Spirit Lifters from Tom Kesting
Tom Kesting grew up in Bluefield and attended Bluefield High School. He played football and was on the team that won Bluefield's first State Championship in 1959. Tom graduated from BHS in 1961. He attended West Virginia University and played football for the Mountaineers.

Tom has been working for In Touch Ministries in Atlanta, Georgia for the past 14 years. He is a husband, father and grandfather.
Tom resides in Lilburn, Georgia.

May God Bless Tom and his wife Gloria for their continued interest in the ministries of the Bluefield Union Mission.

August 28, 2010

Faith Comes By Hearing

As I enter into the day here is something that blesses me. .

A S A P.

Every day there are problems galore. . .

Our feelings, our circumstances, our failures and there are many more.

What can we do to stem the tide?. . .

The atmosphere of prayer is a great place to abide.

You know, something happens when we pray. . .

The power of evil loses its sway.

We can gain strength as our fears give way. . .

Brothers and sisters we need to pray.

Always Say A Prayer is a great way to live each day. . .

Pray and watch confusion fade away.

T.K. <><

“Pray without ceasing.” I Thessalonians 5:17

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

August 22, 2010

Today

Today is the day that you’ve been searching for. . .

A day that you have never lived before.

Opportunities abound for you today. . .

Opportunities for good or bad, but you choose the way.

So focus on the things that are important to you. . .

Then you’ll be surprised by all the good that you can do.

Tell someone you love them – it doesn’t cost a thing. . .

And a bit of encouragement will be what you bring.

People are hurting if you look around. . .

And your words of inspiration will be a happy sound.

So lift your head and focus on living. . .

And a good example will be what you’re giving.

Jesus loves you, this you know. . .

Share Him with others wherever you go.

Today is a gift created for you. . .

And just by being the best you, will be the greatest thing that you can do.

T.K. <><

GBY

“This is the day that the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Psalm 118:24

August 15, 2010

Hope

Have you ever had a crazy hunch and a high hope for something you wanted to do? . . .

But because of your circumstances you didn’t think it would ever happen to you.

I read about a woman once who was sick and down and out. . .

She was so frustrated and desperate that she couldn’t even shout.

So she went to see Jesus to see what He could do . .

And she reached out and touched His garment and He made her brand new.

Are you hurting and in need of some tender loving care? . . .

Then reach out and touch Jesus because He’ll be standing there.

He really loves us there is no doubt about that. . .

And He doesn’t care where you’ve been or where you’re at.

All it takes is just a little faith on your part. . .

Because Jesus is always standing near the door of your heart.

So open wide and let him in. . .

And when you do, you’ll never lose – you’ll always win.

T.K. <><

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

August 7, 2010

God’s Plan

Each of us has been made to serve God in some unique way. . .

And with His help we can arise, go forth and seize the day.

Some long to feed the poor. . .

Others enjoy repairing a broken down door.

The longings of your heart is a special sign from God. . .

Accept them and don’t consider them odd.

Our Lord is not going to ask you to do something that you are not created to do. . .

Therefore, the desires of your heart can be the true expression of you.

God’s plan and our pleasures meet at a point in our heart. . .

And the fulfillment of a useful life is found in doing our part.

So when you feel strange stirrings in your heart please don’t run and hide. . .

Just call upon the Lord and He’ll be your heart’s guide.

T.K. <><

“For to this end also I wrote, so that I might put you to the test, whether you are obedient in all things.” 2 Corinthians 2:9

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirit, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

August 1, 2010

Faith

You can demonstrate your faith by what you do. . .

Like forgiving someone who has offended you.

You can write a letter to let someone know you care. . .

Or just listen to someone and let them know you hear.

You see, faith with no effort, is not faith at all. . .

And if you want more faith then give God a call.

Faith that does nothing is absolutely dead. . .

Faith grows in your heart and not in your head.

So brush off your shoes and roll up your sleeves. . .

Faith grows as one believes.

T.K. <><

“Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself.” James 2:17

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

July 25, 2010

The Hungry Soul

If you’re hungry and tired and weary too. . .

Jesus has something special for you.

The Bread of Life is for the hungry soul. . .

And your mansion in heaven is His goal.

Today is the day to pick-up your yoke. . .

And Jesus is the coach that won’t let you choke.

He comforts our hearts when we endure the pain. . .

And experience is a growing gain.

His wisdom is superior to anything I possess. . .

And I maintain that inner peace with every sin I confess.

Jesus fills up my life and makes it worth while. . .

And He walks with me and develops my style.

If you’re hungry and tired and weary too. . .

Then Jesus has something special for you.

T.K. <><

“Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst.” John 6:35

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

July 17, 2010

A Treasure

There is a great treasure buried in God’s word that is beyond compare. . .

