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[NewSong]

Success
[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Great wealth is in the house of the righteous, but trouble is in the income of the wicked." [/size][/font]

[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 15:6 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"The reward of humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, honor, and life." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 22:4 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Then the LORD your God will prosper you abundantly in all the work of your hand, in the offspring of your body and in the offspring of your cattle and in the produce of your ground, for the LORD will again rejoice over you for good, just as He rejoiced over your fathers." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Deuteronomy 30:9 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Then He will give you rain for the seed which you will sow in the ground, and bread from the yield of the ground, and it will be rich and plenteous; on that day your livestock will graze in a roomy pasture." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Isaiah 30:23 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Moreover, that every man who eats and drinks sees good in all his labor - it is the gift of God." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Ecclesiastes 3:13 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"The LORD will make you abound in prosperity, in the offspring of your body and in the offspring of your beast and in the produce of your ground, in the land which the LORD swore to your fathers to give you. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"The LORD will open for you His good storehouse, the heavens, to give rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hand; and you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"The LORD will make you the head and not the tail, and you only will be above, and you will not be underneath, if you listen to the commandments of the LORD your God, which I charge you today, to observe them carefully." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Deuteronomy 28:11-13 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Furthermore, as for every man to whom God has given riches and wealth, He has also empowered him to eat from them and to receive his reward and rejoice in his labor; this is the gift of God." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Ecclesiastes 5:19 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Riches and honor are with me, enduring wealth and righteousness. My fruit is better than gold, even pure gold, and my yield better than choicest silver." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 8:18-19 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 112:3 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"And place your gold in the dust, and the gold of Ophir among the stones of the brooks, then the Almighty will be your gold and choice silver to you." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Job 22:24-25 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"They will build houses and inhabit them; they will also plant vineyards and eat their fruit. They will not build and another inhabit, they will not plant and another eat; for as the lifetime of a tree, so will be the days of My people, and My chosen ones will wear out the work of their hands. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"They will not labor in vain, or bear children for calamity; for they are the offspring of those blessed by the LORD, and their descendants with them." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Isaiah 65:21-23 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"All these blessings will come upon you and overtake you if you obey the LORD your God: [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the country. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Blessed shall be the offspring of your body and the produce of your ground and the offspring of your beasts, the increase of your herd and the young of your flock. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out." [/size][/font]

[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Deuteronomy 28:2-6 [/size][/font]

 

[The Story Teller]

January 27
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Edwin Land’s Better Photography Idea
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“The stoical scheme of supplying our wants by lopping off our desires is like cutting off our feet when we want shoes.”
—Jonathan Swift
​

The age of photography provided a way to take pictures. You loaded your Brownie camera with film and snapped pictures of the new baby. You then processed the film in your own darkroom or took it to a developer, who had your pictures ready a week later. (We’re talking quite a few years ago!) Edwin Land had a better idea. What if it were possible to take a picture and, within seconds, have the developed photograph in your hands? The marketplace was not clamoring for this capability. In fact, very few people probably even thought of the idea. Land developed the technology and then stimulated consumers’ desires to “need” this convenience.

The Polaroid Land camera is a classic example of how a new technology can change our perception of our needs as consumers. It is serendipity. We didn’t even think of that possibility before! All good ideas and products do not come just by reacting to consumer needs. Who would have thought of the microwave oven, 3M’s “Post-it” notes, radio, the vacuum cleaner, digital watches, movies, or lasers? At the turn of the century, there were proposals to close the U.S. Patent Office because “everything has been invented!” If those people could see us now! There are still thousands, maybe millions of products and services that no one has thought of yet. When the new idea hits the market, everyone will say, “What a great idea, why didn’t someone think of that sooner?”

Consider This: Think beyond needs. Examine a new technology and consider how it might be applied in areas where no one has used it before.

