Thanksgiving is the unofficial beginning of the Holiday season and it has different meanings to each of us. For most it is being with family and friends, having too much delicious food and watching some football. Let’s not forget the huge sale papers advertising the bargains to be had by the early shoppers on “black Friday.” Most everyone is familiar with the story of the “first” Thanksgiving with the pilgrims and the Indians but I wonder how many know about the Proclamation issued by George Washington in 1789 which called for a national day of thanksgiving? It is a historical document that would be considered so “politically incorrect” by the misguided judges of today that it cannot even be studied by our children in school. Imagine that, a proclamation by the first President of the United States that can’t be studied by our children. Here is the text of that Proclamation:
Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me to "recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:"
Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enable to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.
And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have shown kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.
Given under my hand, at the city of New York, the 3d day of October, A.D. 1789.
Copied from Rep. Joey Hensley Newsleter
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Thanks to Preachers
History has shown that the only thing that will give hope to this pessimistic world is preaching. God has alwaysused someone to stand up and preach in times of trouble.
Where there is trouble, God always has a spokesman -someone who wjll stand in the gap and preach love, or judgement if that is what is needed, who will direct our hearts and minds to the truth.
Jude 14 records how God used Enoch as his spokesperson to preach to men who were causing difficulties in the world. He had to deal with the same problems and issues we encounter today. Enoch proclaimed judgement to the people.
What would have happened to Noah two generations later If it were not for Enoch? Would he and his family remained faithful? Or would he have followed the same direction as everyone else?
2 Pet 2:5 states that Noah was a preacher of righteousness. He needed 120 years to build the ark because his full-time job was preaching. Building the ark was only done in his spare time.
What David did with Bathsheba and to her husband was wrong but he felt no remorse or guilt until Nathan came and made him aware of what he had done. Would we have known anything about David today if there had not been a Nathan? If God had not had a spokesman to go to David it's likely that we would not see him in eternity one day.
God speaks to us today through the author of Ecclesiastes, where His name is mentioned 37 times. The author of the book writes about God, the difficulties in the world and his attempts to find peace and happiness in a world gone crazy.
The book of Ecclesiastes was written by "the preacher" (Eccl1 :1 ). Solomon did not want his name or his kingly title associated with the book. He wanted readers to know that he was a preacher who had come to understand life as such, not because he was a king.
After identifying himself as a preacher Solomon declares that life is like "vanity of vanities". He found no value in his life, even as a highly respected king. At the end of the day this accomplished nothing for Solomon.
He set out on a search for meaning and truth (Eccl1 :12), which is what an effective preacher does.
Solomon used everything at his disposal to try to find meaning to life. He concluded that life under the sun did not provide the answers, but faith in God. After reaching this conclusion he taught the knowledge he had acquired to the people.
The world today needs people to acquire knowledge and share it with others.
The Church in particular needs men like the preacher who wrote Ecclesiastes. Because without preachers the same thing could happen to us that might have happened to Noah and David.
Imagine what would have hap- pened if there had not been an Isaiah, Jerimiah or Daniel?
How beautiful are those men who stand up and bring Good News to the world today.
There is no time to wait.
We need men and families who are willing to pay the cost and preach, whose faith in God is strong enough, who sense that God needs them and respond.
Copied
Where there is trouble, God always has a spokesman -someone who wjll stand in the gap and preach love, or judgement if that is what is needed, who will direct our hearts and minds to the truth.
Jude 14 records how God used Enoch as his spokesperson to preach to men who were causing difficulties in the world. He had to deal with the same problems and issues we encounter today. Enoch proclaimed judgement to the people.
What would have happened to Noah two generations later If it were not for Enoch? Would he and his family remained faithful? Or would he have followed the same direction as everyone else?
2 Pet 2:5 states that Noah was a preacher of righteousness. He needed 120 years to build the ark because his full-time job was preaching. Building the ark was only done in his spare time.
What David did with Bathsheba and to her husband was wrong but he felt no remorse or guilt until Nathan came and made him aware of what he had done. Would we have known anything about David today if there had not been a Nathan? If God had not had a spokesman to go to David it's likely that we would not see him in eternity one day.
God speaks to us today through the author of Ecclesiastes, where His name is mentioned 37 times. The author of the book writes about God, the difficulties in the world and his attempts to find peace and happiness in a world gone crazy.
The book of Ecclesiastes was written by "the preacher" (Eccl1 :1 ). Solomon did not want his name or his kingly title associated with the book. He wanted readers to know that he was a preacher who had come to understand life as such, not because he was a king.
After identifying himself as a preacher Solomon declares that life is like "vanity of vanities". He found no value in his life, even as a highly respected king. At the end of the day this accomplished nothing for Solomon.
He set out on a search for meaning and truth (Eccl1 :12), which is what an effective preacher does.
Solomon used everything at his disposal to try to find meaning to life. He concluded that life under the sun did not provide the answers, but faith in God. After reaching this conclusion he taught the knowledge he had acquired to the people.
The world today needs people to acquire knowledge and share it with others.
The Church in particular needs men like the preacher who wrote Ecclesiastes. Because without preachers the same thing could happen to us that might have happened to Noah and David.
Imagine what would have hap- pened if there had not been an Isaiah, Jerimiah or Daniel?
How beautiful are those men who stand up and bring Good News to the world today.
There is no time to wait.
We need men and families who are willing to pay the cost and preach, whose faith in God is strong enough, who sense that God needs them and respond.
Copied
Friday, October 1, 2010
Worship
Psalm 122:1 I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go into the house of the Lord"..
When a person leaves a church worship service complaining about the quality of the singing, the length of the announcements, or a poorly delivered sermon, he himself may be the problem.
Getting little or no benefit from a worship service is somewhat like going into a huge department store and coming out with a 99-cent item. Literally hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of merchandise are available, but the shopper will take away with him only what he has come prepared to get.
If we enter the church worship service expecting a blessing, we have taken the first step to receiving one. If we participate with a genuine desire to hear God speak to us through the Scriptures, we will surely come away with our hearts filled. But we are bound to depart empty handed if we merely go out of a sense of duty, attend with a critical attitude, or bear ill will toward the minister or fellow members.
The next time you go to church, go in the spirit of the psalmist, who declared, "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of Lord" (Ps. 122:1). Then the hymns of praise, the fellowship of believers, and the preaching of the Word will bless your soul!
To be spiritually fed, go to the worship service with a good appetite, not a bad attitude!
Copied...
When a person leaves a church worship service complaining about the quality of the singing, the length of the announcements, or a poorly delivered sermon, he himself may be the problem.
Getting little or no benefit from a worship service is somewhat like going into a huge department store and coming out with a 99-cent item. Literally hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of merchandise are available, but the shopper will take away with him only what he has come prepared to get.
If we enter the church worship service expecting a blessing, we have taken the first step to receiving one. If we participate with a genuine desire to hear God speak to us through the Scriptures, we will surely come away with our hearts filled. But we are bound to depart empty handed if we merely go out of a sense of duty, attend with a critical attitude, or bear ill will toward the minister or fellow members.
The next time you go to church, go in the spirit of the psalmist, who declared, "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of Lord" (Ps. 122:1). Then the hymns of praise, the fellowship of believers, and the preaching of the Word will bless your soul!
To be spiritually fed, go to the worship service with a good appetite, not a bad attitude!
Copied...
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Ecclesiastes
A good name is better than fine perfume,
and the day of death better than the day of birth.
It is better to go to a house of mourning
than to go to a house of feasting,
for death is the destiny of every man;
the living should take this to heart.
Sorrow is better than laughter,
because a sad face is good for the heart.
