tag:powerinpraise.net,2005:/blogs/musings?p=3Musings2018-05-02T13:27:52-05:00Power in Praisefalsetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/52136072018-05-02T13:27:52-05:002018-05-02T13:27:52-05:00If My People - Reboot by Linda Bracken<p>We have renewed our site after a few years of rest! It seems like as good a time as any to add some new features, so the newest feature will be audio samples from our previously released albums.</p>
<p>The first offerings will be "If My People" from the album <em>He Loves You</em> as well as the instrumental "Trusting is Believing" featuring the brilliant stylings of Marion on the piano.</p>
<p>You can access these audio files on<a contents=" this " data-link-label="Media" data-link-type="page" href="/media" target="_self"> this </a>new page!</p>
<p>Stay tuned for more exciting updates... we're not getting older, we're getting better :)</p>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/24768332014-01-27T19:29:12-06:002014-01-27T19:29:12-06:00Bless His Holy Name by L.G. Bracken<div><span class="font_regular">40 years ago Andre Crouch penned the song "Bless His Holy Name" based on Psalm 103:1. 35 odd years ago we recorded the song on the album "Trinity Television Presents - Power In Praise - I'm Coming Home, Lord." Needless to say the song is timeless as we begin our day with praise to our King and end our day with praise to His Holy Name.</span></div>
<div> </div>
<div><span class="font_regular">As time marches on and we find ourselves closer to seeing Him face to face - whether through the grave or through the skies - it's all good!! <span class="font_regular"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We are confident that he who began a good work in us will complete it for His glory. </span></span></span></div>
<div> </div>
<div><span class="font_regular"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We were singing with the folks at First Baptist Church in Portage la Prairie this morning (January 12, 2014) and I felt overwhelming gratitude and peace as we joined in worship before the Throne. </span></span></div>
<div> </div>
<div><span class="font_regular"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In the next few weeks the book that I penned titled "Music, Ministry, and Miracles - Trinity Television and Me" will be released to the general public. I am humbled and honored to be able to share some of the many memories that we have had as our lives dovetailed with the folks at "It's A New Day." Truly God has done great things in and through us as we have surrendered our lives into His great big hands. </span></span></div>
<div> </div>
<div><span class="font_regular"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As an added bonus of sweetness, the folks at Word Alive Press have informed me that they will be putting their Author Spotlight on yours truly in February. So I am in awe of how the Lord can lead his sheep out into the wide places for His glory, honor, and praise.</span></span></div>
<div> </div>
<div><span class="font_regular">I can truly say with all honesty and sincerity "Bless the Lord, oh my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name!"</span></div>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235992012-01-12T01:42:55-06:002012-01-12T01:42:55-06:00The Harbinger/If My People - by Linda BrackenThe newly released book by Rabbi Jonathan Cahn titled "The Harbinger" (www.hopeoftheworld.org) has been promoted through various Christian media outlets. We have been absorbing the information and the bottom line to this message from Rabbi Cahn is that we are called to humble our selves before our Holy God, to pray, and seek His Face. <br><br>
The Rabbi's heartfelt cry to the Body of Yeshua is lifted from the Lord's response to King Solomon as the King asked for an answer to what the future would hold for the nation that he was leading. God's response was simple and direct. <br><br>
2 Chronicles 7:14 says "If My people which are called by My Name shall humble themselves and pray and seek My Face and turn from their wicked ways then will I hear from Heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land."<br><br>
On our digitally remastered CD "He Loves You" is the scripture song "If My People" which is taken from 2 Chronicles 7:14. We recorded the song over 30 years ago, however, the message is relevant for us today. The solid foundation of God's Word, which is eternal and unchanging, is our only source of Truth.<br><br>
Y'shua, our Messiah said "I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life no one comes to the Father except through me..." If you are a child of God though adoption into His family, then check your heart for the leaven of sin and sweep it out of your life. If you do not know our Loving Father or have relationship with Him through His Son, then all you have to do is ask Him to forgive you and clean you up from the inside out and accept His Gift of Love - Life Forever! <br><br>
We all want to see healing in our Nation and all around the world. As the old song says...Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.<br><br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/236002011-12-23T01:35:00-06:002011-12-23T01:35:00-06:00Be Still My Soul - by Linda BrackenSometimes we can feel overwhelmed with the amount of work that we have to do with a limited amount of time. We need to be ready to calm ourselves down and recognize that our busy schedule and the pile of tasks assigned to us will be accomplished without going into panic mode.<br><br>
On a recent flight I was a witness to how quickly one can go from being relational and calm to "get out of my way and out of my face and don't bother me with you questions and requests" mode.<br><br>
The flight attendant in on the 50 seat plane was relational and accommodating with all the passengers. She took extra time with making sure each person's need was met and went over and above the call with some requests. The flight was less than an hour long and the flight attendant was still at the rear of the plane serving the last couple of rows their beverage service when the cockpit signalled the 20 minutes to touchdown call. <br><br>
The cart and the attendant came up the aisle with great haste as she put the announcement over the system to shut down all electronics, stow your carry on luggage, tighten your seatbelts, put away your tray tables and place your seats in their upright and locked positions. She also had to pass out declaration forms and make her final trash sweep of the cabin and finish her own paperwork and stowing and locking of the galley items. Time was running out and she was in panic mode! <br><br>
The man in the seat next to me had spilled his drink and was asking the attendant for another drink to replace it. She did not really have the time to process his drink order, but she did it anyway. It was impressive that she completed all the tasks and was able to strap herself in before the final approach phase of the flight.<br><br>
Once strapped into her seat, which faced my seat, we talked about the amount of work that she had to get done in a very short amount of time. She blamed herself for taking too much time with the passengers and giving out extra drinks and stopping to talk to people instead of just performing her duties. She went on to note that while she was in a panic the people behind the cockpit door were cool, calm, and collected and not worried about her state of affairs as they quietly and efficiently went about their job.<br><br>
I appreciated several things about the lessons that I needed to assimilate. I need to slow down and take my time with the various tasks presented to me to accomplish in a day, but still be relational to those around me. Rabbi Saul told us that "love is not rude." I need to be aware of those in my space, but not let the people around me distract me from getting the job done. Last, but not least, I need to acknowledge the Presence of the Lord even though He is hidden from my view. He is quietly getting me safely to my destination. He is never in panic mode and He is the One Who is always on my side. <br><br>