Submitted by Richard

 

[The Story Teller]

January 28
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Attitudes
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“For they can conquer who believe they can.”
—Virgil
​

We are what we think. Our mind is much more powerful than we know. It can cause us to be sick (it is a well-known fact that a vast amount of illness is caused by emotional stress), and it can bring us back to health (that is why placebos often work so well). Our mind can give us an attitude of failure or provide us with an attitude of success. Sports commentators often discuss the “mental” game that is taking place on the field of play. Talent and training will only get us so far. We must have the mental attitude that will push us into the winner’s circle.

In his book Secrets of Successful Selling, John Murphy relates the story of the man who could make only $5,000 a year. No matter what situation the man was in, he believed he was a $5,000-a-year employee. When he was given a good sales territory, he made $5,000. In a bad territory, he made $5,000. In every place he was assigned, he made $5,000. He mentally believed that he was able to make only $5,000 a year—no more, no less—and he worked hard enough to prove himself right. Once, he made $5,000 early in the year and was sick for the rest of the year, although doctors could not determine why. Luckily, the salesman finally got the message that it was his limited belief in himself that was holding him back. He needed to raise his expectations and have a more positive dream of what he could accomplish. Once on track, he lived up to his new image of himself and proved to be a stellar salesman.

Consider This: Are your attitudes, your limited opinion of yourself, and your abilities holding you back from really getting things done?

Submitted by Richard

 

[The Story Teller]

January 29
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Eisenhower’s Mentor
​

“You cannot teach a man anything; you can only help to find it within himself.”
—Galileo
​

Dwight Eisenhower was a mediocre student at West Point. During World War I, he missed seeing any action, although many of his classmates were in the thick of the fighting. After the war Eisenhower was transferred to Panama, where he wanted to work under Gen. Fox Connor, whom he admired. General Connor was a father figure and mentor to Eisenhower, and the relationship was a turning point in Eisenhower’s life. He later reflected, “Life with General Connor was a sort of graduate school in military affairs and the humanities, leavened by a man who was experienced in his knowledge of men and their conduct. I can never adequately express my gratitude to this one gentleman.... In a lifetime of association with great and good men, he is the one more or less invisible figure to whom I owe an incalculable debt.”

Unlike his previous lackluster performance at West Point, Eisenhower became a different kind of student when he was selected to take training at the General Staff School. The confidence he gained as a student of a great man made a huge difference in his self-confidence and determination to succeed. As a result, Eisenhower ranked first in his class in a tough, competitive school. The rest is history, as Eisenhower became one of the most important leaders of the twentieth century. Without his experience of learning from a mentor, one cannot speculate if Eisenhower ever would have “found” that capability within himself.

Consider This: Who is it around you that you can learn from? Have you submitted yourself to a mentor? Are you being a mentor to someone else?.

Submitted by Richard

 

[NewSong]

Power

[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"A wise man is strong, and a man of knowledge increases power."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 24:5[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Isaiah 40:29[/size][/font]

[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"The angel answered and said to her, 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God.'"[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Luke 1:35[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Amazement came upon them all, and they began talking with one another saying, 'What is this message? For with authority and power He commands the unclean spirits and they come out.'"[/size][/font]

[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Luke 4:36[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"All the people were trying to touch Him, for power was coming from Him and healing them all."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Luke 6:19[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Acts 1:8[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"With great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and abundant grace was upon them all."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Acts 4:33[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Romans 1:16[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]1 Corinthians 1:18[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For the kingdom of God does not consist in words but in power."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]1 Corinthians 4:20[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"We have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]2 Corinthians 4:7[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]2 Corinthians 10:4[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"He has said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.' Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]2 Corinthians 12:9[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Ephesians 3:16[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Ephesians 6:10[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]2 Timothy 1:7-8[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]2 Peter 1:3[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Therefore behold, I am going to make them know—This time I will make them know My power and My might; and they shall know that My name is the LORD."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Jeremiah 16:21[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"'Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' says the LORD of hosts."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Zechariah 4:6[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Romans 1:16[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For this very purpose I raised you up, to demonstrate My power in you, and that My name might be proclaimed throughout the whole earth."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Romans 9:17[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Romans 15:13[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might which He brought about in Christ, when he raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Ephesians 1:20-21[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Hebrews 1:3[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]1 Peter 1:5[/size][/font]





