Walking Through the Valleys

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0><tr> <td valign="top" colspan=2 height=90 BGCOLOR="#000066" TEXT="#F7F7FF" bgproperties="fixed" background="1b9005a3.jpg"> <div> <FONT SIZE="5" COLOR="#FFCC00" FACE="Arial" >Living Hope Christian Fellowship</FONT>     |     <A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Living Hope Christian Fellowship"><B>Home</B></A></div> <div> Back to  <A HREF="grief_and_suffering.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="For the Broken Hearted"><B>For the Broken Hearted</B></A></div> <div> </div> </td> </tr><tr> <td valign="top" width=160 BGCOLOR="#000066" TEXT="#F7F7FF" bgproperties="fixed" background="32ac8043.jpg"> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="135" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#000066" BORDERCOLORDARK="#FFCC00" FRAME="ABOVE" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" BGCOLOR=#FFFFFF > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP BGCOLOR=#FFCC00 HEIGHT= 16 WIDTH="131"><div> <B>Articles:</B></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div> <B>Through the Valleys</B></div> <bR> </td> <td valign="top" height=390 width="100%" BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="32b00042egerdp.jpg"> <div> <I><B>Walking Through the Valleys</B></I></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="1" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="598" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#000066" BORDERCOLORDARK="#FFFFFF" FRAME="BELOW" RULES="ROWS" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 4091 WIDTH="598"><div> <I><B><IMG SRC="1218c4c0.jpg" border=0 width="140" height="332" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="3" VSPACE="0"></B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" ><I>by Luciano Cozzi</I></FONT></div> <hr> <bR> <div> As I walked through the valleys of abuse, unfairness, pain, depression, loss and grief in my own life, nothing has been more important to me than remembering the Lord's promises and listening to the words of comfort that he shares with us in his Word. </div> <bR> <div> Some of them have come back to mind time and time again during and after my most painful and critical times. They comforted me, supported me and gave me the guidance and help I needed to make the right choices, get back on my feet and walk with the Lord in faith and trust.</div> <bR> <div> When I have been wounded by others, one of the most challenging things for me was to extend my trust to anyone again. At times it was so bad that even trusting God seemed difficult and strange. Yet, the warmth, the reassurance and the love I found in His Word have kept me going through thick and thin as a steady flow of real care reminded me that no matter what, he would never leave me nor forsake me. His words reminded me that he was there with me even when it didn't seem to be so. They reminded me of his love, and especially of the wonderful work he is doing in me and the value he has placed in me as a child of his.</div> <bR> <div> When everyone seemed to be there to crash me down, he was there to lift me up from within my heart. When others accused me unfairly, he kept reassuring me. When others abandoned me, he stayed and made his presence known.</div> <bR> <div> I would like to share some of those passages and a few of the thoughts that his Word stimulated in me in the hope that you too will find them just as comforting and encouraging as I did.</div> <bR> <div> I hope his words will keep reminding you that the Lord really loves you. No matter what your circumstances may be, he is and will always be with you! May his presence be manifest to you and bless you greatly as he touches your life with his love and grace.</div> <bR> <hr> <div> <I>I have been asking myself so many questions lately! Many times I have wondered if life is just about moving piles of dirt from one side to the other of the same dark room. Why does it hurt so much? What is it all about? Who am I, really? What am I worth? People have told me that I am trash, worth nothing, or even worse. At times I ask myself if they may be right, if there is some truth in their cutting remarks. My heart bleeds so badly and everything I had treasured has been taken away, some by the grips of death, some by other losses. What hurts the most, however, is the pain inflicted by the betrayal of those I had trusted, those who had shared so much with me in the House of the Lord. At times I wonder what God thinks of me. Does he look at me in the same way as they do? Is he as disgusted with me as they are? I </I><I><U>need</U></I><I> to know.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 147:3-6</B></div> <div>      He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >4</FONT>He telleth the number of the stars; he calleth them all by <I>their</I> names. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >5</FONT>Great <I>is</I> our Lord, and of great power: his understanding <I>is</I> infinite. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >6</FONT>The Lord lifteth up the meek: he casteth the wicked down to the ground. </div> <bR> <div> <I>I believe you, Lord, even though I don't see. I know that one day you will heal my wounds, too. Yet, I cannot see how or when. My mind tries so hard to find answers and explanations, but they are not there. It just doesn't make any sense – nothing seems to. Yet, here it is . . .  your promise, your word. It means so much more to me now. I ask myself if you can, and you remind me that you are the one who placed all the stars on their course and knows them one by one. You know me too, and your understanding has no limit. I know you will lift me up again. I know that you will not let those who crush me down prevail forever. I know that my heart one day will stop bleeding. Just take me by the hand that I may walk with you, because I am scared and alone. I need you like never before. Thanks for being here.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 27:7-10</B></div> <div>      Hear, O Lord, <I>when</I> I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >8</FONT><I>When thou saidst,</I> Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, Lord, will I seek. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >9</FONT>Hide not thy face <I>far</I> from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >10</FONT>When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up. </div> <bR> <div> <I>It hurts so much. I wish it could stop. I need you, Lord! Please, don't hide yourself from me, because you are all I have left. I know I am far from being perfect, that I have made so many mistakes . . .  please, don't put me away in your anger. As I think of it, I know I have been even worse in the past, but then you did not come against me. You did not lash out at me to send your punishment on me. Rather, you gave your life for me, and you came to me to lift me up. You cleaned me, you restored me and gave me hope for the future. I know that even in all my faults I am better than I used to be, and this is thanks to you and your grace. I know you will continue to be here and to shape me, because you said you would. I know that even though those I loved the most have turned against me, in you I will always be accepted and welcomed. Please, help me remember that, and seek your face every day of my life.