Randy's Devotional's And Thought's

A Taste Of Heaven

2010-08-14T10:44:00.000-04:00

I have heard it said that each of us has a hole in the heart that only God can fill. That hole can never be filled completely until we are in our eternal home with the Lord.

Love Your Enemies

2010-07-16T16:01:00.001-04:00

Matthew 5:43-48 43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shall love thy neighbor, and hate your enemy. 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? 47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? 48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. (KJV)

Jesus teaches that to be like God, we have to do more than what comes naturally to us. We all love people who are nice to us. But it isn't easy to be nice to those who are mean to you. But that's what God did. He takes care of everyone, and sent His son to die for all, even though they did not all treat Him well.

Jesus says we must love our enemies. What does that mean? Does it mean we must feel affection for them? No, it means that we must treat them as well as we treat people we like. We must be kind and respectful to them. We must put their needs before ours. We must not treat them badly.

The Bible says "a soft answer turns away wrath." (Prov. 15:1) And by being nice to someone, we can bring them to shame. (Prov. 25: 21,22) It is difficult for someone to continue being mean to you if you don't let it get you angry. It takes away their fun in it. So God's advise is not only the better way to handle the situation from His end, but from ours also.

The Great Commission

2010-07-13T16:21:00.001-04:00

When Jesus left this world, he commanded us to take the Gospel to the world. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20) Notice that Jesus commanded “even to the end of the age.” These two verses are often referred to as The Great Commission, and a lot churches in my neck of the woods, and around the rest of the world, are not honoring the Lord’s command to us. This is the greatest single failure of Christians and Christian churches around the globe. The day will come when Jesus will deal with us for ignoring his command to us.

The Great Commission

2010-07-13T16:21:00.000-04:00

rose color glasses

2010-05-21T15:19:00.000-04:00

You see the world through a variety of lenses. On good days, those lenses are colored with faith, hope, and love. On other days... well, you know how it goes. You interpret life through lenses of worry or dissatisfaction, maybe discouragement or even despair. It’s easy to believe whatever spin the world puts on your life.

But only one perspective counts: God’s. And the only way we can see through His eyes is to know His Word.

How to Do the Right Thing

2010-05-17T15:44:00.000-04:00

Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.
—1 Thessalonians 5:21-22

It is amazing how we can rationalize sin in our own lives, yet when someone else does it, it is wrong. We have little double standards that we develop, thinking that what is acceptable for us isn't acceptable for anyone else.

When you are wondering whether something is okay to do as a Christian, here is something you should d Pray about it and bring it into the clear light of the presence of Jesus Christ. Ask, "Is this a situation that makes me more vulnerable to temptation? Can I ask God's blessing on it?"

For example, you would never pray, "Lord, bless us tonight as we go out and party and get drunk. We pray that no one will get a DUI and that I won't say something I will regret in the morning." Or, "Lord, bless me as I divorce my husband—my faithful, decent Christian husband who has loved me. Just bless me as I divorce him, because I met a cuter guy that I want to marry instead." We would never verbalize such prayers, yet some Christians will do these things because they rationalize them. When you pray about some things you are about to do, bringing them into the clear light of the presence of Jesus Christ, you just might reconsider them.

Something else to think about is how you would feel if you saw another Christian doing the same thing. Would it seem wrong? The Bible tells us to avoid the very appearance of evil. So it is not only a matter of doing the wrong thing, it is even doing something that would look like you are doing the wrong thing. Avoid even that. Be smart about the choices you make. And as much as possible, stay out of the way of temptation.

Goodness, Grace and Glory

2010-04-29T14:34:00.001-04:00

There are so many things that you could ask for from your Heavenly Father. Perhaps you would like a new job, new home, or even a healed relationship. You may be praying for financial stability, health, or the process and path to a better life. God desires to provide you the things you need to be the best that you can be. He may also withhold something from your life because He knows that if you were to obtain it, you would have less that desirable results. It is quite a balancing act really. There is a time and place for each blessing and the Lord knows exactly the right moment to introduce or keep something from your life.

God is goodness, grace and glory. He is the beginning and the end. He has the ultimate knowledge of your life and what you need in it. There may be times when you think He is not hearing you and you may even doubt that he exists. Don't let you humanness get in the way of the divine authority, power, and love of God. Next time you find yourself doubting His purpose for you or questioning His intent, stop and remember that He only can provide that which is good. He always delivers grace. He live and reigns in glory. That is the God that you serve and the God that loves you. With that how could you ever go wrong?

Are You Hiding It Under A Bushel?

2010-04-13T15:12:00.001-04:00

Our faith needs to shine no matter where we are, at work, at play, at school. It is important that our language is filled with words about God, Jesus, love and the church. By what we say, we show that we love God. We need to use the words, God, Jesus, Christ, Bible, faith, church as part of our language. Do you use those words as part of your language? Are those words part of your vocabulary? Or…do you hide it? When you get out into the world, do you hide it? But when you come to church, do you pull out the light and put it on a lamp stand? Do you hide your light when you are in the world but turn it on when you are in the presence with your Christian friends? We need to let that light shine out there in the real world.

Got Hope?

2010-04-12T17:21:00.000-04:00

One definition for hope is: To look forward to with confidence or expectation. We must bring the Word of God with all its hope to someone who does not know it is real. When we bring hope, we bring life. It is life changing to finally believe again. It is more than just asking God for something we so badly need; we must expect our miracle. Somewhere in the midst of asking, believing, and expecting God to answer, we will find what we are looking for.

"I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living." Psalm 27:13 NIV
I have felt for a long time that the biggest problem we have in the world today is there are so many people who have lost hope. There seems to be so many hurts, problems, sicknesses, troubles, financial woes, family problems, world issues, political concerns, etc. It seems the world has no hope.

Apart from God, it is an awful, hopeless place. But with God's help, we can make it. I want you to know that whatever situation you find yourself in at this moment, there is hope. You may not be able to see or feel the hope, but it is there for you. How do we find the hope? There is only one place where hope can be found, and that is in Jesus Christ.

Colossians 3:23-24

2010-04-07T13:35:00.001-04:00

With all the work we have these days the temptation to just give up or to not do your best is really high. If for no other reason, we should put 100% into all that we do since we do it for God's glory. That means toughing it and keeping ourselves motivated, even when it seems like the work will never go away. Don't worry, we're not in it alone though....if we do our part (put the effort in) and have faith, God will help us through it :-).

Rose Colored Glasses

2010-04-06T15:48:00.003-04:00

Have You Ever

2010-03-31T13:41:00.000-04:00

Have You Ever?
By: Carl Blenman (View Profile)

Have you ever seen something you wish you had not seen?
Have you ever heard something you’d rather not hear?
Have you ever wanted something you cannot have?
Have you ever done something you regretted sooner than later?
You are not alone, we’ve all been there.

Have you ever known someone who made a difference in your life?
Have you ever said something that you wish you hadn’t said?
Have you ever wished you were born in another time?
Have you ever laughed when you should have cried?
You are not unique, we’ve done the same.

Have you ever wished you were born to different parents?
Have you ever bought something you don’t need?
Have you ever known true love?
Have you ever wanted to change the unchangeable?
You are not different from the rest of us.

Have you ever trusted a friend and were betrayed?
Have you ever been transparent with the ones you love?
Have you ever overstayed your welcome?
Have you ever gone where you should not go?
You are a work in progress; so don’t feel bad.

Have you ever given time instead of things?
Have you ever comforted someone in a time of need?
Have you ever taken time to smell the roses?
Have you ever enjoyed true peace and rest?
You are not alone, so join the crowd.

You can ponder these questions because we all have asked them at one time or another.

The answers may or may not be important, but they may cause you to think or bring about a change of heart.

A True Friend

2010-03-04T12:18:00.000-05:00

A true friend doesn't care what you're wearing, if your home is tidy or not, if you're car is making funny noises, that you only have $5 in the bank this week, or that you and you're loved ones aren't perfect and do actually fight...a true friend just likes you for you!

Proverb's theme of God's wisdom

2010-02-17T18:58:00.000-05:00

God's wisdom will give us sound counsel. Many people today are seeking their counsel in the wrong places and most of the time, the advice they are receiving is not based on God's Word, but rather, is usually telling people to be selfish and look after "number one." So many are going to fortune tellers, psychics, card readers, astrology books, etc. The Bible warns us that this type of counsel is not only wrong, but is opening one's spirit up to a form of witchcraft. When people are seeking advice from anyone who claims to have supernatural powers, (other than the true power of Christ and His prophets, and servants;) they are committing a sin, that the Lord calls an abomination.

When it comes to trust

2010-02-13T17:13:00.000-05:00

I feel that it is something that it is earned. Trust is earned when you place faith in a person and that person fulfills the promise. It allows you to take a step up and place more faith in them. As that person fullfills that promise, you step up and again place more faith in them. This ultimately continues until you find out where you can't trust them... it is there at that level that you know you can depend on them and where the relationship/partnership stays. Ideally in love and friendships, we hope that we can attain a level where no matter what happens that person will be there for us. I suppose though that there is a factor where I have to ask myself... how trustworthy and dependable am I? Is my level of trustworthy and dependableness affecting my relationships/partnerships. If a person cannot trust you and place faith in you... it isn't likely that you are going to be able obtain the same from them. Therefore, I would have to say that first and formost, you must have character integrity where you are dependable, loyal, and trustworthy. I believe this a requisite for being able to adequately trust others and gauge their true ability to be dependable.

What Will You Do With Jesus?

2010-01-27T13:04:00.000-05:00

As Jesus was standing before Pilate, "Pilate said to them, 'What then shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?'" (Matthew 27:22). Every person who has ever lived has to answer this same question. The answer to this question will determine the eternal destiny of either Heaven or Hell for every living soul when this life is over.

Jesus says, "He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him, the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day" (John 12:48). The vast majority of the world will reject Jesus (Matthew 7:13-14) because they do not believe Him (John 8:24). Included in this majority is the denominational world who choose to do things their own way. They have come up with their own plans of salvation, their own forms of worship, and their own churches. Even by the names they call themselves they have rejected Jesus. They do their own will and not the will of God. Jesus says, "Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven" (Matthew 7:21). They call Him their Lord and claim to know Him, but they do not keep His commandments, but their own. God's word says, "He who says, I know Him, and does not keep His commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him" (1 John 2:4).

There are many people who reject Jesus because they are ashamed of Him. But Jesus says, "For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels" (Mark 8:38). One who is ashamed of Jesus who gave His life for us will be eternally lost.

There are people who say they believe in Jesus but will not obey Him. "Nevertheless even among the chief rulers many believed on Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God" (John 12:42-43). There are many people like this today.

Some brethern will follow Jesus for a while but will become unfaithful and reject Him. "From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. Then Jesus said to the twelve, ‘Do you also want to go away?’ But Simon Peter answered Him, ‘Lord to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life’" (John 6:66-68). A child of God who falls away and becomes unfaithful to the Lord is likened to "A dog returns to his own vomit, and a sow, having been washed, to her wallowing in the mire" (2 Peter 2:22). The Hebrew writer asks, "Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace?" (Hebrews 10:29). If one continues to be unfaithful and does not repent, "there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment" (Hebrews 10:26-27).

To be pleasing to the Lord so we can go to Heaven we must "be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord" (1 Corinthians 15:58). Jesus has promised us, "Be faithful until death and I will give you the crown of life" (Revelation 2:10). Lets "be even more diligent to make your call and election sure" (2 Peter 1:10).

How Great Is Our God

2010-01-26T18:39:00.001-05:00

The splendor of a King,
clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice,
all the earth rejoice
He wraps himself in light,
and darkness tries to hide
it trembles at his voice,
trembles at his voice

How great is our God,
sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great
How great is our God

And age to age He stands
and time is in His Hands
Beginning and the End,
Beginning and the End
The Godhead, three in one
Father, Spirit, Son
the Lion and the Lamb,
the Lion and the Lamb

How great is our God,
sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great,
How great is our God

Name above all names
Worthy of all praise
My heart will sing
how great is our God
Name above all names
you are worthy of all praise
and my heart will sing
how great is our God

How great is our God,
Sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great,
How great is our God

How great is our God,
Sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great,
How great is our God
How great is our God,
Sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great,
How great is our God

"In ALL your ways acknowledge Him".

2010-01-21T18:07:00.000-05:00

Now just how often do we actually acknowledge God in our circumstances and in life in general? The verse says, in ALL Your Ways…. That means He is at work and present in ALL our lives, in every part of it, in every detail, even with all the "hats" we wear, the different roles and responsibilities we have.

So, we are to be aware and acknowledge in word and action that we abide in Him and see His presence and work in our lives. So, we need to be watchful for His presence and how He really is there directing, protecting and loving us daily. Look for God’s miracles in your life, look for His blessings. He provides them daily in great and small ways. Sometimes, it is the smallest and most simple blessings that come our ways that are the sweetest and most memorable, that touches our hearts deeply.

David's Song Of Praise

2010-01-18T20:00:00.000-05:00

In chapter 22 of 2 Samuel, David’s song of praise rings out. “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my savior,” he sings. David knew God as the One who is faithful, strong and able to save. Had he not experienced the wars in his life, he would not have truly known God ability to rescue the one who needs to be rescued. David described his need for God’s help: “The waves of death surrounded me; the floods of destruction swept over me…But in my distress I cried out to the Lord…He heard me from His sanctuary; my cry reached His ears.”

David knew that God heard his cry, and he then described God’s powerful response in the eleven verses that follow. His description illustrates a God that moved heaven and earth to rescue His servant. He sang of the quaking of the earth and the thundering of the Lord from heaven, and in verses 16 and 17 he summarized what happened: “Then at the command of the Lord…He reached down from heaven and rescued me.”

The lyrics of David’s song are strong and forceful and they leave no doubt that David had been in the dire straits and that God had delivered him. In fact, he concluded that portion of the song with verse 19: “They attacked me at a moment when I was weakest, but the Lord upheld me.”

David finished his song with 31 additional verses proclaiming God’s goodness, faithfulness, strength, and love. “The Lord lives!” David sang out. “Blessed by my rock! May God, the rock of my salvation, be exalted!…O Lord, I will praise You among the nations; I will sing joyfully to Your name.”

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T11:13:00.001-05:00

The children of light cannot abide in darkness, for darkness is not in them. Do not be deceived by the dark comforters, and never let them enter the mind of God's Son, for they have no place in His temple. When you are tempted to deny Him remember that there are no other gods to place before Him, and accept His Will for you in peace. For you cannot accept it otherwise. By following the right Guide, you will learn the simplest of all lessons: By their fruits ye shall know them, And they shall know themselves.

o come let us adore him

2009-12-21T12:05:00.001-05:00

One of the favorite Christmas hymns has a refrain that goes like this:

O come, let us adore Him! O come, let us adore Him!

O come, let us adore Him – Christ, the Lord!

That's a great refrain, not only for the Advent/Christmas season, but for every season of the year and every season of our lives.

Let's adore Him because He is God – Jesus is Lord! Let's adore Him because He did what His name said He came to do – to save His people from their sins! Let's adore Him for His great love for us - “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

You who are beloved of the Lord, the few things I mentioned don't even begin to tip the iceberg. If we're creative enough, we could probably turn every single verse in the Bible and every single moment of our lives into a reason to adore Him. So I encourage you to take some time right now, even if others are sitting nearby, and have a little time of silent worship as you tell Him other reasons why you adore Him. This is a good way to start other times of prayer and worship as well.

God's best to you,

who is jesus to you

2009-12-20T11:34:00.001-05:00

To the artist the Lord Jesus Christ is the One Altogether Lovely.

To the architect He is the Chief Cornerstone.

To the baker He is the Living Bread.

To the banker He is the Hidden Treasure.

To the biologist He is the Life.

To the builder He is the Sure Foundation.

To the carpenter He is the Door.

To the doctor He is the Great Physician.

To the educator He is the Great Teacher.

To the engineer He is the New and Living Way.

To the farmer He is the Sower and the Lord of the Harvest.

To the florist He is the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the Valley.

To the geologist He is the Rock of Ages.

To the horticulturist He is the True Vine.

To the judge He is the Righteous Judge, the Judge of all men.

To the juror he is the Faithful and True Witness.

To the jeweler He is the Pearl of Great Price.

To the lawyer He is the Counselor, the Lawgiver, the Advocate.

To the newspaper man He is the Good News of Great Joy.

To the philanthropist (one who loves and seeks to benefit mankind) He is the Unspeakable Gift.

