Musings by Robert

CROUCHING SIN

2012-02-25T17:27:00.003-08:00

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Genesis 4:7 "If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it.

"Proverbs 5:18-23
Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth.
As a loving hind and a graceful doe, Let her breasts satisfy you at all times; Be exhilarated always with her love. For why should you, my son, be exhilarated with an adulteress and embrace the bosom of a foreigner? For the ways of a man are before the eyes of the LORD, and He watches all his paths. His own iniquities will capture the wicked, and he will be held with the cords of his sin. He will die for lack of instruction, and in the greatness of his folly he will go astray.

The popularity of adultery, fornication and deviant sexual sins has almost matched the time of the Roman Empire and that of Sodom and Gomorrah.

For the unsaved it just compounds and adds to the difficulty in finding their way to Christ. The desire for emotional and sexual fulfillment is stimulated by both natural and artificial means found in books, magazines, movies, television, and now on the Internet plus the brag- a-dociousness of peers.

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The picture in Genesis 4:7 is you and I standing at the door of decision when opened you and I are going to be overpowered by the force of sin. Once the door is opened we have already sinned in our heart even before any act is consummated. Whoa !! Bolt that door shut !!

The Christian has no excuse for committing these sins for; one the scriptures forbid it, two the Holy Spirit convicts you at the point of considering it, and three you know it is wrong.

One scripture that should ever be you mind is; John 14:17 That is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be IN you.

As a Christian the Spirit of GOD is “in” you. No matter what the sin may be HE is a party to it. If you fornicate - - HE is in you while you fornicate.

To me this is a scary thought and yet many Christians ignore this fact and proceed to do what they know is wrong. Don’t lose this thought; if I sin the Holy Spirit is in me as I do it whether it is lying, cheating, stealing or any other sin.

Rob Harbison preached a workman like sermon on fornication for those interested. Http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermons/moral-issues-fornication-rob-harbison-sermon-on-adultery-36096.asp

This post is Linked with Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays

INEQUITY IN THE KINGDOM ??

2012-02-24T00:37:00.001-08:00

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“All animals are equal but some animals are more equal than others,” declared the revised commandment of the animals in Orwell’s Animal Farm.

In America we aspire to the thinking that all men are created equal. While this is a lofty thought, there is an unrealized reality even within the kingdom of GOD.

Where do you start? Let’s begin with physical stature. Now are all men and women created equal? If you said yes you are ready for the Looney bin. If not equal physically then it must be intelligence where all are intelligently equal. A quick check of school records of grades might disagree on that point especially on the “SAT” scores.

Moving on and looking at social status. I don’t get many invitations to the White House functions or to any uppity social functions. Society pigeon holes us into classes. Even in school there was a great distinction among the students. Some were looked down upon and not accepted based on personal preferences.

But finally we come to the place where we all attain equality, “The church.”

Some churches have artificially tried to make this equality a reality, but it is a strained effort for some just don’t fit in, and further more they don’t want to.

Romans 12, and 1Corinthians 12 try to bridge this anomaly that we see within our brotherhood, but even there we find that there are the weaker brothers. Honor is lavished upon some to a greater degree than others, and it is something we all have participated in doing, and are guilty of it.

Skipping over other examples we come to our final rewards and even there we will experience a difference in the rewards earned; Revelations 22:12 "Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done.

All of the inequities of life will reflect upon our ability to earn a greater reward in heaven.

Christians are being slaughtered around the world just because of where they were born and their ethnicity, while here in America we do not suffer that fate this is an iniquitous position some are placed in.

If the above premises are anywhere near being true, then we are living in a world that isn’t fair, and we shouldn't expect it to be.

The age old question is what should we do? The answer is accept the world as it is for it isn’t going to change.

Accept yourself and refuse to accept the label the world has placed upon you. Constantly reinvent yourself through faith in yourself. It is okay to have your head in the clouds as long as you keep your feet on the ground.

Find your potential and meet that standard for that will the best you can be. To do less will have wasted your greatness.

While we all have a common salvation it is obvious that there is inequity therein for some receive greater benefits from being born again than others do.

Linked with Laura at Brag on God Friday

ALMOST Persuaded

2012-02-22T13:47:00.003-08:00

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There is a reoccurring theme we all experience during our lifetime and that is our list of “ALMOST.”

There are both positive and negative aspects to our almosts.

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The girl that almost married the wrong guy, and is happy she didn’t.

The guy almost didn’t buy that stock when it was cheap.

He almost was on the plane that crashed.

Retrospect is always looking back at things that could have been and both ruing and being joyous about a past event, most of which could have present day implications.

Eve may have looked backed and said, “I almost didn’t listen to that snake in the grass and eat that fruit.” Peter might have said when Jesus said, “Come follow me,” ‘I almost kept on fishing.‘

What ever the case may be we have to live with our decisions and at times they affect others also.

There is an old song I often would hear in the church I attended called, "Almost Persuaded." It was used as an altar call urging sinners to receive Jesus. I found the lyrics;

“Almost persuaded” now to believe;” Almost persuaded” Christ to receive;
Seems now some soul to say,” Go, Spirit, go Thy way,
Some more convenient day On Thee I'll call.”
“Almost persuaded,” come, come today; “Almost persuaded,” turn not away;
Jesus invites you here, Angels are lingering near
Prayers rise from hearts so dear; O wanderer, come!
“Almost persuaded,” harvest is past! “Almost persuaded,” doom comes at last!
“Almost” cannot avail; “Almost” is but to fail!
Sad, sad, that bitter wail —“Almost,” but lost!

I fear that many who we know will be in that almost group and they will have to say, " I almost was persuaded to become a Christian, almost but I didn’t."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGZG7BkyPd4

Linking up with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday
And with Jennifer at: God-Bumps and God-Incidences

WHY AM I ME?

2012-02-20T18:56:00.000-08:00

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Why am I me?

Starting way back to Adam and coming all the way down to my present; how did I turn out to be me?

Some search genealogies hoping to find some clue as to something in their past generations that would help in answering this puzzle thinking that knowing where I came from possibly might help me in my quest for my identity and personage.

It has been said that I basically am the product of all my experience and learning but if I had a different experience and learning would I be someone else?

Joe Finkle; “The theory that meshes best with science is that consciousness is an emergent phenomenon that stems from the biochemical processes in the brain. There need not be any inherent special thing about you. Each of us can only possibly be ourselves and each of us can ask this question equally.”

The above quote from Joe sounds like he has been reading “Questions without answers,” and other scientific novels.

How about this; The "You" of today is the product of your unique set of life experiences, which have generated your unique set of memories, values, morals, and ethics, as well as your unique character and personality.

Your only way of distinguishing yourself from the other people and your environment is the huge content of your memory. If for any reason the memory is paralyzed or lost, the consciousness disappears once again, and a new you appears. Again we ask if we had different experiences would we be a different person?

If we consider that we have changed as we have grown up starting as a babe we could say that it is a different me at each stage of development.

image courtesy photobucket

The intellectual changes along with sexual drives, physical development and psychological perceptions create my concept of who I am at a given period.

This thought begs a further question; “Am I who I think I am?”

If we start with an absolute which is Almighty God whose declaration was “I AM THAT I AM,” The words express absolute, and therefore unchanging and an Eternal Being. ACTS 17:28 for in Him we live and move and exist, as even some of your own poets have said, 'For we also are His children.’

We are HIS children, HE is our FATHER creator, and as such we are HIS children by generation. As Christians we are HIS children by generation and regeneration, and as such we have two identities.

Who I was before being saved and who I am after my new birth. The immediate issue for the newly born Christian is to understand this fact that while he has two identities he is to function only as the regenerated child of GOD.

2 Corinthians 5:17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

Any time we act unchristlike, we are doing despite to the Spirit of grace and are not being led by the Spirit as in Romans 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you.

In the flesh, meaning walking after the desires of the unregenerate man. We are not in the flesh yet we can walk after the desires of the flesh. So why am I me?

It is because I am a New Creation Man as stated in
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new.

Galatians .2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

As long as I keep this reality before me I will not fail to act like the new me.

Think about this; you have to have a fake ID in order to act unchristian for you are not that person any more.

It is only when we don’t know who we are, that we allow sin to dominate us.

This post is Linked with

Joan Davis Sharing His Beauty Monday
And with Shanda’s On your Heart Tuesday

SPOT REMOVER

2012-02-19T16:54:00.000-08:00

spot remover
image courtesy photobucket.com

If you want to get someone’s attention just mention a tip for getting stains out, and how to remove spots from clothes and carpets.

This is a problem we have to deal with often due to either our own or someone else’s carelessness.

There are literally hundreds of different kinds of stains and some are set to the point where they fall into the category of “Live with it.” This is especially disturbing when it is a new and expensive garment.

I like the information given in a “Quick and easy stain removal guide.”

“The following general procedures apply to nearly all stains. Fresh stains are much easier to remove than old ones, so take care of stains promptly.”

In the book of Ephesians the fifth chapter right in the middle of how to treat your wives Paul interjects the following verse;

Ephesians 5:27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

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The church is alluded to as the bride of Christ to whom He is espoused.

Ephesians 5:31-32 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

If you view this in the context of a young bridegroom taking a wife and behold she comes forth with a spotted and stained wedding dress, all wrinkled up with blemishes, and she expects him to be pleased with her.

Then consider the church, His body with the same imagery and the picture isn’t pretty.

Paul is trying to show forth the church as being chaste, and most desirable to Christ. And even though she has spots and wrinkles He has made provision for his church to be without spot or wrinkle, and expects us to use His cleansing remedy.

In Romans 7 Paul uses the analogy of marriage to illustrate two states of our being. He uses the law to represent us in an unsaved state (being married to the world) and then shows us in a saved condition whereby we are married to Christ.

Romans 7:4 Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.

So what is it to be; are you going to be the spotted, wrinkled, and blemished bride or the unspotted, fresh, young bride who keeps herself for Christ alone?

Remember; Fresh stains are much easier to remove than old ones, so take care of stains promptly.

Don’t ever go to bed in a spotted condition.

This post is linked to
Deidra’s Sunday Jump Tandem
And to: Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday

GOLD MINE IN THE SKY

2012-02-18T10:52:00.000-08:00

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The bad rap used on many Christians was that we are so "Heavenly minded that we're no earthly good."

I must confess that heaven is part of my reason for being a Christian just like Geheena is the reward for being a Non-Christian. I suspect that I have heaven more in the forefront of my mind than the Christ rejecters want to think about Geheena (hell in the common vernacular).

There are many songs about heaven and many more that allude to heaven. On the whole they are few in number that want to believe that this is all there is to existence for so many religions have popped up with a version an after life.

A song that alludes to a happy after life, “A Gold Mine in the Sky” was popular when I was a kid and was recorded by many singers. Pat Boone even sang it several years ago. Probably the most favorite of most people was Kate Smith’s rendition.

For those who have never heard it or those who want to hear it again click and listen;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd_wpwETqPI

This post has been linked to Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays

THINGS I DARE NOT DO

2012-02-16T13:40:00.000-08:00

First and foremost thing I dare not do is do despite to the Spirit of grace;

Hebrews 12:29 How much severer punishment do you think he will deserve who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has regarded as unclean the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has insulted the Spirit of grace?

I dare not partake of the elements of grace, the bread and wine in an unworthy manner or with spotted garments.

1 Corinthians 11:26-27 For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come. Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.

I dare not measure my self by other men because they are not my Lord of Lords.

2 Corinthians 10:12 Not that we dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who are commending themselves. But when they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding.

2 Corinthians 12:18 For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.

I dare not to create a GOD out of my imagination instead of the Word of GOD defining HIM.

I dare not become a mirror image of the world where no one can distinguish me from the people of the worldliness.

2 Corinthians 6:17 Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD. Don't touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you.

Revelations 18:4 Then I heard another voice from heaven say: "Come out of her, my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues;

I dare not walk in such a way to interrupt my fellowship with GOD.

John 1:3-7 what we have seen and heard we proclaim to you also, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. These things we write, so that our joy may be made complete. This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.

I dare not face GOD on the Day of Judgment being an unfaithful servant

Revelations 22:11 "Let the one who does wrong, still do wrong; and the one who is filthy, still be filthy; and let the one who is righteous, still practice righteousness; and the one who is holy, still keep himself holy.

There are many other things I dare not to do but that is another list.

This post is linked to Faith Barista Jam Thursdays

And with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday

LIL LUKE

2012-02-14T18:18:00.000-08:00

We had a couple of dogs already, a Blue Tick Hound and a Black Labrador.

While reading the want ads (a bad thing to do) I noticed that there was some pure bred Labs pups for sale. Reduced price, I told my wife, and she decided to go over to look at them, for we had some Labs in the past and still had one.

After some time she came back with this black puppy and was $150.00 dollars poorer. To me he looked like a Luke so that was the name given to him.

As it turned out Lukey was and is the most selfish dog we have ever had. Even as a young pup he would contest the other dogs for all their toys. He would hang on, and they couldn’t shake him loose. They would turn around and around and he would be sailing in the air hanging onto the toy but he refused to release the toy.

The other dogs finally have given up and just let him have whatever he wanted.

One thing about Lukey is that from the beginning he knew what/who he was; there was no confusion about his nature and the things that was natural to his species. There were a few things he had to learn about what was acceptable to us and for the most part he adjusted his behavior to please us.

Some of his habits had to change or let be droped off in order to be what we considered a good dog.

Lil Luke is a dog’s dog and the other dogs accept him as a dog, this is best illustrated when he approaches a tree, and all three of them do what dogs do on a tree. (Talk about togetherness).

Wouldn't it be great if all Christians were Christian's Christian in the same sense that Luke is a dog’s dog? Where everything we did was what Christians ought to do, and not do that which is contrary to their new nature.

As I muse (think) about this I conclude that I need to put this in a form that doesn’t confuse me but can be operational in my Christian walk.

Being simple minded I need to have things spelled out for me just “Thou shalt not” is a little too vague for me. Perhaps in my next blog I will have figured things out a little better (or maybe not).

In any case every time I see Lil Luke I’m reminded that he has it all together and for myself - - I need to work on some things.

This post is Linked to Shanda’s On your Heart Tuesday

MY PRESENT TO GOD

2012-02-13T17:47:00.000-08:00

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Romans 12:1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.

In the entire 12th chapter of Romans the Apostle Paul gives more than simple advice as it reaches to the level of “Must do things.” When I read this chapter it is like a one sided conversation where I want to get more information (argue with him) about some of the particulars he addresses therein.

The implications of the very first verse just blows me away for this is suppose to be a one time, on going and not a on and off proposition.

Then he follows that verse with Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Not only does GOD want my body HE wants my mind to conform to HIS way of thinking when everything worldly around me wants me to do otherwise. To do this I would have to spend a lot of time thinking about GOD and praying.

Hebrews 4:16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most (WHICH IS ALL THE TIME).

Part of what Paul is getting at is - - do I see myself, as this new creation person he speaks of in
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

It demands that I represent outwardly what I am inwardly, and the way to do this is to change the old mind set.

As I read this my old Mind set wonders if I couldn’t just slowly drift toward being a better Christian over the years without the trauma of any quick or immediate actions, but that doesn’t seem to be what Paul had in mind.

If it wasn’t enough that Paul was on my case along comes Peter and says; 1Peter 2:1-3, Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to Salvation, if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord.

1 Peter 2:9 But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God's very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.

The pressure to shape up and grow up in Christ is almost more than one can bear and yet HE gives grace to the humble. My tendency is to be an actor as Shakespeare said; all the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players: They have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts.

The reality is there is only one part for me to play and that is the reality of who I am, for it is whom Christ has made me to be. For me to be an actor is unacceptable on the stage of life there can be no pretence of being something I am not, for even though my influence is limited it does affect those I care for.

One of the hardest things about Christianity is accepting who we are in Christ and acting accordingly.

Since I am no longer a sinner and to sin is contrary to my new nature I guess I will have to learn to get along without “Some of my favorite things.”

Cussing and fussing all have to go

Living a life that’s white as snow

Acting like someone who has been saved

Learning the word and trying to behave

This post has been linked with Joan Davis Sharing His Beauty

WHATS IT’S WORTH TO YA?

2012-02-12T16:50:00.000-08:00

Luke 15:11-13 And He said, "A man had two sons. The younger of them said to his father, 'Father, give me the share of the Estate that falls to me.' So he divided his wealth between them. "And not many days later, the younger son gathered everything together and Went on a journey into a distant country, and there he squandered his estate With loose living.

Today there will be a child born with its whole future ahead of it.
GOD has been gracious and given it all of his inheritance within him,

His talents and abilities are within waiting to be developed to the max. It remains to be seen just what he will do with them. Whether he will persevere or will allow them to languish to a life of neglect.

As in the scriptures above we all have to answer; Are we going to waste our wealth with indolence or maximize our potential for success?

The price of dabbling with failings is too high and the results are debilitating.

Voltaire said; “Indolence is sweet, and its consequences bitter.” - -

As the soul’s journey begins its quest for salvation there are many distractions to hinder its progress. It may be riches or poverty, fame or infamy, indifference or pride.

Still every man must consider the question asked by Jesus; “What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?”

The answer is; I will give my allegiance to GOD and stay the course for then, and then only will I have maximized my life.

Enjoy this great song; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMPIKRjzxtM

This post is linked to some blogs you will enjoy traveling to !!

Deidra’s Sunday Jump Tandem
Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday use it on Monday !!

THE LAST STRAW

2012-02-11T11:36:00.000-08:00

Enough is Enough !!

You have heard it said: “This is the last straw, enough is enough, this is the end of the road,” and other similar words.

When a person comes to this point they are going to have to make some changes in the situation that they are in; or the circumstances are going to transform them in ways they don't want to be altered.

In GOD’S dealing with man, HE has reached the end of HIS patience many times and in order to maintain HIS character HE must do something about it.

This has been shown in His dealing with both Nations and individuals.

Because of the appearance of being involved or acceptance of deeds done by others there are times when you must distance yourself from people who are close to you, even though it might be your own family members. At times it requires an outright repudiation of their actions. So it was at the time of the flood in Noah’s day. A great distinction was made as to what GOD accepted and rejected.

Matthew 24:37 As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man when once again GOD will exercise his judgment upon the people of the earth.

God dealt harshly with the nation of Israel, and their enemies in times past. He did likewise with individual people when it became necessary. Israel was sent into captivity and until 1948 they didn’t have a homeland. Even now they are being challenged by all the Islamic nations in the Middle East.

Jonah’s disobedience escalated to the point where GOD said, “Enough,” and literally had to force him to preach HIS message to the Assyrians in Nineveh. Jonah was a man who had a sectarian spirit and a rebellious nature he missed the whole point of his being sent to Nineveh. He wanted GOD to destroy them but GOD had a different idea.

2nd Peter 3:9, "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."

When the Ninevites repented, GODS purpose had been accomplished, but Jonah couldn’t accept that.

In thinking about the premise set forth in this post, I can't escape the demands made upon me personally as a Christian believer. It would be well to say this is for someone else who needs it but I am as needful as everyone else.

The one thing that stood out while musing on this was “Don’t presume on GOD’S grace” for even with GOD “Enough is enough.”

Never forget; It isn't wise to push the envelope in your walk with GOD.

Just ask those who have experienced “The last straw treatment.”

This post is linked to:
Brag on God Friday with Laura
And Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays

NEIGHBORS

2012-02-09T13:58:00.000-08:00

NEIGHBORS

Neighbors are kind, I love them everyone.

We get along in sweet accord.

But when my soul needs manna from above,

Where could I go but to the lord

So goes the verse in “Where could I go but to the Lord.”

Over the years my neighbors have been good to me. I haven’t been able to please them all, all of the time but any cross-purposes were always minor and quickly resolved.

One way to have a good neighbor is to be a good neighbor yourself.

It is sometimes necessary to leave some people alone and just try to be amicable and let it go at that. Usually their problem is with someone else and you are just getting their overflow anger. If that is the case there isn’t much you can do about that since the issue isn’t with you to start with.

The Bible has a lot to say about neighbors not the least is Romans 12:18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.

This is a good one!
Proverbs 3:29 Do not plan evil against your neighbor, who dwells trustingly beside you.

And these scriptures are also excellent: Galatians 5:14 For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

James 2:8 If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well.

Mark 12:31 The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”

Shakespeare’s Hamlet has some of the best advice for us;

Neither a borrower nor a lender be,

For loan oft loses both itself and friend,

And borrowing dulls the edge of husbandry.

If you have good neighbors then you are blessed indeed and have much to thank GOD for.

Why don't you bless yourself and sing along.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqRO7DbK86g&feature=related

This post has been linked with these amazing sites - Do visit them!

Jennifer at: God-Bumps and God-Incidences
And with Michelle’s Thought Provoking Thursday

PRECIOUS JEWELS

2012-02-08T11:55:00.001-08:00

PRECIOUS JEWELS

Little children, little children,

Who love their Redeemer,

Are the jewels, precious jewels,

His loved and His own.

Like the stars of the morning,

His brightness adorning,

They shall shine in their beauty,

Bright gems for His crown.

This old song reminds us of the verse of scripture which expresses how GOD feels about children

Matthew 19:14 Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

This is one of the most succinct statements in all of scripture. It is so all encompassing that no one could argue against it.

Luke 17:2 It would be better to be thrown into the sea with a millstone hung around your neck than to cause one of these little ones to fall into sin.

This is one of those cautions in the scripture that doesn’t have an expiration date.

Psalms 127:3 Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward.

1 Samuel 1:26-28 And she said, Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the LORD. For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him: Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD.

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

Most parents have learned that it is in the first few years you must train your child, if you don’t take them to church and read the Bible to them and tell them the Bible stories when they are young you have missed your chance to direct their path.

Enjoy this great song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPfa54jKApc

Linking up with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday

A FEW LOVE QUOTES - Repost

2012-02-08T00:18:00.000-08:00

"The very idea that you could control a man's body was intoxicating; that you could make his head turn, follow your passing steps, that you could lean just so, or speak just so, or simply glance and toss your head, and he would be caught." (Talk about power)

“Love - a wildly misunderstood although highly desirable malfunction of the heart which weakens the brain, causes eyes to sparkle, cheeks to glow, blood pressure to rise and the lips to pucker.” (That’s so true)

“Love me when I least deserve it, because that's when I really need it.” (Okay.)

“You're playing with my heart and it's getting really lame. Decide what you want. The girl or the game?” (she really says it)

“He felt that his whole life was some kind of dream, and he sometimes wondered whose it was and whether they were enjoying it.” (Describes all old men)

“It's not what I feel about him; it's what I don't feel for anybody else.” (What girls have to settle for)

“In a perfect world, there would be no mirrors. Because every girl would have a perfect guy to tell her that she looks beautiful.” (Something guys need too)

“Dear Heart, I met a boy today. Prepare to shatter!” (Whoopee)

“Sometimes the girl has to be the one to step forward. When Prince Charming didn't come to Cinderella, she went to the palace and got him.“ (What P C means to a romantic girl)

“You're not even mine and I'm scared to lose you.” (Great imagination)

“Love doesn't hurt. If it hurts, it isn't love. If it hurts, he isn't worth it. The one person who is worth it won't let anything hurt you.” (Love without a little pain? Humm)

“I don't like missing you. But I love having you to miss.” (Sounds good)

“One day, all the memories, tears, and pain will go away - - Just like you did.” (I hope, I hope, I hope)

“Love sucks, love is great, love is like a mixed tape filled with everything you love and hate.” (The ins and out)

“You never truly love a person until the mere thought of you hurting that loved one is enough to break your own heart.” (Enough said)

(I invite you to make your own comments about the above quotes)

And this is one of the reasons I love the music of the fifties
Http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GLamMQ3x6o&feature=related

This post has been linked to One Word Carnival. The Word this week is Romance

BE CAREFUL TO BAPTIZE?

2012-02-06T11:30:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket

Baptizing someone by some standards is a rite whereby the one baptized is cleansed, made fit and becomes a part of a Christian group.

Baptism identifies one with Christ as sanctified and holy. Being buried with Him in baptism associates a believer with Christ. It is a testimony to the world.

As a further extension of this rite there have been rituals of blessing animals, fishing fleets and in some cases, houses which in my view may be pushing the envelope too far.

In any case it is an act where something or somebody is considered to be consecrated to GOD for service. There has been an attempt to associate a myriad of things with the Christian faith and be made part of it.

Things that they wish to fall under the Christian umbrella they “Baptize” them in Jesus name in an attempt to give them some spiritual credence.

Some of the lesser items are $25.00 “Jesus Saves” tee shirts and $5.00 “Virgin Mary and baby Jesus decals.” Or perhaps you need a pair of shoelaces imprinted with the slogans "Jesus makes me happy" or "Jesus loves you."

Bumpers stickers are great especially when you cut somebody off in traffic and your bumper sticker says “Christians aren’t perfect only forgiven,” that will win many to Christ.

One of the more blatant attempts is to try to baptize Greed and call it GOD’S prosperity and at the same time the extollers of this heresy are being enriched by preaching their message, one by the way Paul never discovered even though they quote him often.

The attempt to baptize slave music (?) and use it to extol the virtues of Christ is another example of disrespect in worship. It is a “Look at me performance” in disguise as lifting up Jesus.

This blurring of crossing the line allows everything but the vilest of conduct and is accepted by sustainable groups of confessing Christians.

How about baptizing lust and calling it love? No matter how you try to Christianize it - - lust just isn’t love. It may work wonders in the bedroom but won’t sustain a marriage during the difficult times of stress. Desire for ones mate is a must for a happy marriage, and is a long term proposition, for it isn’t only for sexual intimacy and home cooked meals.

So what is your preference; how about some Rose of Sharon postcards or a 1Timothy 4:12 tote bag, and don’t forget the “Seek his will” mouse pad.

"Your word I have hidden in my heart that I might not sin against You" (Psalm 119:11).

"Let not mercy and truth forsake you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart, and so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths" (Proverbs 3:3-6).

I must confess you will find some plaques on my walls with verses on them but if I didn’t have them in my heart they would only be an irritant not a blessing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ii8SNOisvUM

This post has been linked with Joan Davis Sharing His Beauty

Drawing Near

2012-02-04T16:02:00.000-08:00

Awhile back, I was sitting around doing nothing and actually just being bored. I didn't want to listen to bad news on the TV. So there I sat. All at once I thought maybe I should read my Bible for awhile. So I found my Bible and opened it, and immediately saw the verse in James 5:8 which says; “Draw near to GOD and He will draw near unto you."

A similar verse I found in 2 Chronicles 15:2; “The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you;”

And then I opened my Bible again and saw Hebrews 4:16; “Let us come boldly to the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in the time of need.”

I thought is this just a happenstance or perhaps it is divine direction. I mused on this for awhile, and came to the conclusion that I'll just go up to the throne room and see what happens.

By now my mind was in fast mode, I thought, I should take one more look at James 4:8. This time a closer observation revealed a second step which is; “Cleanse your hands you sinners and purify your hearts, you double minded.” Now I didn't think that applied to me but just in case I asked the LORD to forgive any wrong I might have done.

Having prepared myself, I was ready to enter the throne room and once there I thought what should I do now? So I began to bless the Lord and praise Him but every thing was quiet. I didn't know what else to do so I continued to worship.

After some time I was beginning to get nervous when all at once I heard this awesome voice, it wasn't the loudness of it - - but the sound of absolute authority. When I got over my fright I heard the voice saying; “What do you want?” After some time I found myself saying, “Oh nothing, I wanted to hang out here for awhile.” The voice then said, “AND” I had never heard the word “AND” said exactly like that.

I thought I had better answer, but what should I say? Being somewhat of a Wise Guy, I thought, “And - - what?” Well I decided not to say that. Instead I said: “To draw near so you so you would also draw near to me.” I thought that was a good answer! The voice spoke again and said “AND.” By now I began to freak out from that word, “AND.” It was scaring me. I tried once again, mustering enough courage to say, “I'm here to get some grace and mercy.” All the time I was thinking to myself please don't say, "AND" again. This prayer was answered; when the LORD spoke again saying, “Was there anything else?” Quickly I said, now that you mention it there is a couple of things I could use some help on - - - !

Not all these events happened as portrayed, but when you need to access GODS grace there are some things the born-again believer must keep in mind. First, you are going to address your awesome GOD and give Him the respect that is due Him. When you draw near Him He will draw near to you but chances are he will give you the same respect back to you that you give to Him.

There are several other things I could list for you, but you will need to learn them for yourself. This is a maturing process needed for each individual to personally go through.

This post is linked with Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays

SHUT UP FOOL

2012-02-03T15:27:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

“Shut up fool,” is the message that Christians are being fed at every turn.

The Christian kids are not allowed to have a Biblical opinion unless they keep it to themselves.

Young women are considered freaks and are ostracized unless they are sperm dumps at a young age.

Young men are looked upon with disdain if they don’t hump everything in sight.

This is the message being spread abroad in our educational system, in magazines, books, movies and TV, and some Christians are dumb enough to fall for it.

Ministers are told to “Shut up fool” when it comes to certain subjects for they are not acceptable to these hell bound people of sin.

Entire denominations have kowtowed to these objections regardless of plain scriptural teaching against such conduct.

What an opportunity to shine forth in this world of darkness so let your light shine. It is time to wear the label of “Fool” proudly because we are fools for Jesus or in other words their characterizations have no meaning to us they are only a pitiful attempt to bring us down to their level.

Matthew 5:37 Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.

Never before has this scripture had a greater meaning for we are not falling for the wiles of you know who.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FCgc6Paj2c

This post has been linked to Laura’s, Brag on God Friday

DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE WORD OF GOD

2012-02-02T15:56:00.000-08:00

Matthew 4:4 Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.

This was in response to Satan’s taunting Jesus saying “If you are the son of GOD then turn these stones into bread.” When Jesus said “Man shall not live by bread alone” he was quoting from Deuteronomy 8:3.

Jesus as a boy, instead of joining the homeward bound caravan, stayed at the temple and was having a question and answer time with the teachers of the Old Testament

Luke 2:47 And all who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and His answers.

What we can take from this is; Jesus knew the word of GOD and when it came time for the temptation of Satan he was prepared, and just quoted the Word Of GOD to him.

Isaiah 55:11 So will My word be which goes forth from My mouth; It will not return to Me empty, Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it.

The word of GOD has power within it and when it meets faith it will accomplish what it was sent forth to do.

image courtesy photobucket

There were two men that were broke and hungry, one of which knew something of the Bible though he was not a Christian. He convinced the other one to go down to a busy corner, and he started to give forth the words of the Bible. He carried the pretence further and gave an altar call like he had seen preachers do. There were some people who stepped forward and were saved that evening. The two men had passed a hat around and collected some money and off they went on their way laughing about how they had pulled it off.

The fact was that God’s Word went forth regardless and it did not return void!

Perhaps this explains how unfaithful ministers seemingly get results even though they are not walking the way they should. It is the Word that when sent forth does not return to GOD without results.

Jesus knew the written Word and could without any hesitation declared “It is written” and he knew the power that resided within it. It is a must for every Christian to know for themselves the written word so in every situation they can say with Jesus; “It is written."

Psalms 119:11 I have stored up your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

You might enjoy this song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SLHWFpSlq4

This post has been linked to Michelle’s Thought Provoking Thursday
And with Iris, Hostess for February at: Thankful Thursdays

DON’T PLAY WITH THE SNAKE

2012-02-01T17:52:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket

When GOD placed Adam and Eve in the garden perhaps HE should have told them, “Don’t play with the snake.”

It is obvious that they developed a friendly relationship with the snake, and they trusted him to do them no harm.

From the time that Adam and Eve were deceived, mankind has been deception challenged or prone to it. You only have to look at the relationships men and women have gotten into which resulted in heartaches and misery. The root of this deception is from the very core of evil himself, Satan.

John 8:44 "Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it."

Just as the serpent yielded himself to Satan so also do the deceivers of today give themselves to him for Satans purposes. One paradoxical thing is that those who take advantage of people in a deceitful way are victims of Satan themselves for they have been also been deceived. They are snared and cannot seem to free themselves from his grasp.

In today’s world “The Snake” comes to us in many forms. It may be shady business dealings, illicit affairs, giving false impressions or whatever the case may be. Behind it is the same entity that deceived Adam and Eve.

Paul gives some snake proof actions in Philippians 4:8-9 Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.

The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

If the opposite of these things is evident then they are to be avoided at all costs for you are about to “Play with the snake.”

Ya’ll forgive for putting this song on here, but I thought you would enjoy it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ceaLH8WmZ2E&feature=related

Linking up with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday

OBEYING THE SPIRIT

2012-01-31T22:42:00.000-08:00

Acts 8:36 And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “See, here is water! What prevents (hinders) me from being baptized?”

What a fantastic response to the preaching of the gospel. When the Ethiopian eunuch heard the gospel he responded and then he wanted to act.

Then as the song says “There’s a new name written down in glory,” and the eunuch went on his way rejoicing. This amazing event was made possible because Phillip was obedient to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Act 8:29 Then the Spirit said to Philip, "Go up and join this chariot." Phillip had been given instructions by the Spirit of GOD to go south on the road that leads from Jerusalem and away he went.

Without questioning, worrying about results or the logic of the directive he obeyed. This can only happen when you are in tune with GOD.

Many years age I heard about a young preacher who was directed to preach at a small country church and when got there at the appointed time there wasn’t anybody in the church. He sat there alone, ill at ease squirming in his chair he finally decided to get and leave. Then he asked himself why am I here? His answer was because the LORD sent me. So after a few moments he decided if he was sent to preach he would preach.

He began to preach a message that got hotter as he continued. Finally he ended with an altar call which was his custom. Since no one responded he left wondering what this was all about but knew he had fulfilled his mission.

As it turned out a man had came down to make fun of the preacher but when he crawled under the floor to make a noise he got the surprise of his life, the preacher’s words began to convict him of his sin and when the altar call was given he accepted Christ under the floor of the church. The preacher left before the man had courage enough to crawl out and confess up to why he had done what he had done.

As the story went on, years later he met the preacher and related the whole embarrassing tale and then the preacher understood why he had been sent to that church and was glad he had been obedient to the Spirits leading.

There are two things every Christian needs to know and do. They need to know if and when they are being led by the Spirit, and then to act as they are directed. A distinction needs to be made as to whether it is the leading of the Spirit or just some thought that popped up in your mind that can send you on a fool’s errand.

You may experience some trial and error before you learn the difference but in the end you will succeed.

1 Samuel 15:22 But Samuel replied, "What is more pleasing to the LORD: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.

This post is Linking up with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday

THE CONSCIENCE

2012-01-30T23:45:00.000-08:00

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There are more theories about the conscience than there are chickens in the hen house, but most contribute some understanding of how it works.

The problem is that there is some bias within every definition, and has some ulterior motive to forward a philosophical position. Most religions and secular teachings have there own version of what the conscience is and how it functions.

For the Christian the conscience can be inconvenient at times especially when they want to do that which violates the plain teaching of the Gospel.

“When you can neglect any known duty without the bitterness of remorse, your conscience is seared with a hot iron.” (Finney)

For those interested I suggest reading Finney’s treatise on the conscience.
http://www.gospeltruth.net/1841OE/410428_seared_consci_pt1.htm

“The conscience is a fascinating part of our soul/spirit complex. Simply stated, it is the faculty of our inner man by which we judge what is right and wrong, or make value judgments. It operates on information that we accept as authoritative, coming from an authority that we acknowledge has the right to tell us what is right and what is wrong.” (Keith Blades)

It is amazing how at times there is conflict between the conscience and the emotions. My “Want to” will give my conscience a bad time, this inner battle can really stress me out. While Finney is pretty dogmatic in his pronouncements nevertheless it is dangerous to violate the only thing that keeps you on the straight and narrow.

When the Holy Spirit quickens you, your conscience is fully engaged and involved your actions that follow. Instead of me just rattling on let me say protect your conscience at all costs, and the way to do this is by honoring it and by being obedient to its quickening.

Never allow your emotions to over rule it, and I think you know what I’m talking about.

Linked to Shanda’s On your Heart Tuesday

THE BENEFITS OF OVERCOMING

2012-01-30T15:04:00.000-08:00

Overcomer
image courtesy photobucket.com

When I was unsaved I accepted most things as normal even though I had some twinges of conscience. While doing harm to other people was unacceptable I didn’t worry about the rest.
My condition was described in; 2 Corinthians 4:4 Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don't believe.

They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don't understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.

Then things changed, I got saved and my whole system of right and wrong had to under go a reevaluation and I ended up with a new set of rules. I now was governed by the Bible and the Spirit of GOD. The easy part was that what was written down but trying to decipher the Spirit’s leading was another issue and to some degree it still is.
1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.

There have been times when I haven’t taken advantage of the promise given in the foregoing scripture and failed to take the way out. This is only part of the story for there are things beyond personal weaknesses that we are to overcome and they are called the strategies of the Devil.
The second and third chapters of Revelation reveal some of the strategies and the reward for overcoming them.

Revelation 2:17 He who has an ear let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, to him I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it.

image courtesy photobucket.com

The white stone spoken of has always fascinated me. No one knows what this means beyond the plain reading of it. I somewhat like the idea of a new name just for me.

Are you living an overcoming life? If not - - why not? You may need to stop long enough to ask yourself what is hindering me from being an over comer? Then pinpoint the problem so it can be dealt with. Then comes the hard part and that is if you are willing to make the adjustments you feel you should.

If you are hesitant to make the changes perhaps it would be helpful to reread Revelations 2:17 and make a choice to become a “White stone believer” or perhaps you could shoot for the standard that David set and was called by GOD, “A man after GOD’S own heart.” In any case I wish you well as you keep on keeping on. Could be you need to hear the song below.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7x2IpLSfqp8

Post is linked with Laura’s “Play dates with God.”

MOVING OF THE WATER

2012-01-30T00:15:00.000-08:00

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John 5: 6-8 (NKJV) When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be made well?” The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me.” Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.”

On the one hand this is a very sad story, a “Winner Take all” proposition. While one man recovered his health, the rest were still laying around the pool waiting for the moving of the water. If Jesus ministered to anyone else it isn’t mentioned.

One might conclude that the people were looking to the water instead of Jesus for help. Notwithstanding the fact that they had not yet heard of Jesus but after he healed the impotent man they should have then changed their focus.

If we are still standing around the same old water hole hoping for help, and getting none, maybe its time to change the way we think, pray and conduct ourselves.

The pool was a place where misery was flourishing where people were speaking out about their problems, and receiving sympathy from one another. We, the church are not living in the age of sympathy but rather the age of grace where we should build each other up rather than to commiserate with the problem.

There are times when we must endure some hard knocks, for we don’t control the forces aligned against us.

1Corinthians 16:13 encourages us to; Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.

There are times when we can pray and encourage one another but sometimes we have to go through the valley all alone because our closest friend can’t help. It is in a time like this when we need to be reinforced by GOD’S word and remember

Joel 3:10 Let the weak say I am strong and, Ephesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

Being strong in the LORD is simply walking and talking according to the demands of His Word any thing less than that is sin. Going against GOD’S word saps our spiritual strength and affects our fellowship with GOD.

1 John 1:6-9 If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

So there you have it, if you are weak, say I am strong in the Lord, if you sin, confess it to GOD along with repentance.

Romans 8:31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
Enjoy this great song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UdFzB4MQgEA&feature=related

This post has been linked with Joan Davis Sharing His Beauty
And with Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday Use it on Monday

WHERE IS HE?

2012-01-28T22:50:00.000-08:00

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Where is the man who can carry forth the message?

Where is the man that GOD can trust?

Whose heart is consumed with passion for righteousness.

Who has no desire for praise of men

And accepts no commendation save from GOD

Where is that one who speaks no guile?

Where is that man whom GOD can trust?

Whose aspirations now lie in the dust

Save to finish his course at GOD’S behest

Let him be anointed with the Spirits power

Though young or old he may be

No glory will he withhold for himself

For no honor does he need

Where is that man that GOD can trust?

Whose only desire a servant be

Who awaits the call to go forth?

And give a clarion message not his own

Calling all to find their way to home

Could this one be you or me?

Am I the one whom GOD can trust?

Whether or not, be willing to be

Only GOD knows who is he.

Is there no one he can send?

Is there no woman nor a man?

The nation waits so full of sin

Where is he?

This post is linked to Deidra’s Sunday Jump Tandem

THE USA NEEDS HELP LORD

2012-01-28T14:31:00.000-08:00

There is a rumor around that Christians aren’t very smart because of the conditioning (the mind renewal process) they go through in becoming like the scriptures define the Christ life.

The turn the other cheek attitude doesn’t set well with the secular way of thinking. In their mind it borders on masochism or in other words the Christian gets validation from being abused. It is impossible for them to comprehend a higher calling that is controlled by the Spirit of GOD.

Should someone even hint at the problems of the USA - - might have at its root cause - - the rejection of JEHOVAH LORD, they turn on the Poo-poo machine, and ridicule the person making it.

One can make a pretty strong case proving this from the Old Testament where each and every time Israel turned from GOD the nation suffered great loss. When their leadership led them to turn to other mediums as a substitute for the real GOD, then the troubles began.

Hosea wrote to warn Israel of the tragic result of their unfaithfulness to the one true and living God. Having left God their sins increased, and they became more and more wicked. Even after being warned of the consequences they pursued wickedness, and reveled in it until their kingdom was taken by foreign forces and they became slaves.

Today this country is being overrun by the same type of people as brought Israel to it knees.

There were times when Israel repented and turned back to GOD that they were saved from destruction but the question we face today is will this country our USA repent, and turn back to GOD?

Repent, Seek God and Pray!

Well it is possible, but what is represented as the Christian church today is greatly fragmented and doesn’t speak with a united voice.

There may be a glimmer of hope from the example of Sodom and Gomorrah where GOD said if there were only a few righteous souls there, HE would spare the cities.

The lesson we can take from this is it is up to those who worship GOD in spirit and truth to hold steadfast in the faith and go down fighting the good fight of faith as those in South Africa pray.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5jKnP8sKXc&feature=related g

This post has been linked to Thankful Thursdays hosted by Laurie during January

ME WORRY?

2012-01-27T11:52:00.000-08:00

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Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow. It empties today of its strength. Corrie Ten Boom

Matthew 6:25-27 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?

Now here is the deal; if you are a Christian it is your duty to believe and accept these verses as true.

Now herein lies a problem as spoken to us in Hebrews 2:1 For this reason we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away from it.

Ho there, did you get that? Even if you are strong in the Word you can allow the impact of it to lessen and the first thing you know you slip into the worry land of unbelief. The picture here is like unto a boat tied up to the pier and due to the constant waves rocking it (sounds like life’s misadventures) its mooring loosens and the boat drifts away from the harbor powerless having been disconnected from the safe harbor.

The Philippians must have been plagued with worry for Paul wrote in; Philippians 4:6-7 Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

Now, that is good stuff, "Don’t worry; pray!" Paul isn’t talking about mumbling a few words but some get down and do business with GOD where you connect and go away knowing HE got the message. Pardon me for saying this maybe we need some “How to pray” lessons taught by the Spirit of GOD.

Try this on for size; the energy that we spend worrying can be put too much better use in prayer. Here's a little formula to remember: Worry replaced by Prayer equals Trust. I read that somewhere and it made sense to me.

If every time you find yourself starting to worry you stop it and start to pray you will find yourself worrying far less.

JOIN THE “I DON’T WORRY - - I PRAY CLUB.”

This post has been linked to Laura’s, Brag on God Friday
Linked with Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays

IT’S PERSONAL

2012-01-26T17:57:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket

If there ever was a day when we must use our smarts it is today.

We are being victimized by so many forces not the least of which are the media, the politicians, corporate entities, spiritual forces and in some cases our spiritual leaders.

Now is the time that we must evaluate everything that is being dumped upon us from whatever source and judge for ourselves the merit of it. All these forces are designed to do one thing and that is to tell us how we should live and to control us as far as they possibly can.

ABC NBC CNN all guilty
image courtesy photobucket

The media; I suppose we should be thankful that there is some resistance to the onslaught social engineering that is going on. The half lie is the modus operandi of these people and to be controled by regulation instead of law is the order the day.

They tell us what lifestyles we must accept and what vices we must embrace as normal. They would have us believe that a measure of drugs is useful for both clouding the mind as well as creating a dependency which leads to control of the willing victim.

If there is a master plan the key component is total dependency upon the ruling force with a penalty for non-compliance.

They invent illusions when it comes to elections, creating false images much like the zealots in the Old Testament did with their false gods.

They capture the imaginations of our children with fantasies and lead them in ways they should not go.

Politicians are the servants of those who control their future with philosophy and dollars. They are not allowed to act and think for themselves as they only follow orders. Just examine their voting records.

image courtesy photobucket

Clergy; today in so many cases the clergy (not all) are a prime case of the blind leading the blind into the ditch and then convincing these ditch dwellers that this is GOD’S plan.

If you have a leader who is truly faithful to GOD and his word you are most fortunate and should be most grateful.

For the Christian we are again at the point of choosing whom we will serve. Whether it be the societal ogre that wishes to rule us, or staying on course being a free thinking servant of GOD, who refuses to bow to the great image set up as in the days of Esther.

May we refuse to be deterred from being a Spirit led Bible believing servant of GOD, and let the rest of the world go to hell if they chose to do so.

It’s time to stop whining about what other people are doing and stand tall without being apologetic to anyone or under any circumstances.

This post has been linked to Joan’s Grace Café
Linking up with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday
This post has been linked to Michelle’s Thought Provoking Thursday

LOST

2012-01-25T17:31:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket

Each and every year there are people lost either skiing or mountain climbing, about half of the time they will be found alive. Today hunters and hikers, when lost, are better discovered if they remain in the area where they are hunting. They are usually found in a few days.

Being lost is a frightful experience. I can’t remember very much around the tender age of about 3 or 4, but the one thing that stuck in my mind was being in what in those days was a large store and getting lost.

I had this habit of biting my mothers hand till she let me go and during my freedom I got separated from her. It wasn’t long before I was running the aisles screaming, “Bea, Bea” my mothers name. I thought my world had come to an end. I finally got my tears to stop when she found me, and my hand biting was over for that day.

Being spiritually lost is far worse than my being lost in the store experience. We are told stories about near death experiences where some go floating away on a cloud and others where they descended into Hades itself.

I can’t feel what they felt because I didn’t experience what they did. But having been born again I did experience the transformation from spiritual death to spiritual life as described in the Bible and that reality convinced me that I was no longer lost but had been found.

People do not want to believe that there is a place called Hell or Hades where the unsaved go at death and there are as many denials of its existence as there are unbelievers. Neither do they want to believe there will be a final judgment.

As for myself I availed myself of the remedy provided by Christ to escape from that unhappy ending.

In Luke 16 the rich man finds himself in Hades waiting for the final judgment and; Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me and send Lazarus that he might dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am tormented in this flame.

There are two scriptures that stand out in relationship to the spiritual lost and the final judgment. Revelations 20:10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. Revelations 20:15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

In today’s world people do not want to follow the rules, they want to set up their own standards for righteousness and tell GOD take it or leave it.

This conduct wasn’t acceptable in Genesis 6 and isn’t today. “But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.”

Jesus Found Me
image courtesy photobucket

His Grace is available for us also so that we will not need to be lost.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDDlxmsciqY&feature=related

This post is Linking with Jennifer at God Bumps and Incidences Wednesdays

OLE HARRY RANDALL TRUMAN

2012-01-24T16:51:00.000-08:00

It is almost 32 years ago since the fateful day when Mt. Helens erupted.

The 1980 event was the deadliest and most destructive volcanic eruption in the history of the United States of America.

Harry Randall Truman became a celebrity because he refused to leave what geologist had declared a danger zone.

Having been a soldier and survived the torpedoing of the Tuscania on February 5, 1918, off the coast of Ireland, he was acquainted with danger.

In 1926 he became caretaker of the Mount St. Helens Lodge, located at the foot of Mount St. Helens beside Spirit Lake and remained so until his death.

He became somewhat of a folk hero due to his stubbornness when the rangers tried to get him to move out of danger. He refused to leave this most beautiful Edenic spot saying, "If the mountain goes, I'm going with it.” I saw him several times on television for reporters thought it was a great human interest story, they interviewed often. Songs and poems were written about him and a movie with Art Carney was made.

Harry had all the information about the danger the mountain posed but still he refused to budge. The notoriety, and all the attention may have had something to do with his determination to remain even though he had been thrown from his bed by several occurring earthquakes.

Then came the day when the mountain exploded and devastated much of the surrounding area including the lodge where Harry and his 16 cats are now entombed beneath 150 feet of volcanic debris.

image courtesy photobucket.com

Cigarette packages have warnings about the danger of cancer due to smoking yet people by the millions still smoke.

Many people still do not accept the harm that alcohol can do to their bodies, despite government warnings and the multitude of derelicts on Skid Row and the families destroyed by drinking.

The church of Christ Jesus has issued the warning that those who do not receive Christ as their savior will end up in Geheena forever. There are many like Harry that still refuse to accept GOD’S offer of salvation.

Just like Harry who could not stop Mt. Helens eruption by his stubbornness - - those who refuse God's salvation will be lost and that without remedy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGwa3N43GB4&feature=related

This post has been linked with Joan Davis at: Sharing His Beauty

WARFARE OR WELFARE

2012-01-23T22:51:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

This is a subject that will be touted over the next few months though the way it will expressed may be different than the way I put it.

If you want to cloud an issue - - just mix some truth with a false pretence and you have a possible winning position. This is where the government welfare program stands today.

While there are some recipients who are in an extreme helpless state, there are others who are taking advantage of this give away program.

The reason I used warfare as the counter point is because those who support their cause, are in a war fighting off everything that would attack them and keep them from succeeding.

This includes people who rip you off, overcharge you and a government that over taxes and regulates you.

Certain forces were put into play in Genesis 3 and will continue until Christ returns, one of which is painful child birth, another is hard work to make a living and the third is death or dying. None of these forces were annulled in the age we live in by the death of Christ.

Within the Christian realm we find some of the same thinking as those who seek welfare assistance. Their mentality drives them to want something for nothing which in this case they want it from GOD. They go beyond their needs being met by GOD and expect Him to supply their every extreme wants. To admit this is against their religion for they have their favorite verses to support their view.

There are some so called ministers who fan the flames of their greed while they take their followers for a ride for a price.

While some seek welfare there are others who realize what we have is warfare with an enemy so strong only GOD can control him. This enemy will rob us, make us ill, destroy our integrity and render us impotent for GOD. Were it not for GOD’S grace in providing us with weapons of battle we would be as helpless as those who are not servers of Christ.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ,

Ephesians 6:11-13 Put on the whole Armour of God that ye may be able to stand against The wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against Principalities against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, Against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole Armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, TO STAND.

In the Second World War there was an overwhelming passion against the enemy that dared to attack us. That passion has been missing in all the wars we have fought since. The Christian community is under an attack from a greater enemy than in WW2 and I fear we do not have the passion to resist him with our weapons of our warfare. It is up to the church to take the battle to him instead of always being on the defensive which is what a passive instead of passionate church does. So onward Christian soldiers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9DHgnKeAxo

Linked to Shanda’s On your Heart Tuesday

CONFESSION GOOD FOR THE SOUL???

2012-01-22T22:28:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

Confession is good for the soul is an old saying that almost sounds like a verse of scripture.

The nearest thing to this may be; Therefore confess your sins to each other, and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” James 5:16 NIV

I think that when the guilt becomes too great and you need relief from it the next logical step is to own up to the offence. Somehow doing this offers some reprieve from the condemnation brought on from wrong doing.

Often this act will possibly bring on much pain to another especially within a marriage. When a betrayal occurs and in order to get some relief from guilt the perpetrator confesses it, and the innocent party is devastated.

Dumping the guilt on someone else is a way of getting absolution from the deed and it some how alleviates the offender’s pain.

On the whole fessing up is a good thing to do. It clears the air and restores free flow communication that guilt impedes. It also allows the one offended to make decisions as to how they want to deal with it.

While the scriptures say “your sin will find you out” there is a price to be paid by the offended one.

1John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Notice this verse speaks of you and God not the other party. If it is possible to “Go and sin no more,” understand that some things are better dealt with and kept between a person and GOD. I emphasize the ‘Go and sin no more” for if you continue sinning because you got away with it will injure your soul from which it will be hard to recover from if at all possible. This is an internal wounding that will haunt you the rest of your life.

Some people like to use sayings such as, “Well nobody is perfect” as if that validates the sin they are engaged in and they consider their weakness as justification for doing it again.

When an offence occurs nothing will ever be the same again. People never get over it; they just get “By it” and go on.

That being the case perhaps we should give it at least a second thought before doing the dirty deed for it is like the stain that will never wash out no matter what you do or how many times you wash it.
(Or Confess it)

This post is linked with Michelle's Hear it on Sunday

HE IS DEAD

2012-01-22T12:16:00.000-08:00

Kim Jong Il is dead! Hundreds of thousands turned out to morn him and they wept and cried because of their loss.

A few days later his son was elevated to become the supreme leader of North Korea; “Respected Comrade Kim Jong-un is now supreme leader of our party, military and people,” said Kim Yong-nam.

The mourning was quickly over and now the rejoicing has begun. While the people give their allegiance to the new leader, the old one has joined the rich man in Hades and is making a similar request like unto the rich man for a drop of cool water.

Some of the mourners put on quite a show while others were somewhat passive. Several news media suggested that those who gave it up with great exuberance were only acting and playing a part.

This brings me to consider the ability of some to express their inner feelings to a greater demonstration than others, and some can put on a display even though they aren’t real feelings. Using the vernacular of today they were giving it up for the departed old Kim as well as for the new young Kim.

We Christian folks go to our worship service at church and “Give it up” for Jesus and our Father. This is a case of quality over quantity though both are apropos.

A good question to ask your-self is where is this adoration coming from? We can train ourselves to blend in and do the do and look pretty good on the surface, but true worship comes from our spirit. One of the simplest yet most informative statements ever made concerning worship is found in John 4:24 For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth."

We may attain to an intellectual understanding of worship, but true worship comes from a deeper source, our spirits. In order to do this it takes preparation. It must become a lifestyle.

Another probing question that Jesus put forth is; “What think ye of Christ? There were several answers to that but when I ask myself that same question I’m not sure if I am capable of answering it.

I question if I am capable of comprehending either the Father or the Son. Words I am familiar with cannot describe the majesty of GOD. My lack of full comprehension of the totality of GOD limits my ability to worship as I should.

The day will come when the blinders shall be removed and we shall see HIM in all HIS glory.

1John 3:2 Dear friends, we are already God's children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is.

Psalms 104:4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ge9V1cOyVQM&feature=related

This post is linked to Deidra’s Sunday Jump Tandem

MYSTERY OF ANSWERED PRAYER

2012-01-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

Perhaps the word mystery isn’t the word I should have used but this is the way I feel sometimes.

Now I know some people say they can pray for personal issues and order up their request and receive an answer exactly in detail as they outlined it to the Lord. But me, I have to settle for a little less, and just take what my faith can produce for me. I’m not sure that there are others who fit in this same category but there maybe some.

I suspect that there are some girls who have prayed for a husband and had exactly what they wanted in mind, and told the Lord, make him handsome, about six foot tall. I want one who is virile, strong and the ideal weight, and oh yes I want him to be a great lover with money. Well what the Lord sent was a slightly bald, paunchy midriff with an average job and a rather laid back guy. Of course the man I described was what she had twenty years later after the wedding. Even before the marriage she had to compromise a little for he didn’t fit all her specifications. Now she prayed and GOD answered, but there is a mystery that surrounds this whole transaction.

A guy prays and requests a gal. I want her to be the hottest of the lot and all the guys want her but she chooses me. Well guess what; GOD answers his prayer but she isn’t the most popular girl of all. She seldom has a date and was glad the guy asked her out. She is nice but not beautiful, and besides she needs to have her teeth fixed. But now here is the mystery part, she is the only one sent along so she must be the answer to his prayer. But the guy isn’t satisfied, and prays again, and along comes another girl, one who is pretty, but she talks non stop, and when she laughs she sounds like a cackling hen. Now the Lord has answered both prayers, kinda. The guy decides he could get used to the cackling and the occasional snort but he prays once again; Lord perhaps I didn’t make myself clear. I want a wife but I don’t want to be ashamed of her. This time he meets one he is willing to settle for. She isn’t super hot, and only a few guys have asked her out (none for a second date). At least this one doesn’t cackle or need her teeth fixed.

This brings me back to the mystery I referred to, I asked for money and HE gave me a job. I prayed for healing and ended up getting a pill from the doctor. Now I got what I prayed for but not in the way I wanted it. I wanted a miracle, and all I got was a solution.

So wherein lays the mystery? The answer is we don’t know what we really need when we pray and GOD has to sort through all our foolishness and then in HIS mercy give us what we can handle.

On the broader scale there are many things that are not personal but affect the work of GOD where we can only pray and leave it HIS hands.

Who among us could be trusted with the power to always receive a direct answer to prayer from GOD without becoming inflated much like Satan did. If we were to have that much power to command GOD and have HIM perform our every wish it would make HIM a servant to us.

So what to do? Pray fervently for everything GOD quickens you to pray for. Pray for those who need help. Pray for those who need salvation. Pray for your needs, and learn to accept GOD’S answer in whatever form it comes. Always pray with expectancy and never become passive but with understanding what the will of the LORD is concerning you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQG5wHWGsM0
Linked with Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays. Please visit there!

THESE KIDS

2012-01-20T15:10:00.000-08:00

Psalms 127:3 Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward.

It should be mandatory for every parent to first acknowledge that this verse is a true statement before they could receive their child. It would also be helpful if they had to vow to raise up “This child” in the admonition of the Lord and then let the child chose whether they wished to serve GOD or not.

Of course this is contrary to the present philosophy of; let them become a practicing rank sinner first and then decide when they are grown if they want to become a Christian.

This is contrary to the plain teaching in scripture; Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Christianity is the product of the Word of GOD and Satan knows if a child is deprived of the true Gospel, then chances of them becoming a Christian is greatly reduced.

Matthew 19:14 Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

His disciples stopped the parents from bringing the children to Jesus; Mark 10:14 But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and said to them, "Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.

There are those who do NOTwant parents to bring their children to Jesus today and they stand out as the most despicable humans on the face of the earth.

image courtesy photobucket

One of the greatest experiences a young child will ever have is at bedtime when a mother reads a bible story to them and prays for them. The last thing before they fall asleep is the comfort from the word of GOD and mother’s prayer.

Mothers know so much more than I do about “The mother’s touch” but one important thing they can do is to take their child’s face in their hands, look them straight in the eyes and say “I love you” and pause awhile before releasing them. This can heal some of the upsets of the day, which is common to all parents.

Some are not blessed with motherhood, but there are so many children who need a little love. It is an opportunity to enjoy what is second best and that is to be an “Auntie” to one or more children.

Behold children are a gift from the Lord even if they are not your own.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTViRzfyla0

This post has been linked to Laura’s, Brag on God Fridays

FISHERS OF MEN

2012-01-19T18:43:00.000-08:00

Matthew 4:19 And he said to them, Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.

Jesus went down into the waters of the Jordan River and was baptized. As He came up out of the river the heavens opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon Him. Then the Father announced that this was His son and He was pleased with Him. Although many people witnessed this momentous event none had a clue as to what really happened, not even John fully understood it.

Immediately Jesus was driven out into the desert and experienced the most rigorous testing man ever would be subject to. None other than Satan himself was the chief tester, throwing all his might against Christ during forty days of fasting.

So often just when you have had a spiritual victory the enemy comes against you with such force you can’t help but wonder, “Why is this happening to me?”

It is a pattern played out over and over for the enemy doesn’t want even the smallest saint to enjoy any victory over his evil works.

James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

As you study what Jesus did during his preparation for his ministry you will notice that he first submitted himself to GOD, and was empowered by the Spirit, and resisted Satan by using the WORD of GOD to defeat him.

The word of GOD is established. It doesn’t fade away or lose its power; therefore Jesus was able to say, “It is written” or established as an eternal truth, and Satan had to yield to it. If there was no other reason for reading and studying the Bible, knowing that you are able to use it to defeat the devil would suffice and justify it.

Another reason is found in the Psalms 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

These are the things Jesus began to teach these fishers of men he had called and are things each of us need to know. The more of GOD’S word we hide in our heart the stronger spiritually we become.

This is why some of these little old lady missionaries are as giants spiritually while others who are much more impressive as to stature - - are weak and nearly impotent concerning spiritual battles.

Enjoy this song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18eLs9A1Nqo&feature=related

This post has been linked to Michelle’s Thought Provoking Thursday
And to Thankful Thursday hosted by Laurie during January

THE VOW

2012-01-18T23:25:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

My family took a vow of poverty.

image courtesy photobucket.com

It had nothing to do with a religious experience but rather it just showed up and we embraced it like the croup or mumps. In other words it was ours whether we wanted it or not.

As it turned out our family crest was a man with a patch on the seat of his pants, and the only accessory he wore was a sweatband to soak up that which he expired.

As to schooling we had some but it was got when the crops were safely in the barn and cellar. We learned figures using apples of which we had plenty. One apple and one apple was two apples and so on and fractions were harder because you had to cut up the apple into pieces. One half apple and one half apple was a whole apple. This was testy but we learned it even to the point of figuring out a half apple and half of a half was three fourths of an apple.

The test of whether you were educated or not was if you could spell a word with six letters. Some could spell two or three while others only learned one. Being a proud people we didn’t want to seem to be ignorant to outsiders so the ones who couldn’t spell good always kept in the background.

My folks liked poetry especially that which was in the Bible so when the preacher came to visit he always read the psalms which sounded good but we never completely understood them. For the most part we liked the Song of Solomon because it seemed he knew a lot about farming and doing what comes naturally. Some of it embarrassed the younger sisters but us boys liked it a lot.

Of course being country we loved music, one of our favorite singers was little Jimmy Dickens and his song “Out behind the barn.” It described us somewhat and it sure sounded good.

Because all our folks worked hard - - slowly but surely our vow of poverty faded away. When the young’ens finished schooling they were just like the rest of the town kids, although it seemed to me there was something missing. We older ones had something those hard times taught us when we just did things naturally.

This has been a fun post and I hope you will also enjoy this fun song - -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1w5DgFHj_gA&feature=related

This post has been linked to Joan’s Grace Café.

THIS CHILD

2012-01-17T23:47:00.000-08:00

THIS CHILD by Robert Moon

Oh Lord won’t you bless this child

I am lifting him up to you today

Look down upon him, see his face

Oh Lord bless this child

Oh Lord won't you bless this child

Cause him to grow up without any guile

And with your hand upon him

He will have reason to smile

And as a young man draw him nearer

As he learns of you things will be clearer

I fear that he is so much like me

When I want him to be like you

Lord won’t you bless this child

Transform his thinking, renew his mind

And one day help him find

Your perfect will for his life

Oh Lord won’t you lead this child

In the way that he should go

From the paths of righteousness

Never let him go astray

Keep his feet upon the narrow way

In the hour of temptation never let him go

For I fear he is so much like me

When I want him to be like you

Oh Lord won’t you use this child

Let him show your love to the world

Helping people who are in need

Oh Lord won’t you use this child

Oh Lord won’t you bless this child

So his life will not be in vain

Here he is I bring him to you

This is what I can do

Oh Lord, I will teach him your ways

I will be there for him all my days

I am glad that you are willing

To make him the man that he should be

Oh Lord, help me raise this child

Help me to understand all his ways

And when I’m in need of patience
Oh Lord, help me raise this child

For I fear he is so much like me

When I want him to be like you

Linking up with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday
And with Jennifer at God Bumps & Incidences Wednesdays

THE SILLY ONES

2012-01-16T14:53:00.000-08:00

Timothy 2:6 For of this sort are they who creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, who are led away with divers desires.

“There are always weak-minded women enough in any community to give an opportunity of practicing these arts, and often the aims of the impostor and deceiver can be best secured by appealing to them.

Such women are easily flattered; they are charmed by the graceful manners of religious instructors; they lend a willing ear to anything that has the appearance of religion.” (Barnes notes)

This form of debauchery is not the exclusive property of women alone, for men also are deceived. It just happens that men are more apt to be a deceiver than women are.

I have personally seen cases where men from the outside come in and took married women away from their families. They did this all the while professing to love GOD and worship HIM. Their goal was to con the woman into believing lies they had mastered and to separate them from their faith and friends.

Naïve innocent girlimage courtesy photobucket

If this had only happened once it would be more bearable but in the small church I attended it happened several times. All the while the gospel was faithfully preached each week but it had no effect on them for they did not mix faith with it.

Hebrews 4:2 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.

Without uniting faith with the gospel it is not effectual to the hearer. Single women are not exempt from this deception for they may be even more susceptible to these wiles of the devil.

There ever have been artful men, who, by pretence and flatteries, creep into churches and gain the favor and confidence of those who are gullible and ignorant. The idea is that women are under the influence of sinful desires and propensities, (fantasies) and hence, are better adapted to the purposes of deceivers.

These deceivers take advantage of the church’s graciousness in welcoming strangers but mature men and women need to “Watch and pray” over these new ones. They can appear as an “Angel of light,” but underneath they are ravenous wolves seeking some Cutie they can devour.

2 Timothy 3:13 But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived, they being a partaker of their own deception.

The last thing we need is a suspicious mind that goes about being mistrustful of everyone, yet this is the perfect time to watch and pray and let GOD reveal illicit circumstances should they exist.

This Post is linked with Laura’s “Play dates with God.”

ARTIFICIAL REALITY

2012-01-15T15:10:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

There are two realities in the world that we deal with.

One is that which is artificial. That which we create ourselves; such as games of every description and play acting - - and the reality which is the stark circumstances that accompany everyday living.

We try to entertain ourselves with things that have little to do with the survival of the races. It is a form of escapism; it allows us to create an environment where we substitute realities.

Much of what we do is aimed at keeping us in our pleasure zone. Since there isn’t a “One size fits all,” it has required a multiplicity of genres to meet our needs.

Whether it is music, sports or hallucination pursuits all of which lull us into a feeling of security and pleasure and it becomes our lifestyle.

Contests are created whereby people are set against each other with winners and losers. This is a form of class warfare not unlike the old caste system of yesterday that establishes a superior/inferior status.

We try to compensate for intentional dissipation with health restoration processes of various kinds.

In the real world it is a far simpler process whereby we are only dealing with survival. Only those things that are expedient need to be considered worthwhile.

The sophistication of society has blurred the difference between the real and the artificial to the point we have a hybrid form of existence which can’t distinguish the difference between them.

This same modus operandi has invaded the relationship of GOD and man where we have developed certain forms of communication with HIM that bear the stamp of artificiality.

We are admonished to sing songs unto our GOD, to gather together and encourage each other, but when we are conditioned to depend on this in order to communicate with HIM we ignore the “One on one,” which is important to maintain.

The point I try to make is that the raw unembellished relationship with HIM is just you and GOD in personal fellowship with nothing or no one else involved. When you are alone, just you and GOD, it is here where you find out what reality truly is.

1John 1:7 but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.

This is as personal a reality as it gets.

This post is linked to Deidra’s Sunday Jump Tandem
Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday

ALL WHO ARE NOT PRESENT SAY HERE

2012-01-14T18:07:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

I've been trying for some time to develop a life style that doesn’t require my presence. So said; G.B.Trudeau.

There have been times when I have felt like that for a few minutes. Especially during some trying times, a moment of embarrassment, or until the pain would go away both physical and mental from a bad moment.

I was reminded of Jonah when he had his experience with the whale and his evangelist tour to Nineveh was contrary to his wishes.

Jonah 1:2 “Get up and go to the great city of Nineveh. Announce my judgment against it because I have seen how wicked its people are."

There are so many lessons we can profit from the book of Jonah but let it suffice to say he was in rebellion during the whole process and dissatisfied with the result.

The Prophet Hosea would probably agree with Trudeau for so much of his life was distasteful.

First, Hosea was directed by God to marry a promiscuous woman of ill-repute,

Second, Hosea and his wife, Gomer, have a son. God commands that the son be named Jezreel, “The Valley of death.”

Third, the couples have a daughter. God commands that she be named Lo-Ruhamah; “Unloved or Pitied.”

Fourth, a son is born to Gomer. It is questionable whether this child was Hosea's, for God commands that his name be Lo-ammi or “Not mine.”

While this was a metaphor for the relationship with Yahweh and Israel for it was acted out in the flesh by Hosea on a day by day process.

Then there was the redemption process whereby Christ was required to come and be the lamb of GOD sacrificed for us all. He had to live it out and go through the pain and suffering required to accomplish salvation for all of mankind.

Understanding that life must be lived and at times it will be unpleasant, it behooves one to take advantage of all GOD provides for us, and to reject anything that will rob us of GOD’S provision.

The question “How then should I live?” is foremost and one each of us must answer for them-selves.

A good place to start is; Ephesians 5:15- 20 Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father.

Our fellowship with GOD will produce joy in our hearts and love for one another.

Linked with Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays. Please visit there!

THE WAY MAKER

2012-01-13T16:13:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

The last two lines of the song “God will make a way” With love and strength for each new day He will make a way, He will make a way.

So much of life is lived in- between things of being a success and being a disaster. with all the degrees between the two. It is like getting a bit less than an “A” such as a (B+) and a bit more than an “F” getting a (D-) grade.

The courtship is great but if it comes with some suspicion of there not being a full commitment it may be time to put on the brakes. He wants to go “All the way without going all the way to the altar.”

The job comes with promise, but the advancement that is on the way never arrives.

Many friends are not true friends for they will let you down in the end. The only way to keep them is to compensate for their perfidiousness (fickleness) by overlooking this trait, and accepting them as they are.

When one finds the real thing they should cherish it much more. Treasure the marriage that is committed, and lived without offence or guile, and a trust that is earned, not just bestowed by either party, and not based upon hope alone.

The cross our path to heaven
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We as seekers need to find our stability in an unfailing force. One which we can relate to as an absolute, and yet be able to commiserate with human failure.

The answer can only be found in Jesus Christ the “GODMAN.” Jesus is our direct link to the Father, and always gives us access to Him. Jesus is the reason we can come boldly to the throne of grace and receive our needs met.

Having said this, our experience tells us that we live in an imperfect world and must cope with a world of negativity. Trying to get GOD to smooth out all the bumps is an awesome task and doesn’t always happen as we desire.

Even with GOD’S help we still have to struggle with making a living, raising our kids while maintaining a good testimony for Christ.

“We all have our struggles. Life is not easy for any of us; or if it is — we are not making much of it. It is better that we should not sing of sadness. There are sad notes enough already in the World's air. We should sing of cheer, of joy, of hope. This is what Paul did when he said: Romans 8:37 No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.” J.R. Miller

Hebrews 11:1 Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.

It may not be exactly as we want it, but in the end “He will make a way.”

When you've done all you've known to do, God will make a way for YOU.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSiq_vizsA0

This post has been linked to Laura’s, Brag on God Fridays

THE SECRET WORLD

2012-01-12T14:13:00.000-08:00

Imagination

The Lord has endowed us with the power of imagination.

From early in life it becomes an active force in our lives. It creates a secret world all our own where we can do or have whatever we want.

Little children spend hours with friends they have created with their imagination and share secrets with them. As they grow up the objects may change but it is still the same inner force being used.

Being able to go on trips without ever leaving home or being famous is readily available to us. Boys have love affairs without the object of their affection ever knowing about it. It can be one of the most favored gifts from GOD or it can prove to be a great negative spiritually.

2 Corinthians 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.

Another way to express it is to say beware of fantasy conversations in your head that Christ won’t approve of. These conversations can dominate your thought life even to the point of making you sick.

You think someone has offended you and you spend your waking hours damning them and justifying yourself. The tragedy is in most cases there is no substance to the issue.

Jamie Lath on her vain imagination; "As a single woman, I did this all the time in the romantic way. I would imagine how this guy or that guy would finally come to his senses and be blown away by me. I finally realized how much of my waking hours were spent on this (and how damaging it was to my psyche). I thought about what it would be like if I never married, was 80, and still doing this in the nursing home. With quite a bit of battle, I was finally able to curb my "vain imaginations" (I love this term)".

Another says; I do this a lot when I'm not walking by the Spirit. I know it doesn't please God... I have found that things rarely if ever work themselves out in the way I imagine in my head.

Vain imaginations can lead to obsession and affect your psyche.

There are many scriptures that are geared to stopping this process; one of the most helpful is found in Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

When your tangent starts, stop it in its tracks by using Philippians 4:8 and restore peace to your soul.

Linking with Jennifer at: God Bumps and Incidences:

Also linked to Thought Provoking Thursday

THE CHOOSEN VESSELS

2012-01-11T14:07:00.000-08:00

All sizes and shapes of vessels are useful
image courtesy photobucket.com

There is a story about a ruler who was convinced to keep his fine wine in silver vessels instead of earthen ones. The result being it turned acid and had to be thrown out.

Earthern Vessel
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2Corinthians 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves.

One might ask, “What is this treasure?” The answer being “The Gospel.”

Romans 1:16 I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.

By the same token GOD has chosen plain people to bear his gospel to the world. The Apostles were men of no repute - - just transformed into mighty men by the Spirit of GOD.

1 Corinthians 1:26 Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world's eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you.

While the scriptures don’t say there were no men who were upper class who were saved, only that there were few of them.

We the chosen ones sometimes forget who we are in Christ and act in a way that isn't consistent with our new nature much to the discredit of Christ.

EPHESIANS 1:4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:

2 TIMOTHY 1:9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began.

You were not saved by accident it was part of GOD’S plan and while it was by grace it wasn’t a happenstance. If GOD spoke to you directly today HE would probably say “Don’t you understand what I have done to and for you?”

Your answer should be “I am a magnificent creature a vessel fit for His service.”

I believe you will enjoy this poem: http://www.momof9splace.com/vessel.html

Linking up with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday
And with Lori’s Wednesday Internet Cafe Devotions

RESPONSE TO RESPONSIBILITY

2012-01-10T18:01:00.000-08:00

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Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Every child of GOD sooner or later comes face to face to the fact that we are to be servants of GOD. JESUS spoke of those who are reborn as friends but at the same time we are friends that serve.

Not only are we to commit ourselves to his service but we are to find our field of service. Romans 12 and 1Corinthians 12, lay out various areas of service.

1 Corinthians 12:18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

The question comes before each one of us where have I been set in the body. There are many ways to locate your position, and oft times it will be in line with your natural talent. At other times it will require a real work of the Spirit to make you effectual in the kingdom.

Probably no one would have chosen some of the Apostles for the task set before them but Paul was fully prepared for the ministry he was sent to do. The Holy Spirit just had to clear up some of his thinking and empower him.

There is another thing that happens and that is this. A desire will be born within you and it stays with you night and day. Sometimes, time has to pass before it is possible to go forward. The one thing that is needful before embarking in a certain area and that is a validation of the call by GOD. It is possible to get caught up by the glamour of ministry and try to move into an area where you have not been sent.

An old saying is “Some were sent and others just went.” Being one of the “went” crowd can lead to disappointment and at times do more harm than good.

1 Corinthians 12:7 But to each one is given the manifestation (the enablement) of the Spirit for the common good.

One thing is certain if you can find out what your enablement is, you are then very close to discovering your place in the body of Christ and will be able to fulfill your ministry as unto the Lord.

What if you haven’t found your place yet? Then you need to study Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12 until GOD speaks to your heart. Then watch for doors of opportunity to open up to you. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGcz0AOxLSc

This post has been Linked to Play Dates with God Please visit there!

WHAT DOES GOD SEE

2012-01-09T15:37:00.000-08:00

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I shudder to think what GOD sees when HE looks at me.

Even as almighty as HE is, seeing me only works for HIM when HE is seeing me in HIS SON.

In any other case my weaknesses and failures would reveal one who is truly unworthy. It is almost enough to give me the worm complex. On the other hand it illuminates the stark reality of what Christ really accomplished through the salvation process.

Being grateful for Christ’s work isn't enough, even an attitude of gratitude twenty four-seven is the least I can offer up to HIM.

Image courtesy photobucket.com

This is more than a duty response it must be a response wrapped in love like unto the Father’s love for me. The redemption story is the greatest letter of love ever written. One that is all inclusive, all encompassing and all mine if I so desire it to be.

Check out some of the Father’s thoughts in the following web page.
http://www.fathersloveletter.com/text

This post is linked to Deidra’s Sunday Jump Tandem
And to Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday

PRAYER MEMO

2012-01-07T23:53:00.000-08:00

2 Thessalonians 1:3 We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.

Paul in his introduction greets the brethren with encouraging words but I want to emphasize the words “Your faith is growing abundantly or exceedingly.” Faith is all there is for the believer.

By faith we are saved, and receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit, if your denomination allows it. By faith we approach GOD in every way whether in worship or in prayer. We use our faith to accomplish great things for God, and stand when victory is slow in coming.

I don’t know exactly know how to say what I’m going to say. and that is one of the hardest things to get by, is when we pray and then miraculously the answer comes. Then at another time, we pray and it seems like the heavens are closed. The door to answered prayer is shut tight and our exercise of faith can't get the door to budge. Confusion attacks us with questions, and we mull over without a conclusion.

Having had to deal with this phoneme many times I have learned a few things, and there are still a few questions I am working on. If one is not careful they can get lost and spiritually weakened when this happens; but when properly understood this is the time for faith to flourish. This is the time to continue to give substance to our requests.

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

There are many things that hinder answered prayer, one of which is praying prayers we shouldn't pray. Some prayers involve other people, and we forget that GOD deals with each of us individually, and it is not our place to control other people. There are myriads of reasons for seemingly unanswered prayer, and one of the most difficult one is time, waiting until the time is right in GOD’S eyes and not ours.

It is good to have a scripture in mind with a promise of answered prayer before I pray, and yet the answer is not always apparent. When this happens I never allow this to affect my relationship with the Father for faith in HIM comes far ahead of faith for things. Learn this secret when praying whether successful or not, allow your faith to grow exceedingly in GOD for this is what James 1:3 was talking about “You know that such testing of your faith produces endurance” and that is truly important.

I have heard of mothers who prayed for their children for many years and some have died before their prayer was answered. It would have seemed to have been an ineffective prayer effort but in reality it was victory.

Always keep in mind we are at war with the forces of evil and must always be armored up as in Ephesians 6:13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand and having prayed, stand until GOD answers or says otherwise.

I believe in GOD! I believe GOD!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNsjRcASI0I

Linked today with Soaking on Son Day

And Shanda’s Pause on the Path

WHEN THE SPIRIT MOVES

2012-01-07T11:18:00.000-08:00

Image courtesy Free Christian Art

Judges 13:24-25 Then the woman gave birth to a son and named him Samson; and the child grew up and the LORD blessed him. And the Spirit of the LORD began to stir him-

The Spirit of GOD moved upon Samson and it was then he was able to do mighty acts for his nation. It is true that he was special, and GOD had called him for a purpose, but his calling was not any more imperative than Jesus’ words, “Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel.” In each of his great exploits it was only after the Spirit moved upon Samson that he was GOD’S mighty man.

The most important issue of life is to know your calling, and to fulfill it. You cannot do this without the Holy Spirit moving upon you. Any work for GOD is always accompanied by the move of the Holy Spirit and if He doesn’t stir you to act then - - forget it. Rushing into doing something without being empowered by the Spirit of GOD will cause more harm than good.

Of all the lessons we can learn from Samson the one that stands out most was that he thought he could “play around” when he wasn’t moved upon, and it eventually brought him down.

No matter how strong the calling is and how great your anointing is you will lose it all if you follow Samson’s example of unfaithfulness.

Another case in point that shows the importance of the Spirit’s anointing was when the Spirit came upon Jesus. He had waited day after day for thirty years. This was the same Jesus that he was at the age of 25, the only difference was the anointing of the Holy Spirit came five years later.

image courtesy photobucket

What about me? This is a question that haunts each Christian. 1John 2:20 But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth.

Until you recognize and honor that anointing that you have, chances are you will never be effective in your service for the Lord.

Your gifting determines your place in the body of Christ, and your anointing will empower you to do that which pleases the Spirit.

You are not required to do anything more than that, but anything less will leave a void in the body.

Are you important? GOD thinks so; 1 Corinthians 12:18-22 But now God has placed the members, each one of them, in the body, just as He desired. If they were all one member, where would the body be? But now there are many members, but one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand, "I have no need of you"; or again the head to the feet, "I have no need of you." On the contrary, it is much truer that the members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary;

Know this; you have an anointing! You have a place in the body of Christ, and a job to do.

image courtesy photobucket

Your job cannot be done by someone else!

Http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGcz0AOxLSc

Please visit these awesome sites that I have linked my post to!

Laura’s, Brag on God Fridays
Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays.

IN RETROSPECT

2012-01-05T00:37:00.000-08:00

I admit that the word retrospect describes (To contemplate the past.) something I’m guilty of doing quite often. My biggest problem is in remembering issues as they were and not as I wished them to have been.

Considering the Past
image courtesy photobucket

This is something that just happens because I don’t just sit around and try to bring up past events.

One of my recent excursions in the past had to do with a group of girls between eight to ten years old, three of them being my daughters. I decided to start an octet singing group using them at the church. I certainly wasn’t qualified to do this but I never let qualifications get in my way of trying something. Skipping over many details the girls did pretty good and were singing often. I managed to get them on the radio from time to time and they thought they were something else.

image courtesy photobucket

One Christmas I wrote a Christmas cantata and the girls presented it in the church we attended. A musician friend of mine did the score and it was what it was. I may still have a copy of it somewhere in our files although we have gotten rid of many of our treasures.

Many years later one of the girls who turned out to be a very good musician came up to me and said how she remembered the little choir, and it was there where she learned to sing harmony. She was the youngest about age 8 at that time.

A few years ago the musician who scored the cantata asked me if I still had the words and music and I found a copy and gave it to him. He said he wanted to work on one or more of the songs.

Fast forwarding again he took several other songs I had written melodies and wrote words to and then he orchestrated them. It was an in home project without the elaborate recording studio equipment but he finally produced a CD of my songs.

In retrospect I know that I’m not a song writer or for that fact you couldn’t call me a real musician, but I didn’t let me that stop me. It seems that there are some times you have to go for it and if you fail - - you move on and try something else.

Some of the great men of GOD have had to do that which was beyond their ability and they succeeded because they had to depend upon GOD instead of them selves.

They are not alone in this for many of you have had the same experience when it became necessary and it was left up to you to get it done.

I wonder what will come up out of my memory banks next of its own volition and without any conscious help from me.

This post has been linked to Joan’s Grace Café.
And Linking with Jennifer at: God Bumps and Incidences:

49% ERS

2012-01-03T15:13:00.000-08:00

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A whooping 49% of the Yale Law students agreed that religion is “not too important or not at all important” in their lives, compared with 16% of Americans who agreed with them in a national poll.

Only 26% of Yale Law students said religion is “very important” in their lives, compared to 56% of Americans nationally.

In the Senate about half are lawyers and they make the law of the land we must abide by. In the house only 36% are lawyers. One might surmise from this that most of the Congressmen do not understand the legalese of the documents they vote on and in many cases they never read them. The voting record reveals that most voting is along party lines with only an occasional rebel.

With the empowerment of judges being given the authority to make laws and the Supreme Court being filled with justices who see the constitution as being, “A work in process,” we can expect many rights of the Christians being eroded.

Today we as Christians need to have a clear, defensible understanding of what our Christian rights are. We are and will continue to be under attack by other faiths, atheists and in some instances even from within the Christian community itself.

You can’t defend what you don’t understand. This land started to be settled around 1500 AD, but it was almost 300 years later before the constitution was put in place. Due to the fact that most immigrants were from Western Europe and the religion at the time was Christianity, other sects were not considered to be part of the religious equation. Because there were many varying sects of Christianity in America it was required that to be fair to all. There could be preference to none and with that background the first amendment was penned and ratified.

First amendment; “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

Those men who signed the Constitution, virtually had no idea that America would ever be the conglomerate of religions we have today. Rather it was addressing the different branches of Christianity, and protection from such as the Church of England and Roman Catholicism, not the multiplicity of sects we have today.

Nevertheless all sects have their right to exist according to the first amendment and promulgate their beliefs as long as they do not violate other provisions of the document.

In order to protect the Christian rights of Americans the law makers must have a strong faith in Jesus Christ. The only way to insure this is for Christians to receive law degrees and enter the political arena where the laws are made, interpreted and applied.

Your only alternative is to vote for those who place their faith in Jesus Christ.

This post has been Linked with Joan Davis at Sharing His Beauty
And with Shanda’s On your Heart Tuesday
Linking with Jennifer at: God Bumps and Incidences:

HUMBLE-ILITY (the ability to become humble)

2012-01-02T13:37:00.000-08:00

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1 Peter 5:5-6 “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,

Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

From reading these scriptures one would think God expects us to be Ego-less. If you fail in your attempt to be successful in this endeavor you will soon meet someone who will demean you to the point of no esteem.

Is there no limit to debasing yourself trying to attain unto a state of humility? Hummm!

A man can counterfeit love, he can counterfeit faith, he can counterfeit hope and all the other graces, but it is very difficult to counterfeit humility. D. L. Moody

The only humility that is really ours is not that which we try to show before God in prayer, but that which we carry with us in our daily conduct. Andrew Murray

Nothing disciplines the inordinate desires of the flesh like service, and nothing transforms the desires of the flesh like serving in hidden-ness. The flesh whines against service but it screams against hidden service. It strains and pulls for honor and recognition. Richard Foster

I have learned that much of my spiritual progress does not come directly from God, but through my ability to humble myself and hear Him speak through imperfect people. Francis Frangipane

Humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less. C.S. Lewis

The meek man is not a human mouse afflicted with a sense of his own inferiority. He has accepted God's estimate of his own life: In himself, nothing; In God, everything. He knows well that the world will never see him as God sees him and he has stopped caring. A.W. Tozer

We'd like to be humble...but what if no one notices? --John Ortberg

Does it seem that GOD desires HIS people to possess a spirit of humbleness? It might be that being humble is an issue between you and GOD and not you and the world.

Where do we start to become a person who is truly humble? You may have a better answer than I but it may start with the understanding that without GOD’S acceptance and forgiveness we are nothing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sU8MAQKSbEI&feature=related

This post has been Linked with Joan Davis at Sharing His Beauty

And with Deidra at Sunday Tandem

CHECK UP TIME AGAIN

2011-12-31T12:26:00.000-08:00

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This time of year we reflect and some will decide to make New Years Resolutions!

I am not one to make and break, but it is a good time for a check up.

Phooey and phooey again. This is my usual first response when the HOLY SPIRIT quickens me to re-evaluate my walk.

I want to say; “C’mon now I’m doing okay!” Of course I quickly put that behind me and slowly begin to respond by first looking at the things in my life that are (in my view) without reproach. But even there I waver a little, when my style out distances my substance.

I then become a victim of “Cognitive Dissonance.” When in realty I’m not a victim for this is of my own making.

Dissonance is often strong when we believe something about ourselves and then do something against that belief. If I believe I am good but do something bad, then the discomfort I feel as a result is “cognitive dissonance.”

Cognitive dissonance is a very powerful motivator which will often lead us to change one or other of the conflicting beliefs or action. The discomfort often feels like a tension between the two opposing thoughts but in the realm of the spirit it is nothing more than an inner conviction to “straighten up and fly right.”

Conviction sets in when the choice is to modify belief to accommodate the error of our ways.
The old adage “Do as I say not as I do,” just doesn’t get it done when relating to GOD for HE says; “Do as I say.” Those are the operative words.

Jesus said; I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bear much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

Song of Solomon 2:15 take (control of) the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes.

These two verses tell us three things, our potential in Christ, our responsibility before GOD and how I can blow it with the wrong response.

Well I have put off as long as I can that which I know I must do, so please excuse me while I respond to the Spirit’s urgings.

You might enjoy this song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HeP8R68p8uo&feature=related

Linked with Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays. Please visit there for some awesome words!

ARE YOU STRIVING?

2011-12-29T11:23:00.000-08:00

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From “Time unto immemorial” is a statement I haven’t heard used since I was a kid.

In those days it was used often and I never knew just exactly what it meant and even today the meaning is somewhat difficult to pin down.

With just one definition as follows; A particular period or part of duration, whether past, present, or future; a point or portion of duration; as, the time was, or has been; the time is, or will be. [1913 Webster]

Jesus, in answer to the question "Lord, are there just a few who are being saved?" Luke 13:24,, "Strive to enter through the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.

This view of receiving salvation by striving, is in contrast to salvation full and free by grace are you saved! I have it heard it said; salvation is free but is not cheap for it came at great price.

At this point we might say from before “Time unto immemorial,” there was a battle that ensued and is still going on to day. That battle is for supremacy of the entire universe and beyond.

Mankind has been caught up in this struggle and like the angels that followed Satan and the good angels that stayed true to GOD, people today are following the leader they have chose.

This struggle is defined in Ephesians 6:12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

This whole concept on the surface seems unreal due to the fact we deal with physical things and much of this warfare is spiritual and mental. Nevertheless it is a battle, and in spite of the end of the Book saying we win, the war is raging with small victories and defeats ongoing.

2Corinthians 10:3-5 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the Obedience of Christ.

All this doesn’t happen automatically but requires the struggle. The wresting is against a very real enemy. The striving Jesus mentioned in Luke 13:24 doesn’t end with the acceptance of Christ as savior but will continue until the end comes.

1 Peter 4:12-13 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you,

Which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were

happening to you; Instead, be very glad--for these trials make you partners

with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing

His glory when it is revealed to the entire world.

It would serve you well when things aren't going as they should to remember you are striving for righteousness sake and are in the midst of a Spiritual Battle.

Enjoy this lovely song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMZ8D6nTKhg

This post has been linked to Thought Provoking Thursday
Also linked to Joan’s Grace Café

MY DOG BLUE

2011-12-28T11:32:00.000-08:00

"I Found One"
image courtesy photobucket.com

I have had so many dogs I can't remember them all without reaching back into my memory banks for some time.

While I was fond of all of them the one who stood out from among the rest was my dog named Blue.

He was a registered Blue Tick Hound that weighed a little over one hundred pounds. He was well marked with all the blue tick colors and with his long black ears he was beautiful.

Old blue was kinda raunchy as dogs go, doing all of the stuff dogs do such as smelling where strangers didn’t appreciate. I tried to teach him some social etiquette but it was without much success.

Blue was supposed to be a hunting dog and he was all that one should be. Even at the age of fifteen shortly before he died he would try to slip off and escape into the woods and go hunting. He would be so tired, and it was necessary that I go find him and help him to get home. The one thing about Blue was he knew who and what he was. There wasn’t any confusion about that. He looked like a dog he acted like a dog and expected to be treated like a dog and when he wasn’t he reacted like a dog should.

I must say that I was both challenged and learned by this fact that we should be as true to ourselves as Blue was to himself.

It is imperative that a Christian be of the same mind as he, knowing who we are and what is expected of us both by GOD and people.

Philippians 2:1-5 Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus,

Whenever I forget myself, and I don’t fully meet the Christian standards, I am reminded of old Blue and try not to fall short of the standard he set for Me - - Know myself and know who I am in Christ!

Linking with Jennifer at: Getting Down with Jesus at:
God Bumps and Incidences:

RELATIONS UNKNOWN

2011-12-27T00:11:00.000-08:00

Relatives
courtesy photobucket.com

My father was married before he married my mother, and he had a son by his first wife. While I knew he existed I never met him until I was nearly forty. Even today I have many other relatives whom I have never met, and this is not exclusive to me for most all of us are the same concerning this matter.

There is an old song called “There is going to be a meeting in the air,” and it is my understanding that it will consist of those who are caught up to meet Christ in the air, and those who Christ brings with him at the rapture.

There are numerous pastors who claim to have many thousands of members in their congregations but when Christ returns it will be the largest meeting of Christians ever gathered together at one time.

image courtesy photobucket.com

1Thessalonians 4:15-17 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep.

For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.

Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.

Now normally I don’t like crowds and especially with people I don’t know but I am looking forward to meeting all my brothers and sisters I haven’t ever met.

What a glorious day that will be. But until that day Paul the apostle gives us some extremely good advice;

Hebrews 12:1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,

We are earthen vessels that God has designed to be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the person and work of Christ. When this occurs in us, it will result in transformed lives. Into persons that manifest the power of God in Christ-like living. Paul points us to the kind of fruitful life that is the designed end of a being filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding.

Colossians 1:10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Thanks be to Paul for that good advice.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ge9V1cOyVQM&feature=related

Linked to Shanda’s On your Heart Tuesday

DAYS OF MONASTICISM

2011-12-26T14:37:00.000-08:00

Monestary
Image courtesy photobucket.com

Not too many Christians want to or feel the need to join a Monastery or practice Eremitism which is; “monasticism characterized by solitude in which the social dimension of life is sacrificed to the primacy of religious experience.”

Still there is a desire to come aside and focus on our relationship with GOD without the disrupting forces intruding upon us.

Sunday worship can help fill the gap in our experience but most true worshippers want and need more. In addition to our church going there is what is called retreats where you can get alone and seek GOD but these times are hard to come by due to financial and family needs.

Without our knowing it, our spiritual strength is being drawn upon by other people continuously, the result being a case of the spiritual blahs. This happens and we don’t realize how much they are pulling us down.

Of course there are times when we are aware of our ministry to people in need as in Luke 8:46 And Jesus said, somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me.

In both cases you need to be refreshed lest you become “overdrawn.”

Each Christian must realize that they have spiritual limitations and learn to be a channel whereby GOD’S strength flows through you like a river and not like a lake that will soon run dry.

It is the “responsibility” of each of us to discover the best method to receive our restoration and always to be open to the Spirits’ prompting's.

image courtesy photobucket

Romans 8:26-27 In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

As you learn to cooperate with the Holy Spirit you will constantly be refilled and never run dry.

Enjoy this song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-SI_HRWooA

This post is linked to Deidra’s Sunday Jump Tandem
and linked with Joan Davis Sharing His Beauty

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2011-12-25T12:16:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

Happy Birthday always has a merry, cheery sound to it. Another year has passed and your new year has started.

The happiest birthday of all was when Jesus was born and the angels sang songs of redemption. It was truly “Joy to the World” for the Lord had come.

Jesus came for a purpose, and a few years later he fulfilled that purpose. As one of my songs that I wrote, says; “When Jesus died he FULLY paid for my salvation.”

Just as Jesus’ birthday initiated the beginning of his purpose, so also your birthday was the beginning of your purpose here on earth. Each day is a step toward finishing your reason for being here. Your being here is not an accident but you have a part to play in the program of GOD. If you always keep this thought before you no matter how menial your daily tasks are you are fitting into GOD’S plan for you.

Jesus’ life wasn’t all preaching and miracles, but in realty that was just a small part of his life albeit a very important part of it.

As a new year approaches it will fit into GOD’S plan and your part will also be part of the overall happening. An automobile will function without a horn but where would the honking be?

Even so GOD’S plan would go forward without you, but something would be missing for you are a very important part of GOD’S program.

1Corinthians 12:18 But now God has placed the members, each one of them, in the body, just as He desired.

You may not feel very important but GOD thinks differently. YOU, individually have been placed where HE wants you to be. Keep this thought before you; you may be a plumber or a housewife but that is not your position in the body of Christ.

You may be a prayer warrior, or an example of what a Christian should be, and whatever you are, this is where you fit into the body of Christ and in GOD’S eyes. You are as important as any other part. Your success will depend largely upon how you view yourself in the kingdom of GOD. You can be as faithful as the apostle Paul and be rewarded as he will be, for faithfulness is the standard not the task alone.

I urge you to read and study 1Corinthians 12 until you see how important GOD thinks you are.

Then as you go forth it will be with new resolve to fulfill the race set before you.

This post is entered today with glorious sites you must visit

Linked with Sundays in my City

Linked with Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays.

GUILT

2011-12-24T11:33:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

Guilt feelings are a hard task master. It is both a fact and a feeling. It is a force that attacks repeatedly and severely. The remedies for controlling these feelings are often ineffective and temporary. Whether real or imaginary the effect is debilitating and painful. It has the power to affect the spiritual, psychological and our physical being.

Guilt is an emotion, a response to failing in some area of you life. There is nothing we do wherein we can’t experience some degree of perceived failure. The casserole didn’t turn out like it should have. Company just dropped in and my house wasn’t clean or some area where you didn’t meet the standard either you or someone has established.

It could be a “Didn’t do or shouldn’t have done,” scenario in either case the result is a yucky feeling.

One thing many agree on is - - if all forms of guilt were eliminated there would be little need for psychologists or psychiatrists for it is there they find most of their patience’s problems.

Wikipedia; A three-fold division is sometimes made between objective or legal guilt, which occurs when society's laws have been broken..., Social guilt... [over] an unwritten law of social expectation', and finally Personal guilt occurs when someone compromises one's own standards.”

The most punishing guilt is when we violate what we believe is our standards, of course these standards are those that have been imposed upon us at a very young age. Starting at the center of the bulls eye when we fall below our own expectations the old phrase “I could just kick myself” seems apropos for we have a high opinion of ourselves.

Even when we deliberately do poorly we still excuse and justify ourselves but that doesn’t get rid of the guilt associated with it.

Guilt carries with it the expectation of having to pay the price for our laxity or inability to measure up to either our or other’s standards especially our family. One of the worst awards one can receive is the “most likely to succeed award” this puts pressure on the individual so that anything less than perfection is failure.

How to get over the guilt syndrome is certainly beyond me for every psychologist has a list of things to do and even with the list utilized at best there is but little relief. Whether there is real guilt or imaginary guilt, deserved or undeserved the result is the same, self condemnation. It is certain that others will condemn you but it is only when condemnation is internalized the damage is done.

The Biblical viewpoint in the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve were without any sense of guilt. There was no condemnation until Adam and Eve sinned. Then the blame shifting began because they were both guilty of disobeying GOD’S commandant.

While there were many of “Thou shall” directions given to them there was only one. “Thou shalt NOT” commandment and they violated it.

When Cain murdered his brother and he was sent from GOD’S presence and Cain said; “My punishment is greater than my strength.” This seems to be the effect of guilt, we can only partially mitigate this and not totally expunge it.

Hundreds of volumes have been written on this subject without resolution so the only thing we can do is learn to live with it and not allow it to become obsessive.

The “How” is the tough part of any answer to every problem. By recognizing that the feeling guilty emotion is the result of falling below some standard you must ask whose standards are these and why must I conform to them.

Starting with the spiritual we look at the scripture Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

This means we are guilty and now need to seek the remedy if there is one. For simplicity sake we look to; 1John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1John 3:2 Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is.

I understand from a theological perspective this construct could be improved upon but the main issue which is separation from GOD is resolved. The next issue is violation of standards set up for you by others. These may be friends, parents, society as a whole.

If I want to have peaceful interaction with them I must accept their rules of the road.

Understanding all the while - - that I’m going to fall short of their expectations I must be ready to compensate for my failure. Starting with “I’m sorry.” and showing that you are by whatever means that is available to you. The best and genuine way is to make sure you avoid doing it again.

If their standards are too high then break off the relationship and move on. It is not a right or wrong issue but rather an incompatibility problem that is best dealt with by avoidance.

Your own standards and failure to live up to them is big issue for you have to live with yourself. Some try to lower their standards even as far as “I don’t give a damn,” but that doesn’t get you off the hook so to speak - - for the guilt will remain, just pushed to a lower level of consciousness. When this happens something is eating on you and you don’t know what it is.

After all this blather what is the answer?

To start with; Ecclesiastes 12:13 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole [duty] of man. And then James 2:8 it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: "Love your neighbor as yourself."

Love them to the point of meeting their expectations of you even though you find them a bit intrusive. This may add a bit of irritation to you but doesn’t allow room for guilt.

Then love yourself enough to accept yourself as being imperfect and walk in forgiveness toward yourself as you work through your problems.

Recognize that everyone can do better and go so far as cutting yourself a little slack, enough as to not condemn yourself for every little failure but not as far as persevering to become the best version of you as possible.

Reject any guilt that doesn’t provide the answer for doing better. Philippians 4:7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

The peace of God also includes freedom from jarring, discordant passions of the mind. It is a positive enjoyment of the purest, sweetest kind.

It is a foretaste of the bliss of heaven. Nothing on earth is so delightful.

You might enjoy this beautiful song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7ob0Jiyq8s

This post has been linked with Joan Davis at: Sharing His Beauty

THE COST OF LIVING

2011-12-23T15:47:00.000-08:00

Woe is Me !

The innocent by-stander, caught in the line of fire, collateral damage, wrong place at the wrong time, and many such statements indicate that someone has suffered a loss that is undeserved.

It is only after you have been the recipient of such a happening that the full meaning becomes evident.

Job 1:1 There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job.

Most everyone has heard of this man even if it was in a saying like; “Poor as Job’s turkey.”

This man was called upright by GOD Himself, but was caught in the line of fire so to speak. It was one of the few times when Satan held center stage and the man Job was a ploy used by both sides. The right or wrong, fair or unfair didn’t enter into the equation it was a trust issue; GOD felt HE could trust Job and the contest was on.

You cannot read of JOB’S trial without feeling his pain on three levels; spiritually, physically and emotionally.

His first response was one of disbelief, nothing made any sense. As he sought some understanding his mind was hard pressed and desperation was the order of the day.

Job sitting in Ashes and His Wife
courtesy Bible Illustrations

While he was in torment, his wife’s best advice was “Curse GOD and die.”

His friends could only conclude that he was harboring some secret sin and was being judged for it.

As one has suggested everyone should read the book of Job once a year for each time you will find a different truth for you. In the end Job was justified by his words.

Job 1:22 In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.

Crystal Godfrey says it succinctly; if you live long enough, you will encounter bad times. It doesn’t matter what country you live in, or what cultural or ethnic background you come from, you will face trouble in this life.

In John 16:33, Jesus tells his disciples, "In the world ye shall have tribulation."

So, it is not a question of if you will go through bad times but when you will go through bad times.

The question is how will you respond when evil times come upon you?

Each one of us must answer this question for ourselves, one way or another.

Job plumbed the depths of possibility and probability. The outcome was his understanding that GOD is supreme and sovereign and his acceptance of that freed him from the feeling that he was equal to HIM. It is only when we keep perspective in focus that our relationship with GOD can flourish.

One gets the sense that Job found the secret to living and that is to separate the processes of life whether good or bad from his relationship with GOD. While good times, bad times may come and go, one’s relationship with GOD should remain the same. Rich or poor, sick or well, success or failure, if we allow them they will affect our relationship with HIM.

Paul wrote to the Philippian church; Philippians 4:12-13 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

Paul did not let present circumstances affect his faith and hope in GOD and change his ongoing relationship with HIM.

I reckon what was good enough for Paul the same ought to work for me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FR_bds86Ujg&feature=related

This post has been linked to Laura’s, Brag on God Fridays

INTERFACE

2011-12-22T16:47:00.000-08:00

In English, an interface is a device or system that unrelated entities use to interact.

When I read that - - immediately I thought, “That sounds like something that is a go between to connect two like or unlike things.”

The illustration is given whereby the volume control on a TV is the interface between a person and the workings of the set. Interface is a term used in discussing computers and their functions both hardware, software and the user. It is something like a bridge that allows traffic to flow in both directions.

I had never thought about prayer being an interface between GOD and man but in essence I believe it is.

One of the prime uses of the interface is the linking of two incompatible objects to produce a useful end product. When you consider that man and GOD are different entities the interface can bridge that gap. Some would claim that there are similarities due to the fact that GOD is a Spirit and man has a spirit yet they are not the same.

This problem was solved when Jesus took upon himself the likeness of man in the incarnation. That is why, when Christ came into the world, he said to God, Hebrews 10:5 "You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings. But you have given me a body to offer.”

image courtesy photobucket.com

In the offering up of himself for the sin of the world he became the link (the interface) for communication between God and man.

You might say that the name of Jesus is the password we have been given for full access to the Father. Whether it is prayer, worship or service, all interaction is done via the interface (Jesus). It is a fail safe system that always works so rejoice and be glad.

Why don't you try it and see if it works for you. Perhaps someone needs you to pray them through, even now!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FwYsTQyFrc8&feature=related

Linking today with:

Michelle’s Thought Provoking Thursday

Iris at Thankful Thursdays

DON’T

2011-12-21T23:57:00.000-08:00

Freeway Collapse 1989 Earthquake

On a Friday afternoon at 5:03:15 pm it was a normal trying to get home race. The week had ended and people had plans made for a refreshing weekend. There would be time to catch up with chores that needed to be attended to, barbeques, visiting friends and relatives.

On this day October 17, 1989, at 5:04:15 pm (PDT) a magnitude 6.9 (moment magnitude; surface-wave magnitude, 7.1) earthquake severely shook the San Francisco and Monterey Bay regions. The epicenter was located at 37.04° N. Latitude, 121.88° W. Longitude near Loma Prieta peak in the Santa Cruz Mountains, approximately 14 km (9 MI) northeast of Santa Cruz and 96 km (60 MI) south-southeast of San Francisco.

The earthquake occurred when the Crustal rocks comprising the Pacific and North American Plates abruptly slipped as much as 2 meters (7 ft) along their common boundary-the San Andreas Fault system. The rupture initiated at a depth of 18 km (11 MI) and extended 35 km (22 MI) along the fault, but it did not break the surface of the Earth.

My friend Tom Hansen had asked to get off an hour earlier as he had plans to go out that evening. He was in the middle of the Cypress Viaduct section of the freeway when the earthquake occurred and the upper level of the freeway collapsed onto the lower level killing many people, Tom being one of them. I was greatly saddened by the news of Tom’s death for I had known him for a number of years.

We quickly went into the “If only stage” where we said if he had not got off early or had went another way but the reality was what it was, and “Tom was gone” nothing could change that. He had no warning, no opportunity to escape. Gone in the blink of an eye!

I thought about so many “If only” events I have escaped by heeding the warnings. From childhood so many times my parents told me to beware of perilous things and how heeding the warnings saved me. Beyond the warning there have been intuition moments where I have sensed danger, and have obeyed that inner feeling which led me to safety.

The biggest escape of my life was not to neglect my salvation, and to receive Christ as my savior. Unlike Tom’s misadventure I had a warning (Holy Ghost conviction) to which I responded. Putting it off could have proven to be spiritually fatal to me.

The normal experiences that new born Christians has is growing in the grace and admonition of the lord but within this process there is the opportunity to fall short.

Thankfully we have warnings not to do so and a given way of escape through obedience.

Some scriptures shake me much like the Loma Prieta earthquake of ’89 one of which is found in;
Hebrews 10:29 How much more severely do you think a man deserves to be punished who has trampled the Son of God under foot, who has treated as an unholy thing the blood of the covenant that sanctified him, and who has insulted the Spirit of grace?

While many scriptures are directed to the lost others have a dual purpose and apply both to the lost and saved.

image courtesy photobucket.com

Something that is imperative to avoid is doing despite to the HOLY SPIRIT. Some of the ways we can do this is

RESIST; Acts 7:51“You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit; as your fathers did, so do you.

QUENCH: We can quench the Spirit; 1 Thessalonians 5:19 Do not quench the Spirit.

GRIEVE: We can grieve the Spirit; Ephesians 4:30 and do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.

INSULT: We can insult the by ignoring Him, and acting as if He didn’t exist.

BLASPHEME: We can blaspheme the Spirit; Matthew 12:31-32 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.

These and many other warning have been given to us and we are expected to walk accordingly.

John 14:16-17 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

1 Corinthians 3:16 (NKJV) Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? This truth just blows me away and causes me to abhor the things that are not of GOD for as I struggle against my imperfections I have to call upon the Spirit of grace to help my weaknesses and plead forgiveness for failure.

Rom 8:26-28 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

To this I can only say, Amen http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqkvIhs7Ijg

This post has been linked to Joan’s Grace Café.

THE MOST FAMOUS KISS

2011-12-20T18:32:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

Of all the trillions of kisses which one is the most famous?

The movies have been in the running since the first movie kiss on film in 1896. This was a shocking event and

I must admit they really got it on. For the curious check this URL
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wj41SJDXw1g&feature=related

Well once the cat was out of the bag - - seems everyone wanted to kiss on film.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J8lExg24PSs&feature=related

As kissing became the “In” thing it took on the character of deception, especially if “I love you” accompanied it. The time came when young ladies wanted to hear those words, even if they knew it wasn’t true. Of course the devilish young men were more than willing to accommodate them.

One of my favorite actors was Humphrey Bogart and he played the leading man in many movies but he couldn’t kiss for beans even though he played opposite some of the most beautiful actresses.

I was never into kissing much when I was young but some are.
Http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlmNqRKcqXM&feature=related

I didn’t do very good when I first started to kiss, of course you don’t learn much from kissing mom on the cheek. I finally got the hang of it and like it a lot.

I can't lay claim to the most famous kiss of all time for that occurred in a secluded garden one dark night.

image courtesy photobucket.com

Matthew 26:14-16 Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver. And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.

Matthew 26:47-49 And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people. Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast. And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him. This was a kiss of bitterness, so bitter that Judas himself disdained living.

Mathew 27:3-5 Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, what is that to us? See thou to that. And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.

This infamous act of betrayal portrays a lost man and the most famous kiss of all.

Linking today with
Joan Davis, Sharing His Beauty
Jen’s Finding Heaven, Solo Gloria

THE WOODSHED

2011-12-20T00:15:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

Each of the apostles had their own way of dealing with problems in the church.

Jude tried to encourage and challenge the saints before dealing with deep spiritual problems. Jude 1:3 “It was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.“

Peter spoke with great authority for he was regarded with great respect throughout Christendom. His close relationship with Christ as his tutor resulted in spiritual wisdom.

Paul directed his followers to the Old Testament for authority, and then taught New Testament truths as GOD’S spirit had interpreted it for him.

James it is said was the pastor of the church at Jerusalem. This is where the debate over doctrine was hashed out. He being the Lords brother was straight laced and tolerated no foolishness. He was a genuine yea and nay man with nothing in-between.

When James got through with you, you knew you had been taken to the woodshed and got the full treatment.

Pastors today are faced with many of the same problems as James faced and must deal with them when oft times it isn’t a pleasant job. On occasion people will leave and go somewhere else instead of accepting correction.

Let’s look at a sampling of James declaration; James 4:1-10 Message Bible

1-2Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves. You lust for what you don't have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn't yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it.

2-3You wouldn't think of just asking God for it, would you? And why not? Because you know you'd be asking for what you have no right to. You're spoiled children, each wanting your own way.

4-6You're cheating on God. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way. And do you suppose God doesn't care? The proverb has it that "he's a fiercely jealous lover." And what he gives in love is far better than anything else you'll find. It's common knowledge that "God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble."

7-10So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and he'll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it's the only way you'll get on your feet.

We can only guess what the problems were but I suspect that he got things straightened out in a hurry. Brow beating aside - - strong preaching will build strong Christians.

So be it. Http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usv_knN7ESg&feature=related

This post has been linked with Shanda at: On your Heart Tuesday

COULD IT BE?

2011-12-19T08:32:00.000-08:00

image courtesy photobucket.com

COULD IT BE?

Could it be that GOD could ever love me?

Could it be HIS mercy is that wide?

Could it be that JESUS went to Calvary?

Could it be it was for me HE died?

So goes the first lines of a song I wrote several years age and later it says I have found the answer to that question.

A small church, a small congregation, an evangelistic service and on bowed knee all of it came into focus when another lost sheep was brought into the fold.

John 3:3 Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

The introduction of the term ”Born Again” changed the methodology of becoming into right relationship with GOD. The spiritual rebirth - - not a physical birth, put a different face on redemption.

Prior to this it was the same old me but temporally forgiven. Now it was a new me with GOD’S righteousness, not mine that gave me right standing before GOD.

2 Corinthians 5:17-18 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ

When we personalize those words “He is a new creature” it becomes “I am a new creature,” and is to be the guiding force in our life. This reality, when kept before us doesn’t permit us to engage in the things of the world but will cause us to walk uprightly before HIM. It is only when we forget who we are that we permit ourselves to walk in sin.

Think back on these words of Jesus; Luke 13:23-24 Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them; strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.

Because you have been redeemed you have much to treasure; for you are “Born Again” and are now a New Creature in Christ.

Enjoy this beautiful song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCI7kZLuknU

This post was linked with:
Messy Mondays with Evatt
Laura’s “Play dates with God.”

What is Christmas Really?

2011-12-18T08:06:00.000-08:00

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Tis the season to be jerks, or so it seems. Each year we experience the same old ranting by America’s heathens, recycling the same old garbage.

One of the “Man on the street” questions was; “Is Christmas about the birth of Christ?” The answers varied depending who they asked. Judging from what some said it would seem Satan is making a lot of converts and they are vocal about their beliefs.

While just the fact that the question is asked is an irritant but (as the old expression was) “I don’t give a “tinkers damn” about what they think.

What they erroneously believe doesn’t change my relationship with GOD and what their blinded eyes can’t see is; that they are thinking and speaking damnation to themselves concerning the denial of Christ in any way.

Christmas is a day of celebration and has great meaning for those of the household of GOD but for the heathen it is simply a day when they give gifts to their children in lieu of teaching and admonishing them in the way of the Lord.

There are many days celebrated by the religions of this world worshipping the god they have created.

Psalms. 14:1 Godless fools say in their hearts, "There is no God." They are corrupt. They do disgusting things. There is no one who does good things.

Those of the Christian faith look to two special days (Easter and Christmas) and rejoice in them for both speak of new life and a new beginning.

This in a nutshell describes the difference between Christianity and all other religions, one worships the god they have made and the Christian worships the GOD who made them.

This is post is linked to Deidra’s SundayJump Tandem

And to Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday

OBTAINING GOD’S PROMISE

2011-12-16T22:24:00.000-08:00

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While this is not a treatise on the titled subject it is at least something to think about.

A study of this nature should begin with the relationship of GOD and Abraham; for promises that were made not only relate to the Jews but also to the New Testament believers. Promises made to Abraham and to his seed were ultimately fulfilled in the birth, death, resurrection and seating of Christ in heaven.

The Pentateuch consists of the first five books of the OT: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, where we find the beginning of the history of the world. Further it plots the course of the Jews until they approach the physical inheritance of the Promised Land.

While they were the children of GOD - - obtaining the promises required an additional step of faith and action.

The book of Joshua gives details, how they exercised faith and fought for that which was theirs. Perhaps it is prudent to point out that they made mistakes and had to pay for them, but this is part of laying hold of the promises of GOD.

When they fell short they picked themselves up and started all over again.

New Testament Christians may have to do the same as the Israelites did in order to obtain what is theirs in Christ.

A caution is apropos at this moment; the Israelites never took possession of all GOD had promised Abraham. In the same way the Christian may fall short of all that is theirs in Christ.

Heb.4:1-2 God's promise of entering his rest still stands, so we ought to tremble with fear that some of you might fail to experience it. For we also have had the gospel preached to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because those who heard did not combine it with faith.

The scriptures are full of promises which we shall never obtain. This is due to many reasons; such as misinterpreting the scripture, and trying to apply it in the wrong way.

Without trying to make a list of why we come short of what we perceive to be ours in Christ, let me say the main reason is not combining the promise with faith which makes it dead on arrival. Trying to believe for something and believing for what GOD has promised is not the same thing. This is a distinction some fail to make.

When the HOLY SPIRIT quickens one’s faith concerning needs you can be sure you are on the right track, but without that it is just wishful thinking and disappointment lies ahead. It is best to avoid the want and want to line of thinking and be led by GOD'S spirit and your spirit. Soulical aspirations can inspire but when misplaced are not profitable. These inspirations die quickly while the Spirits leading continues.

Another issue is while each of the Israelites received a portion of GOD’S promise, not all received an equal amount both in quantity and quality. One of the mysteries in Christendom is the inequity experienced by Christians.

One preacher gets to build a cathedral and fill his pockets with gold while another struggles for existence.
One will get healed while another suffers and dies. One will have success in business, love and their social life and another has the opposite experience. One will have to give up their life for their testimony while others live off the fat of the land.

While our minds can come up with many reasons why this is so - - the bottom line is, this is the fact of the matter.

In the final analyses to those who have been given more, much shall be required of them, some will succeed and some will fall short.

In the book of Romans 12:5-8 so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another and having gifts, different according to the grace that was given to us; whether prophecy -- 'According to the proportion of faith!” so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

Not understanding one’s place in the body can cause you to try - - but fail when trying to minister beyond your ministry gift, for it is crash and burn territory. What is required is to function in the body of Christ where you have been placed and to see to it that your part is not left undone.

We have all received the same salvation, the same HOLY SPIRIT and will receive the same judgment and rewards based on one’s faithfulness.

At that time it will not be as important what we have believed GOD for.

The important thing will be - - who we have believed IN.

Todays post is linked with Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays. Please visit there!

REVERNEND CHAPPELL

2011-12-15T23:12:00.000-08:00

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Pastor Chappell was a large man somewhere between austere and country.

He was use to ministering to people of Oklahoma South and since some of the people in our church had migrated from the south they wished to have him come to be the new pastor of our church.

There were certain characteristics that defined him; one being he had a very loud voice. I don’t mean just loud I mean extremely loud, one that would hurt your ears. When he saw the microphone he said I won’t be needing that and he was right. He had a wife and daughter both of which were very skinny. When talking to them he toned his voice down a great deal otherwise they would have been deafened.

Such a kind man was he, and I liked him a lot.

Due to the fact his experience had been preaching to rural people who worked late on the farm, church always started after dark. He was in the habit of not starting his preaching until later in the evening. Our church on the other hand started at six on Sunday evenings with what we called an Evangelistic service. He just couldn’t get comfortable preaching the evening service while it was still light. He once told me that something had to be done because we were working against GOD by not waiting until dark to preach.

This became a problem and some contention arose because by getting out of church by 8 there was time for the members to go out and fellowship or have people over for refreshments especially for the young people.

The pastor was gracious but about a year of “working against” GOD was all he could take and he resigned and moved to Arizona to minister to the American Indians.

As it turned out it was best both for him and the church, even though he was a good man he was in the wrong place.

1 Corinthians 12:14-16 14 For the body is not one member, but many. 15 If the foot says, “Because I am not a hand, I am not a part of the body,” it is not for this reason [a]any the less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear says, “Because I am not an eye, I am not a part of the body,” If they were all one member, where would the body be?”

It is important for both the church and you for you to find your place in the body of Christ because it is there you will be most successful.

There have been times when my wife and I have had to fill in because someone had failed to take their place in the body. We were glad to do it but we were just a fill in.

Romans 12:6-8 So in Christ We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

No one can replace you for you have been given your place, your job, your responsibility in the body of Christ. If you neglect to fulfill your calling the cause of Christ will suffer.

Realize this; You are very important in the kingdom of GOD.

You will enjoy this song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGcz0AOxLSc

This post is linked to Laura’s Brag on God Fridays.

DEAD AS A DOOR NAIL

2011-12-14T23:49:00.000-08:00

(Unquestionably dead, used for both inanimate objects and once living beings.)

This is one of the common phases that I grew up with. From my earliest memories I heard it used to refer to something that had no life left in it.

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With Christmas approaching, our minds are focused upon the birth of Christ but there was a time some thirty odd years later when a group of faithful believers gathered around a place of crucifixion where he had been put to death.

Sorrowfully they took him down and buried him in a crypt as reason told them that; “He was dead as a doornail.”

After the birth and death of Jesus the next event most notable event is the resurrection of Christ and his appearances to his disciples, which was followed by his ascension and seating at the right hand of the Father.

While each phase of Christ’s human life is important our focus must now center upon the fact he is our advocate before the Father.

1Timothy 2:5 For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,

Seated
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Our very existence depends upon His present ministry on our behalf. This process must be played out until Christ’s return. How alive is Christ? He is alive as you are and more so, for he dies no more.

Colossians 1:17 He existed before anything else and he holds all creation together.

John 1:3 All things came into existence through him, and without him nothing was.

The quality of our relationship with GOD is dependent upon acceptance of the full spectrum of the works of Christ and the fact that this GOD MAN is your representative in heaven.

Something that we need/must be aware of every day is that Christ is alive. The awareness of this fact and the presence of the Holy Spirit will help keep us on the straight and narrow.

Because of the fact that He is alive we can say with the Psalmist; “Yes even though I have to go through a valley of death you art with me and you will comfort me.”

He is alive eternally.

You might enjoy this beautiful song. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0XXxs5b7rg&feature=related

Please visit these great Blog Hop sites below for many good words you will find there.

Linking with Joan at Grace Café.

And with Michelle at Thought Provoking Thursday.

SPEW YOU

2011-12-14T11:31:00.000-08:00

SPEW; to send or cast forth with vigor or violence or in great quantity.

Some of the statements Jesus made really get my attention. This is one of those scriptures. Revelation 3:16 So then because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew you out of my mouth.

In the verse he was speaking to the church members of the Laodicean church. In His address to them He says they are Luke-warm and He was going to dump them. He then tells them of their problems and gives them a chance to straighten up and live as they should.

The seven churches of Asia are specifically addressed in Revelation and the message to them should caution all churches as to doctrine and conduct. He closes the third chapter with these words; Revelation 3:22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

What the Spirit has said to the church is to place the highest value on your relationship with Jesus and let nothing diminish it.

There is a full spectrum of Christians, some are so gung-ho they can get on your nerves if you are the easy going type, but there is another group that only when pressed do they admit they believe in GOD. These people want to live life as worldly as they can in case there is no GOD but still hang on to their belief just in case there is.

This is the way the Laodiceans were; a kind of safety net profession. They wanted what they considered the best of both worlds that would allow them be non-committed, committed Christians.

Any departure from the Word of GOD in conduct is unbelief. GOD and his Word are one. He is what HE says. His words are a revelation of HIS person. John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

We live in what is called the “Dispensation of Grace,” (favor not based on merit) but the Laodiceans found that “Grace” didn’t mean you could walk as mere men.

The apostle Paul addresses the Corinthian Christians concerning their conduct; 1 Corinthians 3:3 for you are still controlled by your sinful nature. You are jealous of one another and quarrel with each other. Doesn't that prove you are controlled by your sinful nature? Aren't you living like people of the world?

If they had any question of what was right or wrong Paul straightens them out and then it was up to them to do right.

I could say more but if I did it might sound like preaching and I don’t want to do that.

Avoid “Spew You Out” at all costs!

Enjoy this lovely song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0S8Z-dMM40&feature=related

Linking with Jennifer at: God Bumps and Incidences

HATE THAT SONG

2011-12-13T23:45:00.000-08:00

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That Song; “Doing what comes naturally,” I just hate that song. It isn’t that it’s not true it’s because they’s making fun of us.

Someone asked me, “How far back in the woods do you-all live?” and I told them if we lived any further back we would be coming out on the other side.

There were two kinds of people who live where we did, the hill folks and the bottom land-ers. You could tell the difference by looking at their sheets hanging on the clothes line. The hill folks sheets were reddish on the bottom (the red dirt don’t wash out) and the bottom land-ers sheets were dark brown, they had better soil than the hill folks.

A city feller asked me why the sheets were dirty on the bottom and I told him it was because the men folks didn’t wash their feet very often. They figured that they would just get dirty the next day and it would just be a waste of good soap.

We always knew when it was time to buy new overalls. It was when the patches would fall off because the cloth was too rotten to hold the stitches. New overalls were only wore to church until the old ones would fall apart when they were washed then the new ones became regular.

There were a lot of bootleggers where we lived. The sheriff always left them alone as long as they dropped off a jug each week at his place.

Family planning was a must, the girls were expected to be married by the age of fifteen (or sooner) and could cook as good as their momma. When the boys got a wife they just built another room on the main house.

Most all of us got a good education and some who were sickly even made it to the fifth grade cause they couldn’t work it the fields til they were older.

The girls didn’t wear their step-ins except on Sunday when they went to the Pentecostal church or they were wrasslin, the boys liked to wrestle the girls, it were something like courting.

The men wore long johns in the winter and nothing in the summer. We took baths in the summer as soon as the river warmed up enough.

In the winter we would play a game where you would be blindfolded and see if you could tell who it was by smelling them.

In the winter there were not as many chores so making hominy was not only good for food it was also entertaining. It took two or three days to make it depending on whether you had some lye or had to use ashes to get the skins off. Momma would fry some side meat and use the fat to cook the hominy in.

The lowest form of humans was the chicken thieves. The chicken was a staple for us. We raised a lot of chickens. We ate their eggs and would fry the young ones on Sunday, then when the layers got older they got stewed.

The roosters when they got old, they were thrown into the pot and boiled. It took forever to get them tender enough. The old folks couldn’t chew them so they just ate the broth and dumplings.

Flour sacks and cow feed sacks could be washed and the printing would wash off or at least most of it. They were used for making different kinds of clothes. The women would buy some dye and then make them a new dress. They would use the old buttons so they had a new dress for ten cents.

I have much more I should tell you but the dogs have started to howl cause they want to go hunting and I want to go also. If I don’t get back in time for church tomorrow pappy said he would get rid of my dogs so I better make tracks.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oeZz6ATBncU&feature=related

This post has been linked with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday

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IT DOESN’T SEEM FAIR!

2011-12-13T10:15:00.000-08:00

Life just isn't Fair !!
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There are many things today that don’t seem fair.

One of them is hair cuts. Now I don’t have but about one third as much hair as I used to have but I still have to pay full price for the hair cut.

It doesn’t seem fair that the oldest child gets to wear the new clothes and then they are passed down to the younger until the youngest out grows them.

It doesn’t seem fair that the cats get to sleep in the house and the dogs lay out in the cold.

It doesn’t seem fair that the CEO gets millions a year while the janitor who does more work makes a few thousand.

It doesn’t seem fair that my sister married a good looking, rich husband and I…. Well it doesn’t seem fair.

Some say that it isn't fair that GOD will send people to hell just because they revile HIM and reject HIS salvation and do despite to his grace.

Hebrews 10:29 How much more severely do you think a man deserves to be punished who has trampled the Son of God under foot, who has treated as an unholy thing the blood of the covenant that sanctified him, and who has insulted the Spirit of grace?

Maybe some things are not fair and all things are not equal but, it is what it is - - so get on with life, and dust off your relationship with Jesus if needed.
http://www.youtube.com/user/ReginaBrett#p/a/u/1/8A7pNRSECNk

Linking today with Messy Mondays with Evatt
And at the WellSpring with Laura

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HOLY COW!

2011-12-12T01:10:00.000-08:00

Holy Cow
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I personally have known several missionaries to India, one of which was killed in a traffic accident while ministering in India. Early in her ministry she had adopted two throw away very young Indian girls. What a difference Christ meant to them as they grew up to be fine young Christian women. Instead of being left to try to survive on the streets of Bombay they were raised by a loving “Auntie.”

There is no shortage of deities available in that land where by nature the people want something bigger than themselves to worship.

One of the better known Indians was Mohandas Gandhi who was educated in England at the University College London where he studied law. The Cow was venerated by Gandhi He said: "I worship it and I shall defend its worship against the whole world.” The central fact of Hinduism is cow protection. He regarded her better than the earthly mother, and called her "the mother to millions of Indian mankind." It was said as he lay dying they brought a cow into his room where he grasped the tail while he died.

There is a Bhishma saying: "Cows represent sacrifice. Without them, there can be no sacrifice…Cows are guileless in their behavior and from them flow sacrifices of milk and curds and butter. Hence cows are sacred..."

Well to some they are “Holy Cow” but here in America they are steak and hamburger. I don’t feel the need to degrade the Indian people’s beliefs but I have found a better way.

Even the most educated people among us when left to their own devices will look for something to worship whether in a foreign land or here in America. At the same time they will too often reject the one and only true GOD. I suspect that here in America we rival India’s god count. The Indian people say they don’t worship the cow only venerate them which seem like splitting hairs.

Prior to the temple’s destruction the Jews sacrificed certain animals and at times ate them. When Christ came as the lamb of GOD he died the death for all sinners of the world, past, present and future. Instead of being bound to that which can only keep you bound by sin he removes the sin nature and forgives the besetting sins.

The Holy Cow neither has nor can do anything for me but the lamb of GOD accomplished it all.

Where the one has failed the other has prevailed. Where one is dead the other is alive and well in the believer.

I didn’t need the “Holy Cow,” what I needed was the “Holy Lamb of GOD” Jesus Christ.

It is easy to forget to be thankful as we should for what Christ has done for us but just thinking about the gods that other nations worship - - sobers me and stirs me to repent and give GOD the glory HE so richly deserves.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iprSm9oyVpM&feature=related

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Linking today with: Michelle, Joan and Deidra

Michelle at Hear it on Sunday

Joan Davis Sharing His Beauty Hop

Deidra’s Sunday Jumptandem