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Deut. 4:31</B></div> <div>      (For the Lord thy God <I>is</I> a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 94:14</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      For the Lord will not cast off his people, neither will he forsake his inheritance. </div> <bR> <div> <I>Thank you, Lord, for your mercy, your reassurance and for being faithful. Please, forgive me for having doubted you, and for having thought of you as being like everyone else. No, you will not forsake me, you will not abandon me, you will not forget the work you have began in me. You are my inheritance and my hope, and I know I am secure in you. Thank you.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 43:5</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, <I>who is</I> the health of my countenance, and my God. </div> <bR> <div> <I>As the days go by and the pain lingers, my soul is tired and depressed. I have fallen so far down that sometimes I ask myself if I will ever stand again. I know you understand, for your Word tells me so. You don't leave me in the pit of despair. You ask me to lift my eyes and look at you, not at the mud of life in which I am immersed. Yes, I will praise you again out of joy, and I will stand again because of you.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Isaiah 51:11</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy <I>shall be</I> upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; <I>and</I> sorrow and mourning shall flee away. </div> <bR> <div> <I>Lord, your words are powerful and deep. My eyes have been filled with tears, but you dry them up with your love. I have felt as if life had exiled me. Yet, I too will return, but not with sadness. I long for that day, when tears and sorrows will run away and joy will be established and last forever in you. I know it will come. Thank you.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 37:23-24</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      The steps of a <I>good</I> man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >24</FONT>Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth <I>him with</I> his hand. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Isaiah 41:9-10</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      <I>Thou</I> whom I have taken from the ends of the earth, and called thee from the chief men thereof, and said unto thee, Thou <I>art</I> my servant; I have chosen thee, and not cast thee away. </div> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >10</FONT>Fear thou not; for I <I>am</I> with thee: be not dismayed; for I <I>am</I> thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. </div> <bR> <div> <I>So many times in the last few days and weeks I have asked myself if you were there. You seemed so far at times, so unreachable. I know now I was wrong. You have always been by my side, even when I didn't see you. I long for your strength and your help, and when I need it the most, there you are, to sustain me and help me. I have been so scared, Lord! I didn't know what to do. But then you reminded me that my steps are ordered by you and that you have chosen me not to destroy me, but to edify me and shape me into one of your servants. Please, let me be aware of your presence, let me know that you are here with me. Take my hand and walk with me, and thanks for reminding me who you are.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>2 Cor. 4:6-10</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to <I>give</I> the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. </div> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >7</FONT>But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >8</FONT><I>We are</I> troubled on every side, yet not distressed; <I>we are</I> perplexed, but not in despair; <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >9</FONT>Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >10</FONT>Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. </div> <bR> <div> <I>I have been in darkness for so long that I was beginning to doubt that I would see the light again. Then, here you are, once again, with your word to comfort and encourage. Yes, just like you brought forth light from darkness, you will also bring good out of this evil. I feel so weak and vulnerable, but then you remind me that it's all right, and you tell me why. I am all right even though I feel so weak because you show me that I should not rely on my strength, but rather on you. You have given me so much, yet I can only receive it in my fragility and in my mortality so that I would not boast in myself, but rather in you. I am beginning to see, Lord, but it is still so blurry and foggy. Open my eyes, Lord, that I may see better.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Romans 8:35-39</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? <I>shall</I> tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >36</FONT>As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >37</FONT>Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >38</FONT>For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >39</FONT>Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. </div> <bR> <div> <I>I have been so scared, lonely and afraid that I have started to doubt you and your love. Thanks for correcting me and for showing me that I was looking in the wrong direction. You don't use the circumstances of life to show your love. In fact, it was when the going was toughest that I found your love. Yes, I too can be a conqueror, not on my own, but in you. You have all that it takes, so I can lean on you. Of all the things I was fearing, all the things that were placing doubts in my mind nothing can be found that would separate me from your love in Jesus, for nothing could stop him from giving himself for me. How can I thank you for your steadfast love?</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Philip. 4:11-13</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, <I>therewith</I> to be content. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >12</FONT>I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >13</FONT>I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. </div> <bR> <div> <B>1 John 4:4</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. </div> <bR> <div> <I>How quickly do I tend to forget who you are, Lord! Even if the whole world were to turn against me – and sometimes it feels as if it did – I know that you are more powerful, and that you have promised to be not just with me, but </I><I><U>in</U></I><I> me. Come, Lord Jesus. Come and abide in me, that I may be your servant and do your will.