Psalms: Psalm 27:10

 Psalms: Psalm 27:10 by ric gustafson

A lot of people are chosen because they are bigger, stronger and more talented. God does not choose that way. Psalm 27:10 says the Lord will receive me. People will leave you out. People will forsake you. People will hold you back. 

The good news is that God controls your destiny. God orders your steps. He is working out a plan for your life. When it is God's time, promotion will come our way.

Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 3

 the Firm page 3 by ric gustafson

Oliver smiled. " Tell us about your family Mitch?".

" My father died when I was seven". Mitch frowned. " My mother remarried".

Royce smiled. " Brothers or sisters?". 

" One brother died in Vietnam". Mitch's voice hesitated. " I have another brother Ray McDeere".

" Mitch, our firm is based in Memphis Tennessee". Lamar stared at Mitch. " Is that going to be a problem?".

" No".

Mr Lambert smiled at Mitch. " It says here you went to Harvard".

" Yes, Harvard gave me more financial assistance".

Royce McKnight smiled. " Tell us about your wife?".

" Abby, she's a kindergarten teacher near Boston College". Mitch looked at Mr McKnight. " What will be my salary and other benefits?".

Lamar gave Mitch an envelope. He took out a piece of paper. He read it. He smiled. " You have a deal".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 27:5

 Psalms: Psalm 27:5 by ric gustafson

David had everything against him. People, armies even family was against him. He had many reasons to be worried, bitter and upset. But David knew no matter how much trouble was against him, he had God on his side. David thought to himself. Whom shall I fear?. Why should I be afraid?. 

Difficulties and troubles will come your way. God tells us to remain confident and keep our peace. We are surrounded by God's favor. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 2

 the Firm page 2 by ric gustafson

" That's a good question Mitch". The other partner smiled. " I am Royce McKnight managing partner". He shook Mitch's hand. " I will answer your question".

" Ok".

" We are a small firm with only 41 lawyers".

" Ok".

" Mitch, we picked you over 2,000 third year law students".

Mitch smiled. " I'm honored".

" Here at Bendini, Lambert and Locke, we offer the highest salary and fringes in the country".

Mitch smiled. 

" We only want you Mitch". Mr McKnight smiled. " That is our explanation".

" Fair enough" Mitch grinned. " What kind of firm is this?".

" 80 percent tax work". Royce smiled. " The rest securities and real estate".

Lamar grinned. " We saw that you have a strong tax background".

" I do".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 11:25

 Proverbs: Proverbs 11:25 by ric gustafson

We can be generous people. We can be generous with our money. God wants us to be generous with people in our lives. God wants us to love and be generous with family, Proverbs 11 says a generous person will prosper. God says be generous with encouragement and compliments. If we are generous in what we say, God will bless us. Why?. Because God loves more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms and Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Firm page 1

 the Firm page 1 by ric gustafson

Lamar Quin sat down at the small conference table. There were two partners also at the table. Quin was sipping some decaf coffee. 

 At 2:30 pm, someone knocked at the door.

" Come in".

Mitch McDeere entered the suite. " I'm Mitchell McDeere".

" Nice to meet you Mitchell". He smiled. " I'm Lamar Quin".

" Please call me Mitch".

" Please Mitch, have a seat".

Mitch sat down in an open chair.

One of the partners smiled at Mitch." I am Oliver Lambert". He shook Mitch's hand. " I am the senior partner".

" Mitch McDeere". He glanced around the room. " I do have a question". 

Lamar smiled. " What's that Mitch?".

" Why are we interviewing in this hotel room?".

research help: ' The Firm' by John Grisham

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

U-505 page 13

 U-505 page 13 by ric gustafson

When a 250 pound bomb exploded on the foredeck of U-505, chaos ensued. The lights onboard went out. Every crew member was knocked off their feet. To the crew, it was as if a giant fist had slammed into the boat. Sea water was seeping into the engine room. Skipper Zschech and Second in Command Bode went up to the damaged bridge to inspect the damage. They noticed that Lieutenant Stolzenburg was unconscious on the deck. He had been wounded in the head and back.

The deck of the U-505 was a mess of steel and metal. The fuel tanks had been split open. Black oil was seeping into the ocean. With this much damage, Skipper Zschech contemplated abandoning ship. Then Chief Petty Officer Otto Fricke told Zschech  he could fix the hole in the hull. He also promised that he could use water pumps to get the sea water from the engine room. Zschech told Fricke to do whatever was necessary as far as repairs. 