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[The Story Teller]

January 30
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Wrigley Didn’t Overlook the Little Things
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“When business is good it pays to advertise; when business is bad you’ve got to advertise.”
—Anonymous
​

Bill Wrigley was a problem child. He was thrown out of school and was always “up to no good.” At the age of thirteen he was taken out of school and put to work stirring pots of boiling soap at his father’s factory. His father later decided to try the boy as a salesman and sent him to the small towns of New England. Bill soon demonstrated that he could sell. He readily made friends on the road and made it a point “to be always polite, always patient, and never to argue.” At the age of twenty, in 1891, Bill struck out on his own. He moved to Chicago and became a sales representative for a baking powder company. As an incentive to those buying his product, he included two sticks of chewing gum with every package. It was just a sales gimmick, but he kept getting requests for more gum. The requests increased to the point that Wrigley was selling more gum than powder, and he eventually dropped all other products and concentrated on promoting the gum.

By 1910, Wrigley’s Spearmint was the top-selling gum in the country, and his Juicy Fruit gum was not far behind. In 1915 Wrigley sent free sticks of gum to 1.5 million telephone subscribers. Later he repeated the mail-out to 7 million people. Wrigley poured more marketing money into advertising his gum than any other single product advertiser of the day. Despite the fact that a pack of gum sold for only five cents, Wrigley amassed a fortune and used it to create a giant financial empire.

Consider This: Look for clues about what you are doing now that could turn into big business if you gave it the chance.

Submitted by Richard

 

[The Story Teller]

January 31
​

Million Dollar Phrases
​

“You’ll wonder where the yellow went when you brush your teeth with Pepsodent.”
—Pepsodent advertising slogan
​

Why are some companies more memorable than others? Why do some products climb to the top of the pack, while similar products of the same quality lag behind? One of the factors that makes a company successful is its “ownership” of a specific position in the public’s mind. Often, that position can be described in a catch phrase that is almost universally associated with the company or product. For example, when you hear “The Real Thing,” you think of Coca-Cola. When you hear “Absolutely, positively overnight,” you think of Federal Express. Even a common phrase such as “pizza delivery” has meaning—many people think of Domino’s Pizza because of its original thirty-minute delivery guarantee. Which rental car company tries harder? What washer repairman is lonely? Who flies the friendly skies? Where’s the beef?

These phrases are worth millions of dollars because they are easily and effectively locked into the consumer’s mind. Marketers may try for decades to capture the consumer’s attention with cute, funny, or feature-laced advertising, but it seems that these phrases are elusive. It’s amazing that companies sometimes abandon their million-dollar phrases, such as “Plop, plop, fizz, fizz. Oh, what a relief it is,” “See the USA in your Chevrolet,” and others. For most companies, another memorable phrase will never be as effective.

Consider This: What catchy phrase describes a major benefit or feature of your product? Do you have one that sets your product apart from the rest? If not, search for one. If you have one, recognize it as a treasure, and abandon it at your own risk.

Submitted by Richard

 

[NewSong]