To the philosopher He is the Wisdom of God.

To the preacher He is the Word of God.

To the sculptor He is the Living Stone.

To the servant He is the Good Master.

To the statesman He is the Desire of all Nations.

To the student He is the Incarnate Truth.

To the theologian He is the Author and Finisher of our Faith.

To the laborer He is the Giver of Rest.

To the sinner He is the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world.

To the Christian he is the Son of the Living God, the Saviour, the Redeemer and Lord.

THE RESUME OF JESUS CHRIST

2009-12-15T20:00:00.000-05:00

The Resume of Jesus Christ

Address: Ephesians 1:20
Phone: Romans 10:13
Website: The Bible.
Keywords: Christ, Lord, Savior and Jesus

Hello. My name is Jesus - The Christ. Many call me Lord! I've sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your heart. Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.

Qualifications

I founded the earth and established the heavens, (See Proverbs 3:19)
I formed man from the dust of the ground, (See Genesis 2:7)
I breathed into man the breath of life, (See Genesis 2:7)
I redeemed man from the curse of the law, (See Galatians 3:13)
The blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant comes upon your life through me, (See Galatians 3:14)

Occupational Background

I've only had one employer, (See Luke 2:49).
I've never been tardy, absent, disobedient, slothful or disrespectful.
My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me, (See Matthew 3:15-17)

Skills Work Experiences

Some of my skills and work experiences include: empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the brokenhearted, setting the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised, (See Luke 4:18).
I am a Wonderful Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6). People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil, (See Proverbs 1:33).
Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins, (See I John 1:7-9)

Educational Background

I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding, (See Proverbs 2:6).
In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, (See Colossians 2:3).
My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a lamp unto your path, (See Psalms 119:105).
I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart, (See Psalms 44:21).

Major Accomplishments

I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times, (See Genesis 1:26).
I laid down my life so that you may live, (See II Corinthians 5:15).
I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly, (See Colossians 2:15).
I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead!
There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here. You can read them on my website, which is located at: www dot - the BIBLE. You don't need an Internet connection or computer to access my website.

References

Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healing, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance.

In Summation
Now that you've read my resume, I'm confident that I'm the only candidate uniquely qualified to fill this vital position in your heart. In summation, I will properly direct your paths, (See Proverbs 3:5-6), and lead you into everlasting life, (See John 6:47). When can I start? Time is of the essence, (See Hebrews 3:15).

Only HE can possibly do all these things and he's not done yet ...

The Wise Men Who Followed a Star Pt 3

2009-12-12T20:15:00.001-05:00

When the wise men from the east see the star, they know that Christ the King has been born.

IN THE COUNTRY far to the east of Judah there lived some wise men who studied the stars. One night they discovered a new star in the sky, one that they had never seen before. And God caused them to know by this star that Christ, the promised King of the Jews, had been born.

These wise men feared God, and they wished to see the child whom he had sent to be the Savior of the world. They supposed that the Jews must be very happy because God had at last sent to them the King he had promised.

Because these wise men were rich, they planned at once to make the long journey to Judah and bring precious gifts to the new-born King. Then they would worship him as their Savior.

For many days they traveled across the sandy desert, and at last they came to the fertile country where the Jews lived. They hurried on to the city of Jerusalem; for they expected to find the wonderful child living in the most beautiful place in the land. And surely Jerusalem, the famous city of the Jews, would be the most beautiful place.

Herod, the man whom the emperor of Rome had set up over the land of Judah, was living in Jerusalem at that time. He was surprised when these strangers, riding on camels, came into his city and asked, "Where is the child that is born King of the Jews? We have seen his star in the far east country, and have come to worship him."

Herod had heard nothing about this new-born King, and he was troubled. What could this mean? he wondered. And even the rich people in Jerusalem were puzzled, too. They had heard nothing about Jesus.

No doubt the wise men were disappointed when they found that the rulers of Jerusalem knew nothing about the birth of the Savior. Perhaps they feared that they might have been mistaken, after all. But they waited anxiously while Herod called the chief priests and the scribes and asked them where the Savior should be born.

Now the chief priests and scribes were the men who read the books that the prophets had written long ago, and they understood that Christ should be born in Bethlehem. This they told to the excited Herod, and he called the wise men and told them that they should look for the child in Bethlehem.

Herod had been troubled, because he did not want Jesus to become the king of the Jews. He thought this new-born King would take away his throne, and he wished to be king himself. But he did not let the wise men know about his trouble feelings. He called them and asked very politely when they had first seen this unusual star in the east, and they told him. Then he urged them to hurry on to Bethlehem and search diligently to find the child.

"When you have found him,' said Herod, "bring me word at once, that I, too, may go and worship him."

And with these words he dismissed them from his presence.

The wise men mounted their camels again and took the south road, leading to Bethlehem. All they had waited impatiently in Jerusalem, and now the shadows of night were falling over the land. But it would not be a very long ride to the birthplace of the new-born King, and, urged on by Herod's words, they hastened to find Jesus.

When once outside the city gates, they saw the star, the same beautiful star that had shown so brightly in the east country, moving slowly before them, as if leading them on to the right place. Now they were sure that they had not been mistaken; and they rejoiced greatly, for they believed that God was in this manner trying to help them to find Jesus.

When they reached Bethlehem the star stood still over the place where Mary and Joseph were living. And the wise men knew they had followed the right guide, for here they found the wonderful child of whom the prophets had written.

They knelt in humble worship before him, and then gave to him the rich treasures that they had brought from their homeland.

God spoke to the wise men in a dream one night while they were in Bethlehem, and warned them not to tell Herod that they had found Jesus. So they returned to their own country by another road, and Herod never saw them again.

Not long afterwards an angel of the Lord spoke to Joseph in a dream and said, "Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and stay there until I bring word to you to return again; for Herod will seek for Jesus and try to destroy him."

Joseph rose up at once, and while it was yet dark he took Mary and the baby Jesus and hurried out of Bethlehem. For many days they traveled to the southwest, until they came to the land of Egypt. There they lived until an angel came to tell them that the wicked Herod was dead.

But Herod did not die for some time after the visit of the wise men. He waited long for them to return, bringing him word from Bethlehem as he had commanded them to do. But when many days passed and they did not come, he began to suspect that they had gone home without telling him of their wonderful discovery in Bethlehem.

He believed they had guessed the reason why he had been so eager to see Jesus, and now he was angry because he had missed the opportunity to find the new-born King of the Jews.

Determined to destroy this King of the prophecies, Herod commanded his soldiers to go to Bethlehem and kill every baby there from two years old and younger. Not only to Bethlehem did he send them, but to the country places round about. And when this cruel deed was done he believed that he had surely gotten rid of this child whom the wise men sought to worship.

But all the while Jesus was living in safety among the people of Egypt, and fast growing out of his babyhood years. Then the wicked Herod died, and an angel came again to speak to Joseph, telling him to return with his wife and her child to their own land.

Joseph was glad to receive this message from the angel, for he loved to live among his own people. And he started back to Bethlehem. But when he came into Judah, he heard that Herod's son was now the ruler of the Jews in Judah, and he feared that this new king might be cruel like his father had been.

Because of this fear Joseph journeyed on to Nazareth, in the country of Galilee, where he and Mary had lived before Jesus was born. And there he made a home for his wife and wonderful child.

A Life In Christ Lets focus on christ Pt.2

2009-12-09T14:39:00.000-05:00

In the Gospel according to John, Jesus tells His disciples;

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

John 15:4-11, The Holy Bible : English Standard Version.

Let's Focus On Jesus pt1

2009-12-07T16:09:00.001-05:00

About 2,000 years ago God's Son became flesh. He was the firstborn child of a poor family and lived only about 33 years in our world. Yet no other has had the impact He has had upon our world! As bad as things sometimes get, things would be far worse if not for Jesus!

Jesus once asked His apostles, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" They told Jesus of the opinions held about Him and then Jesus asked another question, "But who do you say that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God"(Matthew 16:13-16)

What is your opinion of Jesus? Why does His name invoke such love in some while exciting such hatred in others? The fact is this: Jesus was much more than a simple Galilean carpenter.

What Is Man

2009-12-03T16:13:00.000-05:00

"When I consider Thy heavens, the work of Thy fingers, the moon and stars which Thou hast ordained; What is man, that Thou dost take thought of him? And the son of man, that Thou dost care for him?" (Psalm 8:3,4).
Good question! The psalmist pondered man's nature. Of what value is a human being to God? When you compare a human being with the vastness and grandeur of the universe it seems that man is somewhat insignificant. Why are we here? Where are we headed?

People have been pondering such questions for centuries. Many skeptics have tried in vain to find purpose in life apart from God and have always come up with little or nothing. Tolstoy asked, "What is life for? To die?" Woody Allen, with his characteristic wit, said, "Its not that I am afraid to die, I just don't want to be there when it happens...".

Apart from answers that God gives us in His word, life seems futile. One man wrote about his experience in trying to find fulfillment and peace apart from God. Riches, pleasure and wisdom had brought him only shallow happiness that was much too brief and unsatisfactory."So I hated life, for the work which had been done under the sun was grievous to me; because everything is futility and striving after the wind." This is from the pen of Solomon, one of the wealthiest, highly educated and pampered men of history!

happy thanksgiving

2009-11-27T13:31:00.000-05:00

Our family Wishes You A Happy Thanksgiving

In Short Term

2009-11-24T16:56:00.001-05:00

The Bible has two main divisions: the Old and New Testaments. The 39 books of the Old Testament contain 5 books of law, 12 books of history, 5 poetical books and 17 books of prophecy. The 27 books of the New Testament contain 4 gospels (accounts of Jesus' life), 1 book of history, 21 epistles and 1 book of prophecy in that order.
The Old Testament deals with the early history of man from the creation to Abraham, and then focuses on Abraham and his descendants as the people through whom the Messiah would come and bless all nations (Genesis 12:1-3).

The New Testament deals with how the promise of the Messiah is fulfilled in Jesus and reveals that eternal hope exists only in Him.

(Acts 4:12) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

THE HISTORY OF THE BIBLE

2009-11-21T10:11:00.001-05:00

The Old Testament was originally written in Hebrew and the New Testament in Greek. Many copies of the originals were made and circulated. We have complete manuscripts of the New Testament dating back to about 350 A.D. We have many fragments of the New Testament dating back to about 120 A.D. just 20 years after its last writer, the apostle John, died.
There are also abundant early manuscripts of the Old Testament dating back several centuries before Christ. The most famous of these are the Dead Sea Scrolls. The importance of this is that when we compare our translations with these early works, we find that we have reliable Bibles. We do not have to worry that errors have crept in over the centuries. God has seen to it that His Word has been preserved for us today.

(1 Peter 1:24-25) For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: 25 But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.

THE SOURCE OF THE BIBLE

2009-11-19T12:19:00.001-05:00

The Bible is a product of God's mind. The writers were instruments through whom God revealed His message.

The word "inspiration" means "inbreathed". God "breathed" the words into the writers. In fact, much of the Bible could never have been written by man alone! There are hundreds of prophecies made generations before they were fulfilled. Not one failed! Examples include that the Messiah would be born in the tiny town of Bethlehem (Micah 5:2) and a very vivid account of the crucifixion (Psalm 22:6-18). Also, there are the early, somewhat casual statements of natural facts which were yet to be discovered by science. Examples of this include the earth's roundness (Isaiah 40:22), the ever expanding nature of the universe (Genesis 1:8) and that the earth does not rest on any visible base

Concerning the New Testament, Jesus planned for its occurrence. He sent the Holy Spirit to guide the apostles. It is easy to trace how Jesus' plan unfolded thus building our confidence in the Bible as God's word.

1 Thessalonians 2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

WHO SAID WHAT

2009-11-17T17:13:00.001-05:00

Sir Isaac Newton: "There are more sure marks of authenticity in the Bible than in any profane history."

George Washington: "It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible."

Abraham Lincoln: "I believe the Bible is the best gift God has ever given to man. All the good from the Savior of the world is communicated to us through this book."

Daniel Webster: "If there is anything in my thoughts or style to commend, the credit is due to my parents for instilling in me an early love of the Scriptures."
You are in good company if you respect the Bible. The Bible's greatness, however, does not depend upon what men may say about it, good or bad. It is the greatest of books because of its author and its important message.

OUR GOD HE IS ALIVE

2009-11-16T12:23:00.003-05:00

It is important to know our God. Not just to know about Him but to know Him as God. In this universe and in eternity, when all has been said and done, man cannot fail more seriously than to live out his life estranged from his Creator. On the other hand, there cannot be a brighter success story than that of a man or woman who walks with God.

Our God he Is Alive

1. “There is beyond the azure blue, a God concealed from human sight; He tinted skies with heavenly hue and framed the worlds with his great might.” Brother Dicus begins by taking our minds to a beautiful blue sky, which is specifically described by the word “azure.” But Someone is beyond that sky, although we cannot see Him with our human eyes. The Bible says no one can see God and live (Exo. 33:20; Jud. 13:22; Gen. 32:30; John 1:18; 5:37). He is “the invisible God” (Col. 1:15; 1 Tim. 1:17; 6:16; 1 John 4:12).

But we know He is there because of the evidence of the universe. God created the earth with an atmosphere that separates the light coming from the sun so that we see the beautiful blue color spread out from horizon to horizon. I don’t fully understand how it all works, but I can surely enjoy the majesty of a clear blue sky (Psa. 19:1).

The Bible teaches that God “created the heaven and the earth” (Gen. 1:1), and “he that built all things is God” (Heb. 3:4). “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear” (Heb. 11:3).

2. “There was, a long, long time ago, a God whose voice the prophets heard. He is the God that we should know, who speaks from His inspired word.” Here we move beyond the creation to God’s dealings with man. “God, who at sundry times and in divers manners, spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets” (Heb. 1:1). The God of the Bible is the only “living and true God” (1 The. 1:9). “I am God, and there is none else” (Isa. 46:9). It is essential that we know God (2 The. 1:7-8). To know God is to obey His commandments (1 John 2:3-4). God speaks to us today through His written word (1 Cor. 14:37; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet. 1:21; 2 Sam. 23:2).

3. “Secure is life from mortal mind, God holds the germ within his hand. Tho’ men may search, they cannot find, for God alone does understand.” These words declare that the power of life belongs to God exclusively. Man can determine what sort of elements comprise the human body, and even the proper proportions. But if one were to mix those elements in a test tube, the result would an indeterminate mass of goo. No life would come from that mixture. Man will never figure out the secret of life. Cloning is not the answer. They start with a fertilized ovum and simply transfer the nucleus of that cell into another one. It is no more than cellular manipulation. Man will never create life.

4. “Our God, whose Son upon a tree, a life was willing there to give, that He from sin might set man free, and evermore with Him could live.” Here brother Dicus has summarized the Gospel of Jesus Christ in one stanza. The “tree” refers to the cross of Calvary. God gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross, to be the perfect sacrifice for all mankind (John 3:16; 1 John 2:2). Here we see the love, grace and mercy of God in providing our salvation so that His creation could live with Him forever in Heaven. “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift” (2 Cor. 9:15).

Then the chorus: “There is a God, He is alive, in Him we live, and we survive.” Again, this is a bold affirmation given the philosophical climate of our day, when many people believe that “God is dead.” But Christians know better! Paul wrote, “For in him we live, and move, and have our being” (Acts 17:28).

“From dust our God created man, He is our God, the great I AM.” The chorus closes by reminding us of God’s creative power in making man from the “dust of the ground” (Gen. 2:7). When Moses wanted to know how to refer to God, he was told to say, “I AM hath sent me unto you” (Exo. 3:14). God is self-existent, with no beginning and no end. He always has been and always will be. “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God” (Psalm 90:2).

God Head

2009-11-14T08:51:00.001-05:00

Most are familiar with the concept of three persons in one God. Some refer to this as "the Trinity." But what does the Bible teach?
There is one God. There are not two, three or more. However, we have already noticed the use of the word "Elohim" as one of the names used by God. The interesting thing is that "Elohim" is plural! This certainly helps to explain Genesis 1:26; "And God said, 'Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness.". The one God of the Bible is revealed to be a unity of three Persons. All three are mentioned together several times in the scriptures.

(Matthew 3:13-17) Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. 14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? 15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. 16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: 17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

(Matthew 28:18-20) And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

(2 Corinthians 13:14) The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.