When it was safe to do so, U-505 quietly started for home. 

Meanwhile, a new Chief Engineering Officer had been assigned to the USS Guadalcanal. The Skipper of the Guadalcanal was Captain Daniel Gallery. The name of the new officer was Earl Trosino.

research help: ' Codename Nemo' by Charles Lachman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 34

 the end of days page 34 by ric gustafson

Rory was sitting at a large conference table. In front of him, was a blueberry muffin and some orange juice. He was really tired this morning. He did not sleep well. He had been scratching a sore that was on his lower left leg. Sitting next to him was his friend and co worker Alan Saxton. He was tired also. He had been up all night scratching at a sore on his left arm.

At the last moment, an older gentleman entered the conference room. He was holding a plaque. 

" My name is Mr Aasen". He smiled. " I am a Chief Officer with the One World Financial Network". He walked over to Rory. " Rory, this plaque says thank you for your hard work on the loyalty mark project".

" Your welcome". A tear came to his face. He thought about his mother.

" Now on to new business". He smiled. " Rory, Mr Simpato is going to need your bank's financial resources for another big project".

" Of course". Rory winced as he scratched the sore on his leg.

" Because of the help of Rory's bank, the loyalty mark project was a huge success".

Rory smiled.

" We are looking forward to Rory's help with Mr Simpato's next project".

research help: ' Desecration' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 26:11

 Psalms: Psalm 26:11 by ric gustafson

God wants people to serve him. To serve him, God wants people of integrity and good character. Integrity is the foundation of a successful life. At times, it seems as if our problems have overwelmed us. God tells us we cannot solve them on our own. God says give them to me, I will solve them. Psalm 26 says I shall walk in my integrity. 

God can open doors. God can change people's minds. God can give us promotion and favor.

Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 33

 the end of days page 33 by ric gustafson

Rory walked through the giant door of Building 3. He walked up to the security desk. " My name is Rory Johnston". He held out his right wrist. " I was told my mother is a detainee here".

The security guard scanned Rory's wrist. " She's in the last cage on the left".

Rory walked past several cages filled with women. He walked up to the last one.

" Mother". He talked in a loud voice.

" Rory". His mother ran up to the front of the cage. " I told you I would not take the mark".

" I know". 

A One World security officer walked up to the cage. He was carrying a clip board.

" How much time do I have?".

The officer looked at the clip board. " Five minutes".

" Mother, you have to take Carlo's mark of loyalty".

" Rory, I refuse to".

" Mother, you have to".

" Rory, I'm ready to meet Jesus and your father".

" Mother, Jesus took my father away from me". His voice hesitated. " Remember".

" Rory, please give your life to Jesus".

" Mother, I can't". He sighed. " My loyalty is with Carlo Simpato". 

" Son, I will pray for you".

The security guard checked his watch. " It's time".

" I'm sorry Mother". Rory began to cry. " There's nothing else I can do".

" I know".

Rory walked outside. He walked by Building 2. He heard a strange noise coming from inside the building. It sounded like a constant thud.

research help: ' The Mark' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 32

 the end of days page 32 by ric gustafson

Rory opened up a cupboard. " Mom, where does the peanut butter go?".

Rory's mother pointed. " In the lazy Susan".

" Ok".

She stared at her son. " What happened at the grocery store Rory?".

" Things have changed mother". Rory frowned. " You can't do much of anything without a biochip".

She stared at her son's right wrist. " Rory, why did you do that?".

" Mother, I believe in Carlo". Rory smiled. " He's done so much for this world".

" Rory, I've read Revelation". She frowned at her son. " I'm worried that Mr Simpato is the Anti Christ".

" Mother, Carlo is not the Anti Christ".

Just then the doorbell rang. Rory walked over. He opened the door. It was a One World officer.

" Sorry to disturb you". The officer pulled out a small scanner from his pant pocket. " I'm just checking everyone's bio chip". He glanced at Rory's right wrist. " May I check your's".

" Of course". The officer scanned Rory's bio chip. " Thank you".

Rory's mother looked at the officer. " Who are you?".

" Officer McHenry one of the One World biochip enforcement officers". He stared at Rory's mother. " You are on my list to go and receive your mark of loyalty and biochip".

She looked at her son and screamed. " Rory, I'm not going".

" Mother, it would be better for both of us if you did".

" Rory, I'm not going".