"Be still my soul, the Lord is on your side..."<br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/236022011-08-11T16:30:00-05:002011-08-11T16:30:00-05:00My Lord Knows the Way Through the Wilderness - by Linda BrackenI love children's songs. What's not to love? They are simple and clear and teach many things. Children's songs about the love of the Father in Heaven are especially powerful teaching tools. Instructive songs are important to learn, whether for children or the childlike at heart. <br><br>
One song resonates in my soul very loudly and since I am a Natural Born Follower, I can testify to the truth of the power in these simple, straightforward words. <br><br>
My God knows the way through the wilderness<br>
All I have to do is follow<br>
My God knows the way through the wilderness<br>
All I have to do is follow.<br><br>
Follow, follow, I will follow Jesus<br>
Anywhere, everywhere<br>
I will follow on<br>
Follow, follow, I will follow Jesus<br>
Everywhere He leads me <br>
I will follow Him.<br><br>
It doesn't get much simpler than that, people. Jesus invites us to follow Him. He knows the way because He is THE WAY. He is never in darkness because HE IS THE LIGHT. He is never uncaring because He loves us with AN EVERLASTING LOVE.<br><br>
Can you say in your heart and with your mouth, I will follow Jesus? If you do then the wilderness of this world's woes will not bring you fear as you follow our Leader through this world system's fearful and dark maze.<br><br>
"Anywhere He leads me, I will follow on....!"<br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/236012011-06-30T15:30:00-05:002011-06-30T15:30:00-05:00Who's Side Are You On? - by Linda BrackenWhose side are you on? <br><br>
In political life there is the left and the right. In the legal world there is the prosecution and the defense. In the sports arena it is the home club against the visiting team. In the male/female relationship conflict it is "he said, she said." <br><br>
Whether in the area of politics, law, sports, or marriage, the conflict is always just one side versus the other side In truth there is always the third alternative, another side...the Lord's side. <br><br>
When you choose to be on the Lord's side you are on the side of the One who sees the end from the beginning. He knows our thoughts and the intent of our hearts. His perspective is perfect.<br><br>
Who is on the Lord's side, who will serve the King? We get to choose everyday whose side we are on...as for me and my house we will serve the Lord (see Joshua 24 verse 15.) When we are on the side of the One Who says He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (see John 14 verse 6) we are on the only side that matters. <br><br>
No one comes to the Father except through the access door of the resurrected Son of the Living God and in so choosing the Lord's side, one chooses life and that life is abundant and full. We are filled with love and peace and joy and assurance. <br><br>
Frances Ridley Havergal (1836-1879) who penned the hymn which began "Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee..." wrote the hymn "Who Is On The Lord's Side?" Miss Havergal was a woman of many talents and abilities, although she was frail and in poor health for much of her short life, she was filled with a strong faith and assurance in the Lord's merciful provision.<br><br>
To choose the Lord's side is the best choice, the only choice that one can make to have a sure victory over the conflicts in the world.Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235982010-07-21T03:27:15-05:002010-07-21T03:27:15-05:00The Death of Intimacy - by Linda Bracken"The Death of Intimacy"<br><br>
Strange title, but not really once the context is given. The context is the observation of the modern Church's apparent lack of teaching the value of one on One quiet time with the Lord. We are so busy running here and there in pursuit of the latest mega meeting that we forget that the Walk with the Lord is just that...a WALK with the Lord.<br><br>
The old hymn "In The Garden" expresses the joy of "He walks with me and He talks with me and He tells me I am His own..." <br><br>
What are we missing in this era of "bigger-is-better-megachurchianity?" In a word, we are missing - EVERYTHING!!!<br><br>
The joy that my Father and I share on a daily moment by moment basis is so sweet that even nature seems to pause to take in the beauty of our conversation. My relationship with the Lord is so deeply personal and intimate that it is too private to be shared with anyone else.<br><br>
My personal time with my Father is leisurely and refreshing and filled with Life. He instructs me to "be still and know that I Am God!" To that end I choose to turn off the TV, radio, IPod...whatever electronic gadget is drawing my focus and attention and listen........then He speaks in the Still Small Voice that I have grown to love and trust and He assures me that I am His own! <br><br>
"I am my Beloved's and He is mine His banner over me is Love..." is a chorus that I learned many years ago in the infancy of my walk with the Lord. Here I am many years later and that chorus - taken directly out of Scripture - expresses the depth of the feeling that fills my soul.<br><br>
I feel sad for the banging/clanging/drum beat driven corruption of what constitutes a "Worship Service" in the mind set of today's Seekers. Am I against drums and electric guitars in a Service? No, I am against the "Death of Intimacy."<br><br>
"I come to the garden alone while the dew is still on the roses and the Voice I hear falling on my ear, the Son of God discloses and He walks with me and He talks with me and He tells me I am His own and the joy we share as we tarry there, none other has ever known."<br><br>
Here's the crux of the matter and the challenge..are we willing to take the time to give our undivided attention to a quiet time of Life giving Intimacy with our Father or are we going to put intimacy to death?Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235972010-02-26T05:35:00-06:002010-02-26T05:35:00-06:00The Lord's Prayer - by Linda BrackenMichael J. Fox, the actor widely known as Marty McFly from the "Back to the Future" movie series, and spokesperson for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter games once said that in spite of his current physical limitations he was grateful and thankful. He added that he did not know what mailing address to send his gratitude to....in other words, he did not know God or where God lived.<br><br>
If we are followers of Jesus (Y'shua) we know that He is the Son of the Living God. He has shown us God's Face - "if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father" - he told his disciple Phillip. Talking to His Father was a daily, living, breathing, reality for our Lord Jesus. We are one in Him, so talking to our Father should be a daily, living, breathing, reality for us as His Children.<br><br>
If I could answer the mailing address quest of Mr. Fox I would tell him about the One Whose Name and Address he can send his gratitude to....The True and Living God; The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; The Beginning and the End; The Author and Finisher of our Faith; The Great I Am; The Bright and Morning Star; The Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world; The Faithful and True Witness; Wonderful, Counseller, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace...........<br><br>
The first followers of Y'shua asked Him to teach them to pray so he instructed them:<br><br>
"Our Father" the Person, the Object of our petition is named...<br><br>
"Which art in Heaven" there you have it, the mailing address of our Father. He resides in a Place called Heaven.<br><br>
"Hallowed by Thy Name" Wow!!! His Name is called "Holy" He is far above us in the place of Heaven and yet He is our Father.<br><br>
"Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done in Earth as it is in Heaven" Not only is our Holy Father residing in Heaven, He is the King. We should desire to see His good will accomplished in our Earthly residence. He should sit on the Throne of our life and heart.<br><br>
"Give us this day our daily bread" Our needs are met in the day. We need only today's provision to make us full.<br><br>
"And forgive us our trespasses.." We need to give up our own sinful ways everyday and seek forgiveness for the times we give in to our old nature. <br><br>
"As we forgive those who trespass against us..." Mmmm. We need to forgive. Harbouring unforgiveness is like drinking poison and hoping it hurts our enemy.<br><br>
"And lead us not into temptation" We are led into temptation when we allow our eyes to see things they shouldn't and our ears to hear things they should not hear. We are led into temptation by our own lustful nature...so we need to kill that old man, everyday!<br><br>
"But deliver us from evil" Okay, so we allow our eyes and ears to succumb to the lusts of the old nature and we fall into the old routines of sin...Praise the Lord that He will reach out His Hand and rescue us from the slimy pit of despair that we have slipped into by our willful, stubborn, pride. But...we need to remember that we don't go out and sin just because we know that God will rescue us. Why would we put our Heavenly Father through the anguish of seeing His Child in such jeopardy? We love Him and want to honour Him...<br><br>
"For Thine is the Kingdom, and the Power, and the Glory..." He is the All Powerful, Glorious, Mighty King! We should bow to Him and worship Him with contrite and grateful hearts as we lift our hands to Him and sing out our praises to Him now and...<br><br>
"Forever!!!!! Amen" <br><br>
"Mr Fox," I would say if I met him with this answer, "You have been bought from slavery to a mean taskmaster and delivered into the household of the King who has adopted you and made you His Son by washing you clean in the Blood of the Lamb. You are no longer a pawn in the evil one's fallen world, you get to choose to become a member of the Royal Priesthood, a Holy Nation, a Person belonging to God.<br><br>
You don't have to be in the dark as to Who it is that has blessed you with a wonderful family and resources to stand on a platform of influence. You can be a voice for the King, if you choose to accept Adoption into His Family."<br><br>
Once upon a time, I was singing at a conference in a local church. The guest speaker at the event asked me to sing "The Lord's Prayer" in an unusual fashion by singing each line and then stopping so he could expound on each truth. <br><br>
After he was done his teaching he asked me to sing the prayer straight though with no interruption. The joy that I felt in sharing this beautiful piece of music and words reached deep into my soul.<br><br>
I know Who I am talking to when I pray. I know where He lives and what He has done in my life, what He is doing, and what He will do...forever. Amen!!!Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235962009-10-31T03:56:46-05:002009-10-31T03:56:46-05:00The Lowly Snowball - by Linda Bracken<br>
The snowball is created by the compacting together of millions of crystals of frozen water. The frozen water is commonly called snow flakes.<br><br>
In the design process, each crystal is a unique creation, no two patterns are alike. <br><br>
The crystals can be packed together into a ball of snow that can be used as the perfect artillery shell in a snowball fight. <br><br>
They can be rolled around to make a bigger set of three balls which, when stacked on top of each other and embellished with a corn cob pipe, a carrot nose, a set of coal eyes, with a jaunty top hat, can become the subject of a winter yuletide jingle.<br><br>
But, alas, the lowly snowball will melt away forever when heat is applied. So the second law of Thermodynamics states that all things pass from a higher state of organization into a deteriorated and lower state. Example, leave an apple on the counter for a month...you get the point?! <br><br>
So what does this have to do with hymns, songs, and spiritual songs?<br><br>
Our life here is about as long as the life span of a snowball, when compared to the length of eternity (which does not have a beginning or an end) and like the snowball our life here on the planet has a start and a finish.<br><br>
We are each uniquely designed by the Creator out of the crystal composition of earth. Like the lowly snowball we can be used as artillery shells by the enemy of our souls to attack those around us or we can be like the frosty snowman and live for a season before we melt away back into the dirt from which we were formed....but wait...there's more!!!<br><br>
What about the lowly snowball? As the saying goes "it doesn't stand a snowball's chance in hell." Why? Because hell is hot and it is filled with burning regret and terror and turmoil that makes anything horrific on this plane of existence look like a sesame street playground.<br><br>
What does that have to do with nice Christian songs?<br><br>
Glad you asked....<br><br>
Unlike the snowball, we are alive because we have been made in the image of our Father, our Creator. He formed our first father from the dust of the earth, breathed into him the Breathe of Life, and made him a living soul. Yes, like the snowball, we are a unique Creation, no two humans are identical in our Spiritual make-up, each Soul is unique unto itself. We are unlike the lowly snowball because you and I are Living Spirits made in the Image of our Creator. We live in a DNA House of Clay and have free will and the ability to choose. We can choose our future destiny. What do we have to do to be kept from melting into a puddle of eternal regret? <br><br>
Be transformed by the renewing of your mind and the cleansing of your heart with the Living Word of Life. Believe in your heart and confess with your mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord and you will be transformed, made new, and saved.Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235952009-10-31T03:52:26-05:002009-10-31T03:52:26-05:00Soon and Very Soon - by Linda BrackenBack in the day, Andre Crouch penned the song "Soon and Very Soon (We Are Going To See The King)" and we anticipated the wonderful event with wide eyes. <br><br>
The reality of the King of Kings coming back to Planet Earth is True as a future event, because He told us He would return, so we look with eagerness toward The Day of His Appearing.<br><br>
We have assurance that we will see Him one day, whether we go to see Him through the grave or go to see Him through the skies, we can look for the Day with joy.<br><br>
In recent days notable people have been leaving their earthly habitation and stepping into Eternity. We grieve with their loved ones, because Death is an Enemy. For the ones who have left their bodies without taking the time to make room for the King in their hearts and lives, the day of Death is indeed sad. <br><br>
Without the Lord, the Existence beyond this life is a forever separation of unspeakable darkness, away from the Father's loving Presence of Light.<br><br>
In the Lord, the Existence beyond this life is a forever time of unspeakable joy, love, peace, and Light in His Loving Presence.<br><br>
So, here is the gist of the message for today...soon, in the twinkling of an eye, time will be no more for you and for me. We will see the King and either cower in fear as He rejects us or we fall down in awe as He receives us as one of His Own...soon - maybe today?Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235942009-10-30T05:15:00-05:002009-10-30T05:15:00-05:00Camera Flash - by Linda BrackenIn the blink of an eye I found myself tumbling in my car one and half times! My eight month pregnant belly was behind the wheel of the car and my twenty two month old daughter was strapped in her car seat in the back when I hit the black ice and found myself topsy turvy in the snow covered field. It seemed to be no more than the blink of an eye, yet it was a slow motion event that had my mind racing and my heart jumping in my chest.<br><br>