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning,
but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure.
It is better to heed a wise man's rebuke
than to listen to the song of fools.
and the day of death better than the day of birth.
It is better to go to a house of mourning
than to go to a house of feasting,
for death is the destiny of every man;
the living should take this to heart.
Sorrow is better than laughter,
because a sad face is good for the heart.
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning,
but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure.
It is better to heed a wise man's rebuke
than to listen to the song of fools.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Pattern to Go By
"Almighty God, who has given us this good land for our heritage, we humbly beseech Thee that we may always prove ourselves a people of Thy favor, and glad to do Thy will. Bless our land with honorable industry, sound learning,, and pure manners. Save us from violence, discord, confusion, from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. Defend our liberties and fashion into one united people the multitudes brought out of many kindreds and tongues. Endue with the spirit of wisdom those to whom in Thy name we entrust the authority of Government, that there may be peace and justice at home and that, through obedience to Thy law, we may show forth Thy praise among the nations of the Earth. In time of properity, fill our hearts with thankfulness, and in the day of trouble suffer not our trust in Thee to fail.
In Jesus name I pray AMEN
(Credited to George Washington)
In Jesus name I pray AMEN
(Credited to George Washington)
Saturday, September 11, 2010
PROVERBS
The proverbs of Solomon:
A wise son brings joy to his father,
but a foolish son grief to his mother.
Ill-gotten treasures are of no value,
but righteousness delivers from death.
The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry
but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.
Lazy hands make a man poor,
but diligent hands bring wealth.
He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son,
but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.
Blessings crown the head of the righteous,
but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.
The memory of the righteous will be a blessing,
but the name of the wicked will rot.
The wise in heart accept commands,
but a chattering fool comes to ruin.
A wise son brings joy to his father,
but a foolish son grief to his mother.
Ill-gotten treasures are of no value,
but righteousness delivers from death.
The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry
but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.
Lazy hands make a man poor,
but diligent hands bring wealth.
He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son,
but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.
Blessings crown the head of the righteous,
but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.
The memory of the righteous will be a blessing,
but the name of the wicked will rot.
The wise in heart accept commands,
but a chattering fool comes to ruin.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Working
Imagine an 18-year-old searching the want ads for a job. Because he likes the outdoors, his interest is drawn to an ad about a national wildlife and fish refuge. It lists several job openings, but instead of promising attractive benefits and lucrative pay, the ad warns that the work will include "exposure to heat, humidity, rain, mud, millions of biting mosquitoes, poisonous plants, barbed wire, and hard work." The pay is minimum wage.
Now imagine that the 18-year-old is a Christian looking for meaningful spiritual service. His eyes rest on the 6th chapter of 2 Corinthians. There he finds the apostle Paul describing the highest calling of all, an opportunity to work for the Lord. But again the job description is very candid about some of the stresses that go with the work. Although Paul's experiences as an apostle were unique, his words remind all readers that serving the Lord is not one big vacation. It requires great care and effort, and it takes the highest commitment.
Yes, the challenge of serving Christ is without parallel and will require sacrifice. But we are not in it alone, and that makes all the difference. No price is too great to pay for the privilege of working for the Lord!
Copied
Now imagine that the 18-year-old is a Christian looking for meaningful spiritual service. His eyes rest on the 6th chapter of 2 Corinthians. There he finds the apostle Paul describing the highest calling of all, an opportunity to work for the Lord. But again the job description is very candid about some of the stresses that go with the work. Although Paul's experiences as an apostle were unique, his words remind all readers that serving the Lord is not one big vacation. It requires great care and effort, and it takes the highest commitment.
Yes, the challenge of serving Christ is without parallel and will require sacrifice. But we are not in it alone, and that makes all the difference. No price is too great to pay for the privilege of working for the Lord!
Copied
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Time To Listen
Saturday evening I attended the benefit dinner for Heritage Christian University. The guest speaker was former first lady, Laura Bush. I do not consider myself a political person, but I always vote and do my part as a citizen for my country and for Jesus' sake. I was not there to be political. I was there to support the university and see what a very important person in the history of our nation had to say.
After her speech, she was asked several questions. One question in particular was, "What is something about your husband that you appreciate, that perhaps would not be known by the American people?" Her answer to this question, I believe, was the most meaningful statement of the evening.
Laura Bush stated that her husband has read the Bible completely through, from Genesis to Revelation, every year since 1987. I don't know about you, but I think that is absolutely fantastic. There are two main reasons why:
1. It is good to know when the leader of your country reads and studies the Bible. We pray for the president all of the time. We pray for the leaders of the world to seek the face of the Creator. We should be comforted when our leaders have not forgotten God.
2. It is humbling to consider that the man who is arguably the busiest man in the world still has time to read the Word of God. We excuse ourselves from the reading of the Bible because of all that is on our plate. We always promise that we will get around to studying; tomorrow, next week, or next month. If the president of the United States has time to read the Scriptures, so do we.
The key to our future, as a nation, and as a church, is knowing and obeying the will of God. If we do not read our Bibles, how can we succeed?
Copied from Pulaski St. Church of Christ Bulletin
After her speech, she was asked several questions. One question in particular was, "What is something about your husband that you appreciate, that perhaps would not be known by the American people?" Her answer to this question, I believe, was the most meaningful statement of the evening.
Laura Bush stated that her husband has read the Bible completely through, from Genesis to Revelation, every year since 1987. I don't know about you, but I think that is absolutely fantastic. There are two main reasons why:
1. It is good to know when the leader of your country reads and studies the Bible. We pray for the president all of the time. We pray for the leaders of the world to seek the face of the Creator. We should be comforted when our leaders have not forgotten God.
2. It is humbling to consider that the man who is arguably the busiest man in the world still has time to read the Word of God. We excuse ourselves from the reading of the Bible because of all that is on our plate. We always promise that we will get around to studying; tomorrow, next week, or next month. If the president of the United States has time to read the Scriptures, so do we.
The key to our future, as a nation, and as a church, is knowing and obeying the will of God. If we do not read our Bibles, how can we succeed?
Copied from Pulaski St. Church of Christ Bulletin
Monday, August 30, 2010
GOSSIP
My name is gossip.
I have no respect for justice. I maim without killing. I break hearts and ruin lives. I am cunning and malicious and gather strength with age. The more I am quoted, the more I am believed. I flourish at every level of society. My victims are helpless. They cannot protect themselves against me because I have no name and no face. To track me down is impossible. The harder you try, the more elusive I become. I am nobody's friend.
Once I tarnish a reputation, it is never the same. I topple governments and ruin marriages. I end ministries set up by God. I ruin careers and cause sleepless nights, heartaches, and indigestion. I spawn suspicion and generate grief. I make innocent people cry in their pillows. Even my name hisses.
I am called gossip. Church gossip. Office gossip. Shop gossip. Party gossip. Telephone gossip. Online gosseip.
I make headlines and headaches!
Before you repeat a story, ask yourself: IS IT TRUE? IS IT FAIR? IS IT NECESSARY? WOULD I WANT IT DONE TO ME?
AUTHOR UNKNOWN
I have no respect for justice. I maim without killing. I break hearts and ruin lives. I am cunning and malicious and gather strength with age. The more I am quoted, the more I am believed. I flourish at every level of society. My victims are helpless. They cannot protect themselves against me because I have no name and no face. To track me down is impossible. The harder you try, the more elusive I become. I am nobody's friend.
Once I tarnish a reputation, it is never the same. I topple governments and ruin marriages. I end ministries set up by God. I ruin careers and cause sleepless nights, heartaches, and indigestion. I spawn suspicion and generate grief. I make innocent people cry in their pillows. Even my name hisses.