God, the Father, is separate and distinct from the Son and the Spirit, and yet one with them.

(1 Peter 1:2) Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

Jesus, the Son, is referred to in the scripture as God. He also accepted being addressed as God. He was also willing to be worshipped after saying that it was only proper to worship God and no other! (Please compare)

(Matthew 4:10) Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

(Matthew 28:9) And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.

NAMES OF GOD

2009-11-07T11:12:00.000-05:00

There are several names that God uses in identifying Himself. They also tell us something of His nature. We will look at two of these names.
"Jehovah" is the name by which God revealed Himself to Moses from the burning bush. This name continued to be used by God's people throughout history. A shortened form of the name is used in the word "hallelujah" which means "praise to Jehovah". The name "Jehovah" is from the Hebrew language and means "I AM". It shows God's eternal nature; that He has no beginning or end.

(Exodus 3:14) And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.

"Elohim" is a name which signifies might and power. It is this Hebrew word that is translated "God" in the very first verse of the Bible.

(Genesis 1:1) In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

CHARACTERISTICS OF GOD

2009-11-06T12:41:00.000-05:00

How does one describe God? Words are inadequate and yet they are all we have. The best approach is to see how God has revealed Himself to us.
Our God is majestic. He is all powerful. His glory surpasses anything else in human experience.

(1 Timothy 6:15-16) Which in his times he shall show, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; 16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.

Our God is wise. He knows His universe down to the smallest detail. He knows the heart. He knows what is best for us.

(Psalms 33:13-15) The LORD looketh from heaven; he beholdeth all the sons of men. 14 From the place of his habitation he looketh upon all the inhabitants of the earth. 15 He fashioneth their hearts alike; he considereth all their works.

(Romans 11:33-34) O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! 34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counselor?

Our God is jealous. This is not to be confused with anything like the petty jealousies of man. It simply means that God demands loyalty from those He loves and redeems.

(Exodus 20:5) Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me;

Our God is love. Our well being is His concern and He has acted in our behalf.

(John 3:16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

(Hebrews 4:16) Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

Our God is also capable of wrath. He is the righteous judge of a wicked world. His wrath is perfectly dispensed; none will pay an unjust penalty. Also, it must be noted that Divine wrath is what men choose for themselves when they retreat from the light which God has provided.

(2 Thessalonians 1:8) In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:

(John 3:18) He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

GOD EXISTS

2009-11-05T12:19:00.001-05:00

Knowing God is necessary if one is to do more than stumble through life from one ordeal to another. One needs purpose and direction. God gives us reason to live and reachable goals to attain.

Everything has a cause. Science calls this the "law of cause and effect". Nothing in our universe can be the cause of its own existence, therefore we must look beyond this physical realm to find the Ultimate Cause of all things. The universe is like a huge clock that is winding down. The question is WHO "wound up the clock" in the beginning?
(Genesis 1:1) In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

(Revelation 4:11) Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

When we buy a watch we recognize that there must have been a watchmaker. If we admire a painting we understand that there must have been an artist. Likewise, the universe tells us of its Maker. We see design all around us. The human eye is much more effective than the finest camera and no one would seriously suggest that a camera came into existence by accident instead of by plan. It makes even less sense to deny the existence of the Designer and Creator of the eye!

(Psalms 19:1-2) The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth his handiwork. 2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge.

(Psalms 139:14) I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.

Also, the nature of man tells us much about his origin. Human beings are moral, rational and spiritual creatures. We ponder our existence asking "how" and "why"; and these very questions point us in God's direction! It is foolish to deny His existence.

(Psalms 14:1) The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.

Seeking the Wisdom of God

2009-11-03T14:56:00.000-05:00

God's desire is that we seek wisdom and knowledge. "Receive my instruction and not silver. And knowledge rather than choice gold; for wisdom is better than rubies." Proverbs 8:10

What makes wisdom so important? Wisdom opens the door to honor, righteousness, and whole-life prosperity. "Riches and honor are with me. Enduring riches and righteousness." Proverbs 8:18

When we seek wisdom, we seek the will of God. Its God will that we have blessed lives. "That I may cause those who love me (wisdom) to inherit wealth, that I may fill their treasures." Proverbs 8:21

Treasure refers to more than just money and wealth. Whatever is dear to your heart is a treasure." For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:21

Perhaps your treasure is your family. When you seek Godly wisdom, you will invite God to inhabit and bless your family life. And to guide you matters and decisions concerning your family life.

Perhaps you are experiencing anxiety or depression. Your treasure, then would be peace of mind. God is a God of peace. "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you." Isaiah 26:3

God's word is truth and wisdom. When you seek the wisdom of God, you get so much more in return. Solomon prayed for wisdom and God blessed him with wisdom and more wealth than any many could imagine.

2 faced?

2009-10-20T12:48:00.001-04:00

Do you act one way with your Christian friends, and another way with your non-Christian friends?
Read Matthew 26: 31 - 35 and 69 - 75

What happened here? Jesus is getting ready to die on the cross. He has just had his last meal. It was called the Lord's supper and he ate with his disciples (apostles). It was the most important meal in history, and they didn't even tell us what was on the menu. It was probably lamb. We know that they had crackers and juice though, right? Well, probably bread and wine. Anyway, Jesus told them that he was going to be arrested and all of them would scatter. Peter (he was a hot head) said no way. Even if all the other disciples took off, he would stick with Jesus. Jesus said that Peter was silly. So silly that by the time the sun came up Peter would deny him three times. Peter said that he would never disown Jesus, even if they had to die together. The other eleven disciples said they agreed with him. Well, if you read the story you know that Peter lied his head off. Three times before the sun came up he said he didn't even know Jesus!
All of the Apostles were two faced! While they were looking in Jesus’ face they would talk and act one way. If they were around non-Christians they acted differently. These were the guys who saw Jesus heal people. These are the guys who saw Jesus walk on water. These are the guys who saw Jesus make dead people break out of their graves and come back to life! If they were two faced , you know it is really tough for us. By the way, after the Holy Spirit got a hold on them they were better.
How about you? Are you trying to please God, or other people? Are you trying to please God, or yourself?

LYING?

2009-10-19T14:00:00.002-04:00

There is a plague that is grieving the heart of God because it is preventable and can be stopped. It has spread among all churches and is particularly rampant in society. Even God’s ministers are not immune and many of them are infected with it.

What is this evil plague? You may be surprised as it appears rather harmless at first glance. It is now so commonplace that people are deceived into just accepting it as normal, instead of recognizing and resisting it. This epidemic is the practice of lying and dishonesty.

What does the Bible say about lying? A lying tongue is not only something God hates, it is also something that is an abomination to Him.

Proverbs 6:16-19 says, "These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren."

Have you been lied to lately? Was it another Christian that lied to you? A minister perhaps? Each of us have had our trust in people undermined, or in some cases even destroyed because of lies. We would all agree that lying is an ugly evil. The Bible tells us that lying began with the devil and that he is the father of lies.

The two main reasons we lie are usually rooted in either fear or pride. Fear is the first reason. We are afraid of the consequences if we tell the truth. Yielding to fear shows a lack of trust in God to take care of the situation. If we yield to God and do it His way He will usually give us favor with those that we fear. The other reason is pride. We are prideful and concerned about what men will think of us (desiring man’s approval instead of God’s approval.)

Jesus always kept His Word. God still keeps His Word and is faithful to keep every promise He makes in the Bible. That is why He is reliable and we can trust Him. We are called to be like Him. The Bible says that out of a man’s mouth proceeds what is in His heart. If we tell lies or fib then it means that we need a heart cleansing.

Matthew 15:18-20a says, "But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man..."

We need to ask God to cleanse our hearts and begin reading and studying the Bible so that His Word resides in our hearts. As we keep His Word and water it with prayer it will produce good fruit in our lives. Lying is not only speaking an untruth; another form of lying is not keeping our word to others.

Luke 8:15 says, "But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.""

Something 2 Think About!

2009-10-15T16:59:00.000-04:00

Comparing ourselves to others will always dull our hearts toward the seriousness of our sin. Thoughts like, “I know a lot of church people who do things a lot worse than this!” or “It’s a private thing, no one knows and no one is harmed!” are lethal! These kinds of thoughts do nothing other than keep us in the guilt of our sin.

Judge Not?

2009-10-08T12:34:00.000-04:00

"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye" (Matthew 7:1-5)

Verse one of Matthew 7 seems to be telling people not to judge because if you do not judge, you will not be judged. However, "we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad" (II Corinthians 5:10)-everyone will be judged by God. Then verse two tells us that in whatever manner we judge others, we will be judged. Jesus then proceeds to explain HOW TO JUDGE. First, he says, you must take "the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye" (Matthew 7:5) and if you do not do that first, you are being a hypocrite. This passage does not condemn all instances of judging others, but it does speak against judging another person IF YOU HAVE A PLANK IN YOUR EYE. What is meant by a plank? Jesus is using an illustration and telling people that if you judge someone else, you better make sure that your life is right first-get all the planks out and THEN you may proceed to CAREFULLY judge (which helps to remove specks from someone else's life). Romans 2:3 agrees with this: "So when you, a mere man, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God's judgment?" The Apostle Paul is saying that whenever you (a mere man) make judgments you better make sure that you do not do the same things. We need to judge righteously, as Jesus said, "Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgment" (John 7:24).

Sunday Thru Saturday

2009-09-28T14:28:00.002-04:00

* The respect you show God and His Word on Sundays says a lot about your faith in Him.
* The attitude you show the world on Mondays says a lot about your faith in God.
* How much time you spend reading your Bible and in prayer on Tuesdays says a lot about your faith in God.
* The number of brethren you visit with on Wednesdays says a lot about your faith in God.
* The opportunities and resources you utilize in helping the needy on Thursdays says a lot about your faith in God.
* The amount of energy and frequency you use teaching/telling others about Jesus on Fridays says a lot about your faith in God.
* Where you go and what you do on Saturdays says a lot about your faith in God.

Now, I realize that all of these pertain to every aspect of our Christianity every day. I just thought it would be a way to help us realize that we are to take up our cross daily and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23). Do you sacrifice for Christ daily as Paul did (1 Cor. 15:31)?

What does faith look like? part 6

2009-09-25T12:39:00.000-04:00

Background from the NT: James 5
Memory Verse: The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. -- James 5:16

It stands against corruption and unrighteousness -- James 5:1-6

A stark warning of things to come for those whose treasure is their riches
A reminder that God hears the cries of innocent victims
It stands in support of those who faithfully endure -- James 5:7-11
Another reference to the Harvest Principle, chapter 3, verse 18
Repeating the themes of chapter 1, verses 2-4
"The end of the Lord" is marked by His mercy

It is linked with prayer -- James 5:13-18
In case of troubles, PRAY
In case of sickness, PRAY
In case of sin, PRAY

What does faith look like? part 5

2009-09-18T12:24:00.000-04:00

Background from the NT: James 4
Background from the OT: Psalms 90:1-12
Memory Verse: Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. -- James 4:10

It seeks the will of God -- James 4:1-3

We want the wrong things, then sin to get what we should not have in the first place
It humbly seeks the friendship of God -- James 4:4-10

You have to choose: be friends with the world or with God. You can't have it both ways

Verse 5, New Living translation: "What do you think the Scriptures mean when they say that the Holy Spirit, whom God has placed within us, jealously longs for us to be faithful?

The blood of Jesus makes it possible to be a friend of God. See also Hebrews 10:22.
It does not judge others -- James 4:11-12

When we judge others, we're making ourselves equal to God.
Our job is not to interpret the law, but to obey it.
It is not presumptuous -- James 4:13-17

We have forgotten the truth behind the saying "If the Good Lord's willing, and the creek don't rise."

Our society stresses the importance of independence and self-determination. Faith understand just how insignificant we and our puny plans are when compared to the majesty of God.

What does faith look like? part 4

2009-09-09T12:27:00.001-04:00

Background from the NT: James 3
Memory Verse: And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. -- James 3:18

It understands the power of the tongue -- James 3:3-8

We can tame horses with a bit

We can turn ships with a rudder

We can burn a forest to the ground with a single match

The tongue will not easily be tamed

It produces the right "fruit" -- James 3:9-12

Olives don't grow on fig trees

Salt water doesn't flow from a fresh water spring

The presence of Faith will bring forth fruits of the spirit and fresh, living water
Galations 5:22 -- Love, Joy, Peace, Longsuffering, Gentleness, Goodness, Faith, Meetkness, Temperance

It has heavenly wisdom -- James 3:13-18

Earthly wisdom is characterised by envy, jealousy, bitterness, strife, confusion, evil works. If so-called wisdom looks like that, it's from the devil.
God's wisdom is pure and good -- it's easy to spot.
It recognises the "Harvest Principle" (verse 18) : sowing, cultivating, harvesting
The peace-making farmer sows seeds of righteousness
He tends the fields, weeds out the bitterness, waters it with fresh water
When the harvest comes, he reaps what he has sown, which has increased in measure to the effort he made to tend it.

Most crops take a season to mature -- Faith is no different.

What does faith look like? part 3

2009-09-05T08:57:00.001-04:00

Background from the NT: James 2
Memory Verse: Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. -- James 2:17

It's a level playing field -- James 2:1-9

Faith is an equalizer -- we shouldn't give preferential treatment to people based on outward things like race, social class, wealth, etc.

Partiality implies an inner judgement of worth
It is contrary to God's way of doing things if we commit that sin.

a.Read 1 Samuel 16:7

It abides in God's "Law of Liberty" -- James 2:10-13

It strives to uphold all the law (Commandments)

It agrees with Jesus' teaching that hating a brother is the same as murder (Matthew 5:22)
Note the warning of mercy and judgment

It's made alive through works -- James 2:14-20

It walks the walk

It's practical -- Faith says "God loves you,

It's more than just "believing in God" (vs 19)

It has feet -- James 2:21-26

Abraham: justified by faith, and by doing the will of God
Rahab, a common whore: justified by faith, and by doing the will of God

What Does faith Look Like Part 2

2009-09-04T12:57:00.001-04:00

Background from the NT: James 1: 13 - 27
Memory Verse: But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. -- James 1:22

It recognises the beginning and the end of sin -- James 1:13-16

1. Rule of thumb #1: God does not tempt anyone. Never has, never will.
2. Rule of thumb #2: Lust is the lure, sin is the hook, death waits at the other end of the fishing line.

It recognises the source of righteousness -- James 1:17-20

Every "good and perfect" thing is a gift from God
Through faith we accept the ultimate good gift of His Word -- Jesus
It knows the difference between "walking the walk" and "talking the talk" -- James 1:21-27

We are commanded to put wickedness away and meekly receive the Spirit of God. It's a choice.
We are commanded to Do, not just Hear.
We are commanded to take control of our language.
We are commanded to love others, and to keep ourselves clean from the nastiness of this world. (keep your distance from the gutter or you will get splattered)

What does faith look like? part 1

2009-08-28T15:20:00.001-04:00

Background from the NT: James 1: 2 - 12

Memory Verse: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations -- James 1:2

Working faith stands tall in the midst of trial and temptation
This is the kind of faith that has feet and hands.

It brings patience -- James 1:3-4
Patience is defined as a state of steadfastness, constancy, endurance
You have to let it work. Don't run from trials -- let God use them to increase your patience through faith in Him

It asks for wisdom -- James 1:5
Rather than ask "why is this happening to me?" ask instead for wisdom for daily living.

God delights in giving wisdom. (2 Chr 1:10-12) Believe that, and live it each day.
It's stable -- James 1:6-8

It's never wishy-washy, it never hangs over the rail, sea-sick.
If you're double-minded, don't expect to receive anything from God
It's humble -- James 1:9-11

Jesus preached on spiritual paradox in the Sermon on the mount (Matthew 5)
The poor in spirit would receive the Kingdom, mourners would be comforted, the meek would be exalted, the persecuted would be rewarded, etc

James borrows from that sermon in this verse to describe the paradox of humility -- the greatest will be the least, and the least will be the greatest.
Working faith accepts that paradox and puts it into practice.

It's ultimately victorious through the Grace of God -- James 1:12
"For when he is tried" means shown to be approved. We are approved through our acceptance of Jesus.

The crowns we'll lay at the feet of Jesus (Rev 4:10)
Crown of Life for those who endure trial & temptation -- James 1:12
Crown of Righteousness for those who look for His return -- 2 Timothy 4:8
Crown of Glory for those who spread the gospel of Christ -- 1Peter 5:4
Crown of Rejoicing for those who are saved -- 1 Thessalonians 2:19

What should I do when my love for Christ grows weak?