Praise


[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 34:1[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"I will also praise You with a harp, even Your truth, O my God; to You I will sing praises with the lyre, O Holy One of Israel. My lips will shout for joy when I sing praises to You; and my soul, which You have redeemed."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 71:22-23[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1] "SHOUT joyfully to the LORD, all the earth. Serve the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful singing.
"Know that the LORD Himself is God; it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
"Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name. For the LORD is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting and His faithfulness to all generations."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 100:1-5[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; who pardons all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases; who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 103:1-5[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1] "Bless the LORD, you His angels, mighty in strength, who perform His word, obeying the voice of His word! Bless the LORD, all you His hosts, You who serve Him, doing His will.
"Bless the LORD, all you works of His, in all places of His dominion; bless the LORD, O my soul!"[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 103:20-22[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1] "PRAISE the LORD! Praise, O servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD. Blessed be the name of the LORD from this time forth and forever.
"From the rising of the sun to its setting the name of the LORD is to be praised. The LORD is high above all nations; His glory is above the heavens."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 113:1-4[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1] "I will extol You, my God, O King, and I will bless Your name forever and ever. Every day I will bless You, and I will praise Your name forever and ever.
"Great is the LORD, and highly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise Your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts.
"On the glorious splendor of Your majesty and on Your wonderful works, I will meditate. Men shall speak of the power of Your awesome acts, and I will tell of Your greatness.
"They shall eagerly utter the memory of Your abundant goodness and will shout joyfully of Your righteousness."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 145:1-7[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1] "Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise Him in the heights! Praise Him, all His angels; praise Him, all His hosts! Praise Him, sun and moon; Praise Him, all stars of light! Praise Him, highest heavens, and the waters that are above the heavens!
"Let them praise the name of the LORD, for He commanded and they were created."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 148:1-5[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Ephesians 1:3[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Hebrews 13:15[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Is anyone among you suffering? Then he must pray. Is anyone cheerful? He is to sing praises."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]James 5:13[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Revelation 5:12[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Saying, 'Amen, blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to our God forever and ever. Amen.'"[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Revelation 7:12[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Then I heard something like the voice of a great multitude and like the sound of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, saying 'Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give the glory to Him, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His bride has made herself ready.'"[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Revelation 19:6-7[/size][/font]



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[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Praise the Lord all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples praise Him."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Romans 15:11[/size][/font]



[size=+1][/size]

[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Philippians 4:8[/size][/font]



[size=+1][/size]

[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Hebrews 13:15[/size][/font]



[size=+1][/size]

[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"So that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]1 Peter 1:7[/size][/font]



[size=+1][/size]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For it is written, 'As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall give praise to God.'"[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Romans 14:11[/size][/font]



[size=+1][/size]

 

[The Story Teller]

July 1
​

Ford’s V-8
​

“Few things are impossible to diligence and skill.”
—Samuel Johnson Rasselas
​

People with vision often butt heads with the more practical world. One person often sees in his or her mind’s eye how something could be accomplished, but convincing others is no easy matter. A select few can ignore the nay-saying of others and push to make their vision become a reality. Henry Ford wanted to build a V-8 motor with all cylinders cast in a single block. Engineers could design it on paper, but they all agreed that it simply could not be built. “Produce it anyway,” was Ford’s reply. Reluctantly, the engineers tried. For months and months they tried, and came to Ford saying, “It can’t be done!” But Ford continued to insist, and the engineers tried more ideas.

After more than a year of experimentation, there seemed to be no reasonable solution to the problems. The engineers reiterated their first assessment: “Impossible.” Ford again said, “Keep trying.” Although the engineers remained convinced that the task could not be accomplished, a solution was eventually found and Ford had his V-8 motor. Some called Ford hardheaded, and they were right! However, had it not been for his stubborn determination, Ford would not have pioneered many of the advancements that revolutionized the fledgling automobile industry. A visionary may see capabilities far beyond what is currently possible. If there were no visions of the future, we would not strive to reach them.

Consider This: The solution to a problem may not be readily available. It may be thousands of man-hours away. But if you can conceive that there is an answer, you can eventually find a way to make it happen.

Submitted by Richard

 

[NewSong]

Shame
[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For the Scripture says, "Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed."" [/size][/font]

[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Romans 10:11 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Then I shall not be ashamed when I look upon all Your commandments." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 119:6 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Romans 5:5 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]2 Timothy 1:12 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Just as it is written, "BEHOLD, I LAY IN ZION A STONE OF STUMBLING AND A ROCK OF OFFENSE, AND HE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED."" [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Romans 9:33 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]2 Timothy 2:15 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"If anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]1 Peter 4:16 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"May my heart be blameless in Your statutes, so that I will not be ashamed." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 119:80 [/size][/font]

 

[The Story Teller]