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Romans 12:19-21</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but <I>rather</I> give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance <I>is</I> mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >20</FONT>Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >21</FONT>Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Isaiah 54:17</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      "No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; and every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their vindication is from Me," declares the Lord.</div> <bR> <div> <I>I have been tempted, Lord. I had the opportunity to get even, and it seemed so inviting. But then you reminded me that it would not be right, so I placed it in your hands. I know it is right to do so, but it did not feel like it, because once again it made me look like a looser in the eyes of so many. I am beginning to understand, though. Even though in the present circumstances in life I may seem to be a looser, I can be more than a winner, ultimately, for eternity. I think this may be the true intended meaning of the parable of Lazarus and the rich man. I take that wealth to be symbolic of more than just finances, and to include health, prestige, prosperity, false security in the things of this world. In Psalm 37 I find that the person who has all the things he may want in life, if he is not righteous and humble before you, he will not prosper forever. On the other hand, the poor and the humble, if righteous before you, even though he may face adversity in this life he will find eternal glory. All my affections here are temporary. Help me not to lean on them. Help me to walk straight and to continue to resist my temptation to get even. I place it all in your hands. Please, help me leave it there.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>2 Cor. 2:14-15</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Now thanks <I>be</I> unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >15</FONT>For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish. </div> <bR> <div> <I>I can hardly believe my eyes, Lord. Did you really say this? Am I really to you a sweet savor of Christ? I am left speechless, Lord, before your love and compassion. I long for that triumph, but I know I need to wait. It will come at the right time: your time. In the meantime, please teach me to appreciate your love and grace. Teach me how I may share that love with others who are hurt and are suffering even more than I am now. Let me be that savor in someone else's life as well. Not for me, but for you.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 18:27-32</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      For thou wilt save the afflicted people; but wilt bring down high looks. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >28</FONT>For thou wilt light my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >29</FONT>For by thee I have run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >30</FONT><I>As for</I> God, his way <I>is</I> perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he <I>is</I> a buckler to all those that trust in him. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >31</FONT>For who <I>is</I> God save the Lord? or who <I>is</I> a rock save our God? <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >32</FONT><I>It is</I> God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 92:1-5</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      <I>It is a</I> good <I>thing</I> to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >2</FONT>To shew forth thy loving kindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >3</FONT>Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery; upon the harp with a solemn sound. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >4</FONT>For thou, Lord, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >5</FONT>O Lord, how great are thy works! <I>and</I> thy thoughts are very deep. </div> <bR> <div> <B>1 Cor. 9:24</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain [or “in such a way that you may win”].</div> <bR> <div> Lord, <I>I take this to mean that when I feel like giving up it is not the time for me to stop running. You have promised that I would have victory in you, so I must keep going on in order to win, or I will forfeit it all. I cannot give up, I must run, so that you may finish your work in me and that your victory may one day be manifest in me, too.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>1 Cor. 15:56-58</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      The sting of death <I>is</I> sin; and the strength of sin <I>is</I> the law. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >57</FONT>But thanks <I>be</I> to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >58</FONT>Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. </div> <bR> <div> <I>Thank you once again, Lord, for showing me what it is all about. I have been so concerned about me and what I feel that I almost lost sight of what it is really all about. Please, give me the strength I need to be steadfast, to not be shaken by my pain, but rather to remain constant in my desire to serve you and to minister to your children. Don't let me doubt again. Rather, keep firm in my mind your words and the knowledge that in you no effort is wasted or in vain.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Romans 8:37</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Philip. 3:7-9</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >8</FONT>Yea doubtless, and I count all things <I>but</I> loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them <I>but</I> dung, that I may win Christ, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >9</FONT>And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: </div> <bR> <div> <I>I know now that it is not about me. Instead, it is all about you, Lord. Please, accept my life as a testimony of your grace. I am yours now and forever.</I></div> <bR> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP BGCOLOR=#BBBBBB HEIGHT= 20 WIDTH="598"><div> <B>On Our Worth in Christ</B></div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 1249 WIDTH="598"><div> <I>I have asked myself so many questions that I almost lost my sense of identity. I could only see myself as a failure, as a person with no worth and nothing left to give. Then, Jesus reached out in his love to remind me that each human is of immense value to him, including me.</I></div> <bR> <div> <I>An auction. An old violin beaten and scarred by many years of abuse. No one would even bid a dollar for it for a while, then someone did. It was almost gone for three dollars, when someone stood up and walked up to that violin. He cleaned it, tied up its strings, and began to play a beautiful melody. When he had finished, the auctioneer asked if anyone would bid a thousand dollars, and someone did. Then, two, then three. . . .  