The car stopped on the driver's side and my daughter's loud cries in the back as she hung suspended in her car seat drove home the reality of what had just happened and how we had miraculously been spared from a tragic occurance. My racing heart and whirling head began to thank my Heavenly Father for being so close to us as kind strangers appeared outside the car, pulling my whimpering child out of the back seat and righting the car so that I could get out of the driver's door.<br><br>
All was well with the baby in the back seat and the baby in my belly.<br><br>
How fast is a camera flash? The blink of an eye is how fast it is! Do you know how fast our life span is in the span of Eternity? The blink of an eye, in the flash of a millisecond, that's all that our time registers in the Big Span.<br><br>
So, why do we think that the dash between the two dates on a tombstone is such a very long duration? Is it because, when we are in the middle of living the dash between the dates it seems to stretch on and on and on? <br><br>
In the span of Eternity the dash between the dates is as fast as the flash of a camera or as fast as the blink of an eye...so why do we live our lives so carelessly? Why do we tap dance on down the road without looking at where we are going and thinking about what lies on the road before us?<br><br>
The blink of an eye is all it takes to be breathing air one second and then not breathing the next. The black ice event made me realize how close we can come to stepping out of our "DNA House of Clay" and stepping into Eternity's House. <br><br>
The question one needs to answer is...how will we live our dash between the dates? At the end of the road, in the blink of an eye, in the camera flash of time that we've inhabited we will step out of time and into Timelessness. We will stand before the Creator of Time, Space, and Matter and He will judge the "dash between the dates."<br><br>
We will either hear from His Lips "Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Enter into your rest!" or "Depart from Me, I never knew you!"<br><br>
In the blink of an eye, we can surrender our Dash between the Dates over to the One Who Created us in the first place.Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235932009-07-14T08:27:43-05:002009-07-14T08:27:43-05:00All Hail The Power of Jesus' Name - by Linda BrackenWarren and I arrived in the city of Hamilton, Ontario on Sunday June 14th where our son, David was booked to share his music with the folks at Harmony Baptist Church's contemporary morning service. We had a bit of time between the end of the Traditional Service and the start of the Contemporary Worship service and as David went to meet with the Worship Leader and Team for a short practice we waited in the foyer with David's wife, Samantha. <br><br>
The anticipation of joining with our brothers and sisters of like precious faith for the time of praise to our loving our Heavenly Father was refreshing and took away any weariness that we felt from having a full schedule and little sleep over the course of the previous few days.<br><br>
Suddenly, David appeared in the doorway and told us that the worship team was shy a few people and he had offered our services to help in the morning worship, an offer that was accepted by the Leader! We found ourselves meeting with the musicians a few moments later and going over some unfamiliar, yet beautiful music. A few short minutes after that we were in the main sanctuary and testing microphones on the platform! <br><br>
"Okay, Lord, here we are ready and willing to serve!" It was not said out loud, but we thought it in our hearts. We had quick introductions to the leadership and expressed our thanks at being allowed to share the platform...we never take it lightly when we are given the privilege of being part of those who serve by leading praise and worship, because the Father is seeking those who will worship Him in Spirit and in Truth, a commission that we accept in deep humility.<br><br>
The service began and we were up and singing the few contemporary pieces that Warren and I had just learned. The praise flowed from the congregation to the Throne and the one familiar song that we sang was a hymn "All Hail The Power of Jesus' Name" and its words can be sung to three different melodies. The melody chosen for this particular service always reminds me of a Christmas Carol, as the word "Crown" is sung like the phrase "Gloria In Excelsis" and one cannot help but feel lifted up into the Heavenlies as the notes flow like living water over diamonds in a rushing stream.<br><br>
Jesus' Name truly is powerful, at the Name of Jesus every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Our heartfelt thanks go out to the leaders at Harmony Baptist Church for allowing us to share with you and letting us join your worship team. <br><br>
That morning of service refreshed us and lifted our hearts above the grief of laying Warren's Dad to rest. We were reminded that this earthly journey is temporary, but with the Father's Gift of Eternal Life, Eternity will go on and on and on....so we can rejoice and be glad because we will be able to sing "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name" and know that we can join in the everlasting song and Crown Him Lord of All!....forever and ever. Amen!Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235922009-06-22T06:02:11-05:002022-05-30T23:29:17-05:00Eternity - by Linda BrackenWe made our way to Southern Ontario for the interment of Dad Bracken's ashes on Saturday June 15th. We felt privileged to see the transforming power of God's grace through the last years of Robert's life. He came to the place of having the utter assurance and peace of knowing the mercy of God to take away all our sins and transgressions by the Blood of the Lamb.<br><br>
A few weeks before he passed away, his pastor was reading the 23rd Psalm and when the part was read "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for Thou art with me...." Dad interrupted and said with great assurance "He sure is!" <br><br>
It was so good to know that he had come to the place of understanding that God's mercy is a free gift. It is freely given to anyone who will open up and receive it, no matter what kind of wrong things we have done in our lives. The truth of the matter is that we are all born wrong, born with the fallen nature of the first Adam. We need to accept the new birth of the Second Adam so the wrong is made right. God didn't send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved. God doesn't make "bad people good" as a matter of fact He makes "dead people live."<br><br>
The choice that we make is to accept the gift of Eternal Life...John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting Life." The free gift is Eternity.<br><br>
In the title track song "<a target="_new" href="http://www.davidbracken.com/music">Eternity</a>" on <a href="./david.cfm">David</a>'s CD there are three different people mentioned. A little boy, a teenage girl, and an old man...each person has different issues and each has to come by faith to receive Jesus as their friend and Saviour and receive the gift of Life Forever. The last verse deals with an old man in a hospital bed...he is alone and knows he has reached the end of his pain and suffering. He receives the ultimate Healing Package for his Body, Soul, and Spirit the gift of everlasting Life...Eternity.<br><br>
We watched Dad's struggle with the pain in his body and we watched him surrender to the understanding that God's gift, free for the taking. The resulting fruit of peace was evident in his life.<br><br>
On April 25th, in the middle of the night in his hospital room, Jesus made him an offer that he couldn't refuse...we can image Jesus walking into the hospital room and saying, "Bob you have a choice, you can stay here and endure more pain and suffering or come Home with Me and enjoy the best that our Father has to offer in His House... " We think that the choice was quietly made in that room, in the middle of the night, Bob took Jesus' hand and went to his Eternal Home. <br><br>
