Inspirations http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:23:00 GMT http://bandzoogle.com Anchored in Him! http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1462166 Isaiah 26:3-4 (NIV)"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD himself, is the Rock eternal."1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." It was time to remove the climbing vine and put a fresh coat of paint on the outside of the garage door area. As I began to pluck the individual vines from the brick on the house and on the trim of the garage door, I noticed how frequent and strong the plant had anchored itself as it grew each day. As I examined each vine and each anchor, I noticed that there were several fibrous 'feet' that anchored the plant to both surface types. In fact, I thought it probably didn't matter what surface this plant was near, it would likely grow and place anchors periodically in order to be able to climb to higher heights. I wondered as I labored to remove the unwanted vines, that they would likely climb in excess of 100ft if surrounded by a tall structure.Being rooted in God's Word each day is much like that plant, isn't it? As we continue to read our bibles and pray and trust God, we are able to climb to higher heights, and develop anchors along the way. The vine had endured periods of drought and excess rain, and has even continued to grow after many chilly nights with heavy frost.Dear Friend, how about you? Are you like the climbing vine and are seeking to grow each and every day? When you spend time alone with Him will you develop the strong anchors you need to endure all the storms of life. Take a few moments right now to root yourself in prayer and in the reading of His Word and be Anchored in Him. Blessings to You,Dave Henry--RideTheWind--
Isaiah 26:3-4 (NIV)
"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD himself, is the Rock eternal."

1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)
"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."

It was time to remove the climbing vine and put a fresh coat of paint on the outside of the garage door area. As I began to pluck the individual vines from the brick on the house and on the trim of the garage door, I noticed how frequent and strong the plant had anchored itself as it grew each day.

As I examined each vine and each anchor, I noticed that there were several fibrous 'feet' that anchored the plant to both surface types. In fact, I thought it probably didn't matter what surface this plant was near, it would likely grow and place anchors periodically in order to be able to climb to higher heights. I wondered as I labored to remove the unwanted vines, that they would likely climb in excess of 100ft if surrounded by a tall structure.

Being rooted in God's Word each day is much like that plant, isn't it? As we continue to read our bibles and pray and trust God, we are able to climb to higher heights, and develop anchors along the way. The vine had endured periods of drought and excess rain, and has even continued to grow after many chilly nights with heavy frost.

Dear Friend, how about you? Are you like the climbing vine and are seeking to grow each and every day? When you spend time alone with Him will you develop the strong anchors you need to endure all the storms of life. Take a few moments right now to root yourself in prayer and in the reading of His Word and be Anchored in Him.

Blessings to You,
Dave Henry
--RideTheWind--
]]> Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:23:00 GMT 446623E414E23C80D92072610CEA06DE Go, Make Disciples! http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1422927 Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."There is a 10 day festival in our area that attracts over a million visitors each year. It is an annual tradition for families and other groups of people to spend time walking and talking and shopping for several hours. Numerous vendors in all directions sell everything from crafts and other household goods and clothing to delicious, freshly prepared foods.As we walked by several booth areas, many vendors provided free samples of popcorn, cheese, dips, nuts and many other foods. In fact, representatives actively walked outside of the booth areas, offering samples to everyone in an effort to lure prospective customers to make a purchase. Many thoughts filled my mind as we passed from booth to booth. Some products simply sold themselves by being fragrant, and were being offered at a reasonable price. Other products required a greater effort to convince customers that the product was truly worth the price. The use of microphones, mass sampling, and an outgoing, friendly staff often made a measurable difference in ultimately obtaining the sale.You see, as God's children, we are like these vendors. Our words and actions each day can attract many people to follow Him. By being pleasant and fragrant to everyone we interact with, we can make a measurable difference in promoting God's love to a world who desperately needs Him.Dear Friend, how about you? Are you sitting on the sidelines, waiting for someone to ask you about God, or are you initiating contact with as many people as possible in an effort to share His redeeming love? He has commanded us to make disciples in all nations and to teach them everything He has taught us. It takes a gallant effort from all of us to reach the world, but it will truly be worth it when we see Him in Glory!Blessings to You,Dave Henry--RideTheWind--
Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

There is a 10 day festival in our area that attracts over a million visitors each year. It is an annual tradition for families and other groups of people to spend time walking and talking and shopping for several hours. Numerous vendors in all directions sell everything from crafts and other household goods and clothing to delicious, freshly prepared foods.

As we walked by several booth areas, many vendors provided free samples of popcorn, cheese, dips, nuts and many other foods. In fact, representatives actively walked outside of the booth areas, offering samples to everyone in an effort to lure prospective customers to make a purchase.

Many thoughts filled my mind as we passed from booth to booth. Some products simply sold themselves by being fragrant, and were being offered at a reasonable price. Other products required a greater effort to convince customers that the product was truly worth the price. The use of microphones, mass sampling, and an outgoing, friendly staff often made a measurable difference in ultimately obtaining the sale.

You see, as God's children, we are like these vendors. Our words and actions each day can attract many people to follow Him. By being pleasant and fragrant to everyone we interact with, we can make a measurable difference in promoting God's love to a world who desperately needs Him.

Dear Friend, how about you? Are you sitting on the sidelines, waiting for someone to ask you about God, or are you initiating contact with as many people as possible in an effort to share His redeeming love? He has commanded us to make disciples in all nations and to teach them everything He has taught us. It takes a gallant effort from all of us to reach the world, but it will truly be worth it when we see Him in Glory!