Shocked, some asked what changed the worth of the violin, and as the poem goes, “it was the touch of the Master's hand.”  I had heard the poem before, but I had never really applied it to myself so directly and clearly as now. Something's value is often determined by how useful or desirable that object is, and most often by how much one is willing to pay for it. </I></div> <bR> <div> <B>John 1:1-3</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >2</FONT>The same was in the beginning with God. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >3</FONT>All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. </div> <bR> <div> <B>1 Cor. 8:6</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      But to us <I>there is but</I> one God, the Father, of whom <I>are</I> all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom <I>are</I> all things, and we by him. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Col. 1:16</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether <I>they be</I> thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him. </div> <bR> <div> <I>Jesus (John 1:14-17), the Word, was the One by whom and through whom all things that exist were made. I ask myself, what could be the worth of “all things”? The worth of the entire universe is certainly impossible to estimate. Perhaps, one thing I can say is that its worth is almost infinite. Then, I ask myself how much Jesus' life is worth. He made all things, so his life is surely worth more than all he made. So, I find myself thinking that his life has truly infinite value.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>John 3:16-17</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" >For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. </FONT><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >17</FONT>For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. </div> <bR> <div> <I>These are more than beautiful words! Jesus himself did not come to this earth to condemn me, but to save me. I really don't need to worry or fear, because he loves me so much as to give himself for me.</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Mark 10:45</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" >For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. </FONT></div> <bR> <div> <I>A ransom is a payment. This means that Jesus gave his life in payment for mine. I must stop here to think. It is too great, too meaningful, too deep for my mind to grasp it. If his life's worth is infinite and he gave it as a payment for mine, how much is my life worth in his eyes? Everything! Infinitely! </I></div> <bR> <div> <I>This is nothing short of awesome. Perhaps now I am beginning to see why Paul could write to the Romans saying some of the most amazing and awesome words I have ever read or heard. Indeed they are words of life!</I></div> <bR> <div> <B>Romans 8:38-39</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >39</FONT>Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Romans 5:8</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Romans 8:32</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? </div> <bR> <div> <B>1 John 3:1</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Ephes. 3:14-19</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >15</FONT>Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >16</FONT>That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >17</FONT>That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >18</FONT>May be able to comprehend with all saints what <I>is</I> the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" >19</FONT>And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. </div> <bR> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP BGCOLOR=#BBBBBB HEIGHT= 20 WIDTH="598"><div> <B>On God's Assistance in Times of Need</B></div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 1157 WIDTH="598"><bR> <div> <B>Psalm 40:17</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      But I <I>am</I> poor and needy; <I>yet</I> the Lord thinketh upon me: thou <I>art</I> my help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 46:1</B></div> <div>      God <I>is</I> our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 33:20</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Our soul waiteth for the Lord: he <I>is</I> our help and our shield. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 37:40</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      And the Lord shall help them and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 119:173</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Let thine hand help me; for I have chosen thy precepts. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 121:2</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      My help <I>cometh</I> from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 124:8</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Our help <I>is</I> in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Isaiah 41:10</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Fear thou not; for I <I>am</I> with thee: be not dismayed; for I <I>am</I> thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Isaiah 41:13</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Exodus 32:34</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Therefore now go, lead the people unto <I>the place</I> of which I have spoken unto thee: behold, mine Angel shall go before thee: nevertheless in the day when I visit I will visit their sin upon them. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 34:7</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Isaiah 45:2</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron: </div> <bR> <div> <B>Deut. 31:8</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      And the Lord, he <I>it is</I> that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed. </div> <bR> <div> <B>2 Chron. 20:15</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the Lord unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle <I>is</I> not yours, but God's. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Hebrews 4:16</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Luke 12:12</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" >For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say. </FONT></div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 25:9</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 73:24</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me <I>to</I> glory. </div> <bR> <div> <B>Psalm 32:8</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div>      I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. </div> <bR> <div> <B>John 16:13</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >     </FONT>Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, <I>that</I> shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. </div> <bR> <bR> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div> Copyright © 2000  Luciano Cozzi  -  All Rights Reserved</div> <bR> <bR> </td> </tr></table></body>