Relationship: 10 reasons we need mom no matter how old we get

We sit around the table, listening to the elevator music coming from the television. It is the only thing we use it for now, but because Mom refuses to master Pandora we continue to pay the monthly cable bill. I shuffle the cards and pass them around the table. The game is called "Bohnanza" and you can only play two cards a turn. It is Mom's turn and she lays down three and we all laugh because no matter how many times we explain the game she never gets it (like the time we tried to teach her Mario Kart on the Wii.) She buries her face behind her cards and starts to laugh so hard tears come out.

These are some of my favorite times with Mom, and it has nothing to do with what music is playing in the background or what game we play. It has everything to do with being with her because she makes life happy. Even when you grow up and move out, get married and become a mom yourself, you never stop needing mom. Here are ten reasons why:

1. She listens to you without judging and understands how you feel

This is perhaps my mom's best quality. She always seems to know when I need to talk, vent and get it out. And her advice never begins with, "I told you so" or "You should have known better."

2. She is your best shopping buddy

Let's face it: No matter how wonderful your husband is, it's more fun trying on jeans with Mom.

3. She intuitively knows when you need help

Even though we claim we can take care of ourselves, Mom always seems to know when we need that extra $20 each month to cover the phone bill.

4. She brings you NyQuil, chicken noodle soup and Sprite when you are sick

But perhaps the best medicine of all is her hug.

5. She takes you out of school to spend the day at the museum, going to lunch or making cookies.

My mom believes that being educated is more than sitting at a desk for eight hours. Although an avid supporter of our successful schooling (my dad is a teacher), she knows it doesn't hurt to spend a day together every once in a while.

6. She always lets you pick the movie

She says she'll pick "next time," but "next time" never seems to come.

7. She goes out of her way to make you feel special

Think of the countless birthday parties, school plays and graduation celebrations your mom has organized and supported through the years. Whether it's staying up late to make party decorations or leading the cheering section, you always know who your number one fan is.

8. She spends her money coming to visit you

Even when you live halfway across the country, she's there.

9. She is the first on your list to call with news

Whether you have exciting news like a new job or a pregnancy, or disappointments like a miscarriage or a bad day, sharing with Mom just makes life better.

10. She loves you and is always there for you

When I moved away, what I missed most wasn't the homemade meals or the folded laundry. It was being with Mom and feeling her constant love and support. Friends may be fleeting, but family is constant.

Some may be reading this right now and feel discouraged. There are women who may not have a close relationship with their mother, or others who do not know who their mother is. Many women are single moms working two jobs, trying to keep their family going. read more

No matter the situation, what makes all moms special is that they embody characteristics like peace, support and unconditional love associated with womanhood. By honoring mothers, we are honoring women. Whether it's moms, sisters, aunts, mothers-in-law, stepmothers or close friends, everyone has someone to appreciate.

Let's take this month to celebrate womanhood and the women who make our lives worth celebrating. Thank you, Mom. I will always need you no matter how old I get.

Prayer for new week

This month, God will level every mountain of opposition. He will fight your battles and give you rest round about. Expect unusual open doors. Expect victory on every side. It is your month of supernatural triumph in Jesus name. 

You will encounter love that's genuine, true and pure, even if you have been hated, you will become everyone's delight. Your expectations for greatness shall come in double portion. 

Happy New Week from us ASB-World. 

Relationship: 7 Lies the Enemy Tries to Sell You About Marriage

I've come to realize that there are a lot of lies out there about marriage that people are not only believing, but also are embracing.

Here are 7 lies about marriage:

Lie No. 1: Marriage is a contract. If we accept this lie, we think that marriage is a mere transaction. That it's an "I'll do this, only if you do that" kind of relationship. And, "If you don't do that, I'm terminating the contract."

I have shared previously that "Marriage was never meant to be a contract to be broken, but a covenant to be cherished.  [There] is the clear difference between a covenant and a contract ... In a nutshell, a contract is all about what you get. A covenant is all about what you give."

Lie No. 2: Marriage is an outdated institution. If we accept this lie, we are saying that this God-ordained institution established since the beginning of mankind and intended to last while mankind is on this earth can be set aside and disregarded by the whim of man. The institution of marriage may be under attack, but it is still unchanging.

Lie No. 3: Marriage is a 50-50 partnership. If we accept this lie, we excuse ourselves from putting our 100 percent into the relationship. We will constantly be comparing our efforts against our spouses and questioning who does more in the relationship. In such a scenario, husbands and wives may even find themselves keeping a marital scorecard of who spends more, disciplines more, does the dishes more, cleans more or works more. Marriage is a 100 percent-100 percent, give it all you've got relationship.

Lie No. 4: Marriage will end the battle with lust. If we accept this lie, we set ourselves up for disappointment and failure. Most struggles we bring into a marriage are not solved by marriage, but rather in marriage.

Lie No. 5: Marriage will fix my problems and make me happy. If we accept this lie, we put unrealistic pressure on our spouse to fulfill us and take care of all our problems. Marriage should bring happiness and satisfaction. Spouses can help one another to work through issues, but our spouse can never be the be-all and end-all of our lives. Only God can.

Lie No. 6: Marriage is about what I can get from my spouse. If we accept this lie, we will crush our spouse with our selfishness. When our marriage is focused on giving, instead of getting, it's more rewarding and enriching. Love is all about giving.

Lie No. 7: Marriage shouldn't be hard work. If we accept this lie, we misunderstand the true nature of man and marriage. Because we humans are inherently selfish, husbands and wives must constantly work against that nature and seek to give to rather than to get from their spouse.

Donald Trump once said about working on a marriage: "Well if you have to work at it then maybe it's not worth having. I have to work at everything else in my life. I have to work at my work. I just think a marriage should be easy, not hard."

Actually, we do have to work at marriage, and it is worth having. Like most other things in life, when we really work on our marriage, it only gets better and better.

What are other lies about marriage? Have you ever believed any of the above lies?

Mark Merrill

ARE YOU A DISCIPLE?

So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple. - Luke 14:33

Are you a disciple? Just because you are a Christian doesn't necessarily mean that you are a disciple.

Every disciple is a believer, but not every believer is a disciple. Jesus gave us the definition of a disciple in Luke 14.

Three times in this passage, He said that if we do not do these things, we cannot be His disciples.

First, Jesus said, "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple" (verse 26).

A statement like that is shocking, but let's understand what Jesus was saying. He obviously was not telling us to hate in the traditional sense.

Rather, Jesus was saying that your love for God should be so strong, so intense, that all other loves would pale in comparison.
Second, Jesus said, "And whoever does not bear his cross and come after me cannot be my disciple" (verse 27).

If you want to live life to its fullest, then you must deny yourself and put Christ first. You take your goals, desires, dreams, and aspirations, and you present them to God. And ultimately you will discover that God's plans for you are always the best.

Last, Jesus said, "For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it? . . . So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be my disciple" (verses 28, 33).

You must count the cost to follow Jesus. Yes, it costs to follow Jesus. But it costs more not to follow Him. Jesus called us to go and make disciples. But it takes one to make one.

Prayer: Lord, make me a true disciple.

Scriptural Reading: Luke 14:25-35

Happy New Month and Workers' Day

Happy new month of May, this month of may will bring to you and family favour and grace, the hand of God will be upon you.

Happy new month and workers' day

THROUGH THE FIRE

When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. - Isaiah 43:2

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were three Jewish teenagers who walked with God in the midst of a godless society.

When King Nebuchadnezzar attacked Jerusalem and carried away captives to Babylon, he singled out Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego for royal service.

The king was grooming them to be leaders in the kingdom of Babylon, and they were being schooled in all the ways of that twisted, idolatrous culture.

One day, Nebuchadnezzar set up a golden statue of himself and commanded everyone in his kingdom to bow down before it and worship.

The penalty for disregarding the king's order was death. So all of the people obediently fell before this image — except for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

The outraged king called them into his presence and gave them one more chance to bow down. But they told him, "If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty" (Daniel 3:17).

So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were tied up and thrown into the furnace, heated seven times hotter than usual, as ordered by King Nebuchadnezzar.

But as the king watched, he saw not three but four men in the furnace, free and walking around. King Nebuchadnezzar saw the Son of God walking with them through the fire. And Jesus will walk with you through your fire.

He will walk with you through your hardships. We are never alone in life. That is the message from Genesis to Revelation. He has said, "I am with you always, even to the end of the age" (Matt 28:20).

Prayer: Thank You Lord, for Your assurance never to leave me nor forsake me.

Scriptural Reading: Isaiah 43:1-5

Way to nourish your body's vital gland

Living Foods. They're foods that are alive raw (not cooked) and filled with life. They're also called raw foods or live foods.

You can plant them, pick them, sprout them or simply eat them. In each case you get life! That's because life comes from life. These foods are your "true north," your path home to health in a jungle of dietary havoc, contaminated food and abounding confusion about what and how to eat.

Good health is the result of consuming whole, unprocessed, clean food with a large percentage of that being raw and alive. These foods are chock-full of nutrients, water and fiber that flush away toxins, waste and "sludge" from our cells and intercellular fluids.

They help us prevent disease. They alkalize our bodies and help us restore our pH balance. And they give our cells vital light rays of energy to help them communicate more effectively.

Since your thyroid is a key gland that's tied to every other system in your body, it needs to work flawlessly. When it's out of balance, you're out of balance. If you have a number of the symptoms of low thyroid, chances are that you could benefit by working on your thyroid health by eating more living foods.

Some foods boost thyroid function, which makes them perfect for treating hypothyroidism, while others suppress thyroid function, which can help people with hyperthyroidism. And there are certain foods that are best avoided by anyone who is concerned about having a healthy thyroid gland and overall good health.

The following raw foods are among the most helpful for restoring thyroid balance whether you have an underactive or overactive thyroid:

• Fresh raw vegetable juices
• Low-sugar fruit, especially lemons, limes, cranberries and other berries, and green apples
• Raw nuts and seeds
• Seaweed for its rich iodine content (for hypothyroid)
• Chlorophyll-rich green juices such as watercress, collards, chard, kale, kohlrabi

Leaves, beet greens and parsley (vary the cruciferous greens with other non-cruciferous greens, such as lettuce, beet greens, watercress and spinach, if you have hypothyroidism)

source: charismamag.com

BEWARE OF WRONG MOTIVES

But Peter replied, "May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God's gift can be bought! You can have no part in this, for your heart is not right with God." - Acts 8:20-21

In the book of Acts, we read about a man named Simon, who was a sorcerer, an occultist. He had a lot of people under his influence when the apostle Philip came along, preaching the gospel in Samaria.

As people were coming to faith and miracles were being performed, Simon realized that he had to change his racket.

So we read in Acts 8:13 that Simon himself believed and was baptized. He followed Philip everywhere and was astonished by the great miracles he saw.

When the apostles heard what was happening in Samaria, they sent Peter and John there. And so Simon approached the apostles and offered them money because he saw God's power working through them and wanted to buy it.

But Peter told him, "May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God's gift can be bought! You can have no part in this, for your heart is not right with God.

Repent of your wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive your evil thoughts, for I can see that you are full of bitter jealousy and are held captive by sin" (Acts 8:20-23).

Simon showed by his actions that he never was a believer. Yes, he was baptized. (And if you are a Christian, you ought to be baptized.) But just because someone is baptized doesn't necessarily mean he or she is a Christian.

This shows us that people can be in a godly place, around godly people, and not have it affect them in the right way.

As it has been said, the same sun that softens the wax hardens the clay. The grace of Jesus Christ, if it does not convert a person, plunges him or her into deeper darkness.

The purpose of our Christian call is not for grabbing material possessions but service to the Kingdom of God. So check your motives!

Prayer: Lord, create in me a clean heart.

Scriptural Reading: Acts 8:20-9-25

Prayer for new week

Your name will no longer be on the waiting list for miracles. It is your turn to gain the attention of

The Almighty God. God will relief you of every burden you have been carrying since time immemorial. The person who will help you will not give up on you in Jesus Name!

Anything you lay your hands on shall prosper. Everyone you meet shall favor you, cos this is your week of divine favor and visitation. The Lord shall revive you and everything about your life. Joy, peace and good health shall be yours and every member of your family in Jesus name. 

Happy New Week from us ASB-World. 

AVAILABILITY

I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not give my glory to anyone else, nor share my praise with carved idols. - Isaiah 42:8

What kind of person does God seek to use? What qualifications is He looking for in someone? Is it a towering intellect?

Is it natural leadership ability? Could God ever use someone who is a bit shy by nature? Does this person have to be very talented or handsome or beautiful?

The answer to all of these questions is clearly no. It seems as though God goes out of His way sometimes to choose the most unexpected people to use.

If I had to choose one passage of Scripture that I think best summarizes my life as a Christian, it would be 1 Corinthians 1:26-29, where the apostle Paul wrote, "Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world's eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you.

Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise.

And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. God chose things despised by the world; things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important. As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God."

There is not a person who had less promise to achieve anything with his life than me. I was literally the last person picked for the team for whatever sport it was.

I never was academically strong. I always underwhelmed in most areas of my life. So when the Lord chose me to serve Him, it was very clear that it was His doing—not mine.

This is because God will not give His glory to another. As I have said before, God is not looking for ability as much as availability. Are you available to Him?

Prayer: Lord, here I am, use me.

Scriptural Reading: Isaiah 42:6-9

Health: 15 Things Amazing Things You Didn’t Know Toothpaste Could Do

FOR BEAUTY:
Toothpaste contains many useful ingredients that can be soothing and healing to the skin. For this reason, you’ll be able to use toothpaste to help you with the following issues:

1. Pimples. Reduce redness and the size of your pimples with a dab of toothpaste. Let it sit overnight, then rinse away in the morning for a noticeable difference.

2. Brittle fingernails. Since our nails are made of the same enamel as teeth, toothpaste can do a lot to help them. Simply give your nails a good scrub with some toothpaste for cleaner, shinier, stronger nails. You’ll also get that dirt out from underneath them in no time!

3. Fly-away hair. A gel toothpaste is largely made with the same ingredients as basic hair gels, so you’ll be able to substitute easily here. Just use a little dab and apply like a hair gel when needed.

FIRST AID:
Beyond beauty care, you’ll also find helpful ways to use toothpaste in that first aid kit. Keep a small tube tucked inside your kit for these emergencies:

4. Bites, sores, and blisters. Apply toothpaste to areas of skin irritation to reduce itching, swelling, and irritation. Toothpaste will dry them up quickly and help them heal faster.

5. Burns. For minor burns with no open sores, a quick toothpaste application can give you instant relief. The cooling properties get to work right away, relieving that painful sting. In the long-term, toothpaste will keep the burn from becoming a painful, oozing blister.

6. Bruises. For large bruises that take forever to fade, use a little toothpaste and a wide-tooth comb. Apply the toothpaste and gently comb the bruise in one direction to break up the blood clotting beneath the skin. Toothpaste helps with circulation and fights off the inflammation.

FASHION:
Our clothing and accessories can also benefit from many of the ingredients found in the average tube of toothpaste. Give these a try:

7. Jewelry cleaner. Before you pay for someone else to clean it, rub toothpaste onto your silver jewelry and leave it overnight, the wipe it clean with a soft cloth. Give a light scrubbing to your diamonds to see them sparkle again, just be sure to rinse thoroughly. Avoid using toothpaste on pearls.

8. Show care. Scuffed or dirty shoes can look new again with a little toothpaste. Apply it directly to the dull, dirty, or scuffed parts of the shoe, scrub with a brush, and wipe them clean. Ta-da!

9. Clothing stains. Tough stains will disappear with a little toothpaste and some brisk scrubbing. Squeeze it right on the stain and rub until it disappears, then wash as normal. If using whitening toothpaste, be advised that this can have a bleaching effect on some colors and fabrics.

HOUSEHOLD:
Toothpaste can save you money around the house by helping with some very basic tasks:

10. Computer cleaner. Scrub away fingerprints from your keyboard with a white, baking soda-based toothpaste. Follow up with a damp cloth and your keys are good as new!

11. Iron cleaner. Take away the “crusties” from the bottom of your clothes iron with a quick toothpaste rinse. Just be sure to remove all the toothpaste before you start ironing again.

12. Baby bottles. To freshen up baby bottles and remove that sour-milk smell, put some toothpaste on your bottle scrubber and give them a quick wash. Always rinse them very well afterwards.

13. Piano keys. Like computer keys, piano keys get grubby with repeated use from the dirt, oil, and grime on our fingertips. Use a damp cloth and some toothpaste to rub down the keys, then wipe them clean with a dry cloth.

14. Crayon stains. Undo your kids’ damage to the walls with a damp cloth and some toothpaste. Rub it in gentle circles and watch the crayon fade away.

15. Odor removal. After cooking with “stinky” foods in the kitchen (fish, garlic, onions, etc.), getting the smell out of the skin is a challenge. Wash your hands thoroughly with water and toothpaste for a quick and easy remedy.

Health: What The Shape And Size Of Your Finger Nails Says About You

Throughout the centuries there were different ways that could supposedly determine someone’s personality by just one look.

These theories and beliefs often connect certain body parts with the characteristics of a person. Some presume that the size and the shape of the nails can determine the personality.
There is even science called phrenology dedicated to analysing the character features based on the measuring of the skull in the past and it was believed that the proximity of someone’s eyes is a sign of an artistic talent. The current trends are focused on the shape of the nails.
Initially, it started in Asia and since then, it also spread in the west. In principle, everything depends on you and how deeply you read, how much do You really believe in these things, because no matter how precise it is, it is still fun.
Here is the reading according to the photo above. Find your shape and number and read what kind of a personality are you.


nails-forms
1. Vertical long nail – mild temper, precise, creative. These people are generally getting on well with everyone.

2. Wide nails – sincere, without absurdities, short tempered, theoreticians. These people always speak the truth, no matter what and they often give advices to other people.

3 and 4. Round or egg shaped – These people are relaxed, unique, positive and reasonable. They live with their own rhythm and they do not allow small things to destroy their lives, which means they have many long-term friends.

5. Square shape – They are leaders, strong, skillful and brave. Tey are often very serious and people see them as leaders, but they also have a soft side which is reserved only for their close ones.



6 and 7. Triangle or invert nails – smart, perfectionists, innovative, original. It is possible that these people are geniouses and think faster than the others. Usually other people are fascinated by them.

8. Almond shape – True, sincere, friendly, beautiful. These people are very kind although they are standing firmly on the ground when that is necessary, people enjoy their company and love te way they solve problems. source: beextrahealthynow

9. Sword shape – inspirative, productive, visionaries, focused. They are focused on longterm aims and see the “wider picture”, they influence people by reqarding and their positive way.

what do you think now, free free to comment.....

Life is hard work

Grace is available but if God planned for all to just have everything without doing anything, He would be unjust....

That means that He will just take the people who claim that they love and believe in Him and put them in a separate country ...where all that they need to do is just wake up and have everything without doing nothing.

Life is hard work.
It's not for the weak minded. It's not for the faint hearted .Being a born again Christian does not exclude us from the common challenges that come to man. God expects us to stand up and face them like men! Like supernatural men! people who carry something extra!

I read through the scripture in Isaiah
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. (Isaiah 43:2 ESV)

We love to quote this scripture, maybe if we actually read through carefully, we can understand that the provision of God is that of sustainence through these difficult situations.

Waters mean it's a huge depth and large volume.its big enough top physically drown you. God didn't say that you will bypass the water , neither did He say that a boat will carry you sisters....when you PASS THROUGH....YOU WILL ACTUALLY PASS , BUT IT'S THROUGH not when you sink in....

When you WALK THROUGH THE FIRE...walking in fire means that the heat and the flames are there...or else it won't be a fire! See that again, it's THROUGH!!!!! It will be very hot.

God has told us in these scriptures that He knew that these things are designed to destroy, but for is the power to destroy has been taken off of them....it's like putting a lion in a zoo after the sharp strong teeth have been removed, it's roaring , but it's pangs are gone.

You can't afford to be feeble...NOW, DON'T PANIC

What exactly would make God say something repeatedly?

Why does He lay emphasis on a particular thing again and again.

“Moses my servant is dead. Get ready! Cross the Jordan River! Lead these people into the land which I am ready to hand over to them. No one will be able to resist you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not abandon you or leave you alone. Be strong and brave! You must lead these people in the conquest of this land that I solemnly promised their ancestors I would hand over to them. Make sure you are very strong and brave! Carefully obey all the law my servant Moses charged you to keep! Do not swerve from it to the right or to the left, so that you may be successful in all you do. This law scroll must not leave your lips! You must memorize it day and night so you can carefully obey all that is written in it. Then you will prosper and be successful. I repeat, be strong and brave! Don’t be afraid and don’t panic, for I, the Lord your God, am with you in all you do.” (Joshua 1:2, 5-9 NET)

God says
Be strong and brave
Be strong and brave
Don't be afraid, Don't panic!

I was wondering what God saw or planned..... This is my conclusion...

Strong....that means something will challenge your strength
Be brave.....that means that something will questions your boldness and your reserve
Don't be afraid...that means something will try and make your knees go weak with fear.
Don't panic....that means that something will hope to get you running helter-skelter in confusion.

This day,

We need to remember these.....

The pangs are already taken care of
There is no running away from what is ahead.
We know the result before the exams....God says we are going through. That means the minute we started was the minute the end became nearer.
Whilst you are going through , DONT PANIC, BE BRAVE,
Again, DONT PANIC, BE BRAVE. BE STRONG AND BRAVE....

The only thing standing between you and your testimony is you agreeing that YOU REALLY DONT HAVE ANYTHING TO LOSE... God has got your back and your front, even your sides....

At least, God said it repeatedly, just to get your attention.....He knows that the situation will look scary, yet, He says ....DONT GET SCARED......breathe in and out and say it slowly.......ITS GOING TO BE ALRIGHT....I have God working in me and brining me out of this seemingly scary situation. I don't fret and I don't panic, Halleluyah.
I forge ahead, I get results, I refuse to be a weakling.

By sis Bola.

PRACTICING THE PRESENCE OF GOD

Enoch walked with God. Genesis 5:24

The true test of a person's spiritual life and character is not what he does in the extraordinary moments of life, but what he does during the daily grind of everyday life when there is nothing tremendous or exciting happening.

In the 1600s, there was a monk named Brother Lawrence who was a dishwasher in his monastery.

He made a profound discovery that is true for every believer in the workplace today.

"For me the time of activity does not differ from the time of prayer, and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are calling together, calling for as many different things, I possess God in as great tranquility as when upon my knees at the blessed Sacrament."

You see, he found no urgency for retreats, because in the common task he met the same God to love and worship as he did in the stillness of his closet. It is this kind of life that Jesus desires for each one of us.

Enoch was also a man that practiced the presence of God. The Bible does not give a detailed account of his life. All we know about him is that "He walked with God."

In fact, it says in Genesis 5:22 that Enoch walked with God 300 years! Wow! That is faithfulness! What does it mean to practice the presence of God daily?

It means we are constantly talking to our Heavenly Father about the issues in our day. It means praying about things as they come up.

It means stopping at a red light and praying for the person God brings to mind. It means singing a song in your car while you are sitting in traffic. That is practicing the presence of God.

Prayer Point: Thank the Lord for His ever abiding presence.

Scriptural Reading: Genesis 5:18-24

Prayer for new week

May God's eyes of mercy shine upon you, May God send you help from the four corners of the World, May God deliver you from every evil plan of the enemies and answer all your prayers in Jesus name. Joseph was a prisoner in Egypt, but a day came when God made him to become a Prime Minister in the same Egypt.

This same God can still do it for you, When God opens your book of remembrance, all your sorrows will turn into laughter, all your days of mourning will turn into dancing, those who mock you, will come  and celebrate with you, those who look down on you, will look up to you, those who say "who are you"? Will come and say "how are you to you"? in Jesus name.

Happy New Week from us ASB-World. 

Chou’s Vinegar Chicken

Ingredients 8-10 chicken drumsticks
4 whole garlic cloves, peeled
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp sunflower oil
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
¼ bottle of dry white wine
1 heaping tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp heavy cream (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions1. Take your chicken out of the fridge to bring it to room temp. Pat your chicken with paper towels to remove excess moisture and sprinkle all the drumsticks with a little bit of salt.

2. Put some paper towels on a plate and set near your stovetop.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil in a pan over high heat, until butter has fully melted and oil is very hot.

4. Once the oil is nice and hot, add the chicken and cook until the skin is crispy and the color is golden brown (but don’t let the meat cook through yet). Add the full garlic cloves towards the end of browning.

5. Move the browned chicken to your plate with paper towels.

6. Pour 1/3 cup of vinegar and deglaze the pan (translation: take a wooden spoon and scrape the bottom of the pan so you remove all the yummy crispy bits).

7. Wait 5 minutes until vinegar is reduced and then put the chicken back in.

8. In a bowl, combine the quarter bottle of white wine, the tomato paste, and Dijon mustard.

9. Pour the wine mixture on top of the chicken. Reduce heat to low/medium and cook for about 30 minutes or until chicken meat is cooked through. Turn the chicken after 10-15 minutes to make sure the chicken is coated and cooking evenly.

10. About 2 minutes before your remove the chicken from the heat, you can add in the cream and mix in well.

11. Add salt and pepper to taste. Move the chicken to a serving platter, pour all the yummy sauce and garlic all over the chicken, and serve. source: yahoo.com

Do you look like Him?

A young man impregnated a young girl. When the girl pointed out to the parents that he was responsible, he denied it. He swore heaven and earth that he had nothing to do with her. She had to bear the shame of that pregnancy alone. It was tough. It wasn't easy. Her father disowned her, saying he couldn't be the father to a girl who not only sleeps around, but has no clue who impregnated her. Her mother took up the responsibility of taking care of her. Nine months later, she had a bouncing baby boy. The entire neighbourhood was in shock. For as you looked at the face of the beautiful baby boy, you would find yourself staring into the face of the young man who had denied the pregnancy. There was absolutely no controversy - that young man was the father!

Who do you look like? Who is your father? If I look into your spirit man, can I say absolutely without controversy that God is your father? When I look at your character, can I say you act just like your Father does? These days there are a lot of people who say they are Christians, walk about speaking 'christianese', do and act like they are second in command to the Holy Spirit but have absolutely no regard for the One they call Father - By their fruit you shall know them (Matthew 7:16-20) They have taken God's grace for granted.

I'm not talking about those who love and fear God but fall occasionally - we are all a work in progress. But if you live life simply because you think 'grace' covers you, and your name is permanently in the Book of Life, yet have no regard for God, then you are not the child of the Father. If your character depicts acts of the devil, yet you are quick to lift up holy hands in church on Sunday, then you are not the child of the Father. If I can only see signs of you being a Christian on Sundays, or behind your phone/computer keyboard, then you are not the child of the Father.

Again I ask - when I look at you, will I see the face of God, the Father? Do you look like Him?

John 5: 19 (NKJV) Jesus gave them this answer: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. By sister Deby

TRUST IN THE LORD

Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census of Israel. 1 Chronicles 21:1-2

God always requires total trust in Him alone for our victories in life. Throughout Scripture we are cautioned not to place our trust in the strength of horses, other men or our own abilities.

David's decision to take a census was a failure to keep his trust totally upon the Lord. David's purpose in counting his population was to assess his military strength, much like the second census taken under Moses.

David found 800,000 men eligible for military service in Israel and 500,000 men in Judah, more than double the previous head count.

David's commander evidently recognized the grave error that his king was about to make. "But Joab replied, 'May the LORD multiply his troops a hundred times over. My lord the king, are they not all my lord's subjects? Why does my lord want to do this? Why should he bring guilt on Israel?"

This census displeased the Lord. David was falling into the temptation of trusting in the size of his army rather than in the Lord.

God punished David and reduced his forces by bringing a plague that killed 70,000 men. How do we do this in our lives today?

We trust the government, our connections, our bank accounts, our skills, and the security of our workplace.

When we begin placing our faith in these things instead of the provider of these things, we get into trouble with God.

What a lesson this is for each of us. We must look up only to God as the source of our provision. He is our Father, and our help comes from Him alone.

Prayer: Praise the Father for being the unfailing source of all you will ever need.

Scriptural Reading: 1 Chronicles 21:1-10

When Life Hits You Hard: 5 Things To Remember and 5 Verses to Live By

Just when I think everything is going perfect in my life, life threw me another curveball. My outgoing, outspoken and loving 54-year-old mother was diagnosed with cervical cancer – stage 3A. Worst news I’ve ever received in my entire life.

Now I do not know what you are dealing with right now. It may be job loss, divorce, a serious illness, a death of a loved-one. Nobody is immune to life’s trials and adversities. We all will experience them, only at varying degrees.

These situations can cause us to be confused, afraid, depressed, anxious and even angry. All these feelings are completely normal. We are humans, we are imperfect and we are flawed. But after recognizing all our emotions, we have to come to terms with our situation. We’ve got to face our problems head on.

Here are five things to remember while you are faced with an insurmountable circumstance.

1. You have access to a 24/7 hotline to heaven.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

When you feel so down and weary, talk to God. Talking helps. He understands and He cares. He feels your pain and all your emotions. Pour out your heart to him and you’ll find your mind is renewed after spending quality time in prayer.

2. God is always with you.

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4

Circumstances like these can shake your world and throw everything out of order. You may find that some things are out of your control and that causes a tremendous fear in your heart. Do not be afraid. The future may be unknown and uncertain, but you must remember that whatever happens, God will never leave you nor forsake you.

3. The difficult times sometimes have to happen so that God can accomplish His purpose for you.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11

There is a quote that says “A smooth sea never made a skillful sailor.”. I believe that to be true. You may have lost a job. Your relationships may have failed. Some things happen in order to mold us into the person God wants us to be. It may be hard to comprehend but we can take comfort knowing God never makes mistakes and He knows what is best for us.

4. You are stronger than you even think.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

Do not let the negative thoughts rule your mind. Focus on the positive and try to find the silver lining in every situation. You can rise above all this. You just have to find your light and not let the darkness thwart it.

5. Giving up is never an option.

“But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31

Your situation may seem hopeless. It may seem like it is the end. There will be days that it will feel like it is. But God is your ever present help in time of need. You can trust Him to give you the grace and strength to make it through any trial.

Sometimes we see how big our problems are and we forget how big our God is.

Tough times are inevitable. And more often than not, our circumstances are beyond our control.

But the good news is: We can control how we react to the situation we are in.

And the great news is: Our God is an Omniscient and Omnipotent God who has total control of everything.

So take heart, child of God.

Why is the child in hands of the beggar always sleeping?

This is an article I came across months ago. We are not sure of the author, however, we’ve checked the authenticity of this with our followers in Bangkok and Cambodia. Surprisingly, this seems to be true, and their request, is only to offer beggars food and water – not money. Any help you can give in terms of their needs are just fine. But make sure you do not hand over big bills, that will keep the begging industry going. You should be wise enough to know whom to help and how to help. Make your decision based on the situation and knowing it well enough.

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“Near the metro station, sits a woman of uncertain age. Her hair is confused and dirty, her head bowed in grief.

