Monthly Archives: June 2012

Questions for Reflection – Nehemiah 1-3

Posted on June 17, 2012 by Mark Shields

I’ve completed the book of Ezra and at this link is an index of the studies published so far. Along the journey, it was noticed how Ezra encourages the returned-exiles in the building of the temple. He teaches them how … Continue reading →

Posted in Nehemiah | Tagged Accomplishment, Adjustments, Application, Book of Ezra, Celebration, Christ, Community, Confidence, Courage, Cross, Discipline, Dreams, Encouragement, Ezra, God, Ideas, Inspiration, Jerusalem, Lessons, Nehemiah, Plans, Possibilities, Praises, Prayer, Reading (process), Sermon, Spirit, Temple, Thankfulness, Thoughts, United Methodist Church, Worship | 6 Comments

Posted on June 16, 2012 by Mark Shields

Originally posted on Step Ahead:
English: DFW American Airlines Departure (Photo credit: Wikipedia) My daughter went on a school trip to Washington DC recently. They were to meet for a flight at Dallas/Fort Worth airport on an early Saturday morning…

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Courage to Change

Posted on June 15, 2012 by Mark Shields

Not only do we need inspiration to change as I wrote about in the previous post but we also need to have the courage to change. Reading in Ezra 10, the Israelites were getting stuck in the same old rut. … Continue reading →

Posted in Ezra | Tagged Casting Crown, Christ, Courage, Ezra, God, Inspiration, Israelite, Jerusalem, Leadership, Prayer | Leave a comment

Inspiration for Change

Posted on June 14, 2012 by Mark Shields

As stated in Ezra 9, a report was brought to Ezra of the people being unfaithful because of associations with those who worshiped idols instead of the one true God. Even the leaders were guilty; lacking the discipline and setting … Continue reading →

Posted in Ezra | Tagged Career, Character, Christ, Christianity, Cross, Cross - Hillsong, Discipline, Ezra, Family, God, God’s Will, God’s Word, Hillsong Music Australia, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Marriage, Materialism, Power, religion & spirituality, Spiritual Treasures | 5 Comments

Pay Strict Attention

Posted on June 13, 2012 by Mark Shields

A few years ago, each member of our church was given a free copy of The “Purpose Driven Life” by Rick Warren. One idea presented in the book was to keep a notebook or journal of lessons learned; to write … Continue reading →