" Mother, I will go with you".

" Ok". She frowned at her son. " I will not take the mark".

research help: ' The Mark' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 31

 the end of days page 31 by ric gustafson

Rory walked up to the checkout lane. He could hear a commotion coming from the cash register. While he waited, he looked at his right wrist. The area where the bio chip had been implanted was still a little black and blue. On top of the bio chip was a little bar code. It read ' c3769a'. Rory was proud to be the first at the bank to receive Carlo's mark of loyalty.

" What do you mean I need my bio chip in order to buy these groceries?". Rory recognized the voice. " I've been buying groceries here for years".

The young checkout girl stared at the woman. " I'm sorry, those are the new rules".

Rory walked up to the frustrated checkout girl. " I'll pay for those".

Rory's mother looked at her son. " Rory, what's going on?".

He stuck out his right wrist. The young female clerk took a scanner and scanned Rory's bio chip. She handed Rory a receipt. It read ' thank you and have a good day c3769a".

Rory put the groceries in the cart.

" Rory, what's going on?".

Rory began pushing the grocery cart toward the front door.

" I'll help you get your groceries home". He smiled at his mother. " Then I will explain everything".

research help: ' The Mark' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 25:14

 Psalms: Psalm 25:14 by ric gustafson

When God wants you to do something for him, he will whisper it to you. He will whisper if he wants you to spend time with someone. The secret of the Lord is a gentle whisper. It won't make sense. It won't seem logical. The facts may say otherwise. 

There will be a battle between your mind and the gentle whisper. With God you can't explain it, but you will have peace. We have God living inside of us. 

God says trust the quiet whisper. Trust the still small voice. 

Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Trusting God: Psalm 23:4

 Trusting God: Psalm 23:4 by ric gustafson

God says trust me for financial provision and physical healing. God says trust me for the results we desire. But God also says trust me through a situation. We need to trust God in the process. God says trust me as you are going through tough times. God says I am with you through all of your trials. Knowing God is always walking with us, we can have a positive stable attitude.

God says always have an attitude of faith, praise and thanksgiving. God will do the rest.

research help: ' Trusting God day by day' by Joyce Meyer

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

U-505 page 12

 U-505 page 12 by ric gustafson

Around 3:15 pm on November 10 1942, Flight Sergeant Ron Sillcock was scanning the ocean. His Lockheed Hudson twin engine light bomber already had two U-boat notches on it's frame. Sillcock wanted a third notch. It was an ideal weather day. Then Sillcock smiled. He had spotted a boat. It was the U-505.

Gunnery Officer Gottfried Stolzenburg spotted something in the sky straight ahead with his binoculars. If it was a plane, it was quiet. At the last moment, Stolzenburg noticed it was a plane. 

" A plane!". Stolzenburg yelled. " Emergency! Dive Dive".

It was too late. 

Sillcock manuevered his plane for another kill.

By the time U-505 figured out what was going on, a 250 pound bomb was dropped by Sillcock. His aim was perfect. The bomb ripped through U-505's foredeck.

U-505's luck had run out.

research help: ' Codename Nemo' by Charles Lachman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 30

 the end of days page 30 by ric gustafson

" Gentlemen". Carlo handed out folders to everyone sitting in the boardroom. " Here is my plan".

Rory turned to page 1.

" My plan is that every man, woman and child will receive a mark on their right hand or forehead". 

There was no reaction from the group.

" Anyone who refuses to take that mark will not be able to buy or sell until they do".

Carlo looked around the room.

" Those who completely refuse my mark will deal with my enforcement device".

Rory looked up. " Guillotines?".

Carlo smiled at Rory. " It is a device of last resort".

Rory frowned. " Last resort?".

" The biochip will be imbedded under the skin". Carlo's voice hesitated. " The number will be unique for each person".

Rory and the others looked around the room.

" Who in this room will be the first to take the mark of loyalty to me?".

Again, Rory and the others looked around the room.

Carlo smiled at Rory. " Rory, how about you?".

research help: ' the Mark' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

U-505 page 11

 U-505 page 11 by ric gustafson

After spending two weeks getting past the Bay of Biscay, U-505 starts to head toward the Caribbean Sea. It's new assignment was the coastal waters of Trinidad. When the boat arrives, skipper Zschech spots a freighter. He sinks it with four torpedoes. It is a British freighter named the ' Ocean Justice'. It was skipper Zschech's first kill. 