July 2
​

The Slinky
​

“The man with a new idea is a crank until his idea succeeds.”
—Mark Twain
​

Opportunity often knocks at odd times and in odd ways. When the knock occurs, some people answer the door, say “What a great idea!” and then proceed to do little or nothing about it. A few people will grab the opportunity and make something happen. The Slinky, the spring-like toy that walks down stairs, essentially invented itself. One day in 1943, Richard James, a marine engineer, was startled by a zero-compression spring that fell off a shelf, proceeded to “walk” across a row of books, and then bounced to the floor. James took the spring home, and his toddler played with it for hours. The spring represented an opportunity. What could be done with it? Along with his wife, Betty, James decided to test the potential of marketing the spring as a toy. They made 100 of the springs and arranged to show them at Gimbel’s department store in New York City. Customers loved the Slinky’s “personality” and bought the entire stock.

Manufacture, promotion, and distribution of the Slinky was haphazard at first, but sales soon flourished. Unfortunately, Richard had a difficult time coping with success. By the mid-1950s, he had drained the company of most of its assets. After Richard left his wife and the Slinky organization, Betty continued on her own and returned the business to prosperity. After more than forty years, and with only small modifications, the Slinky still has the appeal to become a favorite toy of each new generation.

Consider This: Look at simple things. Get good ideas. Get feedback. If the idea is good, then add very hard work. The formula spells success.

Submitted by Richard

 

[NewSong]

Finding God's Will


[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]James 1:5[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 32:8[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 119:105[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"When you walk about, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; and when you awake, they will talk to you. For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching is light; and reproofs for discipline are the way of life."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 6:22-23[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Joshua 1:8[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Your ears will hear a word behind you, 'This is the way, walk in it,' whenever you turn to the right or to the left."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Isaiah 30:21[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For such is God, our God forever and ever; He will guide us until death."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 48:14[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be established."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 16:3[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"The steps of a man are established by the LORD, and He delights in his way."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 37:23[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For You are my rock and my fortress; for Your name's sake You will lead me and guide me."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 31:3[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 3:5-6[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, 'I am the LORD your God, who teaches you to profit, who leads you in the way you should go.'"[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Isaiah 48:17[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"The LORD will continually guide you, and satisfy your desire in scorched places, and give strength to your bones; and you will be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water whose waters do not fail."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Isaiah 58:11[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"When He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]John 16:13[/size][/font]

 

[NewSong]

Faithfulness


[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"You have dealt well with Your servant, O LORD, according to Your word." [/size][/font]

[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
Psalm 119:65 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
1 Thessalonians 5:24 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]""For this is like the days of Noah to Me, when I swore that the waters of Noah would not flood the earth again; so I have sworn that I will not be angry with you nor will I rebuke you. For the mountains may be removed and the hills may shake, but My lovingkindness will not be removed from you, and My covenant of peace will not be shaken," says the LORD who has compassion on you." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
Isaiah 54:9-10 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"When the bow is in the cloud, then I will look upon it, to remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Genesis 9:16 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Genesis 28:15 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"But because the LORD loved you and kept the oath which He swore to your forefathers, the LORD brought you out by a mighty hand and redeemed you from the house of slavery, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt. "Know therefore that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
Deuteronomy 7:8-9 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Now behold, today I am going the way of all the earth, and you know in all your hearts and in all your souls that not one word of all the good words which the LORD your God spoke concerning you has failed; all have been fulfilled for you, not one of them has failed." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
Joshua 23:14 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Blessed be the LORD, who has given rest to His people Israel, according to all that He promised; not one word has failed of all His good promise, which He promised through Moses His servant." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
1 Kings 8:56 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Your lovingkindness, O LORD, extends to the heavens, Your faithfulness reaches to the skies." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
Psalm 36:5 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]I will sing of the lovingkindness of the LORD forever; to all generations I will make known Your faithfulness with my mouth. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]For I have said, "Lovingkindness will be built up forever; in the heavens You will establish Your faithfulness. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]But I will not break off My lovingkindness from him, nor deal falsely in My faithfulness. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]My covenant I will not violate, nor will I alter the utterance of My lips." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
Psalm 89:1,2,33,34[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]He will not allow your foot to slip; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
Psalm 121:3-4 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
1 Corinthians 1:9 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
1 Corinthians 10:13 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
2 Peter 3:9 [/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself. Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, "The Lord knows those who are His," and, "Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness." [/size][/font][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
2 Timothy 2:13,19 [/size][/font]

