The Word Illustrated #75 -- A servant's heart

The Word Illustrated #75
© Pamyla Floyd
07/28/2011

A servant’s heart

For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me -- Matthew 25:35-36

Jesus never hesitated to serve His disciples, or thought Himself more highly than others who served along side Him. He beautifully illustrated this, when He washed the disciples feet -- John 13:5. This is a tender act of servitude toward others. A true servant does not seek recognition or the praise of others. They simply want to help (serve), and would rather work ‘behind the scenes’.

They are most satisfied, when others are able to enjoy the fruit of their labor. They prefer to go unnoticed, and are often perplexed, when the act of helping is praised. Although theirs is a ministry of ‘Helps’; it is more a part of who they are, rather than a ministry position. These individuals often speak to and spend time with those others choose to ignore.

When they go grocery shopping, they buy enough to share with others. If they find a deal, their thoughts go to someone else who could benefit from their find. Generally, they do not worry about what others think of them. They only want to do what is right, and pleasing to God. In the flesh, they question why they are the way they are, sulk and will hesitate to serve. This happens when the deceiver slips through the crack in their armour. he tricks them into focusing on themselves and their situation, rather than helping others. he also tricks them into thinking that they should have more than they do.

Their power verse is Galatians 6:9 -- And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Once they confess their sin, and repent to the Lord, they can move forward again unhindered. The servants know their calling, and will do what is right, even if it puts them in a less favorable light with others. We are told to be doers and not hearers only, who deceive themselves James 1:22. The word of God is very clear.

The life of a servant is a witness to others. They are so unusual, that they automatically draw attention to themselves, without meaning to. They are watched closely by others. The way you live, how you give, the way you speak to and treat others, is always being scrutinized. When faced with trials and tribulations, others want to know how you handle things, even those in the body of Christ. They want to know if we are willing to only love and serve the Lord when things are going well.

They really want to know if we believe what we say and do, or if it is just for show. The servant knows how to walk by faith, and not by sight, because he/she knows that what we see are only temporal. More than that, they know that if they are to walk in faith, then they cannot straddle the fence. The opposite of faith is doubt and unbelief. They know that they MUST still move forward with singleness of heart in their service to God, because in the grand scheme of things, all things work together for the good of them that love God, those who are the called according to His purpose.


God bless,
Pamyla

If you want to know how to ask Jesus into your heart, please visit my Salvation page. If you want prayer or need help finding scriptures to stand on, please email me: thewordillustrated at yahoo dot com

Reference Scriptures:
After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded --John 13:5

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves -- Philippians 2:3


Note: The image is an illustration of a hand holding a beating heart.

The Word Illustrated #74 -- A Growing love

click to enlarge

The Word Illustrated #74
© Pamyla Floyd
07/13/2011

A growing love

O love the LORD, all ye his saints: for the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer

My dog Blu and I were together for nine and a half years. When I first got him he was just shy of being 6 weeks old. He was the runt of his litter and was so small, that he could fit inside my jacket pocket. As the months went by, he steadily picked up a pound a month that first year. He was a whiny little baby, who was always scrambling to get close to me. When it thundered outside, or something frightened him, I laid him on my chest, so that the sound of my beating heart would relax him.

As he got older, he became too big to even hide in my large duffel bag. You see, he not only went to work with me, but he went with me on vacations, to the store, and to the homes of family members as well. We were always together. When I had to start leaving him at home, he didn’t like it, and let me know. In the mornings, as I readied myself for work, he would grab my socks, run and hide them. I began coming up with games to distract him, and I would run out of the house when he wasn’t looking. Twice he left nice little ‘packages’ under my pillow!

But, if I got a cold and did not feel my best, he would lie at my feet. When I moved, he moved and stood at attention, awaiting my command. If Iwas looking for my keys and said “Blu, where are my keys” he would steer his eyes in the direction they were in. When my mother passed away, he feeling my grief, and would lean against me, using all of his weight. During that time, he walked so close underfoot, that I tripped and fell. When I slept, he would lay on my legs. Ouch!