At the same time up above, Flight Sergeant Ron Sillcock was an ace pilot in the Royal Australian Air Force. Flying in Squardron 53, Sillcock had personally sunk two U-boats. Those boats were the U-155 and U-173. Sillcock, in his twin engine Lockheed Hudson light bomber, was anxious for a third U-boat kill.

Thirty year old Sillcock had curly black hair and a firm jaw. From the RAAF, Sillcock learned Morse Code and Mathematics. 

On November 10 1942, Sillcock was hoping for a productive six hour air patrol. The weather was perfect.

research help: ' Codename Nemo' by Charles Lachman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 29

 the end of days page 29 by ric gustafson

Rory was standing near the glass enclosed coffin of his leader and friend. The grandstand was outside and it was very hot out. Rory moped his forehead with his hand. He watched the masses going by the coffin. Some went by quietly. Some people were crying. Some were laughing because of emotions they were having. Just then, someone put a hand on Rory's shoulder.

" Hello Rory". Marcus Perrine shook his hand. " Are you enjoying the celebration this afternoon?".

" I'm sad". Rory frowned. " This heat doesn't help".

" Rory, One World and myself want to thank you and your bank for all your financial help".

" Your welcome". 

" Myself and One World will not forget it". Mr Perrine walked away.

Rory walked up to the coffin. As he stood there, he heard a strange noise coming from inside the coffin. Joy came to Rory's eyes as he watched Mr Simpato's eyes open. Rory noticed as his leader lifted his head. Carlo slowly forced open the top of the glass coffin. 

Rory got down on one knee. " Master, I've missed you".

Carlo floated up out of the glass coffin. " Peace". People began running toward Carlo.

" Do not be afraid".

Others fell down on their knees.

" I have raised myself from the dead".

Rory yelled. " We love you Master".

" Come and worship me".

research help: ' The Indwelling' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

a story for a sandwich page 1

 a story for a sandwich page 1 by ric gustafson

I stopped at the corner of Patmos Avenue. When I jogged, I had a specific route I took. It was then I noticed the old man. He was sitting in an old folding chair waving at the passing cars. It was a very hot day. Luckily, the old man was wearing all white. I jogged up to him. 

He smiled at me. " Morning Carlos".

I stopped. " How did you know my name is Carlos?".

He pointed to a small sign around his neck. It read ' a story for a sandwich".

I smiled. " I'll buy you a sandwich". I walked over to a nearby convience store. I came back with a sandwich and a bottled water. To my surprise, a folding chair was set up next to the stranger. In the chair, was a sandwich and a bottled water.

The stranger smiled. " Please join me Carlos".

We sat down. We began to eat our sandwiches.

The old man smiled. " And now a story".

research help: ' The Patmos Prediction' by Nathan M Meyer

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

U-505 page 10

 U-505 page 10 by ric gustafson

Kapitan Leutnant Peter Zschech was the youngest U-boat skipper. He became the new skipper of U-505. The first change Zschech did was to change the boat's emblem. He changed a Lion to Olympic rings. Zschech brought with him two senior officers. Oberleutnant Thilo Bode became U-505's new Executive Officer. Zschech also brought to the boat as it's new Chief Engineer was Oberleutnant  Josef Hauser. 

In one of the bunker pens, U-505 was getting new repairs and modifications. The boat was being loaded with torpedoes and provisions. Bigger tanks were installed to boost it's fuel supply. 

U-505 was also outfitted with a new early warning apparatus. It was called a ' Metox'. It could detect enemy aircraft much sooner than human lookouts.

At 6:00 pm on October 4 1942, U-505 was ready to depart on it's third mission.

research help: ' Codename Nemo' by Charles Lachman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 28

 the end of days page 28 by ric gustafson

Rory wiped his brow. It was really hot outside. It was only early morning. Rory watched as ten pall bearers carried in a draped plexiglass box. Rory shed a tear as the box was carefully placed on top of a pedestal. The pall bearers carefully positioned the box.

Rory watched two of the pall bearers remove the shroud. Rory was now staring at the lifeless body of Carlo Simpato. He was dressed in a dark suit, a dark shirt  and a striped tie.

Rory smiled. Dr Evans had done a wonderful job with Carlo's body. Rory wanted a closer look at his friend and leader. He began to walk toward the box.

" Stop". A One World guard pointed a rifle at him. " You cannot come any closer".