Blessings to You,
Dave Henry
--RideTheWind--
]]> Sun, 23 Oct 2011 05:15:00 GMT 8C33E0B10B0A8576B39F68AF57E889DC Are You Contagious? http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1354606 Matthew 13:31-34 (NIV)He told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches." He told them still another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough." Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable. Last night as I made cinnamon rolls for a special group of friends, I was reminded of these two parables as I mixed the yeast with the flour. I don't know how many times I have made yeast breads and rolls during the last 30 years, but every time I use yeast, I remember this parable. Isn't it amazing that something as small as a mustard seed can grow to be such a large tree and even provide shade and shelter for the birds and other animals? Isn't it amazing also that merely one tablespoon of yeast can have such an impact on several cups of flour and other ingredients?I remembered my Grandma Pauline last night as I stirred the rolls. Grandma always had a contagious smile on her face, and she mastered the principle of sharing God's joy with others. Grandma frequently said that she had God's sunshine in her heart and she wanted to share it with others. Much like the yeast, a little bit of her joy went a long way in ministering to others.Dear Friend, how about you? Are you like the yeast and the mustard seed? Sometimes we aren't aware of the blessing that we are to others, but being filled with God's love and sharing it with others produces great results. Ask God right now to help you show His love to others in a small way today, and He will multiply the effect as He has promised in these two parables. Blessings to You,Dave Henry--RideTheWind-- Matthew 13:31-34 (NIV)
He told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches."
He told them still another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough."
Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable.

Last night as I made cinnamon rolls for a special group of friends, I was reminded of these two parables as I mixed the yeast with the flour. I don't know how many times I have made yeast breads and rolls during the last 30 years, but every time I use yeast, I remember this parable.

Isn't it amazing that something as small as a mustard seed can grow to be such a large tree and even provide shade and shelter for the birds and other animals? Isn't it amazing also that merely one tablespoon of yeast can have such an impact on several cups of flour and other ingredients?

I remembered my Grandma Pauline last night as I stirred the rolls. Grandma always had a contagious smile on her face, and she mastered the principle of sharing God's joy with others. Grandma frequently said that she had God's sunshine in her heart and she wanted to share it with others. Much like the yeast, a little bit of her joy went a long way in ministering to others.

Dear Friend, how about you? Are you like the yeast and the mustard seed? Sometimes we aren't aware of the blessing that we are to others, but being filled with God's love and sharing it with others produces great results. Ask God right now to help you show His love to others in a small way today, and He will multiply the effect as He has promised in these two parables.

Blessings to You,
Dave Henry
--RideTheWind--
]]> Sun, 02 Oct 2011 17:23:00 GMT 7254F3F11F0E6DDF8860CB231A8C9DEF Trust Him! http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1354607 Proverbs 29:25 (NIV)"Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe."Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."Isaiah 26:3-4 (NIV)"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD himself, is the Rock eternal."Psalm 46:10 (NIV)"Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."Decisions, decisions, decisions! Each and every day we are faced with many decisions. From the moment we rise in the morning, to the time we go to bed, we have perhaps hundreds of decisions to make throughout the day. Some decisions we make are routine and require no thought, while other decisions should find us on our knees seeking God's wisdom for our lives.Think about it for a moment. At the beginning of the day, we have the choice to sleep for a few extra minutes or to get up and get going. We have the choice of what we will wear today. We choose how fast we will drive our car and maybe whether we will run the red light or slam on our brakes. Other decisions, however, are very difficult to make and we should take time to meditate so that we can seek and understand God's direction for our life. We may have job opportunities or residential changes, or we may consider the purchase of a vehicle that will require us to make payments or empty our savings account.Dear Friend, how about you? In all of the decisions you will make today, have you asked Him to guide you? Every decision, great or small, is important to our Heavenly Father, and He has promised that He is eternal and is ready to guide us if we will put our faith and trust in Him and lean not on our own understanding.Blessings to You,Dave Henry --RideTheWind-- Proverbs 29:25 (NIV)
"Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe."

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

Isaiah 26:3-4 (NIV)
"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD himself, is the Rock eternal."

Psalm 46:10 (NIV)
"Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."

Decisions, decisions, decisions! Each and every day we are faced with many decisions. From the moment we rise in the morning, to the time we go to bed, we have perhaps hundreds of decisions to make throughout the day. Some decisions we make are routine and require no thought, while other decisions should find us on our knees seeking God's wisdom for our lives.

Think about it for a moment. At the beginning of the day, we have the choice to sleep for a few extra minutes or to get up and get going. We have the choice of what we will wear today. We choose how fast we will drive our car and maybe whether we will run the red light or slam on our brakes.

Other decisions, however, are very difficult to make and we should take time to meditate so that we can seek and understand God's direction for our life. We may have job opportunities or residential changes, or we may consider the purchase of a vehicle that will require us to make payments or empty our savings account.

Dear Friend, how about you? In all of the decisions you will make today, have you asked Him to guide you? Every decision, great or small, is important to our Heavenly Father, and He has promised that He is eternal and is ready to guide us if we will put our faith and trust in Him and lean not on our own understanding.

Blessings to You,
Dave Henry
--RideTheWind--
]]> Sun, 02 Oct 2011 16:48:00 GMT 1BB78E8BB0717909F5AE2AD7BB085860 Be Strong and Courageous! http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1351897 Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV)"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."Joshua 1:7 (NIV)"Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go."Ephesians 6:10 (NIV)Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.What exactly is courage? According to the dictionary, courage is 'the quality of mind or spirit that enables us to face difficulty or pain or danger without fear.' The Latin roots of the word 'courage' simply mean to have heart. If you are courageous, you act in such a way that you will not be timid or afraid.There are many ways to be courageous, especially in today's world. God gives us many opportunities each day to take a stand for Him, at work or home, or when we are in social situations. I do think, however, that we must be careful to not be so overly courageous that we do more harm than good. The verses above instruct us to not be afraid, and to rely on God for our strength and courage as we face our day. We are also instructed as we are being courageous, that we are to obey the laws that have been given us.Dear Friend, how about you? Are you strong and courageous? Do you follow the law of the land? Do you rely on God for your strength each day? Do not be afraid or terrified. Take a few moments right now to ask Him to guide you and to provide strength, so that you may truly be strong and courageous as God called you to be!Blessings to You,Dave Henry--RideTheWind-- Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV)
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

Joshua 1:7 (NIV)
"Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go."

Ephesians 6:10 (NIV)
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.

