of life!

When the devil comes 2 u and says that u will die young bcoz your father and grandfather died young, or that u will never be successful bcoz u are not well-educated, u must remember that the devil is neither a king nor a priest. There is no power in his words. But there is power in yours bcoz u are a king-priest in Christ!

So instead of agreeing with him, believe and declare, “I will not die young. With long life He will satisfy me and show me His salvation!” Say, “The Lord will make my way prosperous and give me good success!” Use your double portion of speaking power and see these blessings come 2 pass!

Monday, December 2, 2013

Choose The Good Part And Profit


Isaiah 48:17  - .. “I am the Lord your God, who teaches u 2 profit, who leads u by the way u should go.

God instructs us for our own benefit. He wants us 2 profit in every area of our lives — health, finances, career, marriage and family relationships. The Bible says that it is God who teaches us 2 profit. And it is He who leads us in the way that we should go.

God always has our best interests at heart. We only have 2 sit at His feet, listen 2 His Word and just have fresh, daily communion with Him, and He will make our way prosperous.

But we are constantly bombarded with things 2 do every day, like sending the kids 2 school, attending a business meeting or making a sales presentation. Likewise, in church, there are just as many important things 2 attend 2 — ministering 2 the needy, reaching out 2 the lost and healing the sick. But u know what? All these things will be taken care of when we sit at Jesus’ feet and listen 2 His Word.

What was the Lord’s response 2 Martha’s complaint that her sister was sitting at His feet and listening 2 Him, instead of helping her with the many tasks? “Martha, Martha, u are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41–42)

Yet, many of us are like Martha. We worry about many things. And we are so busy that we have no time 2 sit at Jesus’ feet 2 listen 2 His Word and enjoy communion with Him. When we fail 2 draw from Him, we end up running on our own strength, and relying on our own flesh and wisdom 2 get things done. Listen, u can never have a plan that is better than God’s!

My friend, do u want 2b led by God’s wisdom and timing in your decision-making? Then, make it a point 2 choose the good part like Mary did. Spend time with Jesus, open your Bible and say, “Lord, speak 2 me.” You will find that your heavenly Father takes care of your troubles, and teaches and leads u 2 profit!

Rest N Receive Your Miracle


Hebrews 4:9 - There remains therefore a rest for the people of God.

In the healing of the paralyzed man at the pool of Bethesda (John 5:1–16), Jesus knew that for 38 years, the man had been flat on his back, unable 2 do anything for himself or others, no matter how hard he struggled.

In the case of the woman oppressed with a spirit of infirmity (Luke 13:10–13), Jesus knew that the woman had been bowed over for 18 years. And in that condition, she saw very little that was beautiful in life, only the dusty ground, dirty sandals and bruised feet.

What about the man with a withered hand? (Luke 6:6–10) Jesus knew from His carpenter days how a useless hand could have easily given the man a very poor sense of self-worth.

I believe that all three of them must have struggled for so long 2 get back on their feet, 2 try 2 lift themselves up, 2 attempt 2 do something about their situations, only 2b disappointed each time they failed. In fact, they got so frustrated with striving 2 get better that by the time they met Jesus, they had probably given up trying 2 change their situations.

It was then that Jesus came and extended His offer 2 turn their situations around. And when they embraced His offer, they received the miracles that they had sought for so long.

You too may have been struggling 2 get back on your feet, or 2 lift yourself out of the problem that has sorely weighed u down. You have attempted 2 do whatever u could, hoping that it would amount 2 something, but u have been frustrated time and again. My friend, God wants u 2 cease from all your struggling and accept the offer He extends 2 turn your situation around.

It is no coincidence that all three of them received their miracles on the Sabbath, the day of rest for the Jews. God’s Word says, “There remains therefore a rest for the people of God.” The day u cease from your own laboring and striving, and rest in the finished work of Christ, is the day u receive your miracle.

Jesus has done all the work. Whatever u need has been provided for at the cross. So just be at rest and receive your miracle!