2009-08-22T10:30:00.002-04:00

Of course we should spend time in prayer to God (alone and with other Christians), spend time studying the word of God, and seek counsel from other Christians. But do not forget Paul's instructions to the Philippians: "Finally brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy -- meditate on these things" (Phil. 4:8).

Meditating and dwelling upon spiritual things, including the love of Christ, strengthens us to live according to the will of God. But to think about these things, we must first ground ourselves upon the word of God. Then, we must get away from the hustle and bustle of our busy lives and think about God and Christ - His suffering and agony; and His body and blood which were so freely given that we might be redeemed from sin.

Are you weak? Then take time to think about Jesus and remember: "For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Rom. 5:6-8).

When my love to God grows weak,

When for deeper faith I seek,
Then in thought I go to thee,
Garden of Gethsemane.

There I walk amid the shades
While the lingering twilight fades
See that suffering, friendless One,
Weeping, praying there alone.

When my love for man grows weak,
When for stronger faith I seek,
Hill of Calvary, I go
To thy scenes of fear and woe.

There behold His agony,
Suffered on the bitter tree;
See His anguish, see His faith,
Love triumphant still in death.

Then to life I turn again,
Learning all the worth of pain,
Learning all the might that lies
In a full self sacrifice.

The Unsilencing of God Campaign

2009-08-21T15:30:00.002-04:00

Recently the Church I attend the Toledo Rd. Church of Christ in Lorain Ohio. Held a 24 Hour Bible Marathon and read the bible through. By Teenagers from around where we live and as far as Texas and Bowling Green Kentucky my hat goes off to these young people.

I was previleged to be able to hold a duscussion group with them and would like to share with you what I shared with them.

The Unsilencing of God Discussion

I’m not ashamed to own my Lord,Or to defend His cause;Maintain the honor of His Word,The glory of His cross.
Jesus, my God! I know His Name,His Name is all my trust;Nor will He put my soul to shame,Nor let my hope be lost.
Firm as His throne His promise stands,And He can well secureWhat I’ve committed to His handsTill the decisive hour.
Then will He own my worthless nameBefore His Father’s face,And in the new JerusalemAppoint my soul a place.
We need not to be ashamed for what you did! Rom. 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is God's power for the salvation of everyone who believes, of the Jew first and of the Greek as well.

Lets talk about not being ashamed of what you did. And setting an example. And about being proud that you are a Christian. And that you are an American and that you do have rights.

What is a citizen? If you were born in the United States, you are a citizen. That means you are a member of our country. Sometimes people who are not born here want to become citizens. They do this by asking the government to make them a citizen. This is called naturalization. When you are a citizen you have rights. Rights are special privileges the government gives you. In our country, you have free speech. You are also given the right to choose a religion. In America, the press is free to tell you what is happening in the world. The Bill of Rights lists the freedoms given to citizens. These rights are very important. Many people in the world do not have freedoms like we do. Because the government gives us rights, we have the duty to be good citizens. But, what does it mean to be a good citizen? How can you be a part of giving back for the freedom you have?

Today in America, freedom of religion is slipping away from us. We are losing it because we have not taken care to preserve it. We are losing it because too many Americans do not understand what freedom itself means and how it works. Freedom is a loaded word, a symbol like the American flag. We know it is good and that we should defend it, but how can we be sure we are really defending it if we don't know what it is where it comes from?

The Pledge of Allegiance to the United States Flag is an oath of loyalty to the republic of the United States Of America. It is sworn by children in public school schools in response to state laws requiring the Pledge to be offered. Congressional sessions open with the swearing of the Pledge, as do government meetings at local levels, and some sporting events.
The current Pledge of Allegiance reads:

"I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

According to the United States Flag Code, the Pledge "should be rendered by standing at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. When not in uniform men should remove any non-religious headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should remain silent, face the flag, and render the military salute."

The Pledge of Allegiance was written in 1892 by Francis Bellamy (1855-1931), a Baptist minister, a Christian socialist, and the cousin of socialist utopian novelist Edward Bellamy (1850-1898). Bellamy's original "Pledge of Allegiance" was published in the September 8th issue of the popular children's magazine The Youth's Companion as part of the National Public-School Celebration of Columbus Day, a celebration of the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's discovery of America. The event was conceived by James B. Upham, a marketer for the magazine, in a campaign to sell American flags and American nationalism to public schools.
What about in God we trust on our money, Should it be taken off?

1. THE CHRISTIAN LIFE IS OBSERVED BY THE WORLD!
We read in 1 Corinthians 4:9, "For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men." The word "spectacle" was a word used to describe what was known as the Roman Triumph. When a Roman General won a major victory it was celebrated by what was called the Triumph. The general would enter the city leading a procession that included his officers and troops. Behind them would follow the prisoners of war in chains for all to see and mock.
The word carried the ideal of a public spectacle. In fact, we get our word "theater" from this word which implies a production for public viewing. Paul was declaring that the Christian life is a public matter. Being a Christian means our lives are on public display. Christians are on the stage of this world being viewed by a lost world around us.
Notice that Paul says that this observation of our life is two-fold.

A. THERE IS A HUMAN OBSERVATION OF OUR LIFE!
He says in verse 9 that we are a spectacle to "the world" and "to men." There is a human observation of our life. We are being watched by those around us. Being a Christian is very much a public matter.
People around us watch how we live. They listen to what we say and take note of the things we talk about. They observe what we do and how we do things. When you profess to be a Christian, whether you like it or not, you become a spectacle to the world and to men.

2. THE CHRISTIAN LIFE IS OPPOSITE OF THE WORLD!
When you talk about being a Christian you are talking about living a life that is totally opposite of this world.
Often times when the Bible speaks of the "world" it is talking about a system going in the opposite direction of God. That's why John told us not to love the world" (I John 2:15). The world is going in an opposite direction of God and is at all times trying to pull us in its direction.

B. THE MESSAGE OF THE CHRISTIANS IS OFFENSIVE TO THIS WORLD
Our message is the message of the cross. Our message declares that all men are sinners and all men need a Saviour. Our message declares there is a hell awaiting those who die without Christ and a heaven for only those who die in Christ. Our message declares that there are not many ways to be saved, but only one way Acts 2:38-Mark 16:15-16.

What does it mean to be a Christian? The Biblical ideal is not always what we want to hear. But a real Christian is one who lives on this world's stage, being watched day by day. It is for that reason we live a life that is pleasing to God. The world may not always appreciate who we are and what we believe, but may we live in such a way that they never doubt that we are what we claim to be.

The government cannot pick a favorite religion or oppose any religion.
You cannot be arrested for saying what you think about someone, even if that person is the President of the United States.
Newspapers, books, movies, radio, television, etc. are all free to present news, ideas, and opinions. Not even the government can tell them what they can or cannot print or say.
Groups of people may organize together in large groups to march and protest something they are against or to try to get something they want. (That does not mean that they can hurt anyone while they are doing this, or interfere with anyone else's rights.)

God wants us to have him in our hearts and for us to not be ashamed to say we love him. God must be sad at the way people are trying to make it against the law to say his name in public.God wants to be a part of all our lives and he wants us to include him in all our affairs.

Being Frustrated

2009-08-11T15:12:00.000-04:00

Are you frustrated about many things and sometimes everything. Being a Christian doesn't mean that we will not experience difficult times. God has told us the truth, that at times life will be difficult. He has provided to us a way to overcome these tough times, that way is found in following Jesus' teachings and surrendering our lives to Him. His peace is amazing and His love is unmatched. You can rest in trusting that He is working all things for the good.

Faith In Christ Jesus

2009-07-23T19:38:00.002-04:00

The first principle of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Having faith in Christ includes having a firm belief that He is the Only Begotten Son of God and the Savior and Redeemer of the world. It means believing that He is the Son of God and that He suffered for your sins, afflictions, and infirmities. When you have faith in Christ,The Heavenly Father blesses those who have faith to obey His Son.

Having faith causes you to try as hard as you can to learn about and become more like your Savior, doing all you can to bring about what you hope and pray for. Although you may still sin, you show your love for Him by striving to keep His commandments? and avoiding sin.

Faith in Jesus Christ leads you to desire to change your life for the better. As you study the gospel?, you will recognize that you have sinned, or acted against the will and teachings of God. Through repentance?, the second principle of the gospel, you change thoughts, desires, habits, and actions that are not in harmony with God’s teachings. He promises that when you repent, He will forgive your sins.

To repent, you:
Recognize that you have sinned and feel sincere sorrow for what you have done.
Stop sinning and strive never to commit sin again.

Confess your sins to the Lord and ask for forgiveness. If you have sinned against another person, you must ask that person for forgiveness.

Make restitution?. You should do everything in your power to correct any problems your actions may have caused.
Keep the commandments?. Obeying God’s commandments brings the power of the gospel into your life and gives you strength to abandon your sins. Keeping the commandments includes giving service, forgiving others.

Acknowledge the Savior. The most important part of repentance is the realization that forgiveness comes because of Jesus Christ. The Savior suffered for your sins so they can be put behind you, even the serious ones.

“Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” Baptism is a holy ordinance through which we covenant with the Lord to accept Jesus as our Savior and to keep His commandments. In return, God promises to forgive us of our sins as we repent and to bless us with His Spirit.
John 3:5

“Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” Baptism is a holy ordinance through which we covenant with the Lord to accept Jesus as our Savior and to keep His commandments. In return, God promises to forgive us of our sins as we repent and to bless us with His Spirit.
Holy Bible, John 3:5

Faith in Jesus Christ and repentance? prepare you for baptism? and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost?. Jesus Christ taught by example that everyone must be baptized of water and of the Spirit (the Holy Ghost) for the remission, or forgiveness, of sins.

Worshipping God In Truth

2009-07-10T15:32:00.002-04:00

Jesus says in John 4:24, "God is a spirit and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth." We must worship God in truth. Since His word is truth, we must worship Him according to His word. Here the Lord is telling us that everything we do in worship, we must have God's divine approval. Truth is not arbitrary. Truth for one person is the same as truth for the next. God has not spoken in unclear ways.

God has specified in the Bible the acceptable way He is to be worshipped. He is not to be worshipped according to the evil and vain imaginations and devices of men. Whatever that is not commanded in scripture in our worship to God is forbidden if we are to worship God in truth. God is not obligated to accept our worship just because we offer it to Him. We dare not substitute what we want for what God has commanded if we want to please Him and go to Heaven.

There are many who think it really doesn’t matter what we believe or do in religion, just as long as we are sincere and follow our conscience. But if it doesn’t really matter what you believe, then it doesn’t matter if you even believe at all. This is absurd. This philosophy exalts our conscience above the word of God. This makes our conscience our only guide and ignores what God says in the Bible. This philosophy originated with man and not with God. This is telling God we are going to worship Him the way we choose and we don’t really care what He has to say. Every man then becomes his own authority thereby eliminating the authority of God, the Bible. This attitude must greatly hurt the one who gave His life for us.

Many people want to do what they think best and what seems right to them. We are warned not to do this in Proverbs 14:12, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." According to what God says we can loose our soul by doing what seems right in our own eyes. God’s word is no longer our guide, but it has been replaced with creed books, disciplines, manuals, confessions, etc. Men want to do things their way and as it seems right in their own eyes. Please consider the consequences of being deceived by error. What a pity it will be to stand before the Lord on Judgment Day having been fooled into accepting the unlawful religions of the denominational world. What a terrible fate to believe error to be truth only to be lost for all of eternity.

The philosophy of doing what seems right in our eyes has vastly altered the way people attempt to worship God. They rationalize that God will accept it. People can rationalize away just about anything they want if they work at it hard and long enough, and because of this people worship God in ignorance. Just as the apostle Paul told the Athenians in Acts 17:23 (KJV), "Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship."

The average person in religious matters takes many things for granted. He finds religious groups practicing something and he decides what the majority does must be right and acceptable to God. The Bible says the majority of people are going to be eternally lost. Jesus says in Matthew 7:l3-14, "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it." So we don’t want to depend on the majority to determine what is right for us and follow them. If we do we will also end up being lost in the eternal fires of Hell.

Many people never stop to ask, is it scriptural and is this what God wants? They believe that just any kind of worship they give will be acceptable to God. There are a lot of false teachings today that are being passed off as the truth. The main reason for all the religious division that we see in the world today is man will not accept God’s word as final authority. Man is going to do it his own way. The Bible contains our only instructions on how to please God so we can go to heaven.

God has always told man how He is to be worshipped. God is the only one who has the right to determine how He is to be worshipped. He will only accept that which is in harmony with His prescribed will. God instructs us how to worship Him acceptably through His word in the Bible. In Ephesians 5:17 we read, "Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is." If we are the least bit concerned about where we will spend eternity, it is wise to know what the will of the Lord is so we can do it and be pleasing to Him. We are accountable for what we believe and practice. Our eternal destiny hangs in the balance of how we treat His truth.

In every age God has specified how He is to be worshipped. He says to us in 2 Peter 1:3, "As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us." God in the New Testament has given to us all things we need to know that pertain to life and godliness so we can worship Him acceptably, in spirit and in truth. God has always made it plain and emphatic that the only worship that is acceptable to Him is only that which is in accordance with His will.

Worshipping God In Spirit

2009-07-04T08:42:00.000-04:00

Worshipping God "in spirit" means with reverence, attentiveness, and having the right purpose of honoring God, while understanding what we are doing. Hebrews 12:28-29 says, "Let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire." Our worship must glorify God. 1 Corinthians 6:20 says, "For you were bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s."
In order to worship God in the right spirit, we must take time before worship to make ready our hearts and emotions so we will be in the proper frame of mind. We read in Psalms 89:7, "God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be held in reverence by all those around Him." Our worship must show great reverence toward God. He is our creator and He holds our eternal destiny in His hands. We must strive to please Him. We should not have to rush or hurry to worship, arriving late but should always plan to be there early enough so we can be in a worshipful attitude and spirit. Our mind must be ready, attentive, and alert.
Concerning the Lord’s Supper, we are warned in 1 Corinthians 11:27, "Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord." Our worship to God must be done in a worthy manner. It must be done in a manner that brings glory and honor to God and Christ. Continuing to read in verse 29, "For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body." We must control our thoughts during periods of worship and not let them wander to other things. We should never be wishing the worship service would hurry up and be over so we can get to the restaurant early and not have to stand in line. In fact we should be of the frame of mind that we are disappointed to see the worship service end.
In showing reverence and respect to God, we will not be indifferent, inattentive, and taking lightly that which should be considered serious. Worship to God is holy. Our character in worship must also be holy. In 1 Peter 1:15-16 we read, "But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in your conduct, because it is written, Be holy for I am holy." Slouching over, sleeping, playing with babies, squirming, unnecessary talking, and passing notes all show disrespect in worshipping God. Worship which is insincere, that is not from the heart, is vain, useless, and unacceptable to God. Jesus says, "This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me" (Mark 7:6). Active participation will tend to get rid of our lack of interest and inattentiveness.
Reverence is not having a long face, folded hands, or a put on look of piety. Worship is a time of joy for us. It is a time of offering thanks, adoration, love, praying, singing praises to God, feeding on His word, and proclaiming Christ to the world in partaking of the Lord’s Supper.