The Gift of forgiveness was offered and received several years ago, then in that hospital room the Gift was unwrapped and accepted in all its fullness, the gift of.....Eternity! <br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235752009-06-10T09:18:43-05:002009-06-10T09:18:43-05:00It is Well with my Soul - by Linda Bracken"When peace like a river attendeth my ways, when sorrows like sea billows roll<br>
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, 'It is well, it is well with my soul!'<br><br>
It is well....with my soul....<br><br>
We sing the song and yet do we understand the true meaning? For our kids, the singing of this song meant that the long and boring concert was over and they would be free to run and play! <br><br>
The words were birthed from the deep pain of loss and grief and the renewed hope in the One who is the Comforter of all comforters, the Healer of all wounds, and the Giver of peace in the middle of the storm. Loss and need bring us to our knees before the Throne of Grace. In spite of the circumstances that surround us we have the assurance that it can indeed be well with our soul.<br><br>
If you are not going through trying times and difficult situations, then....check for a pulse.<br><br>
If you are alive and living on Planet Earth then the big guarantee is that you will have trouble. Jesus said "In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world." <br><br>
That's cause for a big "Hip, Hip, Hooray!" <br><br>
It's also cause for a deep, deep "Thank You" to our Heavenly Father for giving us peace that passes understanding, even if you are in the middle of the lake in a raging storm and the boat is being swamped by huge waves...be of good cheer...it is well with my soul.<br><br>
Even if the master manipulator of disease and despair rears its ugly head and buffets us with doubt and fear, we can know "let this blessed assurance control, that Christ has regarded my helpless estate and has shed His own Blood for my soul!"<br><br>
No matter what, dear ones, whether in the storm or in the valley of the shadow of death or in the quiet times we can say and sing with complete truth in the knowledge that...."It is well, it is well, with my soul!"<br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235912009-05-15T06:44:41-05:002009-05-15T06:44:41-05:00Great Things in Great Britain - by Linda BrackenThe Brackens and the Cowiesons (aka Power in Praise) were enjoying our whirlwind tour of Great Britain. One of the places we visited was the Isle of Skye and we were booked into a lovely bed and breakfast just outside the town of Portree. Our hostess greeted us in the early evening and suggested that we go to a local restaurant for supper. <br><br>
We arrived in the town centre to park the vehicle and walk over to the restaurant, each one of us a tad hungry and looking forward to tasting the local fare. As we got out of the van we heard the familiar strains of the song "Because He Lives" being piped into the town square from a speaker located on the side of a church building. We were drawn to the beautiful sound and decided to "go to Church." <br><br>
Inside the sanctuary of the Church of Scotland building, we were impressed on many levels...the soaring gabled ceiling, the rich wooden pews, the crowd of worshippers singing full voice in a lilting cadence...we took up the back pew and joined in with the rest of the congregation. We feasted in our souls on the sweet music and the powerful message. No food could have substituted for the genuine pleasure of feeling the presence of the Lord among His people.<br><br>
After the service we were standing outside the church building and introducing ourselves as visitors from Canada. One lady came over to us and was very enthusiastic as she exclaimed "Oh, you were the choir singing in the back pew!!" <br><br>
It seems that no matter where we go we find fellowship and the opportunity to be blessed and be a blessing.<br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235902009-05-04T12:15:35-05:002009-05-04T12:15:35-05:00Amazing Grace - by Linda BrackenWe found ourselves on a special tour of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, and Wales) and at one point ended up in a relative's kitchen in Lancaster. The visit was lovely as we met with folks who were family members that we only knew by way of overseas letters between Warren's Mom and her British cousins.<br><br>
As we sat in the beautiful, sunny kitchen sipping tea and chatting, our hostess asked us to sing something...so we began to sing the familiar hymn "Amazing Grace."<br><br>
The stone floors and tile walls were the perfect accoustic setting to sing acappella. As we sang the phone rang, it was our hostess' mother calling from Malta and as we sang she held out the receiver for her Mom to hear our musical offering. We were so blessed to be able to share the gift with these folks. <br><br>
We learned a few days later that one of the neighbours had complained that the radio programme had been playing very loudly on that afternoon. Our hostess explained that it had not been the radio, just four Canadians singing their hearts out in her kitchen over tea and crumpets.<br><br>
What a priviledge to share the gift of music, the gift of hope, and the gift of Amazing Grace...how sweet the sound!<br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235892009-04-22T08:06:56-05:002009-04-22T08:06:56-05:00Under His Wings - by Linda BrackenUnder His wings, under His wings, who from His love can sever<br>
Under His wings, my soul shall abide<br>
Safely abide forever...<br><br>
So many of the Hymns of Christian faith reflect the foundation of our Hebrew roots. The "wings" are the tassels of the rabbi's prayer shawl and Jesus, in the exercising of His Office of the High Priest, has the power of healing in His "wings."<br><br>
The woman with the issue of blood who went with fear and trembling and brushed the hem of His garment received healing from her malady. What's more astounding was the fact that Jesus was being jostled by a pressing crowd of people and yet He felt the healing virtue leave His Body and asked the question "Who touched Me?"<br><br>
We have access to the Healing Virtue of the Lord as we ask, by faith, for His gift of healing to be given to us. No matter what the tempest or the storm that is swirling in our lives today, we can be assured that we are safe as we ask by faith, receive by faith, and stand up to walk by faith in the One under Whose wings we are safely abiding.Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235882009-04-09T05:08:52-05:002009-04-09T05:08:52-05:00He Lives! - by Linda Bracken"I serve a risen Saviour, He's in the world today<br>
I know that He is living, whatever men may say<br>
I feel His Hand of Mercy, I hear His Voice of Cheer<br>
And just the time I need Him, He's always near...<br><br>
He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today<br>
He walks with me and talks with me<br>
Along life's narrow way<br>
He lives, He lives, salvation to impart<br>
You ask me how I know He lives<br>
He lives within my heart!"<br><br>
What a mighty affirmation of the truth! This song is one that should be sung everyday of the year, not just at the Season we set aside called "Easter." The final Passover Lamb was slain two thousand years ago, but the Lamb did not stay dead! After Jesus fulfilled the Passover, He fulfilled the Feast of First Fruits by becoming the first to rise from the dead. <br><br>
He is alive in my heart because I asked Him to come in and take up residence on the Throne of my life as my King and my God. <br><br>
What is more important than that truth, is that, today, He is seated at the right hand of the Father in Heaven and one day He will stand up, get on His horse,and ride back to the Planet to take over the duties of the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.<br><br>
"Rejoice, rejoice or Christian take up your cross and sing<br>