I am called gossip. Church gossip. Office gossip. Shop gossip. Party gossip. Telephone gossip. Online gosseip.
I make headlines and headaches!
Before you repeat a story, ask yourself: IS IT TRUE? IS IT FAIR? IS IT NECESSARY? WOULD I WANT IT DONE TO ME?
AUTHOR UNKNOWN
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Worry
You know, it is amazing how some people who suffer a lot worry very little while others who suffer little worry a lot. How about you… Do you worry a great deal? Do you have a runaway mind that tends to gravitate towards the worries of life? In other words, are you a worrier? What does the Bible teach on the subject of worrying? The Bible instructs us not to worry. Jesus tells us in (Mt. 6:25) do not worry. In the original language, that phrase literally means stop being anxious. In (Phil. 4:6), The Bible tells us, Do not be anxious about anything.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
ISIAH
“But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” That famous and beloved passage is found in Isaiah 40:31.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Changes Can Happen in a Split Second
We should never take for granted what we have. All we have is a gift form God. We must realize that anything we have in this life is temporary anyway. The people we have in our lives, the places we live, the jobs we do, the resources we have are all temporary. They can change in a moments notice. One day, one minute, one second our life can be one way, and in a split second it can be changed. The uncertainty of life is all the more reason why we need to cling to our daily walk with Christ. That time with Him in prayer, in the Word, helps us to keep our focus on the big picture so that no matter how the winds of life may blow, we are anchored to the Rock.
I do not mean to scare you today, or try to intimidate you in anyway into getting more serious about your walk with Jesus. I am simply trying to point out that so often we get comfortable in our life. We begin to take the blessings of God for granted. We get apathetic about the things that go on around us. In that process, we let our guard down and forget how dependent upon the Lord we really are. We forget that without Him, "we can do nothing"! We lose sight of the fact that He, not we, are in control of the things that go on around us. The storms of life can happen at any moment, and without warning. It is imperative that we always be prepared. Not in a paranoid sense of waiting for bad things to happen, but prepared spiritually knowing that no matter what happens, God is still on the throne. He is always in control. He permits and allows the things that happen to us happen. The logical question is why? The only legitimate answer is nobody knows but God. We must trust Him that no matter what, He has His plan and purpose at work, and it is our job to exercise our faith and trust in Him at all times.
For those that have had major, life-changing experiences recently, let me encourage you. The same God who has walked with you in the past, is the same God who will walk with you today. The same God that has delivered you from trouble before, is the same God who will deliver you from trouble today. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever! Now is the time to press into Him. Get closer to the Lord than ever before. He is our only refuge in times of trouble. His promises are true, and He will not leave you nor forsake you.
Jesus warned His disciples just hours before going to the cross that in this world they would have tribulation. He than encouraged them by telling them to "be of good cheer, for I have overcome this world." Amen! What a promise. That means no matter what you are facing in your life today, Christ has overcome that circumstance or situation. He has already won the victory. He will ALWAYS have the final word in every situation. Never forget, if you have accepted Jesus Christ by faith, and obedience to the Gospel, the Bible says that it is no longer your life any longer. It belongs to Him. So be prepared. Know that change can come at any second. Know that the unexpected will happen. Do not fear it, but embrace it since it is all part of God's plan. After all, our life is a life of service to our King. We need to be spiritually mature enough to pray as our Lord taught us, "not my will, but thy will be done."
Copied
I do not mean to scare you today, or try to intimidate you in anyway into getting more serious about your walk with Jesus. I am simply trying to point out that so often we get comfortable in our life. We begin to take the blessings of God for granted. We get apathetic about the things that go on around us. In that process, we let our guard down and forget how dependent upon the Lord we really are. We forget that without Him, "we can do nothing"! We lose sight of the fact that He, not we, are in control of the things that go on around us. The storms of life can happen at any moment, and without warning. It is imperative that we always be prepared. Not in a paranoid sense of waiting for bad things to happen, but prepared spiritually knowing that no matter what happens, God is still on the throne. He is always in control. He permits and allows the things that happen to us happen. The logical question is why? The only legitimate answer is nobody knows but God. We must trust Him that no matter what, He has His plan and purpose at work, and it is our job to exercise our faith and trust in Him at all times.
For those that have had major, life-changing experiences recently, let me encourage you. The same God who has walked with you in the past, is the same God who will walk with you today. The same God that has delivered you from trouble before, is the same God who will deliver you from trouble today. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever! Now is the time to press into Him. Get closer to the Lord than ever before. He is our only refuge in times of trouble. His promises are true, and He will not leave you nor forsake you.
Jesus warned His disciples just hours before going to the cross that in this world they would have tribulation. He than encouraged them by telling them to "be of good cheer, for I have overcome this world." Amen! What a promise. That means no matter what you are facing in your life today, Christ has overcome that circumstance or situation. He has already won the victory. He will ALWAYS have the final word in every situation. Never forget, if you have accepted Jesus Christ by faith, and obedience to the Gospel, the Bible says that it is no longer your life any longer. It belongs to Him. So be prepared. Know that change can come at any second. Know that the unexpected will happen. Do not fear it, but embrace it since it is all part of God's plan. After all, our life is a life of service to our King. We need to be spiritually mature enough to pray as our Lord taught us, "not my will, but thy will be done."
Copied
Thursday, August 12, 2010
DRIVING
One of the things most of us do each day is drive a car. It is the way we get around to do the things we do each day. Rarely, do we think twice about driving, it is just part of our life and something we do, almost instinctively. I am convinced from the Word of God, that there is no disease, no accident, not even a bullet that can take the life of one of God's children until that person's work here on earth is finished. Having said that, we are still responsible to be alert and to use the common sense the Lord gave us in our daily lives. That includes driving.
I doubt we ever really focus on the actual dangers we face when we get behind the wheel. First of all, seatbelts are a safety mechanism that have been proven to save lives. I don't care if you are going across the country, or across the block...WEAR YOUR SEATBELTS!!!! Also, remember why you are driving. It is to get you from point A to point B. It is not to listen to the radio, it is not to put on make-up, it is not to eat and drink, it is not to talk on the phone. There is nothing wrong with listening to the radio or tape deck, however set it up before you actually start driving. Do your make-up at home, not in the car. Eat at home or at your destination, not in the car. Take a break from the phone in the car. Why do I say this? Simple, Any of these activities while driving takes away from your ability to fully concentrate on driving your car, and takes away from your ability to focus on what is happening around you. Even if you are the best driver in the world, the problem is there are others on the road who may not be. Never forget. Every time you get in your car, you are putting your life in the hands of those other drivers. You are trusting them to drive safe and obey the rules. In all honesty, you often put more faith in strangers you have never met, than you do in God.
This Devotional is not meant to scare you, or to make you afraid to drive your car. Quite the opposite. It is intended to make you aware of one of the potential dangers you face each day, and to realize how important it is for you to be alert and focused every time you are driving. God has a wonderful plan for your life. We have a very real enemy out there that would love to hurt us. That is why we can never take things for granted, and must always remember that God is our protector and shield. We can not always avoid accidents in life, and we often have no good answers why those things happen. Our responsibility though is to do our best to not be the cause of an accident by being careless or not paying attention. Driving is an important part of our life and can also be very dangerous. Concentrating and being fully aware of the responsibility we have each time we drive a car is of utmost importance to protecting your safety as well as the safety of the other drivers you encounter on the road.