The purpose Of Our Worship To God

2009-07-02T14:01:00.000-04:00

The purpose of our worship is to glorify, honor, praise, exalt, and please God. Our worship must show our adoration and loyalty to God for His grace in providing us with the way to escape the bondage of sin, so we can have the salvation He so much wants to give us. The nature of the worship God demands is the prostration of our souls before Him in humble and contrite submission. James 4:6, 10 tells us, "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up". Our worship to God is a very humble and reverent action.
Jesus says in John 4:23-24, "But the hour is coming, and now is, when true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth." It doesn’t say we can worship God anyway we want, but we "must worship Him in spirit and in truth". The word "must" makes it absolute. There is no other way we can worship God and be acceptable to Him. The word "must", according to Webster, expresses "an obligation, a requirement, a necessity, a certainty, and something that must be done". When "must" is used it means that it is not optional. Here the word "must" is expressing that in spirit and in truth is the only way to acceptably worship God.
God seeks true worshippers, and He identifies them as those who "worship Him in spirit and in truth". Worshipping God in spirit means that it must be done from the heart. Worshipping God in truth means that it must be done according as God has specified in the Bible. Worshipping God in spirit and in truth is a serious matter which must not be taken lightly. If we have any regard for our own souls, we will want to make sure we are worshipping God in spirit and in truth.
Since God is the object of our worship, He and He alone has the right to determine how we are to worship Him. We read in Jeremiah 10:23, "O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself, it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps." We are not granted the option of directing our own ways in religion. God is the One who we look to for guidance and direction in our lives.
Our very best in worship is due God and is prescribed by Him in the Bible. The worship God has prescribed is the only way we can be pleasing to Him in this life and finally attain everlasting life with Him in eternity. The Christian’s worship is of the greatest importance.
Worship is a time when we pay deep, sincere, awesome respect, love, and fear to the one who created us. Acts 17:24-25 says, "God who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives life, breath, and all things."
God is the one who holds our eternal destiny in His hands. Philippians 2:12 tells us to, "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." Our salvation is a very serious matter and will not happen by accident. We must work it out "with fear and trembling". Our salvation depends on whether our worship is pleasing to God or not. On the Day of Judgment it will be too late to make any corrections.
Worship should cause us to reflect on the majesty and graciousness of God and Christ, contrasted to our own unworthiness. God does not have to have our worship, but we must worship Him to please Him. Our singing, praying, studying His word, giving, and communion are designed by God to bring us closer to Him and to cause us to think more like He thinks, thus becoming more like Him. James 4:8 tells us to, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you."
Our worship not only honors and magnifies God, but it is also for our own edification and strength. Worship helps us develop a God-like and Christ-like character. We become like unto those we admire and worship. When we worship God we tend to value what God values and gradually take on the characteristics and qualities of God, but never to His level. As Philippians 2:5 says, "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ." How do we take on the mind of Christ? In Romans 12:2 we read, "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." We renew our mind as we study and meditate on God’s word and worship Him.
When we worship God we develop such traits as forgiveness, tenderness, justice, righteousness, purity, kindness, and love. All of this is preparing us for eternal life in heaven with God and Christ. As we are told in Colossians 3:2 to, "Set your mind on things above, and not on things on the earth."

Something To Think About

2009-06-22T14:21:00.002-04:00

AFTER A FEW OF THE USUAL SUNDAY EVENING HYMNS , THE CHURCH'S PASTOR SLOWLY STOOD UP, WALKED OVER TO THE PULPIT AND, BEFORE HE GAVE HIS SERMON FOR THE EVENING, HE BRIEFLY INTRODUCED A GUEST MINISTER WHO WAS IN THE SERVICE THAT EVENING.

IN THE INTRODUCTION, THE PASTOR TOLD THE CONGREGATION THAT THE GUEST MINISTER WAS ONE OF HIS DEAREST CHILDHOOD FRIENDS AND THAT HE WANTED HIM TO HAVE A FEW MOMENTS TO GREET THE CHURCH AND SHARE WHATEVER HE FELT WOULD BE APPROPRIATE FOR THE SERVICE..

WITH THAT, AN ELDERLY MAN STEPPED UP TO THE PULPIT AND BEGAN TO SPEAK.

'A FATHER, HIS SON, AND A FRIEND OF HIS SON WERE SAILING OFF THE PACIFIC COAST ,' HE BEGAN. 'WHEN A FAST APPROACHING STORM BLOCKED ANY ATTEMPT TO GET BACK TO THE SHORE.

THE WAVES WERE SO HIGH, THAT EVEN THOUGH THE FATHER WAS AN EXPERIENCED SAILOR, HE COULD NOT KEEP THE BOAT UPRIGHT AND THE THREE WERE SWEPT INTO THE OCEAN AS THE BOAT CAPSIZED.'

THE OLD MAN HESITATED FOR A MOMENT, MAKING EYE CONTACT WITH TWO TEENAGERS WHO WERE, FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE THE SERVICE BEGAN, LOOKING SOMEWHAT INTERESTED IN HIS STORY.

THE AGED MINISTER CONTINUED WITH HIS STORY, 'GRABBING A RESCUE LINE, THE FATHER HAD TO MAKE THE MOST EXCRUCIATING DECISION OF HIS LIFE: TO WHICH BOY WOULD HE THROW THE OTHER END OF THE LIFE LINE. HE ONLY HAD SECONDS TO MAKE THE DECISION. THE FATHER KNEW THAT HIS SON WAS A CHRISTIAN AND HE, ALSO, KNEW THAT HIS SON'S FRIEND WAS NOT. THE AGONY OF HIS DECISION COULD NOT BE MATCHED BY THE TORRENT OF WAVES.

AS THE FATHER YELLED OUT, 'I LOVE YOU, SON!' HE THREW OUT THE LIFE LINE TO HIS SON'S FRIEND. BY THE TIME THE FATHER HAD PULLED THE FRIEND BACK TO THE CAPSIZED BOAT, HIS SON HAD DISAPPEARED BENEATH THE RAGING SWELLS INTO THE BLACK OF NIGHT.

HIS BODY WAS NEVER RECOVERED.

BY THIS TIME, THE TWO TEENAGERS WERE SITTING UP STRAIGHT IN THE PEW, ANXIOUSLY WAITING FOR THE NEXT WORDS TO COME OUT OF THE OLD MINISTER'S MOUTH.

'THE FATHER,' HE CONTINUED, 'KNEW HIS SON WOULD STEP INTO ETERNITY WITH JESUS AND HE COULD NOT BEAR THE THOUGHT OF HIS SON'S FRIEND STEPPING INTOAN ETERNITY WITHOUT JESUS.. THEREFORE, HE SACRIFICED HIS SON TO SAVE THE SON'S FRIEND. '

HOW GREAT IS THE LOVE OF GOD THAT HE SHOULD DO THESAME FOR US. OUR HEAVENLY FATHER SACRIFICED HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON THAT WE COULD BE SAVED. I URGE YOU TO ACCEPT HIS OFFER TO RESCUE YOU AND TAKE A HOLD OF THE LIFE LINE HE IS THROWING OUT TO YOU IN THIS SERVICE.' WITH THAT, THE OLD MAN TURNED AND SAT BACK DOWN IN HIS CHAIR AS SILENCE FILLED THE ROOM.

THE PASTOR AGAIN WALKED SLOWLY TO THE PULPIT AND DELIVERED A BRIEF SERMON WITH AN INVITATION AT THE END. HOWEVER, NO ONE RESPONDED TO THE APPEAL.

WITHIN MINUTES AFTER THE SERVICE ENDED, THE TWO TEENAGERS WERE AT THE OLD MAN'S SIDE.

'THAT WAS A NICE STORY,' POLITELY STATED ONE OFTHEM,'BUT I DON'T THINK IT WAS VERY REALISTIC FOR A FATHER TO GIVE UP HIS ONLY SON'S LIFE IN HOP ES THAT THE OTHER BOY WOULD BECOME A CHRISTIAN.'

'WELL, YOU'VE GOT A POINT THERE,' THE OLD MAN REPLIED, GLANCING DOWN AT HIS WORN BIBLE. A BIG SMILE BROADENED HIS NARROW FACE. HE ONCE AGAIN LOOKED UP AT THE BOYS AND SAID, 'IT S URE ISN'T VERY REALISTIC, IS IT? BUT, I'M STANDING HERE TODAY TO TELL YOU THAT STORY GIVES ME A GLIMPSE OF WHAT IT MUST HAVE BEEN LIKE FOR GOD TO GIVE UP HIS SON FOR ME.

YOU SEE..

I WAS THAT FATHER AND YOUR PASTOR IS MY SON'S FRIEND.'

(My 400th Blog) The Little Girl With The $1.11 Miracle

2009-06-01T15:52:00.004-04:00

A little girl went to her bedroom and pulled a glass jelly jar from its hiding place in the closet. She poured the change out on the floor and counted it carefully. Three times, even. The total had to be exactly perfect. No chance here for mistakes. Carefully placing the coins back in the jar and twisting on the cap, she slipped out the back door and made her way 6 blocks to Rexall's Drug Store with the big red Indian Chief sign above the door.

She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her some attention, but he was too busy at this moment. Tess twisted her feet to make a scuffing noise. Nothing. She cleared her throat with the most disgusting sound she could muster. No good. Finally she took a quarter from her jar and banged it on the glass counter. That did it! 'And what do you want?' the pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone of voice. I'm talking to my brother from Chicago whom I haven't seen in ages,' he said without waiting for a reply to his question. 'Well, I want to talk to you about my brother,' Tess answered back in the same annoyed tone. 'He's really, really sick .. and I want to buy a miracle.' 'I beg your pardon?' said the pharmacist.

'His name is Andrew and he has something bad growing inside his head and my Daddy says only a miracle can save him now So how much does a miracle cost?' 'We don't sell miracles here, little girl. I'm sorry but I can't help you,' the pharmacist said, softening a little. 'Listen, I have the money to pay for it. If it isn't enough, I will get the rest. Just tell me how much it costs..' The pharmacist's brother was a well dressed man. He stooped down and asked the little girl, 'What kind of a miracle does your brother need?' 'I don't know,' Tess replied with her eyes welling up. I just know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation. But my Daddy can't pay for it, so I want to use my money.' 'How much do you have?' asked the man from Chicago 'One dollar and eleven cents,' Tessanswered barely audibly. 'And it's all the money I have, but I can get some more if I need to.' 'Well, what a coincidence,' smiled the man. 'A dollar and eleven cents---the exact price of a miracle for little brothers. '

He took her money in one hand and with the other hand he grasped her mitten and said 'Take me to where you live. I want to see your brother and meet your parents. Let's see if I have the miracle you need.' That well dressed man was Dr. Carl ton Armstrong, a surgeon, specializing in neuro-surgery. The operation was completed free of charge and it wasn't long until Andrew was home again and doing well. Mom and Dad were happily talking about the chain of events that had led them to this place.

'That surgery,' her Mom whispered. 'was a real miracle. I wonder how much it would have cost?' Tess smiled. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost..one dollar and eleven cents....plus the faith of a little child. In our lives, we never know how many miracles we will need. A miracle is not the suspension of natural law, but the operation of a higher law.

Acts 2:38

2009-05-29T13:13:00.001-04:00

A woman had just returned to her home from an evening of church services, when she was startled by an intruder. She caught the man in the act of robbing her home of its valuables and yelled: "Stop! Acts 2:38!"

("Repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ , so that your sins may be forgiven.")
The burglar stopped in his tracks. The woman calmly called the police and explained what she had done.

As the officer cuffed the man to take him in, he asked the burglar: "Why did you just stand there? All the old lady did was yell a scripture to you."
"Scripture?" replied the burglar. "She said she had an Ax and Two 38s!"

To Busy For A Friend

2009-05-19T18:24:00.000-04:00

One day a teacher asked her students to list the names of the other students in the room on two sheets of paper, leaving a space between each name.

Then she told them to think of the nicest thing they could say about each of their classmates and write it down.

It took the remainder of the class period to finish their assignment, and as the students left the room, each one handed in the papers.

That Saturday, the teacher wrote down the name of each student on a separate sheet of paper, and listed what everyone else had said about that individual.

On Monday she gave each student his or her list. Before long, the entire class was smiling. "Really?" she heard whispered. "I never knew that I meant anything to anyone!" and, "I didn't know others liked me so much," were most of the comments.

No one ever mentioned those papers in class again. She never knew if they discussed them after class or with their parents, but it didn't matter. The exercise had accomplished its purpose. The students were happy with themselves and one another. That group of students moved on..

Several years later, one of the students was killed in Viet Nam and his teacher attended the funeral of that special student. She had never seen a serviceman in a military coffin before. He looked so handsome, so mature.

The church was packed with his friends. One by one those who loved him took a last walk by the coffin. The teacher was the last one to bless the coffin.
As she stood there, one of the soldiers who acted as pallbearer came up to her. "Were you Mark's math teacher?" he asked. She nodded: "yes." Then he said: "Mark talked about you a lot."

After the funeral, most of Mark's former classmates went together to a luncheon. Mark's mother and father were there, obviously waiting to speak with his teacher. We want to show you something," his father said, taking a wallet out of his pocket "They found this on Mark when he was killed. We thought you might recognize it."

Opening the billfold, he carefully removed two worn pieces of notebook paper that had obviously been taped, folded and refolded many times. The teacher knew without looking that the papers were the ones on which she had listed all the good things each of Mark's classmates had said about him.

"Thank you so much for doing that," Mark's mother said. "As you can see, Mark treasured it."

All of Mark's former classmates started to gather around. Charlie smiled rather sheepishly and said, "I still have my list. It's in the top drawer of my desk at home."

Chuck's wife said, "Chuck asked me to put his in our wedding album."

"I have mine too," Marilyn said. "It's in my diary"
Then Vicki, another classmate, reached into her pocketbook, took out her wallet and showed her worn and frazzled list to the group. "I carry this with me at all times," Vicki said and without batting an eyelash, she continued: "I think we all saved our lists" That's when the teacher finally sat down and cried. She cried for Mark and for all his friends who would never see him again.

The density of people in society is so thick that we forget that life will end one day. And we don't know when that one day will be.

So , please, tell the people you love and care for, that they are special and important. Tell them, before it is too late.

Something To Think About

2009-05-13T12:25:00.002-04:00

John is the kind of guy you love to hate. He is always in a good mood and always has something positive to say. When someone would ask him how he was doing, he would reply, 'If I were any better, I would be twins!' He was a natural motivator. If an employee was having a bad day, John was there telling the employee how to look on the positive side of the situation. Seeing this style really made me curious, so one day I went up and asked him, 'I don't get it! You can't be a positive person all of the time How do you do it?' He replied, 'Each morning I wake up and say to myself, you have two choices today. You can choose to be in a good mood or ... you can choose to be in a bad mood I choose to be in a good mood.' Each time something bad happens, I can choose to be a victim or...I can choose to learn from it. I choose to learn from it. Every time someone comes to me complaining, I can choose to accept their complaining or... I can point out the positive side of life. I choose the positive side of life. 'Yeah, right, it's not that easy,' I protested. 'Yes, it is,' he said. 'Life is all about choices. When you cut away all the junk, every situation is a choice. You choose how you react to situations. You choose how people affect your mood. You choose to be in a good mood or bad mood. The bottom line: It's your choice how you live your life.'

I reflected on what he said. Soon hereafter, I left the Tower Industry to start my own business. We lost touch, but I often thought about him when I made a choice about life instead of reacting to it.

Several years later, I heard that he was involved in a serious accident, falling some 60 feet from a communications tower. After 18 hours of surgery and weeks of intensive care, he was released from the hospital with rods placed in his back. I saw him about six months after the accident. When I asked him how he was, he replied, 'If I were any better, I'd be twins..Wanna see my scars?' I declined to see his wounds, but I did ask him what had gone through his mind as the accident took place.

The first thing that went through my mind was the well-being of my soon-to-be born daughter,' he replied. 'Then, as I lay on the ground, I remembered that I had two choices: I could choose to live or...I could choose to die. I chose to live.' 'Weren't you scared? Did you lose consciousness?'

I asked He continued, '...the paramedics were great. They kept telling me I was going to be fine. But when they wheeled me into the ER and I saw the expressions on the faces of the doctors and nurses, I got really scared. In their eyes, I read 'he's a dead man'. I knew I needed to take action.' 'What did you do?' I asked. 'Well, there was a big burly nurse shouting questions at me,' said John. 'She asked if I was allergic to anything 'Yes, I replied.' The doctors and nurses stopped working as they waited for my reply. I took a deep breath and yelled, 'Gravity'' Over their laughter, I told them, 'I am choosing to live. Operate on me as if I am alive, not dead.' He lived, thanks to the skill of his doctors, but also because of his amazing attitude....

I learned from him that every day we have the choice to live fully. Attitude, after all, is everything .

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.' Matthew 6:34. After all today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.

Happy Mothers Day

2009-05-10T16:57:00.001-04:00

She was there at the beginning. When the world was new to you -She was there to turn to happy times.Those when, you were hurt or blue.

She was there to listen to your thoughtsAnd when you asked, to give advice -She was there to tell you, "Those don't match!"Or, "Hon, you sure look nice."

She was there with you at nighttimeTo help you say your prayers _She was there to tell you, "It's alright."When you had a dream that scares.

She was there at morning timeTo get you up and out of bed -She was there when you didn't feel good (or did)To say, "You'd best stay home, instead."

She was there when you were hungryAnd when you had those dirty clothes -

She was there when you needed her(How she knew? Only heaven knows.)