 

[The Story Teller]

July 3
​

Moving Up the Ladder
​

“The life that is unexamined is not worth living.”
—Plato
​

Everyone has heard the phrase, “It’s not what you know but who you know that counts.” This bit of folk wisdom has found some verification in studies about how people move up the corporate ladder. Relationships with the people higher up can be very helpful or dangerous to your career path. Most managers tend to promote people they can work with, whom they can trust, and who will be team players. The employee who ignores the role of business relationships is probably the same one who will stay in the mailroom the rest of his career. In a corporate study, Robert Jackall researched the factors that help to move people up the managerial ladder. It was his understanding that, once a person reached a certain level, managerial ability was taken for granted. After that, there were five other key factors.

The top factor Jackall discovered was Patron Power. A manager must have a mentor, sponsor, or champion who can pull him or her up the ladder. Often, when the mentor moves up, his or her favorite workers move up as well. Style is an important component for a potential upward move. The manager must be well organized and be able to give slick presentations and think fast. Also, the manager must be perceived as a team player. He must have self-control, manage his stress, and always exhibit a smiling and agreeable demeanor in public. Finally, the manager must look and dress the part. Shakespeare said we are all actors. It is only those actors who can play the part well that wind up in the starring role.

Consider This: Which of these factors do you need to work on? Are any of them holding you back?

Submitted by Richard

 

[NewSong]

Contentment

[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 17:22[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]All the days of the afflicted are bad, but a cheerful heart has a continual feast."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 15:15[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]1 Timothy 6:6[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"If they hear and serve Him, they will end their days in prosperity and their years in pleasures."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Job 36:11[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. Cease from anger and forsake wrath; do not fret; it leads only to evildoing."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 37:7-8[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"O satisfy us in the morning with Your lovingkindness, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 90:14[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"For He has satisfied the thirsty soul, and the hungry soul He has filled with what is good."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 107:9[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"The fear of the LORD leads to life, so that one may sleep satisfied, untouched by evil."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 19:23[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Do not fret because of evildoers or be envious of the wicked."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 24:19[/size][/font]



[size=+1][font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]
[/size][/font][/size]

[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and delight yourself in abundance."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Isaiah 55:2[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Philippians 4:11-12[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]1 Timothy 6:8[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, 'I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.'"[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Hebrews 13:5[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"As for me, I shall behold Your face in righteousness; I will be satisfied with Your likeness when I awake."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalms 17:15[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"The afflicted will eat and be satisfied; those who seek Him will praise the LORD. Let your heart live forever!"[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalm 22:26[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"With a long life I will satisfy him and let him see My salvation."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalms 91:16[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Psalms 103:5[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the soul of the diligent is made fat."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 13:4[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"He will not accept any ransom, nor will he be satisfied though you give many gifts."[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Proverbs 6:35[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Some soldiers were questioning him, saying, 'And what about us, what shall we do?' And he said to them, 'Do not take money from anyone by force, or accuse anyone falsely, and be content with your wages.'"[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]Luke 3:14[/size][/font]





[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]"Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong."
[/size][/font]



[font=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][size=-1]2 Corinthians 12:10[/size][/font]

 

[Stars_Fire_17]

Psalm 59:16
But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble

 

[NewSong]

What a really nice verse Stars_Fire_17.. I like that one! Thanks for sharing.