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I doubt we ever really focus on the actual dangers we face when we get behind the wheel. First of all, seatbelts are a safety mechanism that have been proven to save lives. I don't care if you are going across the country, or across the block...WEAR YOUR SEATBELTS!!!! Also, remember why you are driving. It is to get you from point A to point B. It is not to listen to the radio, it is not to put on make-up, it is not to eat and drink, it is not to talk on the phone. There is nothing wrong with listening to the radio or tape deck, however set it up before you actually start driving. Do your make-up at home, not in the car. Eat at home or at your destination, not in the car. Take a break from the phone in the car. Why do I say this? Simple, Any of these activities while driving takes away from your ability to fully concentrate on driving your car, and takes away from your ability to focus on what is happening around you. Even if you are the best driver in the world, the problem is there are others on the road who may not be. Never forget. Every time you get in your car, you are putting your life in the hands of those other drivers. You are trusting them to drive safe and obey the rules. In all honesty, you often put more faith in strangers you have never met, than you do in God.
This Devotional is not meant to scare you, or to make you afraid to drive your car. Quite the opposite. It is intended to make you aware of one of the potential dangers you face each day, and to realize how important it is for you to be alert and focused every time you are driving. God has a wonderful plan for your life. We have a very real enemy out there that would love to hurt us. That is why we can never take things for granted, and must always remember that God is our protector and shield. We can not always avoid accidents in life, and we often have no good answers why those things happen. Our responsibility though is to do our best to not be the cause of an accident by being careless or not paying attention. Driving is an important part of our life and can also be very dangerous. Concentrating and being fully aware of the responsibility we have each time we drive a car is of utmost importance to protecting your safety as well as the safety of the other drivers you encounter on the road.
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Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Is This Me ?
Somewhere along the way, we have missed the very essence of the Christian concept and the result is that we have the greatest accumulation of unused talent and the richest deposit of untouched ability of any group of people on earth. If we are going to be honest in our plea of restoration, it is time that we began to revolutionize our thinking so that every soldier will don the armor and every child of God will be active in ministering. Let’s quit being spectators and “get where the action is.”
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Old Glory
I am the flag of the United States of America.
My name is Old Glory.
I fly atop the world's tallest buildings,
I stand watch in America's halls of justice,
I fly majestically over institutions of learning,
I stand guard with power in the world.
I am with pride with every U.S. soldier, deceased and living.
My name is Old Glory.
I fly atop the world's tallest buildings,
I stand watch in America's halls of justice,
I fly majestically over institutions of learning,
I stand guard with power in the world.
I am with pride with every U.S. soldier, deceased and living.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Choice
"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” (Matt 7:13-14).
In our text our Lord points out two ways—one right and one wrong. Rest assured there is not a third choice. Each one of us is traveling one of these ways, thus we are either right or we are wrong. Some would not dare admit that they could possibly be wrong, but their actions prove this to be the case.
Let us first of all look at the broad way with the wide gate. It is evident from the description given that this is an easy way. There is no seeking involved; it is just a matter of following the crowd, going along to get along. It is evident that this is a very popular way because the Lord said, “…and there are many who go in by it.”. In trying to defend their actions, people have been heard to say, “How can so many be wrong?” Rather than basing their decisions on truth and right, they base what they do on what the majority is doing. It seems that far too many want to follow the “popular” path. This way is filled with worldly pleasure. Moses could have followed this course in life, but he chose “…rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin” (Heb. 11:25). Moses was more concerned about the future than he was the “here and now.” Sad to say, most people’s thoughts are in the opposite direction. The way under consideration is a way of liberty. Those who walk in this way can do as they please. They can believe anything and everything that they want to believe. There are really no restraints at all—one can do as he pleases.
I hope this will help someone make the right choice.
In our text our Lord points out two ways—one right and one wrong. Rest assured there is not a third choice. Each one of us is traveling one of these ways, thus we are either right or we are wrong. Some would not dare admit that they could possibly be wrong, but their actions prove this to be the case.
Let us first of all look at the broad way with the wide gate. It is evident from the description given that this is an easy way. There is no seeking involved; it is just a matter of following the crowd, going along to get along. It is evident that this is a very popular way because the Lord said, “…and there are many who go in by it.”. In trying to defend their actions, people have been heard to say, “How can so many be wrong?” Rather than basing their decisions on truth and right, they base what they do on what the majority is doing. It seems that far too many want to follow the “popular” path. This way is filled with worldly pleasure. Moses could have followed this course in life, but he chose “…rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin” (Heb. 11:25). Moses was more concerned about the future than he was the “here and now.” Sad to say, most people’s thoughts are in the opposite direction. The way under consideration is a way of liberty. Those who walk in this way can do as they please. They can believe anything and everything that they want to believe. There are really no restraints at all—one can do as he pleases.
I hope this will help someone make the right choice.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Children
Every parent should have a dream for their children. As our children grow, we dream of what they may become. We want to provide them with aspirations and goals. The heart’s desire of every parent should be for their child to become a Christian and remain a faithful child of God throughout life. In consideration of this, there are three things we need to consider:
1. You announce what you want your child to be by the way you teach him. The church is not a substitute for your role. The responsibility is yours as a mother and father (Eph. 6:4; Titus 2:1-5).
2. You announce what you want your child to be by the example you set (I Cor. 11:1). It is amazing how some parents put ball games, camping, golf, and fishing above attending worship, and then are amazed that their children leave the church (Heb. 10:25). Someone wrote, “What you are thunders so loudly that I cannot hear what you say.”
3. You announce what you want your child to be by the plans you make for him. In Psalm 127:1-5, children are compared to arrows. An arrow must be pointed and propelled—so must children. Your children know if something is really important to you. What are your spiritual dreams for them? By your plans, you have told them what is important.
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1. You announce what you want your child to be by the way you teach him. The church is not a substitute for your role. The responsibility is yours as a mother and father (Eph. 6:4; Titus 2:1-5).
2. You announce what you want your child to be by the example you set (I Cor. 11:1). It is amazing how some parents put ball games, camping, golf, and fishing above attending worship, and then are amazed that their children leave the church (Heb. 10:25). Someone wrote, “What you are thunders so loudly that I cannot hear what you say.”
3. You announce what you want your child to be by the plans you make for him. In Psalm 127:1-5, children are compared to arrows. An arrow must be pointed and propelled—so must children. Your children know if something is really important to you. What are your spiritual dreams for them? By your plans, you have told them what is important.
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Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Human Nature
Deceitful means insincere, hypocritical, underhanded, false, dishonest, treacherous, sneaking, double-dealing, tricky, cunning, and crafty. Such a person is altogether untrustworthy. As Jeremiah 17:9 says, our heart is desperately sick or weak, implying it knows better but deceives anyway. Who can fathom its corruption, manifested in the incessant transgression of this commandment?
Human nature is a reflection of the spirit of the prince of the power of the air, whom Jesus identified as the father or generator of lies (John 8:44). Satan had so deceived himself, he thought he could overcome his Creator! Proverbs 11:9 says, "The hypocrite with his mouth destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous will be delivered." Satan is a destroyer who passes this carnal attribute along to those who will follow him. Unless the hypocrite repents, he destroys himself too. This is also the lesson of Proverbs 26:26-28. God will deliver the just person, however, because he yields to truth.
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Human nature is a reflection of the spirit of the prince of the power of the air, whom Jesus identified as the father or generator of lies (John 8:44). Satan had so deceived himself, he thought he could overcome his Creator! Proverbs 11:9 says, "The hypocrite with his mouth destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous will be delivered." Satan is a destroyer who passes this carnal attribute along to those who will follow him. Unless the hypocrite repents, he destroys himself too. This is also the lesson of Proverbs 26:26-28. God will deliver the just person, however, because he yields to truth.