She was there at the beginningAnd she'll be there your whole life through -

She'll be there in your mind and heartJust like a mother is supposed to do.

2009-04-13T18:16:00.001-04:00

This is one of the best explanations of why God allows pain and suffering that I have seen...

A man went to a barbershop to have his hair cut and his beard trimmed. As the barber began to work, they began to have a good conversation. They talked about so many things and various subjects. When they eventually touched on the subject of God, the barber said: 'I don't believe that God exists.' 'Why do you say that?' asked the customer. 'Well, you just have to go out in the street to realize that God doesn't exist.

Tell me, if God exists, would there be so many sick people? Would there be abandoned children? If God existed, there would be neither suffering nor pain. I can't imagine a loving God who would allow all of these things.

The customer thought for a moment, but didn't respond because he didn't want to start an argument.

The barber finished his job and the customer left the shop. Just after he left the barbershop, he saw a man in the street with long, stringy, dirty hair and an untrimmed beard. He looked dirty and unkempt. The customer turned back and entered the barber shop again and he said to the barber: 'You know what? Barbers do not exist.' 'How can you say that?' asked the surprised barber. 'I am here, and I am a barber. And I just worked on you!' 'No!' the customer exclaimed. 'Barbers don't exist because If they did, there would be no people with dirty long hair and untrimmed beards, like that man outside.' 'Ah, but barbers DO exist!

That's what happens when people do not come to me.' 'Exactly!' affirmed the customer. 'That's the point! God, too, DOES exist! That's what happens when people do not go to Him and don't look to Him for help. That's why there's so much pain and suffering in the world.'

The Family

2009-04-07T13:38:00.002-04:00

I ran into a stranger as he passed by, 'Oh excuse me please' was my reply. He said, 'Please excuse me too; I wasn't watching for you.' We were very polite, this stranger and I. We went on our way and we said goodbye.

But at home a different story is told, How we treat our loved ones, young and old. Later that day, cooking the evening meal, My son stood beside me very still. When I turned, I nearly knocked him down. 'Move out of the way,' I said with a frown. He walked away, his little heart broken. I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken. While I lay awake in bed, God's still small voice came to me and said, 'While dealing with a stranger, common courtesy you use, but the family you love, you seem to abuse. Go and look on the kitchen floor, You'll find some flowers there by the door. Those are the flowers he brought for you. He picked them himself: pink, yellow and blue. He stood very quietly not to spoil the surprise, you never saw the tears that filled his little eyes.'

By this time, I felt very small, And now my tears began to fall. I quietly went and knelt by his bed; 'Wake up, little one, wake up,' I said. 'Are these the flowers you picked for me?' He smiled, 'I found 'em, out by the tree. I picked 'em because they're pretty like you. I knew you'd like 'em, especially the blue.' I said, 'Son, I'm very sorry for the way I acted today; I shouldn't have yelled at you that way.' He said, 'Oh, Mom, that's okay. I love you anyway.' I said, 'Son, I love you too, and I do like the flowers, especially the blue.'

FAMILY Are you aware that if we died tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days.. But the family we left behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than into our own family, an unwise investment indeed, don't you think?

So what is behind the story? Do you know what the word FAMILY means? FAMILY = (F)ATHER (A)ND (M)OTHER (I) (L)OVE (Y)OU

Angels Explained By Children

2009-04-06T21:25:00.002-04:00

I only know the names of two angels, Hark and Harold.
-Gregory, 5
Everybody's got it all wrong. Angels don't wear halos anymore. I forget why, but scientists are working on it
-Olive, 9
It's not easy to become an angel! First, you die. Then you go to Heaven, and then there's still the flight training to go through. And then you got to agree to wear those angel clothes.
-Matthew, 9
Angels work for God and watch over kids when God has to go do something else.
-Mitchell, 7
My guardian angel helps me with math, but he's not much good for science.
-Henry, 8
Angels don't eat, but they drink milk from Holy Cows!!!
-Jack, 6
Angels talk all the way while they're flying you up to heaven. The main subject is where you went wrong before you got dead.
-Daniel, 9.

When an angel gets mad, he takes a deep breath and counts to ten. And when he lets out his breath, somewhere there's a tornado.
-Reagan, 10
Angels have a lot to do and they keep very busy. If you lose a tooth, an angel comes in through your window and leaves money under your pillow. Then when it gets cold, angels go south for the winter.
-Sara, 6
Angels live in cloud houses made by God and his son, who's a very good carpenter.
-Jared, 8
All angels are girls because they gotta wear dresses and boys didn't go for it.
-Antonio, 9
My angel is my grandma who died last year. She got a big head start on helping me while she was still down here on earth.
-Chris , 9
Some of the angels are in charge of helping heal sick animals and pets. And if they don't make the animals get better, they help the child get over it.
-Vicki, 8
What I don't get about angels is why, when someone is in love, they shoot arrows at them.
-Sarah, 7

Something To Think About

2009-03-21T10:32:00.003-04:00

When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, trust Him fully and let go, only 1 of 2 things will happen, either He'll catch you when you fall, or He'll teach you how to fly! 'The power of one sentence! God is going to shift things around for you today and let things work in your favor. God closes doors no man can open & God opens doors no man can close. Have a blessed day and remember to be a blessing..

Why For Me?
by Allie Rodgers (U.S.A)

WHY FOR ME?

You suffered, for me, through all the pain.You bled on that cross, and I am the one to blame.You died for me, rose for me, and are calling for me.You were beat, stripped, bruised, and whipped.You took my sins to heaven, you rose them with you.You went to prepare a place for me along there with you.You asked so little of me, I did not do, and yet you want me there with you.Why for me?I am not worthy of your love.I have not done what you have asked.I have sinned, and wronged.I have fought you, I have KILLED YOU!I may not have killed you with my hands, but through my actions I have.All the things I say and do, it's just like putting you back on the cross over and over again.I have done so much wrong that I am not proud of.The only thing that I have done right in this world is to accept you.I love you and follow you.I worship you and adore you.I want to be with you forever!You give me strength when I have none.You give me love when I feel none.You are with me when I am alone.You hold me when I am sobbing.You dry my tears, and drive away my fears.

Emergency Phone Numbers:

2009-03-18T13:46:00.002-04:00

When:

You are sad, phone John 14
You have sinned, phone Psalm 51
You are facing danger, phone Psalm 91
People have failed you, phone Psalm 27
It feels as though God is far from you, phone Psalm 139
Your faith needs stimulation, phone Hebrews 11
You are alone and scared, phone Psalm 23
You are worried, phone Matthew 8:19-34
You are hurt and critical, phone 1 Corinthians 13
You wonder about Christanity, phone 2 Corinthians 5:15-18
You feel like an outcast, phone Romans 8:31-39
You are seeking peace, phone Matthew 11:25-30
It feels as if the world is bigger than God, phone Psalm 90
You need Christ like insurance, phone Romans 8:1-30
You are leaving home for a trip, phone Psalm 121
You are praying for yourself, phone Psalm 87
You require courage for a task, phone Joshua 1
Inflation's and investments are hogging your thoughts, phone Mark 10:17-31
You are depressive, phone Psalm 27
Your bank account is empty, phone Psalm 37
You lose faith in mankind, phone 1 Corinthians 13
It looks like people are unfriendly, phone John 15
You are losing hope, phone Psalm 126
You feel the world is small compared to you, phone Psalm 19
You want to carry fruit, phone John 15
Paul's secret for happiness, phone Colossians 3:12-17
With big opportunity / discovery, phone Isaiah 55
To get along with other people, phone Romans 12

Alternate Numbers:

For dealing with fear, call Psalm 47
For security, call Psalm 121:3
For assurance, call Mark 8:35
For reassurance, call Psalm 145:18

What Is Anger

2009-03-12T16:53:00.001-04:00

1. Anger is only justified when caused by ungodly agents.
2. Anger is a habit forming disease it grows every time you use it.
3. Anger is unstable like water it can and will spill out on innocent people.
4. Anger teaches you that somebody can push you buttons at will.
5. Anger shows that you lack a healthy alternative to getting ticked off.
6. Anger on the surface is a reflection of you really angry with yourself.
7. Anger is like a hot pot it takes time to cool.
8. Anger is like a king, it takes strength to rule.
9. Anger is like drinking poison and wishing the other person dies.
10. Anger likes to be left alone, it pouts in a corner until it's gone

Something To Think About

2009-03-11T20:53:00.000-04:00

Everybody has a calling from God in their life. Some run from God's call but are still in the same place. Some deny his call but they can still hear him in their secret place. Some betray his call because they live in disgrace. There is a time when they all look for his call; it's in the moment that they fall!

BORN 1920-1979?

2009-03-10T16:22:00.003-04:00

TO ALL THE KIDS WHO SURVIVED the 1930's, 40's, 50's, 60's and 70's!!?
> First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they were pregnant.?
> They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes.?
> Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-based paints.?
> We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, the risks we took hitchhiking.?
> As infants & children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, booster seats, seat belts or air bags.?
> Riding in the back of a pick up on a warm day was always a special treat.?
> We drank water from? the garden hose and NOT from a bottle.?
> We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and?NO?ONE actually died from this.?
> We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank Kool-aid made with sugar, but we weren't overweight because,?
> WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!?
> We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on.?
> No one was able to reach us all day.And we were O.K.?
> We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.?
> We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 150 channels on cable, no video movies or DVD's, no surround-sound or CD's, no cell phones, no personal computers, no Internet or chat rooms........?
> WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them!? > We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents.?
> We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever.?
> We were given BB guns for our 10th birthday, made up games with sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told it would happen, we did not poke out very many eyes.?
> We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them!?
> Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team.. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!!?
> The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law!?
> These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever!
> The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas.?
> We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL!?
> If YOU are one of them CONGRATULATIONS!
> You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids, before the lawyers and the government regulated so much of our lives?for our own good?.?
> While you are at it, forward it to your kids so they will know how brave (and lucky) their parents were.?
> Kind of makes you want to run through the house with scissors, doesn't it?!?

25 IMPORTANT THINGS

2009-03-07T09:14:00.003-05:00

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.

2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Talk to God about what is going on in your life.

3. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement, 'My purpose is to__________ today. I am thankful for______________'

4. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.

5. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds & walnuts.

6. Try to make at least three people smile each day.

7. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.

8. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a college kid with a maxed out charge card.

9. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

10. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

11. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

12. You are not so important that you have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

13. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.

14. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

15. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

16. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: 'In five years, will this matter?'

17. Forgive everyone for everything.

18. What other people think of you is none of your business.

19. GOD heals everything - but you have to ask Him.

20. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

21. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch!!!

22. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

23. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements: I am thankful for__________. Today I accomplished _________.

24. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.

25. When you are feeling down, start listing your many blessings. You'll be smiling before you know it.

Stressed????????

2009-03-04T14:07:00.000-05:00

Stress is the body's reaction to toxic thinking. The devil cannot read our minds as some people think, he projects negative, tempting, fearful suggestions into our minds. He's trying to get you to form a thought around the issue that's stressing you. All stress starts with thought! What if she's cheating on me? What if I lose my job? What if it's Cancer? What if he leaves me? Then it becomes a part of the matrix of your inner spirit man's soul, heart, mind, and conscience. Next those negative, poisonous, toxic thoughts begin to drip poison into your physical bodies which then affects the health of the body.

Jesus The Faithful One

2009-02-28T21:41:00.002-05:00

We should have hope and confidence in Him We hold all of our trust in Him We carry our hope in our hearts We rest in His faithfulness

We believe in the promises He has made He purposes to fulfill each one He has the authority to change our lives He has always accomplished all that He has spoken

His power is limitless His character is changless His love is endless With Jesus you'll never be friendless!

SUCCESS

2009-02-24T13:34:00.001-05:00

At age 4 success is . . . not peeing in your pants.
At age 12 success is . . . having friends.
At age 17 success is . . having a driver's license.
At age 35 success is . . having money.
At age 50 success is . . . having money.
At age 70 success is . .. . having a drivers license.
At age 75 success is . . . having friends.
At age 80 success is . . . not peeing in your pants.

THE FOUR STAGES OF LIFE:

2009-02-23T13:34:00.003-05:00

:1 -- You believe in Santa Claus.
2 -- You don't believe in Santa Claus.
3 -- You are Santa Claus.
4 -- You look like Santa Claus.

GREAT TRUTHS ABOUT GROWING OLD

2009-02-19T17:36:00.000-05:00

1) Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional.
2) Forget the health food. I need all the preservatives I can get.
3) When you fall down, you wonder what else you can do while you're down there.
4) You're getting old when you get the same sensation from a rocking chairthat you once got from a roller coaster.
5) It's frustrating when you know all the answers but nobody bothers to ask you the questions.
6) Time may be a great healer, but it's a lousy beautician.
7) Wisdom comes with age, but sometimes age comes alone.

GREAT TRUTHS THAT ADULTS HAVE LEARNED:

2009-02-18T13:14:00.003-05:00

1) Raising teenagers is like nailing jelly to a tree.
2) Wrinkles don't hurt.
3) Families are like fudge...mostly sweet, with a few nuts
4) Today's mighty oak is just yesterday's nut that held its ground.
5) Laughing is good exercise. It's like jogging on the inside.
6) Middle age is when you choose your cereal for the fiber, not the toy.

GREAT TRUTHS THAT WE CAN LEARN FROM LITTLE CHILDREN

2009-02-16T18:20:00.002-05:00

1) No matter how hard you try, you can't baptize cats.
2) When your mom is mad at your dad, don't let her brush your hair.
3) If your sister hits you, don't hit her back. They always catch the second person.
4) Never ask your 3-year old brother to hold a tomato.
5) You can't trust dogs to watch your food.
6) Don't sneeze when someone is cutting your hair.
7) Never hold a dust-buster and a cat at the same time.
8) You can't hide a piece of broccoli in a glass of milk.
9) Don't wear polka-dot underwear under white shorts.
10) The best place to be when you're sad is Grandpa's lap.

WHEN YOUR HEART SINGS THE BLUES!

2009-02-14T22:10:00.001-05:00

Job 1:14-22

Everybody at one time or another has sang the blues. You might be a fan of Hip Hop, Pop, Rock, Jazz, Country Western or R&B, but sooner or later something will reach inside and affect your heart and you'll sing the blues. Everybody sings the blues. It comes either by a broken heart, your car won't start, or maybe a hurricane blew your house apart. Maybe somebody's done you wrong, you've been out of work for too long, maybe you found out you were weak but thought you were strong, but sooner or later you'll sing that song called the blues. The blues is music about pain and suffering, it wails out the message of hurt and sorrow. Sometimes when our hearts sing the blues we've sunk about as low as we can go and it's when we feel that we're close to rock bottom, that's when we have to sing. You have to sing to survive what your suffering through. It could be for the lost of a loved one, someone killed her with a gun or bad news about your health or simply lost all your wealth. You know that whatever life's circumstances may bring rather than giving up you have to sing!

The devil taps his foot when he hears the blues pouring out of your mouth. It's music to his ears to hear all of your hurts and fears. He delights at your sickness and bathes in your tears. But when you remain faithful to God all of heaven cheers. We've been discussing the trials, temptations and tests that all of us face in life. You've heard people say, "What doesn't kill you will make you strong?" Sometime troubles get on a roll they come one after another, the devil's intention is to separate you from God. When you hold on to God and trust him through the -no matter whats- did you know that God is encouraged? God can see all that you're going through. Why doesn't he do something you might say? God is doing something, he's making you stronger, righteous, upright and pure. He is encouraged when you determine to stay with him through it all and just like any loving Father he is very proud of you. Just like a toddler you're learning to walk worthy of the vocation in which you were called. Job is our teacher for today and his message is even though your heart sings the blues, if you stick with God you can never lose!

The Concert

2009-02-12T16:50:00.001-05:00

The Concert When the house lights dimmed and the concert was about to begin, the mother returned to her seat and discovered that her child was missing Suddenly, the curtains parted and spotlights focused on the impressive Steinway on stage.

To her horror, the mother saw her little boy sitting at the keyboard, innocently picking out 'Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.' At that moment, the great piano master made his entrance, quickly moved to the piano, and whispered in the boy's ear, 'Don't quit . . keep playing.'

Then, leaning over , Paderewski reached down with his left hand and began filling in a bass part. Soon his right arm reached around to the other side of the child, and he added a running obbligato.