Eternal hallelujahs to Jesus Christ the King<br>
The Hope of all who seek Him, the Help of all who find<br>
None other is so loving, so good, and kind....He lives!!!!"Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235872009-04-06T05:25:40-05:002009-04-06T05:25:40-05:00How to Commit Suicide - by Linda Bracken"Hi, my name is Linda. I committed suicide this morning and I'm having a wonderful day!!" The ladies group I was speaking to that morning, certainly were paying close attention to me after my introductory statement. I don't consider myself a "speaker" yet I have had opportunity to do lots of speaking and singing in public.<br><br>
The day of this particular event, as I was driving the hour from my house to the venue, I felt totally inadequate and lacking so I was praying. My prayer was answered by the still, small Voice that I have come to know and trust. <br><br>
"Why don't you tell them that you committed suicide this morning and you are having a great day?"<br><br>
"What???!!! Lord did I hear You right? They are going to think I am nuts!" I was a little more than shocked and my response reflected this state.<br><br>
Then the soothing impression of my Heavenly Father poured the oil of joy into my being as He instructed me and reminded me of my encounter with a woman many years before who had threatened to end her life.<br><br>
Beatrice (not her real name) had been a guest in our home in 1981. She, along with other members of her "Christian Drama Troupe" were billeted in our home. I had three small children under the age of five and I was involved with Church and the praise and worship ministry of "Power In Praise."<br><br>
During the time that we had these folks in our home, I discovered that "Beatrice" would use my time up with telling me how hard life was for her and how much she hated every day and why this and why that and on and on and on...! <br><br>
Needless to say, I tried to give her as much compassion and solace and encouragement as I could, in between taking care of my children and husband and all the other things in my life. Our "counselling" sessions would go on into the wee hours of the morning and I was becoming quite exhausted by the whole rollercoaster. The more time I gave to her the needier she became and finally we realized that we could not have her in our home anymore.<br><br>
She left, but called a few days later threatening to end her life because she was so depressed and unable to handle her despair. I held the receiver in my hand and breathed a quick, silent prayer for wisdom. When I spoke I was shocked to hear the words coming out of my mouth...<br><br>
"Okay, go ahead and commit suicide..." dead silence on the other end of the phone as I continued..."but you better do it right and the only right way to commit suicide is to lay down at the foot of the Cross and die to yourself and your own selfish desires!" <br><br>
I could hardly believe what I was saying but I found myself continuing to speak into the phone...<br><br>
"Just lay down at the feet of Jesus, let Him take your life and make it what He wants it to be. That is the only way to commit suicide and live to tell about it!"<br><br>
She mumbled something in my ear and hung up. <br><br>
I was in a numb place of not knowing what I had just done, but the good news is that she did not do herself bodily injury...I guess I had called her bluff and given her the answer that is the only Answer and she really was just playing manipulation and control mind games with me. <br><br>
I have learned a valuable lesson from that experience as I choose everyday to die to my own plans and agendas. The Lord has given me my life because I have chosen to let Him take my life as I lay down at the foot of the Cross and die. <br><br>
I am very aware of the "Beatrice's" in the world and I know that there is only one right way to end the misery. I shared the story with the assembled group of women on that morning and I saw in their faces a light of understanding and hope. God came into the assembly and was able to touch bodies, souls, and spirits with His tender and genuine healing.<br><br>
"I surrender all, I surrender all...All to Thee, my blessed Saviour...I surrender all...!"Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235862009-03-24T06:03:56-05:002009-03-24T06:03:56-05:00Four Voices in Five Part Harmony - by Linda BrackenSitting at a red light on our way home from an evening service, the four of us were singing. We were enjoying the sweet fellowship and joy of combining our voices in praise to the King. As we sang we each carried our vocal parts with Jim singing bass, Marion singing alto, Warren singing tenor, and I took a soprano descant line...then we stopped and looked at each other and asked "who was singing the melody?" <br><br>
Each one noted what they were singing and decided that none of us had being singing the tune, we had been harmonizing, yet the tune had been clearly there! <br><br>
We sat in a moment of stunned silence then looked over at the vehicle sitting next to us at the light. The driver was looking at us, his mouth hanging open in amazement, we didn't know if we were glowing, or what!! But the unmistakeable Presence of the Lord was with us in the cab of the truck and we knew He had been joining us as the Fifth Voice.<br><br>
"Thou art worthy, Thou art worthy, Thou art worthy oh Lord...to receive glory, glory and honour, glory and honour and power...for Thou hast created, has all things created, for Thou hast created all things...and for Thy pleasure, they are created and Thou art worthy oh Lord!"<br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235852009-03-20T07:19:51-05:002009-03-20T07:19:51-05:00Holy, Holy, Holy - by Linda BrackenWe could set our watches on Sunday Morning because we sang the hymn "Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty" at exactly the same time in the service. <br><br>
When I was a very young follower of Jesus, I was impressionable and teachable and I took my clues from the congregation as to what sort of attitude I should have during the singing of this song, as well as other hymns, but this one in particular was of note.<br><br>
I learned that you have to look really bored and disinterested as you sang and you had to have a look on your face somewhere between "I just bit into a sour lemon" and "I hope this ends soon, I want to beat the church folk from up the street to the buffet." Oh, yes, and you have to sing in as much of a monotone as you can possibly muster without any emotion or too much emphasis on the words, as if they were relevent to your life.....<br><br>
At this point you are probably saying to yourself "What??!! How rude!! How dare she say such a thing about people singing in church!!! How critical and judgemental of her...!!!"<br><br>
Well, yes, I was probably a tad on the harsh side in my description, but, I guess I was young and impressionable as I sat in the choir loft and observed what I observed so many years ago in the late 1960's early 1970's. <br><br>
The truth is that I actually I learned a lot about the Lord in that incubator of my formative years as a baby Christian and I am grateful for the sound teaching of the Word that was my foundation and bedrock.<br><br>
I learned to appreciate and value the many hymns that I was exposed to as the truth that was sung in those three to four minute mini-sermons of teaching became one of my most precious educational avenues.<br><br>
Now back to the hymn "Holy, Holy, Holy" That song has become one of the most powerful worship songs that I know. It has the ability to bring me to my knees in praise and adoration of the only True and Living God. <br><br>
The Book of Revelation gives us a glimpse into the praise and worship service that is going on right now in Eternity. The angelic hosts are falling down before the Throne of God and crying out with loud voices "Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lamb that was slain.." <br><br>