What exactly is courage? According to the dictionary, courage is 'the quality of mind or spirit that enables us to face difficulty or pain or danger without fear.' The Latin roots of the word 'courage' simply mean to have heart. If you are courageous, you act in such a way that you will not be timid or afraid.

There are many ways to be courageous, especially in today's world. God gives us many opportunities each day to take a stand for Him, at work or home, or when we are in social situations. I do think, however, that we must be careful to not be so overly courageous that we do more harm than good.

The verses above instruct us to not be afraid, and to rely on God for our strength and courage as we face our day. We are also instructed as we are being courageous, that we are to obey the laws that have been given us.

Dear Friend, how about you? Are you strong and courageous? Do you follow the law of the land? Do you rely on God for your strength each day? Do not be afraid or terrified. Take a few moments right now to ask Him to guide you and to provide strength, so that you may truly be strong and courageous as God called you to be!

Blessings to You,
Dave Henry
--RideTheWind--
]]> Sat, 01 Oct 2011 06:31:00 GMT E603A9E54A66089461E5378702E27045 Praise Him All Day! http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1347670 Psalm 113:3 (NIV)"From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the LORD is to be praised."This morning as I was eastbound in my car with corn fields on both sides, the sun was rising in the midst of a very dense fog. While focusing on the road ahead, I was able to catch a few peeks. I noticed as the sun gently made its presence known, and began to dominate the sky, the fog quickly disappeared. What a gorgeous, colorful view as I experienced the green and brown corn fields and the rich, golden sunrise over the top of the corn as far as I could see!My heart exploded with an anthem of praise to God for experiencing such a beautiful sunrise, especially since I wasn't expecting it! I must admit that I am aware that the sun has been rising later and setting earlier each day since it is that time of year, but I hadn't planned to see the beautiful sight this morning. Have you ever been moved to a state of great gratitude while driving, that your response was immediate praise and thanks to God? Today's verse came to me as I returned my thanksgiving to Him. Read the verse again. At the end of the day, as I conclude this inspiration, the colorful images remain very clear in my mind. My heart continues to be overwhelmed with praise and thanksgiving to God for serving up such a beautiful sunrise!Dear Friend, how about you? Have you had a good day today? I was reminded once again that God is able to gain our attention even when we aren't looking for Him. If we start our day praising Him, and are seeking him early in the morning, our praise will continue until the setting of the sun.Blessings to You,Dave Henry--RideTheWind-- Psalm 113:3 (NIV)
"From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the LORD is to be praised."

This morning as I was eastbound in my car with corn fields on both sides, the sun was rising in the midst of a very dense fog. While focusing on the road ahead, I was able to catch a few peeks. I noticed as the sun gently made its presence known, and began to dominate the sky, the fog quickly disappeared. What a gorgeous, colorful view as I experienced the green and brown corn fields and the rich, golden sunrise over the top of the corn as far as I could see!

My heart exploded with an anthem of praise to God for experiencing such a beautiful sunrise, especially since I wasn't expecting it! I must admit that I am aware that the sun has been rising later and setting earlier each day since it is that time of year, but I hadn't planned to see the beautiful sight this morning.

Have you ever been moved to a state of great gratitude while driving, that your response was immediate praise and thanks to God? Today's verse came to me as I returned my thanksgiving to Him. Read the verse again. At the end of the day, as I conclude this inspiration, the colorful images remain very clear in my mind. My heart continues to be overwhelmed with praise and thanksgiving to God for serving up such a beautiful sunrise!

Dear Friend, how about you? Have you had a good day today? I was reminded once again that God is able to gain our attention even when we aren't looking for Him. If we start our day praising Him, and are seeking him early in the morning, our praise will continue until the setting of the sun.

Blessings to You,
Dave Henry
--RideTheWind--
]]> Fri, 30 Sep 2011 05:35:00 GMT 23080B441D45BFF8D29C09329E176FC6 A Music Lesson from God http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1334345 Psalm 92:1-3 (NIV)"It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High, proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp."Earlier in the week I had committed on a short notice to play my harp for a local business luncheon. The first part of the request was very simple--to play for thirty min, which I have done numerous times at other gatherings. The second part of the request was a little more difficult to achieve. I was asked to play only secular music, because they did not want to offend anyone who may be uncomfortable with hymns, choruses, and other Spiritual songs.Based on this specific request, which was not what I had in mind, it would have been very easy to quickly and quietly bow out just this one time. I asked the coordinator of the event to allow me a few hours to make my decision. After all, I promised God when I purchased my new harp two years ago that I would use it to be a blessing to others. The next morning, I accepted the invitation to play. After I had some time to quietly reflect on why I had committed to play the harp, it became an easier decision. I realized that once again, I had an amazing opportunity to be a blessing to others. As I entered the building carrying the harp during a very busy lunch hour, I knew that God had placed me in a very unique setting with a wonderful opportunity to spread His love. I learned a very valuable lesson yesterday. God heard those songs and so did the people in the dining area. The applause that I received belongs to God and God alone for allowing me to share this wonderful gift of music with His instrument of peace. As I loaded my harp and returned home, I said, "Thank you, God, for teaching me to be obedient and for allowing me to share Your love with everyone through the beautiful harp."Dear Friend, all of us have been given opportunities to be a blessing to others. Take a few minutes right now to ask God to use you in a special way this day. Blessings to You,Dave Henry--RideTheWind-- Psalm 92:1-3 (NIV)
"It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High, proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp."

Earlier in the week I had committed on a short notice to play my harp for a local business luncheon. The first part of the request was very simple?to play for thirty min, which I have done numerous times at other gatherings. The second part of the request was a little more difficult to achieve. I was asked to play only secular music, because they did not want to offend anyone who may be uncomfortable with hymns, choruses, and other Spiritual songs.

Based on this specific request, which was not what I had in mind, it would have been
very easy to quickly and quietly bow out just this one time. I asked the coordinator of the event to allow me a few hours to make my decision. After all, I promised God when I purchased my new harp two years ago that I would use it to be a blessing to others.

The next morning, I accepted the invitation to play. After I had some time to quietly reflect on why I had committed to play the harp, it became an easier decision. I realized that once again, I had an amazing opportunity to be a blessing to others.

As I entered the building carrying the harp during a very busy lunch hour, I knew that God had placed me in a very unique setting with a wonderful opportunity to spread His love. I learned a very valuable lesson yesterday. God heard those songs and so did the people in the dining area. The applause that I received belongs to God and God alone for allowing me to share this wonderful gift of music with His instrument of peace.

As I loaded my harp and returned home, I said, "Thank you, God, for teaching me to be obedient and for allowing me to share Your love with everyone through the beautiful harp."

Dear Friend, all of us have been given opportunities to be a blessing to others. Take a few minutes right now to ask God to use you in a special way this day.

Blessings to You,
Dave Henry
--RideTheWind--
]]> Mon, 26 Sep 2011 22:53:00 GMT 9F1A230D0D33726A2C0B2C7620D8DAD8 God's plans http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1248687 Proverbs 16:1-3NIV 1 To man belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the reply of the tongue. 2 All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD. 3 Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.How often we set out to achieve our goals. We are on a mission.We get into a mode of setting plans and moving forward. Checking off the marks as each task is completed. Never taking our eyes from the goal. Set you eyes on JESUS. Lay down your plans, watch and listen to what God is doing and join Him. Let God set the plans, commit yourlife to completing the goals that God has set. These plans willsucceed. In God's time. In God's will. Have a great day!--RideTheWind-- NIV
1 To man belong the plans of the heart,
but from the LORD comes the reply of the tongue.

2 All a man's ways seem innocent to him,
but motives are weighed by the LORD.

3 Commit to the LORD whatever you do,
and your plans will succeed.

How often we set out to achieve our goals. We are on a mission.
We get into a mode of setting plans and moving forward. Checking
off the marks as each task is completed. Never taking our eyes
from the goal.

Set you eyes on JESUS. Lay down your plans, watch and listen to
what God is doing and join Him. Let God set the plans, commit your
life to completing the goals that God has set. These plans will
succeed. In God's time. In God's will.

Have a great day!

--RideTheWind--
]]> Wed, 31 Aug 2011 17:36:00 GMT B5DE4673664BE009B0271234EABC7AD5 Father, Forgive Them! http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1243778 Luke 23:34 (NIV)Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." Ephesians 4:31-32 (NIV)"Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."Yesterday morning I had the wonderful privilege of attending a little country church for the Sunday morning service. As the pastor began speaking, he quoted Luke 23:34. Many thoughts filled my mind as he delivered his message and continued to speak about loving and forgiving others.How could Jesus forgive His enemies after receiving painful, agonizing punishment that was delivered so brutally and spitefully? And how could Jesus forgive his enemies when he did nothing wrong? He did not deserve even the first strike on his body, but yet as He continued to endure the pain, He sought the Father's forgiveness for their sins.There are a couple lessons that I learned yesterday that are very valuable and worth sharing. Forgiveness only comes from our Father in Heaven. Jesus didn't say I forgive you, he pleaded with the Father in Heaven to provide them with the ultimate forgiveness. In the same way, when we forgive each other, we are asking God to cancel the sin. Isn't that awesome?! The second main point is that forgiveness is available for everyone. Everyone is eligible to receive God's forgiveness! Matthew 6:14-15 says, "If you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you." In Mark 11:25, Jesus said, "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in Heaven may forgive you your sins."Dear Friend, how about you? Have you forgiven your enemies? Jesus said to 'forgive them for they know not what they do' but sometimes this is the most difficult task, especially after enduring hardship and suffering. Take a few moments right now and ask God to cleanse your heart and to show you how to love and forgive others as He has so lovingly demonstrated on the cross.Blessings to You Today,Dave Henry--RideTheWind-- Luke 23:34 (NIV)
Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."

Ephesians 4:31-32 (NIV)
"Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

Yesterday morning I had the wonderful privilege of attending a little country church for the Sunday morning service. As the pastor began speaking, he quoted Luke 23:34. Many thoughts filled my mind as he delivered his message and continued to speak about loving and forgiving others.

How could Jesus forgive His enemies after receiving painful, agonizing punishment that was delivered so brutally and spitefully? And how could Jesus forgive his enemies when he did nothing wrong? He did not deserve even the first strike on his body, but yet as He continued to endure the pain, He sought the Father's forgiveness for their sins.

There are a couple lessons that I learned yesterday that are very valuable and worth sharing. Forgiveness only comes from our Father in Heaven. Jesus didn't say I forgive you, he pleaded with the Father in Heaven to provide them with the ultimate forgiveness. In the same way, when we forgive each other, we are asking God to cancel the sin. Isn't that awesome?!

The second main point is that forgiveness is available for everyone. Everyone is eligible to receive God's forgiveness! Matthew 6:14-15 says, "If you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you." In Mark 11:25, Jesus said, "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in Heaven may forgive you your sins."

Dear Friend, how about you? Have you forgiven your enemies? Jesus said to 'forgive them for they know not what they do' but sometimes this is the most difficult task, especially after enduring hardship and suffering. Take a few moments right now and ask God to cleanse your heart and to show you how to love and forgive others as He has so lovingly demonstrated on the cross.

Blessings to You Today,
Dave Henry

--RideTheWind--
]]> Tue, 30 Aug 2011 07:19:00 GMT 68B89CD0CAC27A77C505739B4FF6300A Be Healed, But Return Thanks! http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1155118 Luke 17:12-19 (NIV)As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, "Jesus, Master, have pity on us!" When he saw them, he said, "Go, show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were cleansed. One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him--and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, "Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?" Then he said to him, "Rise and go; your faith has made you well." Today's message is very clear--I am returning to give praise to God! Until last week, I had suffered for the two previous weeks from severe, ongoing shoulder and arm pains. I was so very stiff and uncomfortable that I wasn't able to be in the same position for more than a few minutes without squirming and desperately trying to reposition myself to find a position of comfort.Our band practiced Monday and Tuesday evening for about an hour. I had struggled to hold my left arm in an upright position to play my harp as I normally play. At the end of the hour on Monday, the guys from the band laid hands on me and offered a prayer of healing. I was reminded of today's verse as I heard Jonny pray for me. I want to make sure that I recognize and publicize God's healing powers, and that I also am not ashamed or too busy to return thanks to our God who cares for me. I have no aches or pains in the same area that gave me so much trouble for two consecutive weeks. Hallelujah, and Praise God!Dear Friend, how about you? Do you have a need for healing in your life? Suffering comes in many forms. You may suffer emotionally, physically, or spiritually. Whatever you suffer from today, our God is an awesome God who loves you, provides for you, and will heal you, especially when you come to him in faith as His child. When you receive your healing, be like the one who returned to Jesus to give thanks. For He alone is worthy to receive all glory and all honor and all thanksgiving.Blessings to You,Dave Henry--RideTheWind-- Luke 17:12-19 (NIV)
As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, "Jesus, Master, have pity on us!"
When he saw them, he said, "Go, show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were cleansed.
One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him?and he was a Samaritan.
Jesus asked, "Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?" Then he said to him, "Rise and go; your faith has made you well."


Today's message is very clear?I am returning to give praise to God! Until last week, I had suffered for the two previous weeks from severe, ongoing shoulder and arm pains. I was so very stiff and uncomfortable that I wasn't able to be in the same position for more than a few minutes without squirming and desperately trying to reposition myself to find a position of comfort.

Our band practiced Monday and Tuesday evening for about an hour. I had struggled to hold my left arm in an upright position to play my harp as I normally play. At the end of the hour on Monday, the guys from the band laid hands on me and offered a prayer of healing.

I was reminded of today's verse as I heard Jonny pray for me. I want to make sure that I recognize and publicize God's healing powers, and that I also am not ashamed or too busy to return thanks to our God who cares for me. I have no aches or pains in the same area that gave me so much trouble for two consecutive weeks. Hallelujah, and Praise God!

Dear Friend, how about you? Do you have a need for healing in your life? Suffering comes in many forms. You may suffer emotionally, physically, or spiritually. Whatever you suffer from today, our God is an awesome God who loves you, provides for you, and will heal you, especially when you come to him in faith as His child. When you receive your healing, be like the one who returned to Jesus to give thanks. For He alone is worthy to receive all glory and all honor and all thanksgiving.

Blessings to You,
Dave Henry
--RideTheWind--
]]> Wed, 03 Aug 2011 16:05:00 GMT 03E7917861CC9CE99813F645C23E7106 Be A Light! http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1143415 Luke 8:16 (NIV)"No one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light.Psalm 119:105 (NIV)Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.One of the things my wife and I enjoy watching together is a beautiful sunset. Last night while we were driving home, storm clouds were scattered across the sky. During the previous hour, the entire area received an abundance of rain accompanied by thunder and several strikes of lightning. Just above us and to the left, however, were two clouds, both were opposite colors, but were adjacent to each other. One cloud was large and fluffy, radiating the sky with a bold, reflective white color and passing on the light that it had received from the sun. The cloud immediately adjacent to it was fluffy, but had a much darker color of gray and black, and was likely another storm cloud getting ready to deliver more rain.I said to my wife that those two clouds taught me a lesson while we drove home last night. We have all received the light and love from God. Some of us are very quick to radiate and share God's love and joy to others. On the other hand, there are some people who receive the same love from God, but they have a very dismal view of life, and find it very easy to spread darkness wherever they go.Dear Friend, are you bright and happy, and are a light unto the world, or is your life a picture of darkness and disappointment? Most of us are familiar with the two verses above, and have even learned them as a child. God commands us to share His wonderful love to others, so that all may come to know Him and experience the one and only true Light of the World. Regardless of the storms in your life, which cloud will you be today?Blessings to You,Dave Henry--RideTheWind-- Luke 8:16 (NIV)
"No one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light.

Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

One of the things my wife and I enjoy watching together is a beautiful sunset. Last night while we were driving home, storm clouds were scattered across the sky. During the previous hour, the entire area received an abundance of rain accompanied by thunder and several strikes of lightning.

Just above us and to the left, however, were two clouds, both were opposite colors, but were adjacent to each other. One cloud was large and fluffy, radiating the sky with a bold, reflective white color and passing on the light that it had received from the sun. The cloud immediately adjacent to it was fluffy, but had a much darker color of gray and black, and was likely another storm cloud getting ready to deliver more rain.

I said to my wife that those two clouds taught me a lesson while we drove home last night. We have all received the light and love from God. Some of us are very quick to radiate and share God's love and joy to others. On the other hand, there are some people who receive the same love from God, but they have a very dismal view of life, and find it very easy to spread darkness wherever they go.

Dear Friend, are you bright and happy, and are a light unto the world, or is your life a picture of darkness and disappointment? Most of us are familiar with the two verses above, and have even learned them as a child. God commands us to share His wonderful love to others, so that all may come to know Him and experience the one and only true Light of the World. Regardless of the storms in your life, which cloud will you be today?

Blessings to You,
Dave Henry
--RideTheWind--
]]> Sat, 30 Jul 2011 15:23:00 GMT 138C13BC02B59742662DE2A22736A4A8 Be A Good Steward http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1108471 <!--[if gte mso 9]> 800x600 <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} <![endif]--> &nbsp; We get filled with confusion, anger and resentment, and it can lead you in a direction that is not Godly. In this world there seems to be no ending of the things that can spin you around and lead you away from God's promise He gave to us, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6). When we get to the point of feeling like there is no way we can take anymore of so and so's stuff or when we can seem to get along to the point we turn our backs on each other, we need to remember that He died to forgive us our sins, He didn't say, you know I would forgive you but... &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; We need to remember that what we give or don't give is nothing compared to sacrifice He gave. My great grandmother used to feed squirrels out her back door, one day as she was feeding them her neighbor came out with a BB gun to shoot them. She reminded him that it was also one of God's creatures and if he would take time to just get to know them, he would feel differently. I watched as Ma talked to the man and then gave him some peanuts. He would eat one then throw one at the squirrels. It wasn't long after that Ma had passed away and my family had gone back to visit my great aunt who lived in the same house that I noticed the man sitting on the stoop in his back yard with squirrels around and a bag of peanuts next to him. He invited me to sit and feed them with him. As I sat I thought how Ma had changed the heart of this man, just by getting to know him and letting him see there was good in what he perceived to be a bad thing, she took the time to be a good steward to a person who needed the Lord's love and friendship. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; God has a plan for us. We need to know when to sit down and just let it take shape and when to go out and feed the squirrels. "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." (Leviticus 19:18)In Christ,Rick --RideTheWind--
 
We get filled with confusion, anger and resentment, and it can lead you in a direction that is not Godly. In this world there seems to be no ending of the things that can spin you around and lead you away from God's promise He gave to us, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6). When we get to the point of feeling like there is no way we can take anymore of so and so's stuff or when we can seem to get along to the point we turn our backs on each other, we need to remember that He died to forgive us our sins, He didn't say, you know I would forgive you but?
 
            We need to remember that what we give or don't give is nothing compared to sacrifice He gave. My great grandmother used to feed squirrels out her back door, one day as she was feeding them her neighbor came out with a BB gun to shoot them. She reminded him that it was also one of God's creatures and if he would take time to just get to know them, he would feel differently. I watched as Ma talked to the man and then gave him some peanuts. He would eat one then throw one at the squirrels. It wasn't long after that Ma had passed away and my family had gone back to visit my great aunt who lived in the same house that I noticed the man sitting on the stoop in his back yard with squirrels around and a bag of peanuts next to him. He invited me to sit and feed them with him. As I sat I thought how Ma had changed the heart of this man, just by getting to know him and letting him see there was good in what he perceived to be a bad thing, she took the time to be a good steward to a person who needed the Lord's love and friendship.
 
            God has a plan for us. We need to know when to sit down and just let it take shape and when to go out and feed the squirrels. "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." (Leviticus 19:18)

In Christ,
Rick
--RideTheWind--
]]> Sat, 16 Jul 2011 05:29:00 GMT 2860B652BB0F6F0ED704FE9F212C0A9A Confessed Sin Released Joy http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1092337 <!--[if gte mso 9]> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} <![endif]--> Confession does not create a relationship with God, it simply nourishes it. If you are a believer, admission of sins does not alter your position before God, but it does enhance your peace with God. When you confess, you agree; you quit arguing with God and agree with Him about your sin. Unconfessed sin leads to a state of disagreement. You may be God's child, but you don't want to talk to Him. He still loves you, but until you admit what you've done, there is going to tension in the house. But just as unconfessed sin hinders joy, confessed sin releases it. When we admit sin we are like a first grader standing before the teacher with a messy paper. "I colored outside the lines too many times. Could I start over on a clean sheet?" "Of course," says the teacher. Happy is the first grader who gets a second chance. David wrote, "Happy is the person whose sins are forgiven, whose wrongs are pardoned" (Psalm 32:1). So we dash back to our seat with a clean sheet and start over! (from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">The Great House of God by Max Lucado) &nbsp; In Christ, Rick --RideTheWind--

Confession does not create a relationship with God, it simply nourishes it. If you are a believer, admission of sins does not alter your position before God, but it does enhance your peace with God. When you confess, you agree; you quit arguing with God and agree with Him about your sin. Unconfessed sin leads to a state of disagreement. You may be God's child, but you don't want to talk to Him. He still loves you, but until you admit what you've done, there is going to tension in the house.


But just as unconfessed sin hinders joy, confessed sin releases it. When we admit sin we are like a first grader standing before the teacher with a messy paper. "I colored outside the lines too many times. Could I start over on a clean sheet?" "Of course," says the teacher. Happy is the first grader who gets a second chance. David wrote, "Happy is the person whose sins are forgiven, whose wrongs are pardoned" (Psalm 32:1). So we dash back to our seat with a clean sheet and start over!

(from The Great House of God by Max Lucado)

 

In Christ,

Rick

--RideTheWind--
]]> Sat, 09 Jul 2011 03:29:00 GMT 93A15659B99A7E8E0C345EFB108D6806 Make the right decision http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1085227 Making the right decision.......Hmmmmm.... Do I have the Chicken or the Fish??? Don&#39;t you wish that more decisions were as easy as that?Sometime we put ourselves in situations where we are faced with making a tough decision. Some of us areJUMPERS! We jump to a decision and just wait to see what happens. Some of us are CALCULATORS! We calculate every move and make sure the outcome will be to our benefit. Some of us are DEPENDORS! We depend totally on someone else to make the decision for us. Making the right decision is not easy. Everydecision we make in our life falls upon another. The only true decision with a strong foundation is thedecision to follow God. With God, you know the outcome. You know what God has done for you. Next time you have to make a tough decision why not try being just a JUMPER and a DEPENDOR! JUMP into the hands of GOD and DEPEND GOD to help you through. Psalm 55:22 Cast your cares on the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous fall.1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon Him; for He cares for you. Have a great Day!RTW--RideTheWind-- Hmmmmm.... Do I have the Chicken or the Fish??? Don't you wish that more decisions were as easy as that?
Sometime we put ourselves in situations where we are faced with making a tough decision. Some of us are
JUMPERS! We jump to a decision and just wait to see what happens. Some of us are CALCULATORS! We
calculate every move and make sure the outcome will be to our benefit. Some of us are DEPENDORS! We
depend totally on someone else to make the decision for us. Making the right decision is not easy. Every
decision we make in our life falls upon another. The only true decision with a strong foundation is the
decision to follow God. With God, you know the outcome. You know what God has done for you.
Next time you have to make a tough decision why not try being just a JUMPER and a DEPENDOR! JUMP into the
hands of GOD and DEPEND GOD to help you through.

Psalm 55:22 Cast your cares on the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous fall.

1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon Him; for He cares for you.

Have a great Day!
RTW

--RideTheWind--
]]> Wed, 06 Jul 2011 18:29:00 GMT 9081D1C41C36CF88D524AEB99068AD6B A Thank You http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1074908 <!--[if gte mso 9]> 800x600 <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} <![endif]--> We thank you for this new day, God. Confession time: ... we're not very good at giving thanks. We tend to be takers more than givers. &nbsp; You give us so much, only we get so turned around that we can't see what you provide for us, each and every day. We get so lost in the struggle to make ends meet, that "meat", and what it takes to buy it, becomes our end. &nbsp; Forgive us, Lord, and free us. Open us to your simple gifts that we might be able to turn right side around; that we might, in fact, find delight in turning; that we might enjoy simply giving. &nbsp; Today is a day for turning, O God, a new day, your day of rest and renewal. Bow us, bend us, and turn us this hour, so that these words become the song of our heart, mind, and soul: "May Jesus Christ be praised!" In Christ,Rick --RideTheWind--

We thank you for this new day, God. Confession time: ... we're not very good at giving thanks. We tend to be takers more than givers.

 

You give us so much, only we get so turned around that we can't see what you provide for us, each and every day. We get so lost in the struggle to make ends meet, that "meat", and what it takes to buy it, becomes our end.

 

Forgive us, Lord, and free us. Open us to your simple gifts that we might be able to turn right side around; that we might, in fact, find delight in turning; that we might enjoy simply giving.

 

Today is a day for turning, O God, a new day, your day of rest and renewal. Bow us, bend us, and turn us this hour, so that these words become the song of our heart, mind, and soul: "May Jesus Christ be praised!"


In Christ,

Rick

--RideTheWind--
]]> Fri, 01 Jul 2011 16:51:00 GMT 7200A5A3DF4809A494FDEE85B8135B36 Who Can Hide? http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1060565 Jeremiah 23:24 (NIV)"Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?" declares the Lord. "Do I not fill the heaven and the earth?" declares the Lord.This verse was the verse of the day today on a particular website that I frequently visit. Isn't it just wonderful and absolutely amazing that wherever we go that God is there with us?! He sees us, both day and night, and knows where we are at all times. Because God and His ways are so infinite, and we are such finite creatures, this may be a difficult concept for us to fully understand. Whether we understand it or not, this is one of the many attributes of God, His Omniscience. He very clearly sees everything, hears everything, and knows everything. Not only is He Omniscient, He is Omnipotent, and Omnipresent. The prefix Omni simply means All. God is Omniscient--All-knowing. God is Omnipotent--Alpowerful. God is Omnipresent--All-present. He's everywhere, He's possesses all knowledge, and sustains us with His wonderful, working power. There are many verses in the bible that speak of God's amazing attributes. His Love and Grace and Mercy fill the earth, but only because He is Omniscient, Omnipotent, and Omnipresent.Dear Friend, you cannot hide nor escape from God's love for you! He knows everything about you, and also knows the number of hairs on your head. Take a few moments right now to recognize His amazing attributes, and thank Him for keeping a watchful eye on you. He loves you today, tomorrow, and every tomorrow that follows. He Alone is Worthy! Let us thank Him every day that we cannot hide from His stubborn love!Blessings to You!Dave Henry --RideTheWind-- Jeremiah 23:24 (NIV)
"Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?" declares the Lord. "Do I not fill the heaven and the earth?" declares the Lord.

This verse was the verse of the day today on a particular website that I frequently visit. Isn't it just wonderful and absolutely amazing that wherever we go that God is there with us?! He sees us, both day and night, and knows where we are at all times. Because God and His ways are so infinite, and we are such finite creatures, this may be a difficult concept for us to fully understand.

Whether we understand it or not, this is one of the many attributes of God, His Omniscience. He very clearly sees everything, hears everything, and knows everything. Not only is He Omniscient, He is Omnipotent, and Omnipresent. The prefix Omni simply means All.

God is Omniscient?All-knowing. God is Omnipotent?Al?powerful. God is Omnipresent?All-present. He's everywhere, He's possesses all knowledge, and sustains us with His wonderful, working power. There are many verses in the bible that speak of God's amazing attributes. His Love and Grace and Mercy fill the earth, but only because He is Omniscient, Omnipotent, and Omnipresent.

Dear Friend, you cannot hide nor escape from God's love for you! He knows everything about you, and also knows the number of hairs on your head. Take a few moments right now to recognize His amazing attributes, and thank Him for keeping a watchful eye on you. He loves you today, tomorrow, and every tomorrow that follows. He Alone is Worthy! Let us thank Him every day that we cannot hide from His stubborn love!

Blessings to You!
Dave Henry
--RideTheWind--
]]> Sat, 25 Jun 2011 23:41:00 GMT 811EC7A46682ADD2CDB153B5C00D39E0 Humility http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1059126 <!--[if gte mso 9]> 800x600 <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} <![endif]--> &nbsp; Humility... &nbsp; In what ways do you accept, respect, and honor those who have more than you? Practice humility not by putting yourself down, but by building others up. What friend, relative, or co-worker can you regard as more important than yourself this week? Think of at least three specific ways you can build that person up this week! &nbsp; May the Lord bless and keep you; May he make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. May He give you His peace now and forever In Christ, Rick --RideTheWind--

 

Humility?

 

In what ways do you accept, respect, and honor those

who have more than you? Practice humility not by putting

yourself down, but by building others up. What friend, relative,

or co-worker can you regard as more important than yourself this week?

Think of at least three specific ways you can build that person up this week!

 

May the Lord bless and keep you;

May he make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you.