Copied
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Sandpiper
I received this via my email and thought I would share it. It was written by an individual named Robert Peterson.
She was six years old when I first met her on the beach near where I live. I drive to this beach, a distance of three or four miles, whenever the world begins to close in on me. She was building a sand castle or something and looked up, her eyes as blue as the sea. "Hello," she said.
I answered with a nod, not really in the mood to bother with a small child.
"I'm building," she said. “I see that. What is it?” I asked, not really caring. "Oh, I don't know, I just like the feel of sand." That sounds good, I thought, & slipped off my shoes.
A sandpiper glided by. “That’s a joy,” the child said.
"It's a what?" “It’s a joy. My mama says sandpipers come to bring joy.”
The bird went gliding down the beach. Good-bye joy, I muttered to myself, hello pain, and turned to walk on. I was depressed, my life seemed completely out of distance.
"What's your name?" She wouldn't give up. “Robert,” I answered. “I’m Robert Peterson.”
"Mine's Wendy... I'm six." “Hi, Wendy.” She giggled “You’re funny,” She said.
In spite of my gloom, I laughed too and walked on. Her musical giggle followed me.
"Come again, Mr. P," she called, "We'll have another happy day."
The next few days consisted of a group of unruly Boy Scouts, PTA meetings, and an ailing mother. The sun was shining as I took my hands out of the dishwater. I need a sandpiper, I said to myself, gathering up my coat.
The ever-changing balm of the seashore awaited me. The breeze was chilly but I strode along, trying to recapture the serenity I needed.
"Hello, Mr. P," she said. "Do you want to play?" What did you have in mind?” I asked, with a twinge of annoyance "I don't know,” you say. “How about charades?” I asked sarcastically. The tinkling laughter burst forth again. “I don’t know what that is.” “Then let’s just walk.”
Looking at her, I noticed the delicate fairness of her face. “Where do you live?” I asked. “Over there.” She pointed toward a row of summer cottages. Strange, I thought, in winter.
"Where do you go to school?" “I don’t go to school. Mommy says we’re on vacation.
She chattered little girl talk as we strolled up the beach, but my mind was on other things. When I left for home, Wendy said it had been a happy day. Feeling surprisingly better, I smiled at her and agreed.
Three weeks later, I rushed to my beach in a state of near panic. I was in no mood to even greet Wendy. I thought I saw her mother on the porch & felt like demanding she keep her child at home.
"Look, if you don't mind," I said crossly when Wendy caught up with me, "I'd rather be alone today.” She seemed unusually pale & out of breath. “Why?” she asked.
I turned to her and shouted, "Because my mother died!" and thought, My God, why was I saying this to a little child? “Oh,” she said quietly, “then this is a bad day.”
"Yes," I said, "and yesterday and the day before and -- oh, go away!" “Did it hurt?” she inquired. “Did what hurt?” I was exasperated with her, with myself. “When she died?”
"Of course it hurt!" I snapped, misunderstanding, wrapped up in myself. I strode off.
A month or so after that, when I next went to the beach, she wasn't there. Feeling guilty, ashamed, & admitting to myself I missed her, I went up to the cottage after my walk & knocked at the door. A drawn looking young woman with honey-colored hair opened the door.
"Hello," I said, "I'm Robert Peterson.. I missed your little girl today & wondered where she was.”
"Oh yes, Mr.. Peterson, please come in. Wendy spoke of you so much. I’m afraid I allowed her to bother you. If she was a nuisance, please, accept my apologies.”
"Not at all! She's a delightful child." I said, suddenly realizing that I meant what I had just said. “Wendy died last week, Mr. Peterson. She had leukemia. Maybe she didn’t tell you.” Struck dumb, I groped for a chair. I had to catch my breath.
"She loved this beach, so when she asked to come, we couldn't say no. She seemed so much better here & had a lot of what she called happy days. But the last few weeks, she declined rapidly…” Her voice faltered, “She left something for you, if only I can find it. Could you wait a moment while I look?”
I nodded stupidly, my mind racing for something to say to this lovely young woman. She handed me a smeared envelope with “Mr. P” printed in bold childish letters. Inside was a drawing in bright crayon hues ---a yellow beach, a blue sea, & a brown bird. Underneath was carefully printed: A SANDPIPER TO BRING YOU JOY.
Tears welled up in my eyes, and a heart that had almost forgotten to love opened wide. I took Wendy’s mother in my arms. “I’m so sorry, I’m so sorry, I’m so sorry,” I uttered over & over, & we wept together. The precious little picture is framed now & hangs in my study. Six words --- one for each year of her life --- that speak to me of harmony, courage, & understanding love.
A gift from a child with sea blue eyes and hair the color of sand --- who taught me the gift of love.
NOTE: This is a true story sent out by Robert Peterson. It happened over 20 years ago & the incident changed his life forever. It serves as a reminder to all of us that we need to take time to enjoy living & life & each other. The price of hating other human beings is loving oneself less.
Life is so complicated with the hustle and bustle of everyday traumas can make us lose focus about what is truly important or what is only a momentary setback or crisis.
This week, be sure to give your loved ones an extra hug, and by all means, take a moment --- even if it is only ten seconds, to stop & smell the roses. This comes from someone’s heart, & is read by many & now I share it with you. Everything that happens to us happens for a reason. Never brush aside anyone as insignificant. Who knows what they can teach us.
May you, too, find your Sandpiper!
She was six years old when I first met her on the beach near where I live. I drive to this beach, a distance of three or four miles, whenever the world begins to close in on me. She was building a sand castle or something and looked up, her eyes as blue as the sea. "Hello," she said.
I answered with a nod, not really in the mood to bother with a small child.
"I'm building," she said. “I see that. What is it?” I asked, not really caring. "Oh, I don't know, I just like the feel of sand." That sounds good, I thought, & slipped off my shoes.
A sandpiper glided by. “That’s a joy,” the child said.
"It's a what?" “It’s a joy. My mama says sandpipers come to bring joy.”
The bird went gliding down the beach. Good-bye joy, I muttered to myself, hello pain, and turned to walk on. I was depressed, my life seemed completely out of distance.
"What's your name?" She wouldn't give up. “Robert,” I answered. “I’m Robert Peterson.”
"Mine's Wendy... I'm six." “Hi, Wendy.” She giggled “You’re funny,” She said.
In spite of my gloom, I laughed too and walked on. Her musical giggle followed me.
"Come again, Mr. P," she called, "We'll have another happy day."
The next few days consisted of a group of unruly Boy Scouts, PTA meetings, and an ailing mother. The sun was shining as I took my hands out of the dishwater. I need a sandpiper, I said to myself, gathering up my coat.
The ever-changing balm of the seashore awaited me. The breeze was chilly but I strode along, trying to recapture the serenity I needed.
"Hello, Mr. P," she said. "Do you want to play?" What did you have in mind?” I asked, with a twinge of annoyance "I don't know,” you say. “How about charades?” I asked sarcastically. The tinkling laughter burst forth again. “I don’t know what that is.” “Then let’s just walk.”
Looking at her, I noticed the delicate fairness of her face. “Where do you live?” I asked. “Over there.” She pointed toward a row of summer cottages. Strange, I thought, in winter.
"Where do you go to school?" “I don’t go to school. Mommy says we’re on vacation.
She chattered little girl talk as we strolled up the beach, but my mind was on other things. When I left for home, Wendy said it had been a happy day. Feeling surprisingly better, I smiled at her and agreed.
Three weeks later, I rushed to my beach in a state of near panic. I was in no mood to even greet Wendy. I thought I saw her mother on the porch & felt like demanding she keep her child at home.