Rory walked outside. He wiped his forehead. He began to walk toward the grandstand. It was going to be a hot afternoon.

research help: ' the Indwelling' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

U-505 page 9

 U-505 page 9 by ric gustafson

After 27 days crossing the Atlantic, U-505 spots something in the distance. It was a steamer called the ' Sea Thrush'. It was carrying ammo and other war goods. It's destination was a seaport in Iran. The master of the ' Sea Thrush' did not know his vessel had been stalked for seven hours by U-505. Loewe fires three torpedoes into the steamer. The ship sinks. It was kill number 1 for U-505. Kill number 2 was a merchant ship. It was the ' USS Thomas McKean'. Loewe decided to hunt along the coast of Venezuela and Colombia. 

It was at this time the crew of U-505 noticed a change in their skipper. Loewe began showing signs of nervous distress. His skin was growing paler. He rarely left his cabin. Worried, First Watch Officer Herbert Nollaw radioed U-boat Headquarters. He told them Loewe was getting seriously ill. 

The boat was ordered to return to Lorient. The return trip was not easy. A U-boat milk cow had to refuel the boat. When U-505 finally reached the Bay of Biscay, the boat had to stay underwater. Constant British air patrols was creating havoc in the Bay of Biscay.

U-505 reached Lorient Harbor on August 25 1942. Loewe was examined by a doctor. He had chronic appendicitis. He was relieved of command. 

research help: ' Codename Nemo' by Charles Lachman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 27

 the end of days page 27 by ric gustafson

Rory looked at the directions he was given. He was exhausted. After what had transpired in the last 24 hours, Rory was really tired. The directions led him a few miles north east of Jerusalem. His destination was a secret One World hospital. After parking in an underground parking area, Rory was led to a small autopsy room. There were several One World officials in the small room.

A One World official introduced a guest. " Ladies and Gentlemen, this is Dr Francine Evans". He smiled. " The Dr is a a loyal follower of Carlo Simpato".

" Thank you". The Dr walked over to a nearby gurney that was covered by a white sheet. She pulled off the sheet. It revealed the stiff body of Carlo Simpato.

" I was asked to examine your leader".

Rory spoke up. " What was your finding Dr?".

" A bullet went through the bottom of Mr Simpato's neck". The Dr's voice hesitated. " Then the bullet went through the top of his head".

Rory spoke up again. " A single bullet?".

" Yes, a single bullet destroyed his brain stem and severed his spinal cord".

Rory looked at Carlo's lifeless body. He could not believe his leader was dead.

With sadness, Rory and the other offcials were led back to their cars.

research help: ' The Indwelling' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 24:7

 Psalms: Psalm 24:7 by ric gustafson

Do we have ancient doors that have been shut for years?. Are these closed doors from depression or lack of self esteem?. According to Psalm 24, these ancient gates will open. We will walk into blessings, freedom and new levels. Chains and deadbolt locks are coming off. 

What we could not open, God can. We will be entering a new season of favor and more greater opportunities. God is the doorkeeper. Because of that, we can live in peace. We can stay in faith. When God is ready, that ancient door will open. Why? because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Gospel: the missing Gospel

 Gospel: the missing Gospel by ric gustafson

What happened to the Gospel?. Does the Gospel relate to God and ourselves?. Is it the source from which everything else flows?. The Gospel needs to be the center of Christianity. We need to be a people for God and love for others. If we do not have a passion for God, then we have a false Christianity. We must adore God. 

As a Christ follower, we must be alive with a love for God. Can we learn to love God?. Our eyes must be opened to see God's beauty. Our heart must want to love God. Jesus says abide in me. That is the start of Real spiritual growth. From spiritual growth comes spiritual fruit. 

God wants us to serve him in spirit and truth. To love God we need a loving heart. In Romans, the Apostle Paul describes two things as the power of God. One is Jesus himself. The other is the Gospel. 

Jesus says pick up your cross and follow me. The truth is when we crave God more than anything else in this life, the Gospel has done it's job. Praise God's name.

research help: ' Gospel' by J D Greear

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

my Father: the grace giving Father

 my Father: the grace giving Father by ric gustafson

Earthly father son relationships can be complex and hurtful. Sometimes it can lead to a seperation for years. And yet other father and son relationships are healthy, fruitful and on going. 

We as Christians have a different father son relationship. In God's Word, we have a perfect Father. We are sons and daughters who have gone astray. Our perfect heavenly Father wanted to bring his dear children that he loves home. How does he do that?. It's called grace.