Together, the old master and the young novice transformed what could have been a frightening situation into a wonderfully creative experience. The audience was so mesmerized that they couldn't recall what else the great master played. Only the classic, ' Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.' Perhaps that's the way it is with God. What we can accomplish on our own is hardly noteworthy.

We try our best, but the results aren't always graceful flowing music.

However, with the hand of the Master, our life's work can truly be beautiful.
The next time you set out to accomplish great feats, listen carefully... you may hear the voice of The Master, whispering in your ear, 'Don't quit . . Keep playing.' May you feel His arms around you and know that His hands are there, helping you turn your feeble attempts into true masterpieces.

Remember, God doesn't seem to call the equipped, rather, He equips the 'called'. Life is more accurately measured by the lives you touch than by the things you acquire.

Dancing In The Rain

2009-02-07T21:47:00.003-05:00

It was a busy morning, about 8:30, when an elderly gentleman in his 80's arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He said he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am.

I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would be able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound. On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound.

While taking care of his wound, I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry.

The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife. I inquired as to her health.

He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease.

As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late.

He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now.

I was surprised, and asked him, 'And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?'

He smiled as he patted my hand and said, 'She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is.'

I had to hold back tears as he left, I had goose bumps on my arm, and thought, 'That is the kind of love I want in my life.'

True love is neither physical, nor romantic.

True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.

Life isn't about how to survive the storm,

But how to dance in the rain.

Something To Think About

2009-01-27T18:36:00.000-05:00

Sin is like quicksand. It appears as if you can easily move through it. But once you enter there are elements that will hold you and pull you down. Eventually if someone does not pull you out, you will be completly consumed without a doubt. Get out while you can!

EVEN JESUS NEEDED A HUG!

2009-01-22T13:16:00.003-05:00

Jesus was troubled in spirit, he foretells his betrayal. "Truly, truly, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me." Everyone looked at one another perplexed at what he said. In verse 23, we see Jesus receiving a comforting hug by one of his closest disciples. Peter ask that disciple to ask Jesus who the betrayer was. He was lying on Jesus' chest when he asked, "Lord who is it?" Today our eyebrows go up when we say a man was hugging another man. But I hug all of my loved ones both male and female. The closeness of hugging says things that cannot be verbally said. And only through the hug are feelings read.

Hugging is healthy: it helps the body's immune system, it keeps you healthier, it cures depression, it reduces stress, it induces sleep, it's invigorating, it has no unpleasant side effects, hugging is nothing less than a miracle drug and Jesus needed a hug.

Hugging is all natural: it is organic, naturally sweet, no pesticides, no preservatives, no artificial ingredients and one hundred percent wholesome as a cure and Jesus needed a hug that was sincere and pure.

Hugging is practically perfect: There are no movable parts, no batteries to wear out, no periodic checkups, low energy consumption, high energy yield, inflation proof, non fattening, no monthly payments, no insurance requirements, theft proof, non taxable, non polluting and, of course fully returnable from me to you and Jesus needed a hug for what he was about to go through.

That hug was one of genuine care. It strengthened Jesus for the cross he'd bear. Staring up at his friend on the cross. Jesus is making payment for the lost. He thought of hugging Jesus again what a blessing to share. Now Jesus is hugging people everywhere. Do you have a Jesus hug to spare?

The Pastor And The Kitten

2009-01-16T15:51:00.003-05:00

Dwight Nelson recently told a true story about the pastor of his church. He had a kitten that climbed up a tree in his backyard and then was afraid to come down. The pastor coaxed, offered warm milk, etc.

The kitty would not come down.

The tree was not sturdy enough to climb, so the pastor decided that if he tied a rope to his car and pulled it until the tree bent down, he could then reach up and get the kitten.

That's what he did, all the while checking his progress in the car.He then figured if he went just a little bit further, the tree would be bent sufficiently for him to reach the kitten. But as he moved the car a little further forward, the rope broke.The tree went 'boing!' and the kitten instantly sailed through the air - out of sight.The pastor felt terrible. He walked all over the neighborhood asking people if they'd seen a little kitten. No. Nobody had seen a stray kitten.
So he prayed, 'Lord, I just commit this kitten to your keeping,' and went on about his business.A few days later he was at the grocery store, and met one of his church members. He happened to look into her shopping cart and was amazed to see cat food.

This woman was a cat hater and everyone knew it, so he asked her, 'Why are you buying cat food when you hate cats so much?' She replied, 'You won't believe this,' and then told him how her little girl had been begging her for a cat, but she kept refusing.

Then a few days before, the child had begged again, so the Mom finally told her little girl, 'Well, if God gives you a cat, I'll let you keep it.' She told the pastor, 'I watched my child go out in the yard, get on her knees, and ask God for a cat. And really, Pastor, you won't believe this, but I saw it with my own eyes. A kitten suddenly came flying out of the blue sky, with its paws outspread, and landed right in front of her.'

Lesson learned: Never underestimate the Power of God and His unique sense of humor.

Family Comes First

2009-01-07T20:39:00.001-05:00

I ran into a stranger as he passed by, 'Oh excuse me please' was my reply. He said, 'Please excuse me too; I wasn't watching for you.' We were very polite, this stranger and I. We went on our way and we said goodbye. But at home a different story is told, How we treat our loved ones, young and old. Later that day, cooking the evening meal, My son stood beside me very still. When I turned, I nearly knocked him down. 'Move out of the way,' I said with a frown. He walked away, his little heart broken. I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken. While I lay awake in bed, God's still small voice came to me and said, 'While dealing with a stranger, common courtesy you use, but the family you love, you seem to abuse. Go and look on the kitchen floor, You'll find some flowers there by the door. Those are the flowers he brought for you. He picked them himself: pink, yellow and blue. He stood very quietly not to spoil the surprise, you never saw the tears that filled his little eyes.' By this time, I felt very small, And now my tears began to fall. I quietly went and knelt by his bed; 'Wake up, little one, wake up,' I said. 'Are these the flowers you picked for me?' He smiled, 'I found 'em, out by the tree. I picked 'em because they're pretty like you. I knew you'd like 'em, especially the blue.' I said, 'Son, I'm very sorry for the way I acted today; I shouldn't have yelled at you that way.' He said, 'Oh, Mom, that's okay. I love you anyway.' I said, 'Son, I love you too, and I do like the flowers, especially the blue.' FAMILY Are you aware that if we died tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days. But the family we left behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than into our own family, an unwise investment indeed, don't you think? So what is behind the story? Do you know what the word FAMILY means? FAMILY = (F)ATHER (A)ND (M)OTHER (I) (L)OVE (Y)OU

Daily Rules From God For 2009

2009-01-02T21:32:00.002-05:00

1. Wake Up!! Decide to have a good day. "Today is the day the Lord hath made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalms 118:24

2. Dress Up!! The best way to dress up is to put on a smile. A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks. "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward appearance; but the Lord looks at the heart." I Samuel 16:7

3. Shut Up!! Say nice things and learn to listen. God gave us two ears and one mouth, so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking. "He who guards his lips guards his soul." Proverbs 13:3

4. Stand Up!!... For what you believe in. Stand for something or you will fall for anything.. "Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good..." Galatians 6:9-10

5. Look Up!!... To the Lord."I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me." Phillippians 4:13

6. Reach Up!!... For something higher. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, And He will direct your path."Proverbs 3:5-6

7. Lift Up!!... Your Prayers."Do not worry about anything; instead PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING."
Philippians 4:6

A Letter From God To You

2008-12-30T11:59:00.002-05:00

Today I will be handling All of your problems for you. I do Not need your help. So, have a nice day. I love you

P.S. And, remember... If life happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, do Not attempt to resolve it yourself! Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) box. I will get to it in MY TIME. All situations will be resolved, but in My time, not yours.

Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold onto it by worrying about it. Instead, focus on all the wonderful things that are present in your life now.

Now, you have a nice day.God

God has seen you struggling, God says it's over. A blessing is coming your way. If you believe in God,

Dangers Lurk In The Darkness

2008-12-27T11:04:00.003-05:00

"This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is the light, and in him is no darkness at all." "He that saith he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no occasion of him stumbling" (1 John 2:10-11).

Dangers lurks in the darkness! Darkness is invading the minds of many Christians. They have unwittingly allowed the devil to project darkness into their thoughts about God. Many say that they believe in him yet they live a life completely opposite to his holiness. We can't have it both ways. There is danger lurking in the darkness of the Soul, Heart, Mind and Conscience. Being in darkness actually means that you can't see where you are spiritually. We are taught by the apostle Paul to examine ourselves (II Corinthians 13:5). We check our bank account, we weigh ourselves on the scale, we check our gas gauge, we check our oil levels, we check our phone messages etc. We must also check or examine ourselves. One dark spot on a clean white shirt calls for an immediate change church! Here's what darkness does . . .

1. Darkness - if allowed in the soul, it will try to corrupt your confidence in God by blocking your reception to spiritual knowledge (Proverbs 19:1-2).

2. Darkness - if allowed in the heart, confuses your thinking causing you to judge others while justifying your own actions (Isaiah 5:19-21).

3. Darkness - If allowed in the mind, causes spiritual blindness projected by the devil (II Corinthians 4:3-4). You will become indifferent and selective in your service to God. It will turn you outward toward your flesh instead of inward to your true self, spirit (Romans 8:5).

4. Darkness - If allowed in the conscience, kills your ability to feel anything or repair yourself and then causes you to depart from the faith spiritually, your in church ritually but you fall victim to sin listening to seducing spirits, the murmurs, the gossips, liars etc.(I Tim. 4:1-2).

5. Darkness - If allowed in the spirit, returns you to your former state before the cross (II Peter 2:9-22). You may attend church but you're bringing the worldliness with you. Having a form of godliness but denying the power of God (II Timothy 3:1-7). Your an "Old Self!"

Christmas

2008-12-23T13:51:00.003-05:00

In origin Christmas is pagan, it is not found in the Bible neither did the early pre-Catholic church celebrate it. The name itself is from the Old English ‘Mass of Christ’ = Christmas.

Pagan festivities, merrymaking, the giving of presents coupled with the worship of idols and pagan gods with human sacrifice is lost in the myths of time. New Year was the time when pagans celebrated the return of the Sun and worshipped it. It is these festivals that continue today in the form of Christmas.

The early church father, Tertullian (died 220?) wrote a treatise ‘De Idololatria’ in which he chastises Christians for putting wreaths on their doors and other practices of idolatry practised at the new year.

At that time many Christians were found and persecuted who did not decorate their homes with lamps, laurels and other decorations, at the New Year. Laurels were placed on doors to honour various door, home and hinge gods.

It is clear that the custom of giving presents and celebration was well established at this time (c200) from Tertullian’s writing on Idolatry. The customs of giving presents at New Year can be traced back to Babel prior to the dispersion of mankind and was very widespread at this time.

The Romans celebrated the great holiday Saturnalia from 17 to 21 December in remembrance of the great golden age. During this time slaves were given limited freedom and served by their masters. On the 22 came Sigillaria, the feast of dolls when dolls were given to children amongst other toys. On 25 December came Brumalia, otherwise known as ‘Dies Natalis Invicti Solis’ The Birthday of the Unconquered Sun. This was to celebrate the time of year when the days began to lengthen after the solstice. This date was quite recent being instituted by the Emperor Aurelian in honour of Mithras, the Persian Sun God of which he was a worshiper around 270-273.

The last date of the Roman holiday was Kalendae Januarri, New Year’s Day when everybody gave gifts to everyone else.

In Britain the New Year was celebrated in the feast of Yule and in Norway the feast or festival of the god Thor.

The Roman church when Christianity was legalised incorporated these feasts into the one feast ‘Christmas’. Instead of ridding the church of idolatry they incorporated it into the church! So from around 336 the church at Rome set the date of Christ’s birth at 25 December but this was not followed by other churches, the date finally being accepted in the fifth century. The Arminian church still celebrates Christmas on 6 January.
Many dates were ascribed for the date of Christ’s birth by the early church, 6 January, March 24 and 28, April 2, 19, May 20 and December 25 this last date being accepted by the church at Rome.

The ancients worshipped trees on all continents. Even today some pagans still worship trees. This practise was widespread in Europe before and after Christianity began.

Pope Gregory 1 wrote a letter to Augustine of Canterbury (c600) to encourage the continued pagan use of decorating buildings with evergreens. Augustine had been concerned with paganism in what is now England, again the answer was to incorporate this into Catholicism. Many Druid temples were converted to ‘churches’ sometimes even retaining the pagan priests! Hence started the concept of the church being the building/temple (the house of a god) as opposed to the church being the people of God.

Ivy was the badge of the wine god Bacchus and was banished to the outside of the house, Holly was allowed inside and hence we have the competition between ‘the Holly and the Ivy’.

Mistletoe is of Celtic origin and was known as ‘all-heal’ and was believed to have certain miraculous powers. Mistletoe is found on the Oak tree which was highly venerated by the Oak Priests (Druids) of the many Celtic tribes across Europe and England. Because of it’s association with the Druids many denominations have in times past refused it’s use in decorations in church buildings.

Christmas hymns started in the eastern church from around 760. Carols which are festive songs as opposed to devotional hymns started around 1100 but were not in regular use until the 1300s onwards.
In the 1640s in England, Christmas was dismissed as being pagan and outlawed. During the early nineteenth century it was revived particularly by Albert the Husband of queen Victoria who re-introduced the fir-tree into the celebrations.

Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen (Jer. 10:2).

Blue skies and rainbows and sunbeams from heaven Are what I can see when my Lord is living in me
I know that Jesus is well and alive today He makes His home in my heart Never more will I be all alone since He Promised me that we never would part

Tall mountains, green valleys, the beauty that surrounds me All make me aware of the One who made it all
Green grass and flowers all blooming in springtime Are works of the Master I live for each day
I'm not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus For it is the power that saves men today

Merry Christmas

2008-12-22T16:51:00.001-05:00

Jesus The Faithful One. We should have hope and confidence in Him. We hold all of our trust in Him.We carry our hope in our hearts. We rest in His faithfulness. We believe in the promises He has made. He promise's to fulfill each one. He has the authority to change our lives. He has always accomplished all that. He has spoken His power is limitless. His character is changless. His love is endless. With Jesus you'll never be friendless!

Something To Think About

2008-12-16T18:11:00.000-05:00

Everyday is a good day when you are in the Lord. You should always expect something good to happen instead of the worst. The best way to remember this truth is to remind yourself of it each morning and at night before you close your eyes, this will encourage you to look forward to the next day as a good day!