"Look, if you don't mind," I said crossly when Wendy caught up with me, "I'd rather be alone today.” She seemed unusually pale & out of breath. “Why?” she asked.
I turned to her and shouted, "Because my mother died!" and thought, My God, why was I saying this to a little child? “Oh,” she said quietly, “then this is a bad day.”
"Yes," I said, "and yesterday and the day before and -- oh, go away!" “Did it hurt?” she inquired. “Did what hurt?” I was exasperated with her, with myself. “When she died?”
"Of course it hurt!" I snapped, misunderstanding, wrapped up in myself. I strode off.
A month or so after that, when I next went to the beach, she wasn't there. Feeling guilty, ashamed, & admitting to myself I missed her, I went up to the cottage after my walk & knocked at the door. A drawn looking young woman with honey-colored hair opened the door.
"Hello," I said, "I'm Robert Peterson.. I missed your little girl today & wondered where she was.”
"Oh yes, Mr.. Peterson, please come in. Wendy spoke of you so much. I’m afraid I allowed her to bother you. If she was a nuisance, please, accept my apologies.”
"Not at all! She's a delightful child." I said, suddenly realizing that I meant what I had just said. “Wendy died last week, Mr. Peterson. She had leukemia. Maybe she didn’t tell you.” Struck dumb, I groped for a chair. I had to catch my breath.
"She loved this beach, so when she asked to come, we couldn't say no. She seemed so much better here & had a lot of what she called happy days. But the last few weeks, she declined rapidly…” Her voice faltered, “She left something for you, if only I can find it. Could you wait a moment while I look?”
I nodded stupidly, my mind racing for something to say to this lovely young woman. She handed me a smeared envelope with “Mr. P” printed in bold childish letters. Inside was a drawing in bright crayon hues ---a yellow beach, a blue sea, & a brown bird. Underneath was carefully printed: A SANDPIPER TO BRING YOU JOY.
Tears welled up in my eyes, and a heart that had almost forgotten to love opened wide. I took Wendy’s mother in my arms. “I’m so sorry, I’m so sorry, I’m so sorry,” I uttered over & over, & we wept together. The precious little picture is framed now & hangs in my study. Six words --- one for each year of her life --- that speak to me of harmony, courage, & understanding love.
A gift from a child with sea blue eyes and hair the color of sand --- who taught me the gift of love.
NOTE: This is a true story sent out by Robert Peterson. It happened over 20 years ago & the incident changed his life forever. It serves as a reminder to all of us that we need to take time to enjoy living & life & each other. The price of hating other human beings is loving oneself less.
Life is so complicated with the hustle and bustle of everyday traumas can make us lose focus about what is truly important or what is only a momentary setback or crisis.
This week, be sure to give your loved ones an extra hug, and by all means, take a moment --- even if it is only ten seconds, to stop & smell the roses. This comes from someone’s heart, & is read by many & now I share it with you. Everything that happens to us happens for a reason. Never brush aside anyone as insignificant. Who knows what they can teach us.
May you, too, find your Sandpiper!
Friday, July 16, 2010
When I woke up this morning, I grabbed my iPhone, turned off the beeping alarm, and immediately updated my Facebook status. On the way to school I scrolled through my friends’ status updates, and again updated mine with the song that was playing on my iPod. At lunch, I took a picture of me and my friends and uploaded it via the Facebook utility that I downloaded from the app store. I’m lying in bed now with my laptop and chatting with my BFF (best friend forever) in Tennessee. Status update: “Good night all. I’ll text you in the morning.” Such is the day of a typical American young person.
Facebook has taken the cyber world by storm and our social lives forever in a different direction. Compete.com ranked Facebook as the most used social network in the world. According to Facebook’s own stats page, there are currently more than 350 million active users and 65 million people are accessing Facebook through their phones/mobile devices. They say the average user has 130 Facebook friends and spends more than 55 minutes a day on their site.
Facebook has opened doors of communication that didn’t exist in the past. It has united old friends, helped to keep families connected, and openly provided opportunities to teach the Gospel. Unfortunately, however, not everything that Facebook has brought us is good. In many ways Facebook is like a window into one’s soul. It allows others to see his hobbies and habits. They can see everything from pictures of his vacation to his favorite songs and websites. Truly, Facebook reveals more about us than we might at first realize. Sadly, the Facebook pages of some Christians bring shame on themselves and the Lord’s church.
Are there Biblical principles that should govern our use of Facebook and similar sites? Certainly! In Titus 2:3, Paul tells us that the way Christian women behave themselves could result in the Word of God being blasphemed. In First Timothy 6:1, he says that the way Christian servants behave toward their masters could result in people blaspheming the name of God. These and other passages teach us the way we conduct ourselves in our daily social affairs could result in reproach being brought upon the body of Christ. So what does this have to do with Facebook? Facebook is a “social tool,” and the way I conduct myself on that particular forum could help or hurt the cause of Christ.
What if Jesus were on Facebook? We know that such is not possible, but for the sake of illustration, pretend. What would you do? Would you have to look through your pictures to be sure you don’t have any immodest pictures of yourself or anything tasteless? Would you need to make sure you don’t have any pictures taken in inappropriate places? Would you go back over your postings to be sure you haven’t said anything crude or inappropriate? Would you scan through your list of favorite movies and music, and perhaps delete a few of them before you let Jesus on your site? What about the games you play? Quizzes you take? Is there anything there that would make you stop and say to yourself, “I think I’ll delete that before I let Jesus on my site?” If the answer is Yes to any of those questions, then why not go ahead and take it off now? The fact of the matter is, the Lord does look at our Facebook pages! He sees everything we post on Facebook (and everywhere else for that matter). Proverbs
There’s another part of this, even beyond the fact that God is watching me on Facebook, and that is that other people are watching me. Why does that matter? It matters because what they see on my Facebook site affects what they think about me, the church and Christianity. What if I have my “religious preference” listed as “church of Christ,” and then I have pictures posted of me at a nightclub or dancing or at the beach or some other place dressed immodestly or with an alcoholic beverage? What if my status update has the lyrics to the latest Lady Gaga song? Or maybe I’m venting and running someone else down with a generally ugly demeanor? We could give dozens of examples, but the question is, “What effect is it going to have on my non-Christian friend (or Christian for that matter) who looks at my site?” He might say to himself, “I do better than that and I don’t even pretend to be a Christian!” Or he might just think, “What a hypocrite!” Please don’t misunderstand our point. We’re not suggesting that you simply need to take these inappropriate things off Facebook. We’re not suggesting that you need to hide them better. We are not suggesting that you go to nightclubs (or anything else you say or do), but do a better job of keeping it a secret. Posting these things on Facebook for all the world to see makes it worse, because when a Christian advertises immorality, he hurts the church. What we’re suggesting is that you root these things out of your life and heart altogether (cf. Matt. 5:8; Phil. 4:8; 2 Tim. 2:22).
Sometimes Christians ask, “What do I do if I see another Christian posting something inappropriate on Facebook?” Perhaps I have seen a brother or sister in Christ use foul language in his/her status update, or maybe he has posted a picture of himself downing a Budweiser. What do I do? Jesus told his disciples to be “wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” In other words, use wisdom and be kind. Second, the same Bible principles that apply elsewhere apply here. Galatians 6:1 discusses the fact that those who are spiritual should assist a brother who is overtaken in a sin. There may come a time, when out of love for my brother and concern for the church, I may need to address something a fellow Christian has posted on Facebook. Maybe I need to call him on the phone, or send him a private message. Facebook does not exempt us from our Christian duties.