When we join the hosts in Heaven by stepping into the vehicle of a wonderful song like this one, we are transported into the very Throne Room of God and given access into His Holy Presence. How precious to think that "Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee...Only Thou are Holy, there is none beside Thee, God in Three Persons, Blessed Trinity...!!!"<br><br>
Next time you have the opportunity to sing this amazingly rich song, please do so with a heart open and ready to give praise and worship to the One sitting on the Throne. Let the pure joy and adoration of that experience shine out of your mortal body so that your face can shine with the joy of the Lord and radiate Life to any around you who may be watching.<br><br>
Blessings from one who has not yet arrived, but who is on the Train and has left the station.<br><br>
Shalom,<br><br>
LindaPower in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235842009-03-12T05:55:00-05:002009-03-12T05:55:00-05:00Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus - by Linda Bracken"Oh Soul, are you weary and troubled, no light in the darkness you see...there's a Light for a look at the Saviour and life more abundant and free...Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful Face...and the things of earth will grow strangely dim...in the light of His glory and grace..."<br><br>
The studio was dark, except for a few maintenance lights, and it was quiet except for the accompaniment track and my voice coming through the studio speakers as I ran through this simple old song for the sound check at "It's a New Day" sometime in the mid 1980's. <br><br>
I had arrived early to the CKND television station for my usual preparation and was singing the song in the empty studio, singing to myself with my eyes closed and knowing that the King was listening in on my rehearsal.....<br><br>
"His Word will not fail you, He promised, receive Him and all will be well...then go to a world that is dying, His perfect Salvation to tell...Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful Face...and the things of earth will grow strangely dim...in the light of His glory and grace..."<br><br>
I finished the song and felt the warmth of the Presence of the Lord. The track ended and I opened my eyes and was startled to see someone in the shadows. I recognized the familar face of one of the News Anchors. Eyes brimming with tears all that said was "that was so beautiful, thank you." I sort of nodded and said "Your welcome."<br><br>
I was humbled that the Lord had allowed me to sing the Truth and give a glimmer of light into a soul who was weary and troubled. No big fanfare, no large billboards, just a simple statement of Truth and Hope that was received quietly by one who was ready to hear and receive.<br><br>
Are you weary? Are you troubled? Turn your eyes upon Jesus...He is waiting for you to come and receive His glory and grace. <br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235832009-03-02T06:59:07-06:002009-03-02T06:59:07-06:00Are You Sure? by Linda BrackenAre you sure? Sure about what? Sure about anything? It is important to be sure about your assurance...like the old song says "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine, oh what a foretaste of glory divine..."<br><br>
So, you can say with total assurance that you are sure, if you accept the Gift of Assurance as bought and paid for by Jesus, the Lamb of God, Who takes away the sin of the world.<br><br>
No matter what the day may bring, good or bad, it is comforting to know Who is in control and what we can do to be at peace..."this is my story, this is my song, praising my Saviour all the day long...!"<br><br>
Today is the day that the Lord has made, we shall rejoice and be glad in it...to be sure:)<br><br>
blessings<br><br>
Linda<br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235822009-02-12T05:38:11-06:002009-02-12T05:38:11-06:00Just as I am - by Linda Bracken "Just As I Am"<br><br>
One of the most familiar hymns is the one played at the end of the evangelistic meetings of Mr. Billy Graham. The words are so poignant. "Just as I am without one plea, but that Thy Blood was shed for me, and that Thou bid me come to Thee, oh Lamb of God, I come..I come...Just as I am and waiting not, to cleanse my Soul of one dark blot, to Him Whose Blood can cleanse each spot, Oh Lamb of God, I come..I come...Just as I am..." <br><br>
The basic idea in the hymn is that we come to the Lord for His cleansing and healing because we need to be taken from death to life in the Lord Jesus. As the words are sung, it is an acknowledgment of our need to be covered by the Blood of the Lamb, referring to the Old Testament sacrifices which covered the sins of the people of Israel on Passover. How great to think that Jesus (Y'shua) became the final Passover Lamb who died to cover the sins of the whole world.<br><br>
We all need to come to the Father through His Son. We are born dead and need to be born again. Simply coming to the Cross of Christ and receiving His covering of atoning Blood sets us free from the curse that was brought down on mankind by Adam's disobedience. One man's act killed mankind and one Man's Act saved mankind to Life Forever.<br><br>
We are approaching the Spring season. On the Hebrew calendar the feast of Passover is the retelling of the story of the Exodus from Egypt. It is the time of year when it is remembered that Moses told the people of Israel to take a lamb and kill it, then to take it's blood and put it on the doorposts and lintels of the houses of the Children of Israel, and the Death Angel 'passed over' the houses that had the sign of life. <br><br>
The Death Angel killed the first born of each household that did not have the Sign of Life on its doors, from the lowliest person to the highest household of the King the judgement was carried out. This devastating plague was the one which caused Pharoah to set the Children of Israel free from Egypt. The Key to Salvation from the plague was the blood of the passover lamb. The key to our salvation is the final Passover Lamb. <br><br>
The final Passover Lamb was introduced by John the Baptist when he saw Jesus approaching and declared "Behold the Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world!" We know that Jesus began His Ministry of revealing His Credentials as the long awaited Messiah on that day. The culmination of that revelation was His death on the Cross and His Glorious Resurrection on the day of the Feast of Firstfruits.<br><br>
We have some things to look forward to as we come "Just as I am without one plea" to the Cross and accept the gift of Life, in essence we apply the Blood of the Lamb to the doorposts and lintels of our heart and the wrath of the Death Angel will "passover" us.<br><br>
God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.<br><br>
Good news!!!!<br><br>
Let the words of "Just as I am..." become your prayer of surrender to the Father through His Son.<br><br>
Blessings,<br><br>
LindaPower in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235812009-02-10T12:49:26-06:002009-02-10T12:49:26-06:00Take My Life - by Linda Bracken "Take My Life and Let It Be Consecrated Lord to Thee..."<br><br>
The old hymns of faith are such precious nuggets of Truth. One can sing a song like, "Take My Life" and use it as a daily prayer of dedication and submission. It is a powerful thing to surrender to the Lord and allow ourselves to be consecrated or separated for His Kingdom. <br><br>
We sang a wonderful song in the '70's called "Let Go and Let God Have His Wonderful Way" and as we sang the words out loud with gusto, we meant every single syllable and as we sang God heard our heart cry and took us and used us for His Glory and building up of His Kingdom!<br><br>
If I can send a word of encouragement to you today it would be this thought...God wants you to submit to Him Body, Soul, and Spirit...if you do this simple thing then you will go to places you never imagined you could go and do things you never imagined you would be doing and having the greatest time of your life, if you choose to "Let Go and Let God...."<br><br>
Blessings,<br><br>