The woman sits on the dirty floor and next to her lies a bag. Into that bag, people throw money. In the woman’s hands, asleep, is a two year old baby. He is in a dirty hat and dirty clothes

“Madonna with baby” – numerous passers-by will donate money. The people of our kind – we always feel sorry for those less fortunate. We are ready to give unfortunate people our last shirt, the last penny out of our pocket and never think another issue. Helping, seems like a “Good job done.”

I walked past the beggar for a month. I did not give any money, as I knew that this is a gang-operated scam, and that money collected by the beggar, will be given to whoever controls beggars in the area. Those people own numerous luxury properties and cars. The beggar also gets something, of course, “A bottle of vodka in the evening and a döner kebab.” A month later, walking past the beggar, a shock suddenly hit me….
I’m standing at a busy crossing, staring at the baby. He is dressed, as always, in a dirty track suit. I realized that it seemed “wrong”, finding a child in a dirty underground station from morning to evening. The baby was always asleep. He never sobbed or screamed, he always slept, burying his face in the knee of a woman who was his MUM.

Do any of you, dear readers, have children? Remember how often they slept at the age of 1, 2 or 3 years old? An hour, two, maximum three (and never consecutive). An afternoon nap, and there was always movement. For the whole month, every day I walked to the underground station, I never saw the child awake! I looked at the tiny little man, with his face buried in the knee of his mother, then at the beggar, and my suspicion was gradually formed. “Why does he sleep all the time?” I asked, staring at the baby.

The beggar pretended not to hear me. She lowered her eyes and hid her face in the collar of her shabby jacket. I repeated the question. The woman again looked up. She looked somewhere behind my back, tired with utter irritation. Her look was similar to the creatures from a different planet.

“F *** off,” her lips murmured.

“Why is he asleep?!” I almost cried.

Behind me, someone put their hand on my shoulder. I looked back. An old man was looking at me disapprovingly:

“What do you want from her? Can’t you see how hard she’s got it in her life? Eh?”

He took some coins from his pocket and threw them in the beggar’s bag. source 

The beggar made a cross by waving her hand, portraying the face of humility and universal grief. The guy removed his hand from my shoulder and strolled out of the underground station. I bet, at home, he will tell how he defended poor, distraught woman from a soulless man in a tube station.

Next day, I called a friend. He was a funny man with eyes like olives. His nationality – Romanian. He only managed to complete three and a half years of education. His lack of education did not prevent him from moving around the City streets in expensive foreign cars and live in a “small” house with a countless number of windows and balconies. From my friend, I managed to find out that the beggar is part of a business. Despite the genuine appearance, it is clearly organized. It is supervised by organized crime rings. The children used are “rented” from families of alcoholics, or simply stolen.

I needed to get the answer to my question – Why is the baby always sleeping? And I received it. My friend explained it to me, casually and with a calm voice that twisted me in shock, just like he was talking about weather report: “They are on heroin, or vodka.”

I was dumbfounded. “Who is on heroin or vodka?!”

He answered, “The Child, so he doesn’t scream. The women will be sitting whole day with him, imagine how he might get bored?

In order to make the baby slept the whole day, it pumped up with vodka or drugs. Of course, children’s bodies are not able to cope with such a shock. And children often die. The most terrible thing – sometimes children die during the “working day”. And imaginary mother must hold another dead child on her hands until the evening. These are the rules. And the by passers-by will throw some money in the bag, and believe that they are moral. Helping the mother alone.”

The next day, I was walking near the same underground station. I built up journalistic confidence and was ready for a serious conversation. But the conversation didn’t work out. Instead, it turned out the following way … the woman was sitting on the floor and in her hands she was holding a different child. I asked her a question about the documents of the child, and, most importantly, where was the child from yesterday. She simply ignored me. My questions were not ignored by passers-by though. I was told that I was out of my mind, questioning a poor beggar with a child. Eventually, I was escorted out of the station in disgrace. The one thing that remained was to call the police. When the police arrived, the beggar with the baby had disappeared. I stood with a full sense of “trying to fight windmills.”

When you see in the subway, or on the street, women with children, begging, think before your hand them your money. Think about it, that if it wasn’t for your hundreds of thousands of handouts, the business like this would have died. The business would die and not the children, pumped full of vodka or drugs. Do not look at the sleeping child with affection… See horror… Since you are reading this article, you know now why the child is sleeping in beggars hands.

P.S.
If you copy this article on your wall or just click “Share”, your friends will read it too.
And when you decide again to open your wallet to throw a coin to a beggar with a sleeping child,
remember that this charity could cost another child’s life.”