What if we spent as much time each day in Bible study as we do on Facebook? The average person spends 55 minutes a day (nearly an hour) on Facebook. For some, it’s obviously a
lot more. What would your spiritual life be like if you spent that much time in Bible study and prayer?
Here’s a question? Are you a daily user of Facebook but you’ve told yourself you’re too busy to study your Bible every day? The answer may make you stop and think about your priorities. Jesus said, “but seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matt. 6:33).
The entire article can be viewed at http://www.seektheoldpaths.com/stop.htm
Copied
Facebook has taken the cyber world by storm and our social lives forever in a different direction. Compete.com ranked Facebook as the most used social network in the world. According to Facebook’s own stats page, there are currently more than 350 million active users and 65 million people are accessing Facebook through their phones/mobile devices. They say the average user has 130 Facebook friends and spends more than 55 minutes a day on their site.
Facebook has opened doors of communication that didn’t exist in the past. It has united old friends, helped to keep families connected, and openly provided opportunities to teach the Gospel. Unfortunately, however, not everything that Facebook has brought us is good. In many ways Facebook is like a window into one’s soul. It allows others to see his hobbies and habits. They can see everything from pictures of his vacation to his favorite songs and websites. Truly, Facebook reveals more about us than we might at first realize. Sadly, the Facebook pages of some Christians bring shame on themselves and the Lord’s church.
Are there Biblical principles that should govern our use of Facebook and similar sites? Certainly! In Titus 2:3, Paul tells us that the way Christian women behave themselves could result in the Word of God being blasphemed. In First Timothy 6:1, he says that the way Christian servants behave toward their masters could result in people blaspheming the name of God. These and other passages teach us the way we conduct ourselves in our daily social affairs could result in reproach being brought upon the body of Christ. So what does this have to do with Facebook? Facebook is a “social tool,” and the way I conduct myself on that particular forum could help or hurt the cause of Christ.
What if Jesus were on Facebook? We know that such is not possible, but for the sake of illustration, pretend. What would you do? Would you have to look through your pictures to be sure you don’t have any immodest pictures of yourself or anything tasteless? Would you need to make sure you don’t have any pictures taken in inappropriate places? Would you go back over your postings to be sure you haven’t said anything crude or inappropriate? Would you scan through your list of favorite movies and music, and perhaps delete a few of them before you let Jesus on your site? What about the games you play? Quizzes you take? Is there anything there that would make you stop and say to yourself, “I think I’ll delete that before I let Jesus on my site?” If the answer is Yes to any of those questions, then why not go ahead and take it off now? The fact of the matter is, the Lord does look at our Facebook pages! He sees everything we post on Facebook (and everywhere else for that matter). Proverbs
There’s another part of this, even beyond the fact that God is watching me on Facebook, and that is that other people are watching me. Why does that matter? It matters because what they see on my Facebook site affects what they think about me, the church and Christianity. What if I have my “religious preference” listed as “church of Christ,” and then I have pictures posted of me at a nightclub or dancing or at the beach or some other place dressed immodestly or with an alcoholic beverage? What if my status update has the lyrics to the latest Lady Gaga song? Or maybe I’m venting and running someone else down with a generally ugly demeanor? We could give dozens of examples, but the question is, “What effect is it going to have on my non-Christian friend (or Christian for that matter) who looks at my site?” He might say to himself, “I do better than that and I don’t even pretend to be a Christian!” Or he might just think, “What a hypocrite!” Please don’t misunderstand our point. We’re not suggesting that you simply need to take these inappropriate things off Facebook. We’re not suggesting that you need to hide them better. We are not suggesting that you go to nightclubs (or anything else you say or do), but do a better job of keeping it a secret. Posting these things on Facebook for all the world to see makes it worse, because when a Christian advertises immorality, he hurts the church. What we’re suggesting is that you root these things out of your life and heart altogether (cf. Matt. 5:8; Phil. 4:8; 2 Tim. 2:22).
Sometimes Christians ask, “What do I do if I see another Christian posting something inappropriate on Facebook?” Perhaps I have seen a brother or sister in Christ use foul language in his/her status update, or maybe he has posted a picture of himself downing a Budweiser. What do I do? Jesus told his disciples to be “wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” In other words, use wisdom and be kind. Second, the same Bible principles that apply elsewhere apply here. Galatians 6:1 discusses the fact that those who are spiritual should assist a brother who is overtaken in a sin. There may come a time, when out of love for my brother and concern for the church, I may need to address something a fellow Christian has posted on Facebook. Maybe I need to call him on the phone, or send him a private message. Facebook does not exempt us from our Christian duties.
What if we spent as much time each day in Bible study as we do on Facebook? The average person spends 55 minutes a day (nearly an hour) on Facebook. For some, it’s obviously a
lot more. What would your spiritual life be like if you spent that much time in Bible study and prayer?
Here’s a question? Are you a daily user of Facebook but you’ve told yourself you’re too busy to study your Bible every day? The answer may make you stop and think about your priorities. Jesus said, “but seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matt. 6:33).
The entire article can be viewed at http://www.seektheoldpaths.com/stop.htm
Copied
Thursday, July 15, 2010
BP
Why does the US government appear to be in the pocket of BP?
The New York Times recently reported that:
Before the spill, BP had maintained a low profile in Washington relative to other companies, with its lobbying work and political contributions usually trailing other oil-and-gas giants like Exxon Mobil, Chevron and Conoco Phillips. Unlike many other companies with federal interests, BP kept most of its lobbying work in-house, although it had retained several prominent Washington lobbyists, including Ken Duberstein and Tony Podesta, to make its case on issues including tax incentives for gas production and climate control regulations.
A little clout can go a long way, however, and Timothy Carney, a conservative columnist at the Washington Examiner, recently argued that BP has been “a close friend of big government whenever it serves the company’s bottom line.”
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The New York Times recently reported that:
Before the spill, BP had maintained a low profile in Washington relative to other companies, with its lobbying work and political contributions usually trailing other oil-and-gas giants like Exxon Mobil, Chevron and Conoco Phillips. Unlike many other companies with federal interests, BP kept most of its lobbying work in-house, although it had retained several prominent Washington lobbyists, including Ken Duberstein and Tony Podesta, to make its case on issues including tax incentives for gas production and climate control regulations.
A little clout can go a long way, however, and Timothy Carney, a conservative columnist at the Washington Examiner, recently argued that BP has been “a close friend of big government whenever it serves the company’s bottom line.”
Copied
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Marriage
No less than three of the Ten Commandments—the fifth, seventh, and tenth—directly involve strengthening marriages and families and preserving their unity and sacredness. Of course, all of God's commands, if followed, will work to strengthen man's relationship with God and fellow man, but these three are aimed directly at securing these sacred bonds. When considering any of God's commands, we find that they are broad in scope and ordained, not just to regulate our physical relationships, but also our spiritual one with Christ.
The fifth commandment speaks directly to parents and children, laying the foundation of responsibility that each has to the other. When children submit to their parents, and parents provide a loving environment to nurture their children in lawful living, the children and society directly benefit from this command. Home government is the cornerstone of national government, and when the home is right, the social structure follows. When marriage and family unity are held in high esteem and a fear of violating God's standards is instilled, sin can be held in check. Hebrews 12:11 declares, "Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."
The seventh commandment—forbidding adultery, unfaithfulness by either spouse—stands against anyone who would defile the sanctity of the marriage covenant through sexual sins. Adultery is probably the most dishonest act against the binding contract of the marriage relationship; it is a betrayal of a most sacred trust. Not only is it a sin against one's companion, but as Paul teaches in I Corinthians 6:18, it is a sin against one's own flesh. It has destroyed many marriages and families. A marriage can stand against many adversities from without, but this sin destroys it from within, and few, if any, marriages can truly recover from such infidelity.