The whole time we were together, He was willing and eager to please me. He loved for me to talk to him, and was eager to learn. He even knew his left from his right. The love Blu showed me, surprised me at times; especially after a scolding. God used him to reveal to me, what my relationship with Him should look. I should be eager to spend time with Him (in the word), want to talk to Him (through prayer), follow His commands (being obedient) and lean on Him (at all times). Blu didn't care whether I had a piece of cheese, some fish, (his favorite), his ball or was empty handed. He always met me with great expectancy and joy. I never felt slighted, ignored or put off. He was glad that I was there.

Through our friendship, I learned how to fall in love with Jesus. Proverbs 18:24 describes Jesus as the friend that sticks closer than a brother. We can all improve our relationship with Him, by getting to know Him, for who He is. I’m not the only one, who knows how it feels to be 'loved' for what we can give or do for someone. By the same token, we all long to be accepted and loved for ‘who’ we are. In that regard, the Lord is the same way, and He longs to have a more loving relationship with each of us.

I thank God for the time I was allowed to have with Blu. He was a loyal friend who added value to my life. He was a tan Alaskan malamute, Siberian husky mix with powder blue eyes, and a black streak on his back. He would get into the driver seat when I got out of the car, and was so huge, that he looked like a person sitting there. When I was a little girl, I dreamt of having a dog like him. God honored my heart desire, and through a co worker, gave him to me at no cost. In the last couple of years, out of the blue, (no pun intended, of course!) people have offered me the same type of dog. These people had never known Blu. God is so good!

God bless,
Pamyla

If you want to know how to ask Jesus into your heart, please visit my Salvation page. If you want prayer or need help finding scriptures to stand on, please email me: thewordillustrated at yahoo dot com

Reference Scriptures:
The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee -- Jeremiah 31:3

And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God -- James 2:23

Note: The image is a collage memorial with pictures of Blu, my faithful friend who loved me, no matter what.

The Word Illustrated #73--Getting to breakthrough

Others may ridicule and see you as a clown
The Word Illustrated #73
© Pamyla Floyd
07/05/2011

Getting to breakthrough

We each need to get into a relationship with the Lord and walk closely with Him. Whether it is a word from the Lord, a specific promise, or living as He commanded, we need to know where our help comes from when trouble arises. We are to fight the good fight of faith. If we don’t, we will give up, cave in and quit; never learning to fully trust and stand on His word.

It’s worth it, to take time out to find supporting scriptures, to stand on. It’s worth it to take the time to study, read, and meditate on that word. It’s also worth it, to SAY out loud what God says. Why? Because, faith comes by hearing. Times become hard, situations get sticky, and there will be things that we do not want to deal with, but we can do all things through Christ which strengthen us.

The opposition we face shows up as accusation/ridicule, temptation, and loss. These are designed to crush us, but, we have to know who it is that makes us. Murmuring and complaining is not pleasing to God, these words are filled with doubt and unbelief. “This is too hard”, “I give up”, “I can’t handle it” go against His word. These statements SEEM to take the pressure off, but, they give satan the permission needed, to stand before the throne of God and accuse us day and night – Revelations 12:10

Jesus is our hope against hope, and because of what He did on the cross, we can take hold of and walk in every promise of God. We are told to work out our salvation, which is not going to be easy! Did you know that you are: joint heirs with Christ, the seed of Abraham, and that you have the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit and all of heaven on your side?

Whether the challenges are in our health, finances, relationships or other areas of our lives; we must stay in faith. We have to make sure that what goes in us; what we believe, and what we say, line up with what comes out of our mouths. Our faith is the only thing that moves God.

So what if your world is turned upside down – stand. So what if others laugh and walk away – stand. No matter who leaves, Jesus promised to ALWAYS be with us. Friends, satan comes to kill, steal, and destroy. he doesn’t fight fair and will pull out all the stops. There is no need to be surprised when divers temptations come; no matter what form they come in -- stand. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand -- Ephesians 6:13.