Linda<br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235802009-02-05T06:35:00-06:002009-02-05T06:35:00-06:00Wow!!! - by Linda BrackenThoughts for the day,<br><br>
Opportunities abound to shine our light of truth, hope, and love into a world darkened by lies, fear, and hate. We get to be a walking New Testament everyday with our Father's Hand guiding us along in the "mission of the day."<br><br>
As Ambassadors of Christ we are doing our Father's business and keeping His Kingdom's Principles and Precepts in the public eye. We aren't perfect, but we are being perfected, so let us rejoice and be glad and carry the banner of the King in the battle against the evil one's lies and fears.<br><br>
Be of good cheer, because, even though, in the world we have tribulation (trouble) Jesus has overcome the world!!<br><br>
Wow!!!<br><br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235792009-01-22T05:56:40-06:002009-01-22T05:56:40-06:00What on Earth is Happening?! - by Linda BrackenHi, Webmaster David:)<br>
<br>
In light of the events taking place on the world stage, it is perhaps timely to put together a "What On Earth is Happening or What In the World is Going On" type of musing. We have been singing and talking about the Lord's promises and prophecies for almost 40 years, in fact we have been looking for the Lord's appearing from our earliest walk with the King.<br>
<br>
Since 1948, the country of Israel has been an established and recognized democratic republic in the Middle East. The book of Ezekiel in the Old Testament has some definite indications of what Israel's destiny is among the nations of Planet Earth. The world view of the last few years has been corrupted by biased anti-Semetic reporting which sides with those against Israel's right to exist.<br>
<br>
It is good to know that the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is still in control of the destiny of His Glorious Land and the People. The Lord's Anointed Judge is coming to the Planet to mete out the justice so needed to bring in the Handel's Messiah verse that states "The Kingdoms of this world have become the Kingdoms of our God and of His Christ and He shall reign forever and ever...Hallelujah!" When we view the events occurring in the present time of this Age, we can receive comfort and hope from the established Word of God...His Bible is true and contains the answers to all the questions about "What on Earth is going on today??!!"<br>
<br>
We have been proclaiming the coming of the Kingdom to Earth in songs like "The Lord's Prayer" and "The King Is Coming" and "How Great Thou Art" for almost four decades. Our Hope is in the return of the King to establish His rule and reign out of the Capital of Israel, the City of Jerusalem.<br>
<br>
Take heart and take comfort as you ask "What on Earth is Happening?" It's just the birth pains of the Kingdom.<br>
<br>
Blessings<br>Power in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235782009-01-05T08:18:51-06:002009-01-05T08:18:51-06:00It's A New Year/Day - by Linda BrackenWell, another turn of the calendar and we have entered the next number in the millenium. Some people look at this turning of the page as an opportunity to look at their lives in view of what needs to be done to change their bad habits into good habits, etc. Our good friends, Willard and Betty Thiessen began a Christian Television programme in 1976 called "It's A New Day" and the premise focused on the need to take each day as a new day of God's mercy. God's mercy is new every morning and we can handle things much better by taking life "One Day At A Time" as the old song goes.<br><br>
I am challenged to take each day as a fresh day of grace and mercy. I can't go into the past and change anything that I have done, good or bad. The future of tomorrow is not mine yet. I have heard it said "Yesterday is past, Tomorrow is yet to be, we have Today and that is why it is called The Present!" <br><br>
What a precious Gift to be given the hope of today being the day of salvation. <br><br>
Can I share with you this hope and thought...the calendar shows a new year ahead of us and the old year behind us, so my beloved surfer, take this day as the New Day of letting go of our striving and just surrendering to the Father as we sing in the Hymn "Take my life and let it be consecrated Lord to Thee, take my moments and my days let them flow in ceaseless praise, let them flow in ceaseless praise!"<br><br>
The true power in praise comes from a day of daily surrender, this is the day that the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it!<br><br>
Blessings,<br><br>
LindaPower in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235772008-12-31T04:11:57-06:002008-12-31T04:11:57-06:00My Christmas Thoughts - by Linda BrackenOne has to be in awe of this time of year. People are rushing here and there, to and fro, back and forth....all in the quest for the perfect gift or the perfect turkey or the perfect ornament for the tree. We get into the frenzy of the seasonal visitation from family and friends and then crash into a burnt out shell as the New Year takes over with all the quiet panic of looming credit card bills. We are in awe of this time of year, because we get to focus in on a tiny baby in a hay filled feeding trough and wonder at the meaning of it all. The peace that seems to be in the centre of the whirling activity is a tiny fragment that fills the centre of our being. We hear the real Christmas carols that tell the Story of His Story...the fulfilled prophecy of the coming King and the exactness of the time and place and purpose of this wonderful, counsellor whom we call "God's Love Gift to the World!"<br><br>
We sing it out in "Joy to the world, the Lord is come, let earth receive her King..." and "God rest you, merry gentlemen, let nothing you dismay, remember Christ our Saviour was born on Christmas day, to save us all from Satan's power when we were gone astray, oh tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy, oh tidings of comfort and joy!"<br><br>
When I was a child, I always experienced the "special Christmas feeling" leading up to the anticipation of "The Day" but by the end of "The Day" even before we were finished clearing all the dinner plates away, a darkness was already surrounding my heart. The presents were all opened, but I could not remember what I got, and by the next morning all the lights and glitter were all but dimmed completely. My thoughts were clouded and sad and I thought to myself that surely there had to be more to the season than this excitement and then crash and burn.<br><br>
Then I realized what I had been missing in the Christmas season of 1970. In the spring time of 1970, I had said "Yes" to the question presented to me. The question was "Do you want to receive Jesus as your own personal Lord and Saviour?"<br><br>
As Christmas approached I did not have my "Special Christmas feeling" leading up to The Day. Then I realized that the peace and joy and contentment and hope that was my yearly inkling was with me all year long since the day that I said "Yes" and made room in my heart for the Lord's Love Gift.<br><br>
Take a moment for yourself. Look at the Father's Gift of Love and say "yes" to the offered gift of John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him will not die, but have Life Forever..."<br><br>
Joy to the world...the Lord has come...let earth receive her King...let every heart prepare Him room...<br><br>
my thoughts on Christmas....blessings....LindaPower in Praisetag:powerinpraise.net,2005:Post/235762008-11-20T18:37:50-06:002008-11-20T18:37:50-06:00Introducion - by PIP webmasterHello Everyone! Welcome to the Power in Praise Desk (or PIP Desk for short). This will be a page where you will not only be able to read the thoughts and feelings of the members of Power in Praise, but you will also get to interact with them as they share their musings with you. So, as the PIP Desk fills up, please feel free to voice your opinions, ask questions, and partake of this interactive opportunity!Power in Praise