A Talk With God

2008-12-13T11:00:00.003-05:00

Our Father Who Art In Heaven. Person Praying
Yes? God

Don't interrupt me. I'm praying.Person Praying
But -- you called ME! God

Called you?No, I didn't call you.I'm praying.Our Father who art in Heaven. Person Praying
There -- you did it again! God

Did what! ?Person Praying
Called ME.You said,'Our Father who art in Heaven'Well, here I am.What's on your mind? God

But I didn't mean anything by it.I was, you know, just saying my prayers for the day.I always say the Lor d's Prayer.It makes me feel good,kind of like fulfilling a duty. Person Praying
Well, all right.Go on. God

Okay, Hallowed be thy name . Person Praying
Hold it right there.What do you mean by that? God

By what? Person Praying
By 'Hallowed be thy name'? God

It means, it means . . good grief,I don't know what it means.How in the world should I know?It's just a part of the prayer..By the way, what does it mean? Person Praying
It means honored, holy, wonderful. God

Hey, that makes sense.I never thought about what 'hallowed' meant before.Thanks.Thy Kingdom come,Thy will be done,on earth as it is in Heaven. Person Praying
Do you really mean that? God

Sure, why not? Person Praying
What are you doing about it? God

Doing? Why, nothing, I guess.I just think it would be ki nd of neat if you gotcontrol,of everything down here like you have upthere.We're kinda in a mess down here you know. Person Praying
Yes, I know;but, have I got control of you? God

Well, I go to church. Person Praying
That isn't what I asked you.What about your bad temper?You've really got a problem there, you know.And then there's the way you spend your money --all on yourself.And what about the kind of books you read ? God

Now hold on just a minute!Stop picking on me!I'm just as good as some of the rest of thosePeople at church! Person Praying
Excuse ME.I thought yo u were prayingfor my will to be done.If that is to happen,it will have to start with the ones who are praying for it.Like you -- for example .. God

Oh, all right. I guess I do have some hang-ups.Now that you mention it,I could probably name some others. Person Praying
So could I. ; God

I haven't thought about it very much until now,but I really would like to cut out some of those things.I would like to, you know, be really free. Person Praying
Good.Now we're getting somewhere. We'll work together -- You and ME.I'm proud of You. God

Look, Lord, if you don't mind,I need to finish up here.This is taking a lot longer than it usually does.Give us this day, our daily bread. Person Praying
You need to cut out the bread.You're overweight as it is. God

Hey, wait a minute! What is this?Here I was doing my religious duty,and all of a sudden you break inand remind me of all my hang-ups. Person Praying
Praying is a dangerous thing.You just might get what you ask for.Remember,you called ME -- and here I am.It's too late to stop now..Keep praying. ( . pause . . )Well, go on. God

I'm scared to. Person Praying
Scared? Of what? God

I know what you'll say. Person Praying
Try ME. God

Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.. Person Praying
What about Ann? God

See? I knew it!I knew you would bring her up!Why, Lord, she's told lies about me, spread stories.She never paid back the money she owes me.I've sworn to get even ! with her! Person Praying
But -- your prayer --What about your prayer? God

I didn't -- mean it. Person Praying
Well, at least you're honest.But, it's quite a load carrying around all that bitterness and resentment isn't it? God

Yes, but I'll feel better as soon as I get even with her.Boy, have I got some plans for her.She'll wish she had never been born. Person Praying
No, you won't feel any better.You'll feel worse.Revenge isn't sweet.You know how unhappy you are --Well, I can change that. God

You can? How? Person Praying
Forgive Ann.Then, I'll forgive you;And the hate and the sin,will be Ann's problem -- not yours.You will have settled the problemas far as you are concerned. God

Oh, you know, you're right.You always are..And more than I want revenge, P
I want to be right with You . . (sigh).All right all right . .I forgive her. Peson Praying
There now!Wonderful!How do you feel? God

Hmmmm. Well, not bad.Not bad at all!In fact, I feel pretty great!You know, I don't think I'll go to bed uptight tonight.I haven't been getting much rest, you know. Person Praying
Yeah, I know.But, you're not through with your prayer are you? Go on. God

Oh, all right.And lead us not into temptation,but deliver us from evil. Person Praying
Good! Good! I'll do that.Just don't put yourself in a placewhere you can be tempted. God

What do you mean by that? Person Praying
You know what I mean. God

Yeah. I know. Person Praying
Okay.Go ahead. Finish your prayer. God
For Thine is the kingdom,and the power,and the glory forever.Amen. Person Praying
Do you know what would bring me glory --What would really make me happy? God

No, but I'd like to know.I want to please you now.I've really made a mess of things.I want to truly follow you.I can see now how great that would be.So, tell me . . .How do I make you happy? Person Praying

YOU just did.! GOD

Forrest Gump Goes To Heaven!!!!!!

2008-12-08T13:30:00.003-05:00

The day finally arrived. Forrest Gump dies and goes to Heaven.

He is at the Pearly Gates, met by St. Peter himself. However, the gates are closed, and Forrest approaches the gatekeeper.

St. Peter said, 'Well, Forrest, it is certainly good to see you. We have heard a lot about you. I must tell you, though, that the place is filling up fast, and we have been administering an entrance examination for everyone. The test is short, but you have to pass it before you can get into Heaven.'

Forrest responds, 'It sure is good to be here, St. Peter, sir. But nobody ever told me about any entrance exam. I sure hope that the test ain't too hard. Life was a big enough test as it was.'

St. Peter continued, 'Yes, I know, Forrest, but the test is only three questions First: What two days of the week begin with the letter T Second: How many seconds are there in a year? Third: What is God's first name?'

Forrest leaves to think the questions over. He returns the next day and sees St. Peter, who waves him up, and says, 'Now that you have had a chance to think the questions over, tell me your answers'

Forrest replied, 'Well, the first one -- which two days in the week begins with the letter 'T'? Shucks, that one is easy. That would be Today and Tomorrow.'

The Saint's eyes opened wide and he exclaimed, 'Forrest, that is not what I was thinking, but you do have a point, and I guess I did not specify, so I will give you credit for that answer. How about the next one?' asked St. Peter. How many seconds in a year?

Now that one is harder,' replied Forrest, but I thunk and thunk about that, and I guess the only answer can be twelve.'
Astounded, St. Peter said, 'Twelve? Twelve? Forrest, how in Heaven's name could you come up with twelve seconds in a year?'

Forrest replied, 'Shucks, there's got to be twelve: January 2nd, February 2nd, March 2nd... 'Hold it,' interrupts St. Peter. 'I see where you are going with this, and I see your point, though that was not quite what I had in mind....but I will have to give you credit for that one, too. Let us go on with the third and final question.

'Andy?' exclaimed an exasperated and frustrated St Peter. 'Ok, I can understand how you came up with your answers to my first two questions, but just how in the world did you come up with the name Andy as the first name of God?' 'Shucks, that was the easiest one of all,' Forrest replied. 'I learnt it from the song, 'ANDY WALKS WITH ME, ANDY TALKS WITH ME, ANDY TELLS ME I AM HIS OWN.'

St. Peter opened the Pearly Gates, and said: 'RUN Forrest, RUN.'

But They Made Light Of It......Matt 22:5

2008-12-01T13:19:00.002-05:00

When we examine our lives we have certain things that are absolutely first on our list of priorities. The light bill, the gas bill the mortgage or rent are all up there with the high priorities. They are considered high priorities because we know the consequences of not paying those bills. Now, if the dentist or the lawn care guy doesn't get his money we realize that the world won't come to an end. But if we don't pay the essential bills then we know that of a certainty we will be disconnected. If the electric bill is cut off we realize that the food will spoil, we won't have heat, we will utterly have to walk around in the dark. We wouldn't be able to cook in most cases. Most of us wouldn't be able to use the garage door. Electrical power is essential to the productivity of our lives.

Jesus says, "All power has been given unto me . . . (Matthew 28:18.)" There is natural power like electricity, gas, etc., and there is supernatural power. Somehow we make light of the supernatural power that comes only from Jesus! If we don't have that power if we don't keep our commitment to him how is it that we can't see that the very same thing that happens in the natural also happens in the supernatural, we will be cut off! The reason why most people fail to make the connection (get it)? is because they 'make light of it!' There are so many people who want to be Christians but don't want to identify with Christ. They don't want to keep the connection they just keep shorting out. It would hurt our feelings deeply if the people we love failed to take us seriously. Some people do make light of other's feelings. When a man says that he loves a woman sometimes she'll see his feelings as an opportunity to get money from him. We must be careful not to see Jesus as a person that we can get blessings from simply because he says to us "I love you!"

We should take our personal lives seriously but making light of our spiritual invitation to love, serve and spend time in celebration with our King. The entire world has learned that if they plan not to do something they must come up with a good excuse, but the question is a good excuse for who? The excuse is what people use to explain but not caring to be involved, being unconcerned and indifferent is called making light of the invitation. There is a definite problem in the way some people think that's where the problem lies.

You Have A Right To Remain Silent

2008-11-29T21:21:00.002-05:00

How many of us have ever sat down and thought about how our God feels as he watches the choices that we make in life? How do you think God feels about the choices you make? We know about the text book answers about glorifying him, praising him, but do we think about God's feelings being hurt? Because we definitely want people to know how we feel when we have our feelings injured. We refuse to talk. We run silent and run deep staring into nothing. God has feelings! We can quickly think about our God getting angry. But how many times have we seriously thought about the way his feelings are hurt as a Father when one of his children break their oath? You have the right to remain silent?

One of the greatest hindrances in being completely dedicated to Jesus is the excuse of fulfilling our own personal desires. We all have personal obligations and God understands that. But the Lord's focus is not on our natural desires because those desires are what often cause us to forsake him or have gotten us into trouble again and again. God's focus is on our supernatural desires. Listen carefully, He gave us all gifts but we get the idea that we can just dedicate our gifts you know, do something every now and then. However, you must realize the danger of that thinking that's like saying, your doing God a favor! Take a look at your personal life and how dedicated you are to it. Now, compare that to how dedicated you are to God. You have the right to remain silent. There is only one thing you can dedicate to God, and that is to give up your right to yourself (Romans 12:1).

Sometimes we all get fed up with people. We feel like were being disrespected, neglected, rejected and even disconnected but not respected. And God who made us in his image also has times when he allows his feelings to show. Have you ever hurt God's feelings? You have a right to remain silent!

A Great Thanksgiving Story

2008-11-26T21:50:00.002-05:00

One day, a poor boy who was selling goods from door to door to pay his way through school, found he had only one thin dime left, and he was hungry.

He decided he would ask for a meal at the next house. However, he lost his nerve when a lovely young woman opened the door. Instead of a meal he asked for a drink of water. She thought he looked hungry so brought him a large glass of milk. He drank it slowly, and then asked, 'How much do I owe you?'

'You don't owe me anything,' she replied 'Mother has taught us never to accept payment for a kindness.' He said... 'Then I thank you from my heart.'

As Howard Kelly left that house, he not only felt; stronger physically, but his faith in God and man was strong also. He had been ready to give up and quit.

Years later that young woman became critically ill. The local doctors were baffled. They finally sent her to the big city, where they called in specialists to study her rare disease. Dr. Howard Kelly was called in for the consultation. When he heard the name of the town she came from, a strange light filled his eyes.

Immediately he rose and went down the hall of the hospital to her room. Dressed in his doctor's gown he went in to see her. He recognized her at once. He went back to the consultation room determined to do his best to save her life. From that day he gave special attention to the case.

After a long struggle, the battle was won. Dr. Kelly requested the business office to pass the final bill to him for approval. He looked at it, then wrote something on the edge and the bill was sent to her room.

She feared to open it, for she was sure it would take the rest of her life to pay for it all. Finally, she looked, and something caught; her attention on the side as She read these words.....

'Paid in full with one glass of milk.' (Signed) Dr. Howard Kelly.

Tears of joy flooded her eyes as her happy heart prayed: 'Thank You, GOD, that Your love has spread abroad through human hearts and hands.'

The Word Remission (Acts2:28)

2008-11-25T13:21:00.002-05:00

Have you ever been really hurt by someone? Most conflict occurs over silly things where two opposite opinions clash and spin out of control until it blows up into a full scale fight or argument. Sometimes people will not speak to each other for days, months and even years. The rationalization is, "I don't need to be bothered with that person in my life." But then you find yourself not going to places if you know the person will also attend. Some people go out of their way to avoid seeing someone. Well, socially you may never speak to that person again but truthfully and psychologically you're carrying that person around with you in your heart wherever you go, it's a disease of UN-forgiveness! What makes it a disease? It's a disease because it eats at you in your heart, soul, mind and conscience continually. And you think about it over and over again periodically. The therapeutic gossip approach is to talk about that person to someone else which only makes the thing bigger. There are many diseases that eat and deteriorate the human body but the greatest affect is seen in what it does to the mind. When people get their feelings hurt they think of all kinds of crazy things relating to revenge, retaliation, retribution, road-blocking, anything to hurt the person back. The pain from this kind of disease will never stop until it's treated and sent into remission. Remission means the symptoms begin to disappear and eventually you're cured. What kind of hurt are you carrying around inside you?

God's feelings are hurt by millions of people every day and you and I are in that number. But we don't think of God's feelings like we do our own. The difference between God and us is he's willing to forgive us and forget about the hurt right away. God so loved the world that he gave his Son Jesus for the sole purpose of granting us remission of our sins. How can we say that we are God's people, God's children and yet we sensitively carry our feelings on our shoulders refusing to forgive others? She who doesn't identify with God's forgiving nature is not of God! Today we look at a forgiving father, a repentant son and an unforgiving brother (Luke 15:11-32). The quickest way to be cured from anyone hurting you is to forgive them as fast as you can, then the hurt and pain can go into remission!

The Top 5 Fear List

2008-11-18T14:51:00.002-05:00

The fear of man brings a snare, but he who trusts in the Lord will be exalted.Proverbs 29:25

A college professor did a survey of two thousand students and asked them what their greatest fears were. Here is the list of their top five fears:

1. Public speaking;
2. Blindness;
3. Heights;
4. Heart attack or cancer;
5. Death.

Fear is a snare. A trap. It can cause us to become paralyzed and discouraged. It intimidates us and causes us to feel inferior to others and to our circumstances. I believe fear operates like a magnifying glass, making seemingly small objects and circumstances seem giant and insurmountable.

Today, I believe too many Christians suffer from what I call the "What If Syndrome." Like a dog chasing its tail, they don't make any decisions because they continually worry "What if...?"

This is exactly how the devil wants you to think.You see, if Satan can get fear to line the interior of your soul, it becomes like a impenetrable coating that causes you to take your focus off God. Satan will do all he can to keep us from yielding our lives to God and experiencing His peace and love.

First Peter 5:8 tells us, "Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." He is trying to use the snare of fear to devour us!But God's Word says, "He who trusts in the Lord will be exalted."

And although Satan may win a few battles on this earth, the victory is God's in the end.Fear is the emotional pain in the soul of unbelief. When we feel fearful, it is God's warning light to us that we need to respond with faith; fear and faith cannot exist in the same spot simultaneously.

Are You Spinning Plates?

2008-11-14T12:50:00.002-05:00

Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it.Psalm 127:1.

Do you remember the man who spun the plates on the "Ed Sullivan Show" years ago? I've never forgotten him.He would start at one end of a long table, place a stick perpendicular to the table, then spin a plate on the stick. Working on down the table, he would place other plates and set them to spinning on their own sticks. As the first plate began to wobble, the man would rush back and expertly spin it again as the audience breathed a sigh of relief.On he would go...seven, eight, nine plates. By this time, plates two, three and four were now beginning to wobble. But just before you knew everything would come crashing down, he would quickly scoop up all of the plates in his professional hands and bow to the applause of the audience.

Similarly, the roles we assume in life as husband, wife, father, mother, businessman, civic leader, church leader, Sunday School teacher...all represent different plates in our lives. We begin spinning them early in our married lives, with plate number one being our marriages. Through the years we add other plates-career, children, church responsibilities-and our efforts to focus become more difficult.The real problems come when we begin to make wrong choices.

We mistakenly choose to meet more material "needs" by applying our efforts primarily to our work. This isn't about keeping our families from starving, but more about status, significance and the accumulation of "more."The result is that our focus is lost. We add even more plates. Important plates begin to wobble-even fall and shatter.

How are your essential plates spinning? Any wobbling? Are you giving your energy to the right "ones" according to God's value system?

The Grocery List

2008-11-13T15:21:00.003-05:00

Louise Redden, a poorly dressed lady with a look of defeat on her face, walked into a grocery store. She approached the owner of the store in a most humble manner and asked if he would let her charge a few groceries.

She softly explained that her husband was very ill and unable to work, they had seven children and they needed food.

John Longhouse, the grocer, scoffed at her and requested that she leave his store at once.

Visualizing the family needs, she said: "Please, sir! I will bring you the money just as soon as I can."

John told her he could not give her credit, since she did not have a charge account at his store.

Standing beside the counter was a customer who overheard the conversation between the two. The customer walked forward and told the grocer that he would stand good for whatever she needed for her family.

The grocer said in a very reluctant voice, "Do you have a grocery list?

"Louise replied, "Yes sir." "O.K" he said, "put your grocery list on the scales and whatever your grocery list weighs, I will give you that amount in groceries.

"Louise, hesitated a moment with a bowed head, then she reached into her purse and took out a piece of paper and scribbled something on it. She then laid the piece of paper on the scale carefully with her head still bowed.

The eyes of the grocer and the customer showed amazement when the scales went down and stayed down.

The grocer, staring at the scales, turned slowly to the customer and said begrudgingly, "I can't believe it."

The customer smiled and the grocer started putting the groceries on the other side of the scales. The scale did not balance so he continued to put more and more groceries on them until the scales would hold no more. The grocer stood there in utter disgust.

Finally, he grabbed the piece of paper from the scales and looked at it with greater amazement.It was not a grocery list, it was a prayer, which said:"Dear Lord, you know my needs and I am leaving this in your hands."

The grocer gave her the groceries that he had gathered and stood in stunned silence.Louise thanked him and left the store.The other customer handed a fifty-dollar bill to the grocer and said;"It was worth every penny of it . Only God Knows how much a prayer weighs.

trust God to heal the sick, provide food for the hungry, clothes and shelter for those that don't have as we do. Amen & Amen

O The Power Of Prayer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!