May He give you His peace now and forever


In Christ,
Rick

--RideTheWind--
]]> Sat, 25 Jun 2011 03:31:00 GMT 7DA722FB0DF65DB8FF2AB9684E6DAC22 Shout for Joy! http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1033347 Psalm 100 (NIV)Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. Of all of the Psalms, this is certainly one of my favorites! Many hymn writers from years ago, and contemporary songwriters today have used this psalm to inspire the world through songs of worship and praise. As I have read the passage a few times and have spent quiet moments meditating on the beautiful words, I am amazed at God's great love for us!Have you ever wondered what it means to "worship the Lord with gladness" and "to come before Him with joyful songs?" Are you thankful for God's presence, and faithfulness in your life? The bible says that He made us, and we are His children. The passage further explains that we are the sheep of His pasture. Dear Friend, how about you? Do you worship the Lord and shout for joy, and come before Him with songs of praise? Read the last verse one more time, and read it aloud to our Savior. Can you truly say, "O Lord, You are good, and Your love endures forever?" Thank Him now for being so very faithful to all generations!Blessings to You,Dave Henry--RideTheWind-- Psalm 100 (NIV)

Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Of all of the Psalms, this is certainly one of my favorites! Many hymn writers from years ago, and contemporary songwriters today have used this psalm to inspire the world through songs of worship and praise. As I have read the passage a few times and have spent quiet moments meditating on the beautiful words, I am amazed at God's great love for us!

Have you ever wondered what it means to "worship the Lord with gladness" and "to come before Him with joyful songs?" Are you thankful for God's presence, and faithfulness in your life? The bible says that He made us, and we are His children. The passage further explains that we are the sheep of His pasture.

Dear Friend, how about you? Do you worship the Lord and shout for joy, and come before Him with songs of praise? Read the last verse one more time, and read it aloud to our Savior. Can you truly say, "O Lord, You are good, and Your love endures forever?" Thank Him now for being so very faithful to all generations!

Blessings to You,
Dave Henry
--RideTheWind--
]]> Tue, 14 Jun 2011 23:52:00 GMT 1AF00FC338487B128B6F2A0822B80145 Do You Serve God? http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1025916 <!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> <![endif]--> Matthew 25:31-45 &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 31 "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;34 "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.' &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;37 "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;40 "The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.' &nbsp; We are all in Christ; and Christ in us through the Holy Spirit. When we treat someone badly, we are suffering another wound to Christ. We are all one in the body of Christ, and we all should be treating others the way we would want to be treated. I can't say I have done this all the time. As Christians we are called to serve. I ask you, when do you serve? Is it a service of convenience, or do you go the "extra mile", as Jesus taught His followers when the Roman soldiers would force them to carry their packs. Go the extra mile, it is a small price to pay for the rewards you will receive! In Christ, Rick --RideTheWind--

Matthew 25:31-45

 

   31 "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.

   34 "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

   37 "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

   40 "The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'

 

We are all in Christ; and Christ in us through the Holy Spirit. When we treat someone badly, we are suffering another wound to Christ. We are all one in the body of Christ, and we all should be treating others the way we would want to be treated. I can't say I have done this all the time. As Christians we are called to serve. I ask you, when do you serve? Is it a service of convenience, or do you go the "extra mile", as Jesus taught His followers when the Roman soldiers would force them to carry their packs. Go the extra mile, it is a small price to pay for the rewards you will receive!

In Christ,

Rick

--RideTheWind--
]]> Sat, 11 Jun 2011 04:29:00 GMT 8B4C98C5F1BE4582E54456059CBD112E Many Parts, One Body http://ridethewindband.com/inspirations.cfm?feature=1265562&postid=1015995 Ephesians 4:16 (NIV)"From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work."Romans 15:5-6 (NIV)"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."1 Corinthians 12:12-14 (NIV)"Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body--whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free--and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many."Have you ever thought about the composition of a team, a choir, the staff in an office, or the church body? Many things have happened this week that have caused me once again to be reminded of the importance of teamwork. For the past 10 or 20 years especially, there has been an increasing emphasis on working together.As I attended church on Sunday morning, I noticed the full parking lot, the clean building, the presence of greeters, the worship team, and of course the pastor. Having our 'full team' in attendance was wonderful to see. However, I know if our pastor were out of town, we would have met at the same time and place to offer our worship to our God who loves us so much.At the office today, we began our work week without 2 members of our staff, who are enjoying much-needed vacations with their familes. Obviously, with set office hours, and a busy week ahead of us, it became extra important for the other members of the body to work hard to properly serve our base of clients who daily depend on our service.Dear Friend, the bible clearly instructs us to be joined and held together by every supporting ligament, to grow and build itself up in love, as each part does its work.' What are you doing to build up your team?Blessings to You,Dave Henry--RideTheWind-- Ephesians 4:16 (NIV)
"From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work."

Romans 15:5-6 (NIV)
"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."

1 Corinthians 12:12-14 (NIV)
"Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body?whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free?and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many."

Have you ever thought about the composition of a team, a choir, the staff in an office, or the church body? Many things have happened this week that have caused me once again to be reminded of the importance of teamwork. For the past 10 or 20 years especially, there has been an increasing emphasis on working together.

As I attended church on Sunday morning, I noticed the full parking lot, the clean building, the presence of greeters, the worship team, and of course the pastor. Having our 'full team' in attendance was wonderful to see. However, I know if our pastor were out of town, we would have met at the same time and place to offer our worship to our God who loves us so much.

At the office today, we began our work week without 2 members of our staff, who are enjoying much-needed vacations with their familes. Obviously, with set office hours, and a busy week ahead of us, it became extra important for the other members of the body to work hard to properly serve our base of clients who daily depend on our service.

Dear Friend, the bible clearly instructs us to be joined and held together by every supporting ligament, to grow and build itself up in love, as each part does its work.' What are you doing to build up your team?

Blessings to You,
Dave Henry

--RideTheWind--
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