God's grace is throughout his Word. God has always been gracious to his children. According to Exodus 34, it is part of his nature. Without grace, we are lost. With grace, we have life, forgiveness and hope. 

What is grace?. It is God's unearned favor that he pours out when, where and whom he pleases. Because of his grace, God sent his only Son for the sins of his people. Because of God's grace, we are given the Holy Spirit to give us power to follow Jesus. 

According to Ephesians 2, for by grace you have been saved through faith. God's grace has been given to us his children. God accepts us by faith in his Son alone.

The fact is we need grace everyday. Jesus says believe in me I will give you grace.

Why?. Because God the Father our Father loves us more than  anything else.

The End

research help: ' Like Father Like Son' by Pete Alwinson

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

My Father: a wisdom giving Father

 My Father: a wisdom giving Father by ric gustafson

Why is this world a death zone?. This world is a dangerous place. This world is broken by sin and sorrow. We should prepare for the worst. So how should we gain wisdom?. Is it to learn by experience?. Is it to make mistakes and learn from them. Should we repeat the same mistakes?. To get through the dangers of this life, we need wisdom.

Our Father in heaven gave us a book for wisdom. In God's Word, that is the book of Proverbs. Proverbs gives us everyday wisdom. Wisdom begins with a relationship with God. Wisdom begins with ' the fear of the Lord'. Wisdom is a journey and an adventure. Wisdom can help us understand people. 

Above all, wisdom is a lifelong pursuit. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Like Father Like Son' by Pete Alwinson

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

my Father: a guiding Father

 my Father: a guiding Father by ric gustafson

We like doing things for ourselves. Why do we need a guide?. We try to do it ourselves even though our life is tough and full of danger and struggles. We need help and direction. We do not have the wisdom to guide ourselves. 

God knows us more than anybody else. God created us. He sent his Son to redeem us. He sent his Spirit to be involved in our lives. That's what good fathers do. Good fathers want to guide their children.

God is my Heavenly Father. He is my present faithful guide. Not only does God want to guide us, he wants to counsel us and make our paths straight. According to Galatians 4, we are heirs of the Living God. We are God's sons. In Jesus, we are a child of God. 

We can always talk to our Heavenly Father. God will guide us in the right direction. He may delay his answer. In his time, his guidance will come through. God loves us very much.

research help: ' Like Father Like Son' by Pete Alwinson

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Beloved: anchored in God's love

 the Beloved: anchored in God's love by ric gustafson

When Jesus was baptized, God proclaimed that Jesus was his beloved Son. The true identity of Jesus was that he is the beloved of God. Jesus knew he was loved by God his Father. From that place of God's love, Jesus felt safe and loved. John 16 says Jesus knew he was not alone. His Father was always with him. 

We are brothers and sisters in Jesus and God the Father. We are God's beloved children. God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' You are the Beloved' by Henri Nouwen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 4: 25-26

 Proverbs: Proverbs 4: 25-26 by ric gustafson

We can look to the side and to the back. We see hurts. We see bitterness. The truth is God does not see us that way. According to Proverbs 4, God says look straight ahead. God has beauty for our ashes. God says don't say why me?. 

God says have faith in me. We need to trust God when life does not make sense. God says don't relive your hurts. Instead of unfair things, God will give us favor.

Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Beloved: a new beginning

 the Beloved: a new beginning by ric gustafson

God wants us to live each day, each hour and each minute as a new beginning. A chance to make everything new. God wants us to live each day as a day full of promises. 

Yet our past creeps in to our new beginning. Satan says our future will be a repeat of our past. The great lie from Satan is you cannot change your future. Revelation 21 says the world of the past is gone. God says I am with you. The world of the past is gone. Praise God's name.

research help: ' you are the Beloved' by Henri Nouwen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 23:5

 Psalms: Psalm 23:5 by ric gustafson

Some people want you to look bad. It could make you upset or mad. You could start having thoughts about shutting them down or trying to get even. Psalm 23:5 says you prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. 

Our job is to guard our hearts. We can't let the negative things in life get inside our hearts. We need to do our part. God will do his part. God will lift us up while others try to bring us down. God says keep smiling keep growing be good to people. God will do his part. God will give us favor. God will take care of our reputation. Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 26

 the end of days page 26 by ric gustafson

After Carlo Simpato had finished his speech, he walked away from the podium. One World security guards had surrounded him. Rory and other high ranking One World officials started walking toward him to shake his hand.