The loss of job, home, finances, family and friends can be devastating, but remember, it is our faith that pleases God and that in His timing, we will find ourselves whole in every area concerning us. Our reaction is the key that unlocks the door for things to move in His direction or another. What are you saying? Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest – Joshua 1:9

As our ears become tuned to His voice, the more we want to see His will, be made manifest in our lives. In the blink of an eye, He can change everything. It is His will for us to prosper, even as our soul prosper. You need to know that He is no respecter of persons. Your experiences and what you have learned will not only help you down the road, but they will also help someone else.

What seemed like an eternity in the desert, was only a pruning, meant to build and strengthen us. There were attitudes, behaviors, and habits that needed to be striped out. You are now walking under an open heaven, and doors that were not there before, suddenly appear; waiting for you to pass through them. When you know the truth, you are fee. The transition is so smooth, that you don’t remember moving from that place to this. How awesome is our God!

God bless,
Pamyla

If you want to know how to ask Jesus into your heart, please visit my Salvation page. If you want prayer or need help finding scriptures to stand on, please email me: thewordillustrated at yahoo dot com

*Note* The illustration is of a sad, reluctant clown.

The Word Illustrated #72--Moving on Purpose

The Word Illustrated #72
© Pamyla Floyd
6/29/2011

Moving on Purpose

Last night when I got home, I decided to watch tv. I turned to a station that plays old shows and watched Perry Mason. As I watched, I found myself captivated by Perry Mason and Della Street, as they traveled through the courthouse. I noticed how he, anticipating her moves, made sure that he was one step ahead, waiting, and holding the door. As they continued on toward the lawyers box, I noticed how deliberate they were in the way they moved.

He led the way, without apprehension or hesitation, and she, in turn, followed, without reproach; without question. They both stood tall, firm and were positive forces. In my mind's eye, I saw what clearly seemed, to be a dance. Each of them knew their part, and moved in sync to the other. The interest theoy created, instantly drew the attention of those around them.

They moved on purpose, one walking in the role of giver, the other; in the role of receiver. Through out this 'dance', no words were spoken. Their smiles gave way to what words could not have effectively expressed, at that time. The mutual respect and trust that they held for eachother was present, and needed no explanations. Everything was open; there were no hidden agendas, and neither of them needed to look around in fear.

Perry and Della, although collegues, were also long time friends. Older shows like this remind us of a time when two people, attracted to eachother, maintained a level of respect and admiration that budded into a friendship. Sometimes the friendship would grow into more. They didn't face the complications that we have today, because their moves were calculated, deliberated..on purpose. Philippians 4:6 tells us to be careful (anxious) for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication and with thanksgiving, to make our requests made known unto God.

When we take our time and get to know people for who they are (from the inside out), we may be pleasently surprised to find out that we have more in common than we initially might have thought. Positioning ourselves and moving on purpose, puts in direct alignment to reap a crop harvest of blessings never seen before. This is the place where peace of mind, and favor are obtained, while walking under an open heaven. Not for a time or two, but for all times. Before we enter any relationship, we should understand the concepts of giving and receiving. The root of these is love. God is love and it 'for this cause' that we are able to do so. As we begin to walk in love, it will spill over into all areas of our lives. ALL areas of our lives.

The word of God says that he who FINDS a wife, finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord. This passage clears up the notion that wives/husbands are made at the altar. It also dispells the rumor that women are to go out and look for a man. This is not biblical advice. However, I will say, that a man/woman moving on purpose, should step out of their comfort zones, go to different events and gatherings; be willling to and atleast try the untried. We could all stretch more. Learning new things, getting more education, finding out about current events in the world, traveling or teaching someone something, are just a few suggestions on how to move on purpose. I'm sure you can think of more ways to share.

Some singles question whether or not it is the will of God for them to marry, I offer you Genesis 2:8, And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. This question was posed by a couple of guests at a Singles Get together that I attended last Friday night. We move on purpose when we have a made up mind to do the things of Christ; this includes saying what He says. But before we can say the right things, they have to be in our hearts. I already know what I would say if someone accidently steps on my baby toe, because it is ingrained in me. The things we believe are outwardly expressed by what we say and do. Proverbs 4:23

This is how our character is developed. When we move with purpose, and want to please God, we are not sleeping around nor have a 'try it before you buy it' mentality. That 'burning' is then channeled in other ways that build us up, rather than tear us down. This is why it is of the utmost importance to know and stand on the word of God. satan comes with his deceptions at every angle. For some, they may feel that they 'have made it ' but there is no wife/husband. For others, they may think their disability is what keeps them single. For yet others, their education, economic status, background, physical attributes etc are constant reminders of why they are single. They are all lies from the pit of hell. There is nothing wrong with you.

So we have to purposely decide who we are going to believe. I choose to believe what God says! Once you find supporting scriptures, you STAND on them, pray them back to God and move in faith toward a life of abundance. If you adopt these steps, you will begin to move on purpose and experience a more satisfied and whole life. Your singlehood will be recognized for what it is, a vacation along the road of life. Right now, come to a better life filled with joy unspeakable and peace of mind. Soon, the question won't be " When will I marry" but "What's the rush"
God bless,
Pamyla

If you want to know how to ask Jesus into your heart, or want help in leading someone to Christ, please visit my Salvation page. If you want prayer or need help finding scriptures to stand on, please email me: thewordillustrated at yahoo dot com

Reference Scriptures

The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law -- Deuteronomy 29:29

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus -- Philippians 4:19

Note: The illustration is of an old car

The Word Illustrated #71--Steppin Out

The Word Illustrated #71
© Pamyla Floyd
5/9/2011

Steppin' Out

As singles, we can sometimes find ourselves stuck in a rut that' seems to be glued to the floor. I've come to realize, by way of the Holy Spirit, that location is at the root of the problem. You see, if we are really interested in being in the pathway of our husband/wife, then we have to move. No, I don't mean He suggested that any of us move our place of residence, but He has suggested that we become more active participants in our lives.

Far too often, us single folk, maybe even without realizing it, take a back seat to life; putting off going to new places or trying new things, “until we are married”. We are counting ourselves as being dull, boring, and close minded.
"thy faith hath made thee whole" is what we hear throughout the bible. Where is your faith? Are you walking in your wholeness? I have never found a man who does nothing but work, church, and back home again day after day, attractive. In fact, I run from these types, because truth be told, if a person isn't interested in enjoying life and broadening themselves now; there is very little chance that they will want to after they are in a relationship.

That is like a woman dating an unsaved, jobless man who then expects him to suddenly get saved, and start working, after they have married. Are you following me? It just doesn't work like that. People always let you know who they are. We have to accept people for who they are, and not for who we think we can make them into. Sometimes to get what we want, we have to be willing to come out of our comfort zones.
Far too often, we seek things in a person that we are not willing to be or give in return. I, enjoy asking married couples how they met. Some have met online, at their place of employment, while doing ministry work, taking classes, or while enjoying a favorite hobby.

When we do things that interest us, we are happier, more outgoing, relaxed and easiier to approach. We are drawn to, and form friendships with people we might not otherwise meet in our day to day grind. Proverbs 18:24a says that he who hath friends, must shew himself friendly. We may meet someone directly, through a friend, acquaintance or a family member. I have a friend who recenly began dating a man that her sister bumped into while grocery shopping!

This man is whole, confident in Christ and his mind was not clouded by pre conceived judgments and notions. In John 10:10, Jesus said that satan comes to steal, kill and destroy, but that He has come to give life comma and to give it more abundantly. I believe Him to have been telling us that we could live life to the fullest, right now, not later.

I said all of that to make the point of, if you are single and want to marry, you can and will, if you believe in the word of God. Mark 11:24, is what I want us to meditate on this week. Therefore I say unto you, what things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them and ye shall have them. Be bold, step out and live life to the fullest. You just might be surprised.

God bless,
Pamyla

If you want to know how to ask Jesus into your heart, or want help in leading someone to Christ, please visit my Salvation page. If you want prayer or need help finding scriptures to stand on, please email me: thewordillustrated at yahoo dot com

Reference Scriptures:

for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart – I Samuel 16:7b

Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies – Proverbs 31:10

Note: The illustration drawing is of hands raised in the air

The Word Illustrated #70--Keep your joy!

The Word Illustrated #70
© Pamyla Floyd
3/18/2011

Keep your joy
I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving – Psalms 69:30

Websters defines joy as the emotion evoked by well being, success or good fortune, or
by the prospect of possessing what one desires.

The definition of rejoice is to experience great happiness. It's easy to rejoice, sing praises and lift up the name of Jesus when things are going well. If we get up and the sun is shining, birds are singing, all is well, and we are good. But, what if we are awakened by thunder breaking overhead with dark doom filled clouds and monsoon rains? Can we still rejoice and give thanks to the Lord for who He is and for all He's done?

James 1:6 describes one who wavers like a wave in the sea driven and tossed to and fro. We are to be steadfast and unmovable in our faith. Whether the day is clear or cloudy, the report good or not so good; we are to remain in faith and continue to trust God. Thus, keeping our joy.

Growing in Christ means that yes, we may have to face some tough times, or wait for a promise that tarries long. We can't afford to be fair weather Christians who are always crying, complaining and speaking doubt and unbelief. This is not someone walking in faith. Abraham was told that he would be the father of MANY nations. The bible says that he being not weak in faith, considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara's womb!

Now that's faith. Can you imagine the joy of a word spoken? He held onto the promise for 25 years. Many us get tried of waiting on God and give up. We lose our joy and allow satan to keep taking us in the same circle year after year. My grand mama used to tell me, “It's always darkest before the dawn”. My advice to you is to keep moving forward, stay joyful, stay in faith and keep trusting the Lord. If He has made you a promise, rest assured that if He said it, He will perform it! He holds His word above His name!

God bless,
Pamyla

If you want to know how to ask Jesus into your heart, or want help in leading someone to Christ, please visit my Salvation page. If you want prayer or need help finding scriptures to stand on, please email me: thewordillustrated at yahoo dot com

Reference Scriptures:

Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice – Philippians 4:4

Rejoice evermore – I Thessalonians 5:16

Note: The illustration is of a stork rejoicing and the dawn of a new Spring day

The Word Illustrated #69 -- Real Love

The Word Illustrated #69
© Pamyla Floyd
2/16/2011

Real Love

The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee – Jeremiah 31:3

Valentine's Day is the day that we outwardly express our love. It is a day, much anticipated, with careful planning and delight. We don't mind looking silly, or 'putting ourselves out there' for our sweetie pie. But, what about our first love? Deuteronomy 6:5 tell us that we are to love the LORD our God with all our heart, our mind and all our might.

God so LOVED the world, that He GAVE His only begotton son. What kind of love is this? His love is so deep, so wide, and so high that we cannot begin to understand it! He knew the roads we would travel, the mistakes we would make, and of our rejection of Him, and yet, He still loved us. In fact, He loved us even BEFORE we were formed in our mother's womb. This is real love.

I challenge you to daily express your love toward Him. We can begin by simply telling Him that we love Him, and look for ways to please Him. Aren't these the things we do to gain the attention, love and approval of others? As we draw nearer, He will show and teach us about real love; he will also teach us how to recognize and receive it when it is expressed through others. Real love, what a beautiful thing!

God bless,
Pamyla

If you want to know how to ask Jesus into your heart, or want help in leading someone to Christ, please visit my Salvation page. If you want prayer or need help finding scriptures to stand on, please email me: thewordillustrated at yahoo dot com

Reference Scriptures:

Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations – Jeremiah 1:5

Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love -- Revelation 2:4

Note: The illustration is of a comic male holding a flower. He has a broad, grin.