NewSong

 

[The Story Teller]

July 4
​

The Risk of Freedom
​

“Gentlemen, I make the motion that the United Colonies are, and of right ought to be free and independent.”
—Richard Henry Lee, June 7, 1776
​

What does Independence Day have to do with your personal success? A unique government was formed as the United States created opportunities like the world had never seen. Americans have the freedom to succeed, to fail, to choose their lot in life. It all started when a few entrepreneurial patriots risked their lives to make it happen. In the summer of 1776, a group of fifty-six men met and fashioned the greatest nation in the world. They knew they were at risk. Patrick Henry boldly declared, “If this is treason, make the most of it.” Thomas Jefferson was called upon to form a committee and draw up a Declaration of Independence. Every man knew that a signature on such a document could be a warrant for his death.

War was inevitable. People would die, and the outcome of the revolution could not be predicted. Yet, those patriots held fast to their strong belief in freedom and the rights of individuals. They were willing to take the risk—and willing to hope, work, and fight for victory. On July 4, 1776, after extensive debate, arguments, and modifications, each man signed the Declaration, which provides each of us the freedom to choose how we want to live our lives, what occupation we wish to pursue, and what beliefs we want to hold. But without those who risked their lives to secure those freedoms, America’s Declaration of Independence may have been relegated to footnote status in history books.

Consider This: The United States is based on the belief that each person can and should be able to exercise the freedom of choice. What have you done with your freedom?

Submitted by Richard

 

[The Story Teller]

July 5
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Discovering Problems
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“Leadership is like the Abominable Snowman, whose footprints are everywhere, but who is nowhere to be seen.”
—Warren Bennis
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In their book Leaders, authors Warren Bennis and Burt Nanus describe some of the characteristics that make managers different from leaders. Managers deal with problem solving. Their focus usually is reactionary, that is, they deal with problems as they arise. Leaders, on the other hand, discover problems. Problem finding in an organization is the identification of a new direction or a new vision. Problem finding looks beyond the current daily crises to the discovery of something beyond the everyday order of things. It brings to light undercurrents and perceives situations that have not yet risen to the surface. Leaders look for trouble well before it has a chance to happen.

Leaders challenge the old conventions. They care about the “know-why” rather than the “know-how.” Like a scientist doing research, leaders often believe that knowing the right questions is often more important than knowing the answers. Why does the organization do this or that? Why must the solution to the problem be such-and-such? If an organization can look forward to what questions will be important in the future, its managers will be more able to make decisions today that will lead them toward the solutions to future problems. Let the managers keep the ship on a safe course; let leaders steer the ship into the future.

Consider This: Forget about the daily problems for a moment. What are the important questions you need to be asking? Are you on the leading edge of your organization’s growth, anticipating what comes next?

Submitted by Richard

 

[The Story Teller]

July 6
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Änsa Bottles
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“An idea, to be suggestive, must come to the individual with the force of a revelation.”
—William James
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Bill and Nickie Campbell were like most new parents, doting over their new daughter, Mary Kathryn. One day grandfather Rex Gore made a simple observation: The baby was having a hard time holding onto her baby bottle. “Someday someone will put handles on these bottles so they’ll be easier to hold,” Rex predicted. Bill and Nickie jumped at the idea. Why not us? Using some modeling clay, Nickie began to fashion bottles of various shapes. The couple tested the clay bottles on Mary. The three-sided one didn’t work, nor did several other designs. Finally, Nickie created a bottle shaped like an elongated doughnut. The shape had promise. It had two handles, and each could hold formula.

The Campbells used their own money to have a plastic mold made by a company in Arkansas. They then had to find a company to manufacture their novel bottle and finally located one in Florida. The name Ansa was chosen for the bottle because it is Latin for handle. An umlaut was added to the first A to give the name a European flavor, even though the company is based in Muskogee, Oklahoma. The Campbells received bad news at their first trade show. They had made opaque bottles in bright colors, but parents wanted to be able to see the formula inside. The couple quickly changed to a see-through design and in the first sixty days of production sold 50,000 Änsa bottles. Within months, they had moved to a larger warehouse, and their first year’s sales were $1.5 million.

Consider This: You may not be the first to think of an idea, but you can still be the one who does something about it.

Submitted by Richard