As Rory got close to his leader, he heard a loud popping noise. Then Rory saw Carlo fall over. Blood was visible. 

Rory yelled out loud. " Our leader's been shot". 

Rory ran to Carlo and jumped on top of him to protect him.

Rory yelled again. " Call for an ambulance".

Within minutes, an ambulance came. EMT personnel came. " We'll take it from here".

Rory sat down in an empty chair. He was in shock.

Later, a One World official came up to Rory.

" Sorry Rory, he's gone".

Rory cried. His leader and friend was dead.

research help: ' Assassins' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 23:2

 Psalms: Psalm 23:2 by ric gustafson

God does not want us to stress and abuse our bodies. Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Psalm 23:2 says he makes me lie down in green pastures. Constant busyness and fatigue will affect us one day. It's easy to work all the time and try to solve problems all the time. Psalm 23:2 also says he leads me beside quiet waters. After a while, our mind and body needs a rest. 

Eventually, God will make us rest. We need to. God says to us live a balanced life. Live a balanced life physically, spiritually and emotionally,

God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the end of days page 25

 the end of days page 25 by ric gustafson

Rory walked up to an empty chair in the front row. Carlo gave his friend a special invitation to the rally. He sat down next to several One World officials. Carlo was very pleased with Rory's help with several financial projects. Because of Carlo's admiration, Rory was given a front row invitation.

At 6:00 pm, the host of the rally walked up to the wooden podium. " And now show your appreciation for your world leader". The host smiled and pointed off stage. " Carlo Simpato".

Carlo, wearing a blue suit and fancy blue shoes, walked up to the podium. " Citizens of our One World". He smiled. " Thank you for coming to this rally".

Rory and the masses cheered.

" This rally is to celebrate out triumph over our enemies".

Rory and the masses cheered again.

" This so called God is throwing many challenges at us". Carlo grinned at Rory. " But tonight we celebrate". His voice hesitated. " Tonight we celebrate that those two Wailing Wall traitors have been destroyed". He smiled at Rory. " No matter what this so called God does to us".

Rory and the masses cheered again.

" We will prevail". Carlo put up his arms toward heaven in defiance. " He will not defeat us".

Rory and the masses yelled. " We love you Carlo".

" So celebrate our One World tonight".

research help: ' Assassins' by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Lale Sokolov page 3

 Lale Sokolov page 3 by ric gustafson

Lale and the other men briskly walked toward some dirty pink brick buildings. The columns walked through a gate. At the top were the words ' Arbeit Macht Frei'.

Lale and the others were forced into straight lines. At the head of Lale's line was an inmate sitting at a small table. He wore a jacket and pants with blue and white stripes. Behind him was an SS officer holding a rifle. 

Just then, a senior officer walked to the front of the columns. He was escorted by some soldiers. He had a square jaw and bushy black brows. " Welcome to Auschwitz".

Lale and the others stared at the senior officer.

" I am Commandant Rudolf Hoess". He smiled. " I am in charge here at Auschwitz".

Lale watched as new arrivals were asked questions. Then they were handed a receipt. Then Lale was asked his name, address, occupation and parents names. 

Then an SS man yelled. " Take your receipt to that table".

research help: ' The Tattooist of Auschwitz' by Heather Morris

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 23:1

 Psalms: Psalm 23:1 by ric gustafson

It would be easy for David to be negative about his life. He was discounted by his father and brothers. They made him feel unqualified and not good enough. 

But God says don't believe those lies. In Psalm 23, David says I have everything I need. I am enough. Thank God that you have everything you need. The only one who matters is God.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Proverbs: Proverbs 4

 Proverbs: Proverbs 4 by ric gustafson

God wants us to keep our heart pure. Proverbs 4 says above all else guard your heart. When you hold a grudge or feel offended, it takes away positive energy. God says don't do that. God says forgive those who harm you. Life is too short to feel offended and bitter. 

God says forgive and guard your heart.

Why?. Because God loves you more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Lale Sokolov page 2

 Lale Sokolov page 2 by ric gustafson

Lale opened his eyes. The wagon had stopped. He could hear a large commotion outside. Dogs were barking. He could hear orders being yelled in German. He could hear the bolt of the wagon opening. Then it opened. 

" Get down from the train" yelled a German in black.  " Leave your possessions".

Approaching the open wagon door, Lale was scared. He said a quick prayer. 