But we have to search the treasure out or it will remain buried there.

Lives are changed when that treasure is found. . .

And lives are set free that have been depressingly bound.

When you dig into the Bible you find a surprise or two. . .

Sometimes an inspiration that was written especially for you.

A well-fed soul is a child of God’s delight. . .

And there is nothing like newfound wisdom for timely, helpful insight.

Buried in God’s word is a treasure bright and true. . .

A treasure created by God for me and you.

T.K. <><

“All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness.” II Timothy 3:16

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

July 10, 2010

The Good News

We don’t have a clue when the Lord may come to right the wrongs here on Earth. . .

But we do know one thing – He left us here to explain to others the good

news of the second birth.

We preach a sermon every day by how we live and by what we do. . .

How’s my sermon - is it helping or hindering you?

The world is desperate for love and needs a helping hand. . .

So why not take a stand and be God’s woman or man.

The Lord is coming back to right the wrongs that are here. . .

You know, that might be good news that other might like to hear.

T.K. <><

“The day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the Earth and its works will be burned up.” II Peter 3:10

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

July 3, 2010

Answered Prayers

No person is beyond God’s grace when righteous people pray. . .

When God’s children intercede, the Lord will have His way.

Don’t quit praying for that person who means so much to you. . .

Your prayers for them are the greatest act of love that you can do.

God always hears the prayers of those He loves and an answer is sure to come. . .

But be reminded it takes a lot of prayers for some.

So trust God and watch Him work His grace. . .

Your answered prayers will put a smile on your face.

T.K. <><

“The Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous.”

Proverbs 15:29

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

June 26, 2010

Just Remember

The author of beauty - that’s what God still does. . .

And when He touches something, it’s never the way it was.

He’ll touch your life if you ask Him to. . .

And He’ll make your life brand new.

He made the lily to bless the heart. . .

And He’s provided inspiration from the very start.

This fragile lily is beautiful to behold. . .

But to God, you and I are more precious than gold.

So just remember as you go your way. . .

God created you for this very day.

As you begin the day, ask God to be by your side. . .

And in the palm of His hand you’ll abide.

It’s really great when you live this way. . .

You and God together throughout the day.

T.K. <²><

“For it is You who blesses the righteous man, O Lord; You surround him with favor as with a shield.” Psalm 5:12

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

June 19, 2010

A Special Gift – Dads

Today is a gift that God has given to you. . .

And He has placed you where you can bless people by what you do.

You’re a father and you’re good at that. . .

But you feel for others because you’ve seen where they sat.

The sparkle in your eyes is special to all. . .

And many lives are changed when you handle their call.

You have a personality that is a special gift. . .

And when you are around others, you give them a lift.

God has chosen you to be where you are. . .

And your voice encourages others both near and far.

God has given you eyes that say I care. . .

And an empathetic heart that says, I’ve been there.

Today is a gift that God has given to you. . .

Now allow Him to use you in all that you do.

Embrace the day and enjoy your call. . .

You’re a blessing to one and all.

T.K. <²><

“Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men.” Psalm 107:15

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

June 12, 2010

Plant A Seed

A life without a purpose is barren indeed. . .

Remember, there can’t be a harvest unless you plant a seed.

There will never be attainment unless there is a goal. . .

And man is just a robot unless he has a soul.

If you send no ship out, then no ship will come in. . .

And unless there is a contest, nobody can win.

A game cannot be won unless it is played. . .

And prayers – well they can’t be answered unless they are prayed.

So whatever is wrong with your life today. . .

Knell down and don’t be afraid to pray.

Pray not for pleasure, enjoyment and health. . .

Not just for honors, prestige and wealth.

Pray for a purpose to make life worth living. . .

And pray for the joy of unselfish giving.

For great will be your gladness and rich your reward. . .

When you make your life’s purpose the choice of the Lord.

T.K. <><

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

June 5, 2010

Kind Words

You can use your tongue to be a blessing or to be a curse. . .

We have a choice; use it for better or for worse.

You can make those about you feel good or feel bad. . .

And when you speak to me with kind words, you make me feel glad.

The tongue is a gift to be wisely used. . .

Unfortunately that gift is often abused.

So take this gift and use it well. . .

A kind word spoken will never fail.

T.K. <><

“Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”

Proverbs 16:24

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirit, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

May 29, 2010

By His Grace

Difficulties some times come our way. . .

And blue skies and sunbeams are not part of our day.

To be happy you must learn to go with the flow. . .

Stubborn refusal can bring you low.

God owns the mountain where the cattle reside. . .

And by the way, He is always by your side.

Riches and honor are in His hand. . .

And unspeakable blessings for every woman and man.

The good, the bad, they both help us grow. . .

And when we put our trust in Him, His goodness we will know.

So trust in the Lord and feel His flow. . .

And by His grace you’ll start to grow.

T.K. <><

“Yours, Oh Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, indeed everything that is in the heavens and in the earth; Yours is the dominion, Oh Lord, and you exalt yourself as head over all.” I Chronicles 29:11

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

May 22, 2010

For Good

Sometimes an event looks like an accident viewed through our human eyes. . .

But through hindsight, it turns out to be God’s blessing in disguise.

Sometimes we are quick to judge the events of the day. . .

Especially if things don’t happen to go our way.

God, though, is the Master of disguise. . .

He brings us blessings and opens our human eyes.

All things do work for our good when God’s will is our goal. . .

Especially when He has planted His purpose in our soul.

So don’t judge too quickly the accident you just had. . .

It may be a blessing for which God will make you glad.

T.K. <><

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

May 15, 2010

Wisdom

He changes the times and the seasons too. . .

And He gives wisdom to the wise like me and you.

He creates the beautiful spring and life anew. . .

And the awe of fall and the spectacular view.

He changes lives from sad to glad. . .

And when He sees injustices He gets really mad.

He has a plan and a purpose for everyone we know. . .

And He promises to go with us wherever we go.

Our God reins and brings comfort to us all. . .

And He’s pursued every soul since man’s fall.

He changes the times and the seasons too. . .

And He gives wisdom to people like me and you.

T.K. <><

“He changes the times and the seasons. He removes kings and sets up kings. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.” Daniel 2:21

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

Mother’s Day 2010

Moms

There is a special day in May when our hearts are all aglow. . .

It’s Mother’s Day so off to church we go.

God gave special gifts like summer, winter and fall. . .

But the gift of a mother is one of His greatest gifts of all.

There is something about a mother that God uses to bring stability to a life. . .

And only a special creation can be a loving mom and wife.

A mom can love us tenderly when we’re good or bad. . .

And she’s that strong pillar to wipe away that heart broken tear when we’re

sad.

God knew what He was doing when He made a mom like you. . .

You’re beautiful and inspiring and we thank you for all the other things that

you do.

God gives special gifts like summer, winter and fall. . .

But you are one of His greatest gifts for us all.

There is a special day in May when our hearts are all aglow. . .

It’s Mother’s Day so off to church we go.

T.K. <><

“Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.” Proverbs 31:30

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

May 1, 2010

God’s Sight

The first thing in the morning, the last thing at night. . .

Even when I sleep I am never out of God’s sight.

It always amazes me what God will do. . .

How He blesses, protects and takes care of you.

Even when I am sick and down He’s always there. . .

And He’s always encouraging me to say a prayer.

He helps me to love those who are hard to love. . .

And I feel His presence like I am snuggled in a glove.

He gives me wisdom and guides my way. . .

And sometimes He rebukes me for what I say.

Sometimes I stumble and sometimes I fall. . .

And He calls me when I don’t call.

He is always so faithful – He knows my name. . .

And since He entered my life I haven’t been the same.

The first thing in the morning, the last thing at night. . .

Even when I sleep I am not out of God’s sight.

T.K. <><

“For in Him we live and move and have our being. . .” Acts 17:28

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

April 25, 2010

Gifts

God, more often than not, uses lowly things for His purposes to fulfill. . .

The reason – it takes a humble heart to carry out His will.

It’s all about God no matter what we do. . .

As we discover, He has purposes for me and you.

We all have gifts that have been given to each one. . .

And learning to use that gift can be a lot of fun.

Some plant and others water too. . .

And others you’d be surprised at all the different things that they do.

God has purposes that He wants to fulfill. . .

And may He give you the heart to want to do His will.

You plant and I’ll water and we’ll have buckets of fun. . .

Use your gifts because they’ve been given to everyone.

T.K. <><

“For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

April 18, 2010

My God

I see beautiful mountains and breathe air that’s fresh and clean. . .

And enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery that has ever been seen.

There are birds and turkeys and a deer here and there. . .

Oh my goodness, there’s a beautiful black bear.

The trees and creatures and the mountains rising so tall. . .

What an awesome thought – our God created them all.

I see a sandy beach and gulls in the air. . .

I am awed by the horizon so I just stand and stare.

There are white capped waves and white fluffy clouds. . .

And colorful umbrellas and oil covered crowds.

I see all of this and I feel so small. . .

But then I remember – my God created it all.

T.K. <><

“Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created.” Revelation 4:11

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day

April 11, 2010

Write

The great author of all created you and me. . .

And He spoke the Word and said, “Let it be”.

He gave us a name and a story to write. . .

And we must learn to live by faith and not by sight.

He created a time for each of us to live. . .

And the life we live is what we give.

So we must write our story and live that life. . .

Some will do it alone or as a husband or wife.

We can help each other as we add a page. . .

And the effectiveness we achieve is not determined by age.

You write your story and I’ll write mine. . .

And remember we are what we are because of the author of time.

Today the page is blank, so write your best. . .

This could be your finest hour and your greatest test.

T.K. <><

“And He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:19

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

April 4, 2010

The Same

I have a shepherd that leads me each day. . .

He’s with me at work or when I go out to play.

He heals those bruises when I slip and fall. .

He’s always available; He’s always on call.

When the enemy stalks He’s there to defend. . .

And He gives me strength so my arms won’t bend.

I have shepherd and Jesus is His name. . .

And when He leads you’ll never be the same.

T.K. <><

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, build your faith, encourage your heart and brighten your day.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. “ Psalm 23:1

March 27, 2010

Look At You

Help me, Oh Lord, to live my life so people clearly see. . .

Reflections of your loving heart that now resides in me.

Let others see the changes that you have brought my way. . .

Let them see that you now fill up my day.

It’s not so much what I say, but more of what I do. . .

My actions are what make people stop and look at you.

Help me Lord, to live my life so people clearly see. . .

Reflections of your loving heart that now resides in me.

T.K. <><

“For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.” James 2:26

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

March 20, 2010

God Wants

God wants us to do more than just exist.

He wants us to live!

God wants us to do more than just touch.

He wants us to feel!

God wants us to do more than just look.

He wants us to observe!

God wants us to do more than just read.

He wants us to absorb!

God wants us to do more than just hear.

He wants us to listen!

Finally, God wants us to do more than just listen.

He wants us to understand!

God wants us to be part of His family.

He wants us to spend eternity with Him.

T.K. <><

“Come now, and let us reason together,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they will be like wool.” Isaiah 1:18

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

March 13, 2010

Lord

Lord, why do you love your children like you do? . . .

Especially when you consider how much pain each one of us brings to you.

We’re always complaining about this or that. . .

And very seldom do we thank you for where we’re at.

You send us rain and we demand the sun. . .

We get tired of working, we’d rather play and have fun.

Most of the time we’re spoiled babies who take and kick and pout. . .

And most of us have never figured out what living is all about.

Lord, why do you love us so when we treat you oh so bad. . .

The way we behave toward you is down right sad.

So Lord, forgive our sins and point the way. . .

And thank you Lord for creating this day.

T.K. <><

“It is good to give thanks to the Lord and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High.”

Psalm 92:1

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

March 6, 2010

Trust

As we travel life’s highway day after day. . .

We soon learn that there are going to be obstacles along the way.

Every obstacle becomes a choice that puts us to the test. . .

And if we trust the Lord, He can help us choose the best.

So trust the Lord with all your heart. . .

And if you do that He’ll do His part.

There was a new year coming and now it’s here. . .

And with the Lord by our side, there’s nothing to fear.

The clouds on the horizon may look dark or gray. . .

But the Lord will be with us no matter what comes our way.

So trust in the Lord with all your heart. . .

If we do that, then He’ll do His part.

T.K. <><

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Psalm 3: 5-6

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.

February 27, 2010

Works of God

The sun is rising, a new day is here. . .

I hear the birds singing – it sounds like a cheer.

The sky is full of white clouds that are awesome to see. . .

These are the works of God that are close to me.

I hear the laughter of a child and I bubble inside. . .

I chase the wind and let my kite take a ride.

Someone gives me a smile and tells me how happy they are. . .

I loved catching lightening bugs and putting them in a jar.

I live a simple life, and for me it’s the way it should be. . .

And these are all works of God that are close to me.

Open your eyes and you too shall see. . .

The works of God the way He meant it to be.

T.K. <><

“Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burdens, The God who is our salvation.” Psalm 68:19

February 21, 2010

Life Has Meaning

If for the meaning of life is what you search. . .

Then take the first step and attend a church.

Sit quietly in a pew and don’t look around. . .

Pay attention to your heart and listen for that deep inner sound.

If you’re sincere God will speak to your heart. . .

And on a new adventure you’re about to start.

Life has meaning when God is there. . .

Because He’s always present and His fellowship you’ll share.

God puts meaning and adds color to our living. . .

And His encouragement and blessings He’s constantly giving.

So go to church and find new meaning there. . .

Sit in a pew and feel God’s care.

T.K. <><

. . . “I came that they may have life, and have it more abundantly.” John 10:10

May the Lord use this Spirit Lifter to lift your spirits, encourage your heart, build your faith and brighten your day.