Jesus says in Matthew 5:28 that adultery begins in the heart. It is more than an outward action, but a lust that comes from within. Christ teaches us how broad the law is, and sexual acts outside of the marriage covenant—even just the desire for them—breaks this command. In other words, if the desire is there, yet only lack of opportunity has kept a person from this sin, the law has still been broken.
The tenth commandment—"You shall not covet your neighbor's wife" (Deuteronomy 5:21)—is likely a precursor for warnings against many other sins. It defends against anyone who would come between a man and his wife, and like the seventh, its breaking also begins in the heart. Unlike the seventh commandment, which looks to protect the marriage from within, in the tenth commandment God protects it from without.
Strong marriages can stand up to outside pressures of this sort, but weak marriages that are battling other issues may not. How many marriages have been defiled or destroyed by the coveting of another cannot be known, but since God included it in the Ten Commandments, its potential harm against the sacred bond of marriage must be high.
When he coveted Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, King David assaulted the marriage covenant, and disaster soon followed. Breaking this commandment led to adultery and then to murder. In our society today, similar lusts are leaving destroyed families in their wake.
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The fifth commandment speaks directly to parents and children, laying the foundation of responsibility that each has to the other. When children submit to their parents, and parents provide a loving environment to nurture their children in lawful living, the children and society directly benefit from this command. Home government is the cornerstone of national government, and when the home is right, the social structure follows. When marriage and family unity are held in high esteem and a fear of violating God's standards is instilled, sin can be held in check. Hebrews 12:11 declares, "Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."
The seventh commandment—forbidding adultery, unfaithfulness by either spouse—stands against anyone who would defile the sanctity of the marriage covenant through sexual sins. Adultery is probably the most dishonest act against the binding contract of the marriage relationship; it is a betrayal of a most sacred trust. Not only is it a sin against one's companion, but as Paul teaches in I Corinthians 6:18, it is a sin against one's own flesh. It has destroyed many marriages and families. A marriage can stand against many adversities from without, but this sin destroys it from within, and few, if any, marriages can truly recover from such infidelity.
Jesus says in Matthew 5:28 that adultery begins in the heart. It is more than an outward action, but a lust that comes from within. Christ teaches us how broad the law is, and sexual acts outside of the marriage covenant—even just the desire for them—breaks this command. In other words, if the desire is there, yet only lack of opportunity has kept a person from this sin, the law has still been broken.
The tenth commandment—"You shall not covet your neighbor's wife" (Deuteronomy 5:21)—is likely a precursor for warnings against many other sins. It defends against anyone who would come between a man and his wife, and like the seventh, its breaking also begins in the heart. Unlike the seventh commandment, which looks to protect the marriage from within, in the tenth commandment God protects it from without.
Strong marriages can stand up to outside pressures of this sort, but weak marriages that are battling other issues may not. How many marriages have been defiled or destroyed by the coveting of another cannot be known, but since God included it in the Ten Commandments, its potential harm against the sacred bond of marriage must be high.
When he coveted Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, King David assaulted the marriage covenant, and disaster soon followed. Breaking this commandment led to adultery and then to murder. In our society today, similar lusts are leaving destroyed families in their wake.
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Monday, July 12, 2010
Unknown Author
You can know all the scriptures, have Bibles in your reach,
But when push comes to shove, do you practice what you preach?
Anyone can go to church and collapse upon the floor,
But when Judgment Day comes, will you be at Heaven's door?
You can have a big fit and say the Holy ghost passed through,
But is that really reflected in all the things you do?
You can yell far and wide proclaiming your love for Christ,
But what have you given Him, when for you He gave his life?
You can lecture others about the wrong things they do,
But before you look at others, you need to look at you.
You can damn the sinners and tell them they're headed south,
But what have you done lately besides just run your mouth?
You call yourself a Christian, and spend your days at church,
But while you're praising God, are you going about His work?
You can boast of good deeds to show us the spirit's within,
But why show it to us? You should be showing it to Him!
You can memorize the Bible, know it from front to back,
But don't use it to regulate others, regulate how YOU act!
Take a good look at yourself, not at what others do,
Because when He comes to get his children....
Will He be coming for you too?
But when push comes to shove, do you practice what you preach?
Anyone can go to church and collapse upon the floor,
But when Judgment Day comes, will you be at Heaven's door?
You can have a big fit and say the Holy ghost passed through,
But is that really reflected in all the things you do?
You can yell far and wide proclaiming your love for Christ,
But what have you given Him, when for you He gave his life?
You can lecture others about the wrong things they do,
But before you look at others, you need to look at you.
You can damn the sinners and tell them they're headed south,
But what have you done lately besides just run your mouth?
You call yourself a Christian, and spend your days at church,
But while you're praising God, are you going about His work?
You can boast of good deeds to show us the spirit's within,
But why show it to us? You should be showing it to Him!
You can memorize the Bible, know it from front to back,
But don't use it to regulate others, regulate how YOU act!
Take a good look at yourself, not at what others do,
Because when He comes to get his children....
Will He be coming for you too?
Saturday, July 10, 2010
I Pledge
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!
Friday, July 9, 2010
OJ
Overcoming jealousy is like changing any emotional reaction or behavior. It begins with awareness. Awareness allows you to see that the projected stories in your mind are not true. When you have this clarity you no longer react to the scenarios that your mind imagines. Jealousy and anger are emotional reactions to believing scenarios in your mind that are not true. By changing what you believe you change what your imagination is projecting and you can eliminate these destructive emotional reactions. Even when there is justification for the reaction, jealousy and anger are not beneficial ways to deal with the situation and get what we want.
Trying to change anger or jealousy once you are in the emotion is like trying to control a car skidding on ice. Your ability to handle the situation is greatly improved if you can steer clear of the hazard before we get there. This means addressing the beliefs that trigger jealousy instead of attempting to control your emotions.
To permanently dissolve the emotions such as anger and jealousy in relationships means changing the core beliefs of insecurity and mental projections of what your partner is doing.
The steps to permanently end jealous reactions are:
1) Recovering personal power so that you can get control of your emotions and refrain from the reactive behavior.
2) Shift your point of view so that you can step back from the story in your mind. This will give you a gap of time in which to refrain from a jealous or angry reaction and do something else.
3) Identify the core beliefs that trigger the emotional reaction.
4) Become aware that the beliefs in your mind are not true. This is different than “knowing” intellectually that the stories are not true.
5) Develop control over your attention so you can consciously choose what story plays in your mind and what emotions you feel.
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Trying to change anger or jealousy once you are in the emotion is like trying to control a car skidding on ice. Your ability to handle the situation is greatly improved if you can steer clear of the hazard before we get there. This means addressing the beliefs that trigger jealousy instead of attempting to control your emotions.
To permanently dissolve the emotions such as anger and jealousy in relationships means changing the core beliefs of insecurity and mental projections of what your partner is doing.
The steps to permanently end jealous reactions are:
1) Recovering personal power so that you can get control of your emotions and refrain from the reactive behavior.
2) Shift your point of view so that you can step back from the story in your mind. This will give you a gap of time in which to refrain from a jealous or angry reaction and do something else.
3) Identify the core beliefs that trigger the emotional reaction.
4) Become aware that the beliefs in your mind are not true. This is different than “knowing” intellectually that the stories are not true.
5) Develop control over your attention so you can consciously choose what story plays in your mind and what emotions you feel.
Copied
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