" Out!".

Lale got out. He landed on bent knees on gravel. He stayed in that position for a moment. He gasped. He was exhausted and very thirsty.

After standing up, Lale could see hundreds of scared men around him. Soldiers in black uniforms were yelling and hitting with sticks.

" Leave your possessions".

In the rush to get out of the wagon, Lale had left his suitcase on the side of the wagon. Already, people were inside throwing suitcases out.

As dogs were barking and men were getting hit with fists or sticks, the men were getting put into columns. A German soldier pushed Lale into one of the columns.

" Move!".

As they marched off, Lale could see trucks approaching to take all of their possessions somewhere.

The columns began to march off toward the unknown.

research help: ' The Tattooist of Auschwitz' by Heather Morris

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Lale Sokolov page 1

 Lale Sokolov page 1 by ric gustafson

Lale opened his eyes. He thought this nightmare was a dream. It was not. A male's head was resting on Lale's shoulder. Lale glances around the wagon. It was designed to transport livestock not people. No one had told them where they were headed. He decided to wear a pressed suit, white shirt and tie. 

Lale looked again around the wagon. It was less than 10 feet wide. His back and legs ached. Because of stubble, his face itched. He had not shaved or bathed in two days. He felt less of himself.

The wagon was crowded. People could not sit or lie down. There was only two buckets for a toilet. Lale slowly made his way to the side of the wagon. He peeked out through the slats. 

At one point, the wagon stopped. Lale could see a village sign. It read ' Dankowice'. 

Lale knew they were in Poland.

research help: ' The Tattooist of Auschwitz' by Heather Morris

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Born in the USA page 8

 Born in the USA page 8 by ric gustafson

In 1985, Springsteen's ' Born in the USA' was the years best selling album. It never left the top 10. Other artists benefited from Springsteen's success that year. One artist was John Mellencamp. Two of his albums ' the Lonesome Jubilee' and ' Scarecrow' were considered heartland rock. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers came out with an album called ' Southern Accents'. Dire Straits came out with an album called ' Brothers in Arms'. These albums benefited from heavy MTV rotation of songs from the albums. The success of ' Born in the USA' helped their record sales also.

The next album Springsteen did after ' Born in the USA' was called ' Tunnel of Love'. The title track and the rest of the album was a complete departure from ' Born in the USA'. 

Then Springsteen came out with two albums at the same time. The first was ' Human Touch'. The second was ' Lucky Town'. None of these albums did as well as ' Born in the USA'.

In 2002, Bruce Springsteen was greatly affected by 9/11. He talked to survivors. Then he began to write songs. Those songs became ' The Rising'. It was Springsteen's first album of original songs in seven years.

The album revitalized Bruce Springsteen's life and his career.

The End.

research help: ' There was nothing you could do' by Steven Hyden

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Born in the USA page 7

Born in the USA page 7 by ric gustafson

What really boosted ' Born in the USA' started on Aug 1 1981. What started as a monoculture became a national radio station. It was called MTV. MTV became available to anyone young or old. Anyone could watch music videos. MTV reached millions of people. It was not until October 1984 that Billboard started a new airplay schedule. Springsteen at first was not eager to join the MTV craze. But he changed his mind when he realized how many people watched music videos.

So which song would Springsteen make a video for first?. He decided on a song called ' Dancing in the Dark'. The music video was shot by filmmaker Brian DePalma. Then Springsteen chose the title track to be video number 2. It was directed by John Sayles. It was filmed in 16 mm. It was shot totally different than ' Dancing in the Dark'. 

For music video 3, Springsteen chose ' I'm on Fire'. In the video, Springsteen is driving a woman's Cadillac. The last song for a music video was " Glory Days'. In the video, Springsteen is playing a wannabe baseball player. 

research help: ' There was nothing you could do' by Steven Hyden

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Psalms: Psalm 22

 Psalms: Psalm 22 by ric gustafson

God wants to take you places. He has an amazing future planned for you. There are times when you know God is working in your life. Sometimes you can't. There are quiet times when we pray and don't feel God working in our life. Sometimes we feel that maybe God isn't hearing our prayers.

But that is far from the truth. God hears our prayers. God sees our faithfulness. God knows we are trying hard. We kept praising God and believing. 

God promises that our time is coming. God's promises are on the way. Get ready for a miracle.

Why?. Because God loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Psalms Proverbs for everyday life' by Joel Osteen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric