VOM–USA Prayer Update for July 31, 2009
The Voice of the Martyrs USA: www.persecution.com
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. Romans 1:16
CHINA — Pastor Sent to Labor Camp — China Aid Association
Romans 8:34-36
Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: “ For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
On June 29, Pastor Dou Shaowen, who is currently serving a one-year sentence for “engaging in illegal activities,” was secretly transferred to Shifo Re-education Through Labor Center in Zhengzhou city, Henan province, according to China Aid Association. His family was not informed of his transfer. Pastor Dou, his wife Feng Lu and five other believers were arrested on June 14 when government officials raided and closed the Rock Church. The police confiscated computers and other church property. Pastor Dou and his wife were sentenced to a year in prison and the other believers were sentenced to 15 days in detention and fined 500 Yuan (US$ 73). Feng Lu, however, will serve her sentence at home so she can care for the couple’s 12 year-old daughter. China Aid reported Pastor Dou has been treated inhumanely in the labor camp. “When he wanted to talk to the police officers, he was forced to squat. He worked 18 hours a day from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. midnight. Over 70 people sleep in a room,” a source at China Aid said. “Due to the hot weather and the poor sanitary condition … some prisoners have eczema, herpes and other skin diseases. They have to work 18 hours a day without enough to eat.” Feng Lu tried to visit her husband in prison, but was told she was not allowed to visit him for a month. She is required to report to the Public Security Bureau police regularly, and could be sent to labor camp again if she is found “engaging in illegal religious activities” again.
SOMALIA — Christian man murdered — VOM Sources
Acts 4:29-31
Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.
On July 20, a convert from Islam to Christianity was murdered in the city of Mahadday Weyne, Somalia by members of al-Shabaab, a militant group with ties to Al-Qaeda, according to Compass Direct News. Mohammed Sheikh Abdiraman, who had been a Christian for 15 years and was the leader of a group of underground believers, was shot at approximately 7:00 a.m. He is survived by two children, ages 10 and 15. His wife died three years ago due to illness. Ask God to comfort and guide Abdiraman's children in this difficult time. Pray that increased persecution will result in increased boldness among believers in Somalia.
SRI LANKA — Pastor Assaulted — National Christian Evangelical Alliance
2 Thessalonians 1:3-5
We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other, so that we ourselves boast of you among the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that you endure, which is manifest evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you also suffer;
On July 23, a pastor of a church in Polonnaruwa district, North Central Province, Sri Lanka was brutally attacked by unknown assailants, according to the National Christian Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka. The pastor was driving home from a prayer meeting when a group of men on motorcycles called out to him. When he stopped his vehicle and rolled down his window, the assailants attacked him with knives. He was able to prevent them from slashing his neck but sustained severe arm injuries. His vehicle was also damaged. The pastor eventually fled the scene and sought help. Pray for healing for the injured pastor. Ask God to bless the ministry of Christian workers spreading the Gospel in Sri Lanka amid opposition.
Add the PrisonerAlert.com application on Facebook by visiting http://apps.facebook.com/prisoneralert/
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
7/28/09
Stimulus and the Moment of Choice
John Paul Jackson discusses the soul vs. the spirit, and the impact they can have on your choices.
www.streamsministries.com
Living Waters University, Anthony and friend
Ray Comfort witnesses to two young men. It seems God was doing a work in one of their hearts. Kirk Cameron is doing the chalk talk at the beginning.
www.livingwaters.com, www.needgod.com
7/26/09
Facing Our Loneliness, Part 1
Facing Our Loneliness, Part 1
Charles F. Stanley
Scripture: Psalm 25:12-18
I. Introduction: God created us to be intimately connected to Him and other people. Yet we often feel cut off from Him and those around us, unable to escape powerful feelings of isolation. What leads to a life of loneliness, and what devastation does it cause if left unchecked?
II. Loneliness in the Life of a Believer
1. Loneliness is separation anxiety caused by feeling disconnected.
* Loneliness is primarily a spiritual problem. It begins with feeling disconnected from God.
* Solitude, on the other hand, is being alone by choice. We all need time alone to be re-energized and develop our intimate relationship with the Lord.
* Where did loneliness begin? When Adam and Eve sinned, they lost perfect harmony with each other and God. When we choose to rebel against the Father, we separate ourselves from fellowship with Him.
2. Where does the feeling of loneliness originate?
* Losing a loved one
* Undergoing divorce
* Feeling condemned by God
* Feeling unworthy or unwanted
* Having no one with whom to share life
* Experiencing isolation in childhood
3. What are some roles that can cause people to feel lonely?
* The president of a corporation
* Retirees who no longer have a network of co-workers
* Pastors
* Missionaries
4. What are the consequences of loneliness?
* Moral: To get love or attention, lonely individuals will do things fulfilled people won’t do.
* Financial: They spend to fill the void in their lives.
* Physical: They may eat to comfort themselves, thereby gaining weight. Or they may lack the energy typically derived from healthy interaction with others.
* Relational: They feel so detached that they can’t reach out to others.
* Psychological: They may experience depression or lack creativity and productivity.
5. What does loneliness drive people to do?
* Drink
* Abuse drugs
* Divert their attention with television or the Internet
* Have an affair
* Commit suicide
III. Closing: What is the cure for loneliness? We will address that more in part 2, but it begins with being reconciled to God through His Son Jesus Christ. As you get right with Him through confession and place your trust in Him, the Lord will rescue you from loneliness.
© 2008 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://ww2.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=dhKHIXPKIuE&b=3813569&content_id={E01606C8-F1D9-452D-ABF5-A15F19AD5A8B}¬oc=1
Charles F. Stanley
Scripture: Psalm 25:12-18
I. Introduction: God created us to be intimately connected to Him and other people. Yet we often feel cut off from Him and those around us, unable to escape powerful feelings of isolation. What leads to a life of loneliness, and what devastation does it cause if left unchecked?
II. Loneliness in the Life of a Believer
1. Loneliness is separation anxiety caused by feeling disconnected.
* Loneliness is primarily a spiritual problem. It begins with feeling disconnected from God.
* Solitude, on the other hand, is being alone by choice. We all need time alone to be re-energized and develop our intimate relationship with the Lord.
* Where did loneliness begin? When Adam and Eve sinned, they lost perfect harmony with each other and God. When we choose to rebel against the Father, we separate ourselves from fellowship with Him.
2. Where does the feeling of loneliness originate?
* Losing a loved one
* Undergoing divorce
* Feeling condemned by God
* Feeling unworthy or unwanted
* Having no one with whom to share life
* Experiencing isolation in childhood
3. What are some roles that can cause people to feel lonely?
* The president of a corporation
* Retirees who no longer have a network of co-workers
* Pastors
* Missionaries
4. What are the consequences of loneliness?
* Moral: To get love or attention, lonely individuals will do things fulfilled people won’t do.
* Financial: They spend to fill the void in their lives.
* Physical: They may eat to comfort themselves, thereby gaining weight. Or they may lack the energy typically derived from healthy interaction with others.
* Relational: They feel so detached that they can’t reach out to others.
* Psychological: They may experience depression or lack creativity and productivity.
5. What does loneliness drive people to do?
* Drink
* Abuse drugs
* Divert their attention with television or the Internet
* Have an affair
* Commit suicide
III. Closing: What is the cure for loneliness? We will address that more in part 2, but it begins with being reconciled to God through His Son Jesus Christ. As you get right with Him through confession and place your trust in Him, the Lord will rescue you from loneliness.
© 2008 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://ww2.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=dhKHIXPKIuE&b=3813569&content_id={E01606C8-F1D9-452D-ABF5-A15F19AD5A8B}¬oc=1
Facing Our Loneliness, Part 2
Facing Our Loneliness, Part 2
Charles F. Stanley
A. Introduction: As followers of Jesus Christ, we may feel lonely from time to time. How can we escape loneliness and reach out both to God and to other people?
Definition: Loneliness is a feeling of separation anxiety that results when we sense disconnection from another person or group of people. It is not a sin but can lead to sinful behavior.
B. How do we overcome loneliness?
1. Recognize that you are lonely.
* Some people feel that loneliness is a sign of weakness, or they fear others will label them.
* When people feel unworthy of acceptance, their outward behavior reflects that belief. As a result, such individuals often have difficulty making friends and are more likely to be rejected.
2. Reconcile yourself to God.
* Adam and Eve’s sin disconnected humankind from the Creator.
* Loneliness drives some people into immorality, dishonesty, and ungodly relationships.
* Jesus came to reconcile us to God (2 Cor. 5:18-19; Col. 1:19-22).
* You will never overcome loneliness until you reconnect with the Father through Jesus Christ.
3. Recall the promises of God.
* When you feel really lonely, claim the promises of God, which are ammunition against Satan’s lies. Go, not by what you feel, but by God’s truth. A few examples:
o Psalm 23 – God is with you, even in the valley of the shadow of death.
o John 15 – Jesus abides in us, and helps us bear fruit.
o Hebrews 13:5 – God will never leave us.
o Romans 8:35 – Nothing can separate us from the love of God.
o John 16:32 – Jesus knew Father was always with Him, even when all His disciples deserted him.
4. Reach out and develop relationships.
* Seek out godly companions. In the end, ungodly relationships make loneliness worse.
* Look for people who will understand you—friends with whom you can laugh, pray, and share secrets.
* Build a relationship that expands your awareness of God’s presence, not one that obscures it.
* No person can meet all your needs, not even a spouse. If you depend excessively on another person, he or she will pull away and leave you feeling lonelier.
5. Refocus your attention.
* Loneliness makes us self-centered. Overcome it by seeking to bless another person.
* Jesus came not to be served, but to serve. Example: The night before His crucifixion, He selflessly cared for the needs of His disciples.
* If you are lonely, one of the best things you can do is encourage or help another person.
C. Conclusion: Are you attacked by feelings of intense isolation? If you are a believer in Jesus, loneliness simply doesn’t fit who you are. Put these five steps into practice, and God will help you escape loneliness.
© 2008 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://ww2.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=dhKHIXPKIuE&b=3813569&content_id={828AC674-80D2-4797-AAD2-CA2AB4E876F1}¬oc=1
Charles F. Stanley
A. Introduction: As followers of Jesus Christ, we may feel lonely from time to time. How can we escape loneliness and reach out both to God and to other people?
Definition: Loneliness is a feeling of separation anxiety that results when we sense disconnection from another person or group of people. It is not a sin but can lead to sinful behavior.
B. How do we overcome loneliness?
1. Recognize that you are lonely.
* Some people feel that loneliness is a sign of weakness, or they fear others will label them.
* When people feel unworthy of acceptance, their outward behavior reflects that belief. As a result, such individuals often have difficulty making friends and are more likely to be rejected.
2. Reconcile yourself to God.
* Adam and Eve’s sin disconnected humankind from the Creator.
* Loneliness drives some people into immorality, dishonesty, and ungodly relationships.
* Jesus came to reconcile us to God (2 Cor. 5:18-19; Col. 1:19-22).
* You will never overcome loneliness until you reconnect with the Father through Jesus Christ.
3. Recall the promises of God.
* When you feel really lonely, claim the promises of God, which are ammunition against Satan’s lies. Go, not by what you feel, but by God’s truth. A few examples:
o Psalm 23 – God is with you, even in the valley of the shadow of death.
o John 15 – Jesus abides in us, and helps us bear fruit.
o Hebrews 13:5 – God will never leave us.
o Romans 8:35 – Nothing can separate us from the love of God.
o John 16:32 – Jesus knew Father was always with Him, even when all His disciples deserted him.
4. Reach out and develop relationships.
* Seek out godly companions. In the end, ungodly relationships make loneliness worse.
* Look for people who will understand you—friends with whom you can laugh, pray, and share secrets.
* Build a relationship that expands your awareness of God’s presence, not one that obscures it.
* No person can meet all your needs, not even a spouse. If you depend excessively on another person, he or she will pull away and leave you feeling lonelier.
5. Refocus your attention.
* Loneliness makes us self-centered. Overcome it by seeking to bless another person.
* Jesus came not to be served, but to serve. Example: The night before His crucifixion, He selflessly cared for the needs of His disciples.
* If you are lonely, one of the best things you can do is encourage or help another person.
C. Conclusion: Are you attacked by feelings of intense isolation? If you are a believer in Jesus, loneliness simply doesn’t fit who you are. Put these five steps into practice, and God will help you escape loneliness.
© 2008 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://ww2.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=dhKHIXPKIuE&b=3813569&content_id={828AC674-80D2-4797-AAD2-CA2AB4E876F1}¬oc=1
7/25/09
What You Believe — Does It Matter?
What You Believe—Does It Matter?
By: Charles F. Stanley
Scripture: 1 Peter 3:13-16
I. Overview: A large percentage of Americans no longer believe in the truth of God’s Word. Most think any belief is acceptable as long as it satisfies those who hold to that view. As a result, people no longer have a clear sense of right and wrong. Violence, greed, and immorality are rampant. However, God’s standards haven’t changed. The consequences of sin—now and in eternity—remain the same. It’s vitally important to base our beliefs on the Word of God so that you and I can be a light to this dark world.
II. What do Americans believe?
A. Only a third of adults believe that the Bible is the fully inspired Word of God and can be taken literally word for word.
B. More than half of all adults surveyed believe that a good person can earn a place in heaven. But Scripture teaches otherwise: Because we are born with a sin nature, Jesus’ death was absolutely essential for us to enter heaven. Christ said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me” (John 14:6).
C. Forty-two percent of Americans believe Jesus was merely human, not divine—and that He rebelled against the Father during His lifetime. But Christ had to be absolutely holy for His death to pay the sin-debt of humanity.
D. Six out of ten adults believe Satan doesn’t really exist—that he is merely a symbol of evil. As a result, they will find it almost impossible to identify and avoid evil.
E. Of those surveyed, the majority of men and women under the age of 25 think that all beliefs are equally valid. The hopelessness they feel is reflected in school shootings and other crimes committed by young people.
F. Some seminaries teach their students to doubt the Word of God; the result is that fewer and fewer pastors are grounded in biblical principles. It’s not surprising that many people in our country lack a Christ-centered moral compass.
III. What does the Bible say about defending truth?
A. You and I should be prepared to explain what we believe (1 Peter 3:15). Knowing the truth protects us from being influenced by unbiblical teaching (2 Tim. 4:3-4).
B. Our values are vitally important because they affect every area of our lives. For the most part, our thoughts determine our actions. As a follower of Jesus Christ, you should develop a belief system based on the authority of Scripture.
IV. How does knowing what we believe help us?
A. To prevent us from being misled: Unless believers know the truth, they can easily be swayed by an eloquent or charismatic leader whose teaching is not based on the Bible (2 Tim. 4:1-4).
B. To protect us from intimidation: Notice that in 1 Peter 3:14, the apostle encourages believers not to fear. Those who are grounded in God’s Word can confidently stand against a world that mocks and attacks our faith. That’s why parents need to teach their children biblical principles.
C. To prepare us for answering sincere questions. Jesus said to preach the gospel to the entire world (Matt. 28:19-20). People may not want to hear the truth, but their eternal destiny depends on it. They may criticize and talk badly about you, but many times, those same individuals will come find you when they need help.
V. Conclusion: Can you defend your beliefs on the basis of principles found in God’s Word? If not, you leave yourself vulnerable to false teachings, open to temptation or satanic attack, and ill-equipped to defend your faith or share the plan of salvation with the lost. Prepare yourself to defend biblical principles. Then you will be ready to make a difference in a world that desperately needs the hope found only in Jesus Christ.
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4944977&content_id={CA23CB8B-3ED5-425F-B1D7-6BF27DB9623C}¬oc=1
By: Charles F. Stanley
Scripture: 1 Peter 3:13-16
I. Overview: A large percentage of Americans no longer believe in the truth of God’s Word. Most think any belief is acceptable as long as it satisfies those who hold to that view. As a result, people no longer have a clear sense of right and wrong. Violence, greed, and immorality are rampant. However, God’s standards haven’t changed. The consequences of sin—now and in eternity—remain the same. It’s vitally important to base our beliefs on the Word of God so that you and I can be a light to this dark world.
II. What do Americans believe?
A. Only a third of adults believe that the Bible is the fully inspired Word of God and can be taken literally word for word.
B. More than half of all adults surveyed believe that a good person can earn a place in heaven. But Scripture teaches otherwise: Because we are born with a sin nature, Jesus’ death was absolutely essential for us to enter heaven. Christ said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me” (John 14:6).
C. Forty-two percent of Americans believe Jesus was merely human, not divine—and that He rebelled against the Father during His lifetime. But Christ had to be absolutely holy for His death to pay the sin-debt of humanity.
D. Six out of ten adults believe Satan doesn’t really exist—that he is merely a symbol of evil. As a result, they will find it almost impossible to identify and avoid evil.
E. Of those surveyed, the majority of men and women under the age of 25 think that all beliefs are equally valid. The hopelessness they feel is reflected in school shootings and other crimes committed by young people.
F. Some seminaries teach their students to doubt the Word of God; the result is that fewer and fewer pastors are grounded in biblical principles. It’s not surprising that many people in our country lack a Christ-centered moral compass.
III. What does the Bible say about defending truth?
A. You and I should be prepared to explain what we believe (1 Peter 3:15). Knowing the truth protects us from being influenced by unbiblical teaching (2 Tim. 4:3-4).
B. Our values are vitally important because they affect every area of our lives. For the most part, our thoughts determine our actions. As a follower of Jesus Christ, you should develop a belief system based on the authority of Scripture.
IV. How does knowing what we believe help us?
A. To prevent us from being misled: Unless believers know the truth, they can easily be swayed by an eloquent or charismatic leader whose teaching is not based on the Bible (2 Tim. 4:1-4).
B. To protect us from intimidation: Notice that in 1 Peter 3:14, the apostle encourages believers not to fear. Those who are grounded in God’s Word can confidently stand against a world that mocks and attacks our faith. That’s why parents need to teach their children biblical principles.
C. To prepare us for answering sincere questions. Jesus said to preach the gospel to the entire world (Matt. 28:19-20). People may not want to hear the truth, but their eternal destiny depends on it. They may criticize and talk badly about you, but many times, those same individuals will come find you when they need help.
V. Conclusion: Can you defend your beliefs on the basis of principles found in God’s Word? If not, you leave yourself vulnerable to false teachings, open to temptation or satanic attack, and ill-equipped to defend your faith or share the plan of salvation with the lost. Prepare yourself to defend biblical principles. Then you will be ready to make a difference in a world that desperately needs the hope found only in Jesus Christ.
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4944977&content_id={CA23CB8B-3ED5-425F-B1D7-6BF27DB9623C}¬oc=1
When Others Fail Us
When Others Fail Us
By: Charles F. Stanley
Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:9-18
I. Introduction: Friendship brings us some of the greatest joys in life—but also can cause immense pain. If you haven’t experienced rejection or betrayal yet, you probably will someday. The apostle Paul learned to forgive others for their failures and reconcile with them when appropriate. Let’s discover how he dealt with betrayal and abandonment by trusted friends.
II. Friends Sometimes Fail Us
A. Despite Paul’s faithfulness to the Lord, his friends failed him. They weren’t reliable when he desperately needed them (2 Tim. 1:15; 4:14-16).
B. What are some reasons why friends might desert you in times of trouble? They . . .
* Feel inadequate and/or unsure of how to help.
* Don’t want to be identified with you in a conflict, for fear they could end up on the losing side.
* Are jealous and hope to see you fail.
* Selfishly don’t want to sacrifice their time to support you.
* Judge you and thus excuse themselves from the responsibility to help you.
III. Forgiveness Must Prevail
A. Paul responded to betrayal and abandonment with forgiveness: “At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me; may it not be counted against them” (2 Tim. 4:16, emphasis added). Both Jesus and Stephen said something similar in the final moments of their lives (Luke 23:34; Acts 7:60).
B. Paul practiced what he preached—the importance of forgiving. Don’t be a fair-weather friend, interested only in what you can get from another person. Be willing to help even those who mistreated you in the past. Waiting for a chance to get them back—to let them down as they did to you—indicates that you have an unforgiving spirit.
IV. The Presence of the Lord Sustains Us
A. Paul was able to forgive because he knew that God would never leave him: “The Lord stood with me” (2 Tim. 4:17). Although Paul’s friends all left, he knew that the Lord Himself was with him. Christ promises all believers, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you” (Heb. 13:5).
B. The apostle was able to forgive because he trusted God to empower him: “The Lord . . . strengthened me, so that through me the proclamation might be fully accomplished, and that all the Gentiles might hear” (2 Tim. 4:17). Paul could rely on the presence of God to accomplish his calling—taking the gospel to the world (Phil. 2:13). Chances are, people will persecute you; some of your friends will abandon you in tough times. But God has promised that all adversity will eventually come to an end
(1 Peter 5:10).
C. He was able to forgive because he was confident that God would deliver him: “The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom” (2 Tim. 4:18). The Father may deliver us from hardship or through it (Isa. 43:1-4). He also rescues us by bringing us home to be with Him. God delivered Paul by allowing Nero to execute him. Four years later, the ruler committed suicide. No one can violate the principles of God and avoid His judgment.
V. Conclusion: What kind of friend are you? Are you dedicated to those you love? Or do you often disappoint them? Perhaps you are faithful, but your friends consistently fail you when trouble comes. I urge you not to hold it against them. Hurt and rejection are painful but unavoidable parts of life. Healing is always available if you are willing to forgive. And you and I can take comfort in knowing that the most faithful Friend—the Lord Jesus—never leaves our side, even if everyone else deserts us.
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4944977&content_id={9D4C2E16-3C47-4163-81DE-DC46C3A99225}¬oc=1
By: Charles F. Stanley
Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:9-18
I. Introduction: Friendship brings us some of the greatest joys in life—but also can cause immense pain. If you haven’t experienced rejection or betrayal yet, you probably will someday. The apostle Paul learned to forgive others for their failures and reconcile with them when appropriate. Let’s discover how he dealt with betrayal and abandonment by trusted friends.
II. Friends Sometimes Fail Us
A. Despite Paul’s faithfulness to the Lord, his friends failed him. They weren’t reliable when he desperately needed them (2 Tim. 1:15; 4:14-16).
B. What are some reasons why friends might desert you in times of trouble? They . . .
* Feel inadequate and/or unsure of how to help.
* Don’t want to be identified with you in a conflict, for fear they could end up on the losing side.
* Are jealous and hope to see you fail.
* Selfishly don’t want to sacrifice their time to support you.
* Judge you and thus excuse themselves from the responsibility to help you.
III. Forgiveness Must Prevail
A. Paul responded to betrayal and abandonment with forgiveness: “At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me; may it not be counted against them” (2 Tim. 4:16, emphasis added). Both Jesus and Stephen said something similar in the final moments of their lives (Luke 23:34; Acts 7:60).
B. Paul practiced what he preached—the importance of forgiving. Don’t be a fair-weather friend, interested only in what you can get from another person. Be willing to help even those who mistreated you in the past. Waiting for a chance to get them back—to let them down as they did to you—indicates that you have an unforgiving spirit.
IV. The Presence of the Lord Sustains Us
A. Paul was able to forgive because he knew that God would never leave him: “The Lord stood with me” (2 Tim. 4:17). Although Paul’s friends all left, he knew that the Lord Himself was with him. Christ promises all believers, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you” (Heb. 13:5).
B. The apostle was able to forgive because he trusted God to empower him: “The Lord . . . strengthened me, so that through me the proclamation might be fully accomplished, and that all the Gentiles might hear” (2 Tim. 4:17). Paul could rely on the presence of God to accomplish his calling—taking the gospel to the world (Phil. 2:13). Chances are, people will persecute you; some of your friends will abandon you in tough times. But God has promised that all adversity will eventually come to an end
(1 Peter 5:10).
C. He was able to forgive because he was confident that God would deliver him: “The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom” (2 Tim. 4:18). The Father may deliver us from hardship or through it (Isa. 43:1-4). He also rescues us by bringing us home to be with Him. God delivered Paul by allowing Nero to execute him. Four years later, the ruler committed suicide. No one can violate the principles of God and avoid His judgment.
V. Conclusion: What kind of friend are you? Are you dedicated to those you love? Or do you often disappoint them? Perhaps you are faithful, but your friends consistently fail you when trouble comes. I urge you not to hold it against them. Hurt and rejection are painful but unavoidable parts of life. Healing is always available if you are willing to forgive. And you and I can take comfort in knowing that the most faithful Friend—the Lord Jesus—never leaves our side, even if everyone else deserts us.
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4944977&content_id={9D4C2E16-3C47-4163-81DE-DC46C3A99225}¬oc=1
Being With The Body Of Christ aka The Church
From In Touch Ministries
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
"Have you ever met someone who claimed to be a Christian but refused to engage with other believers as part of a church body? Such people will often say, 'My spiritual life is between me and God. It doesn’t involve anyone else.' What a tragic, misguided view!
The Lord created each of us for relationship, both with Him and with other believers. We cannot be the complete men and women God wants us to be unless we are actively connected to others. That’s what the church is—a place of commonality wherein a collection of individuals forms one body. The benefits of these relationships are staggering. They . . .
1. Build confidence in God and in ourselves.
2. Encourage us when we are down.
3. Motivate us to greatness.
4. Stimulate our creativity.
5. Energize us when we are weary.
6. Comfort us when we are hurting.
7. Defend us when we are attacked.
8. Forgive us when we make mistakes.
9. Love us when we seem unlovable.
10. Accept us just as we are, unconditionally.
Such relationships characterized the early church—there was no concept of faith in isolation. Acts 2:44 is an amazing statement: 'All those who had believed were together and had all things in common.' It is doubtful that many modern churches could make this claim."
"The Fellowship of the Believers" (Acts 2:42-47 NIV)
42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. 44All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Hebrews 10:25 AMP
"Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching."
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
"Have you ever met someone who claimed to be a Christian but refused to engage with other believers as part of a church body? Such people will often say, 'My spiritual life is between me and God. It doesn’t involve anyone else.' What a tragic, misguided view!
The Lord created each of us for relationship, both with Him and with other believers. We cannot be the complete men and women God wants us to be unless we are actively connected to others. That’s what the church is—a place of commonality wherein a collection of individuals forms one body. The benefits of these relationships are staggering. They . . .
1. Build confidence in God and in ourselves.
2. Encourage us when we are down.
3. Motivate us to greatness.
4. Stimulate our creativity.
5. Energize us when we are weary.
6. Comfort us when we are hurting.
7. Defend us when we are attacked.
8. Forgive us when we make mistakes.
9. Love us when we seem unlovable.
10. Accept us just as we are, unconditionally.
Such relationships characterized the early church—there was no concept of faith in isolation. Acts 2:44 is an amazing statement: 'All those who had believed were together and had all things in common.' It is doubtful that many modern churches could make this claim."
"The Fellowship of the Believers" (Acts 2:42-47 NIV)
42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. 44All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Hebrews 10:25 AMP
"Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching."
7/24/09
Success and Fruitfulness
"Success and Fruitfulness"
Hollywood Connect Newsletter (07/23/09)
(c)2009 Hollywood Connect
www.hollywoodconnect.com
I’ve talked to numerous truly creative people from all sorts of places who have confided in me their times of discouragement in the pursuit of their creative callings, and it so often comes down to this: that despite their earnest and extended efforts, they have yet to see Success. Very sincerely, they share with me how close they are to throwing their hands up and walking away because Success has seemed so elusive. Some have even told me that Success seemed so elusive, so fantastically unattainable at the outset, that they decided not to attempt the pursuit of their Calling at all.
I suppose that, in the grand scheme of things, this is understandable. We live in a culture in which Success, as it is popularly defined, is the gold standard by which all are measured and either celebrated or found wanting. We see it as the standard in business, in government, in education, in the world of sports, entertainment, and the arts, and sadly enough, many, many times in the Church.
Oh, I don’t mean that Success is an inherently bad thing – it’s not. (Well, I suppose that depends upon what it is we have become successful at doing…) In fact, Success is something to be thankful for when we experience it. I work towards and want to be successful as an artist and in other areas of life. What I mean, rather, is that Success is not the measure that God intended for us to use when He called us to this adventurous life. It is not and never should be the standard by which we should measure ourselves and one another. When we do so, we set all of ourselves up for all sorts of discouragements, great and small.
That’s because God never called us to be successful. He called us to be fruitful. And there’s a difference. I find it interesting that in the Bible, every time that “success” is mentioned, it is in the context of “…and God gave him success,” whereas He reminded His people over and over again to “be fruitful.” In fact, this instruction to bear fruit was the very first command He gave after creating man and woman. The responsibility of fruitfulness was put into our hands, the responsibility for our success He kept for Himself. There are a lot of people who spend all their time struggling to learn the will of God for their lives, when they have ignored His will found in this Prime Command: Be fruitful. Live out who I created you to be.
Ultimately, God’s command of fruitfulness is the easier one – it flows directly from what God has already loaded into us as we walk through the continuing process of Redemption. Success as a standard involves chasing a sort of “completeness” that the world set up and which it is constantly redefining. Is it any wonder that so many people live life in disheartened exhaustion? They live under the never-ending pressure to meet an ever-changing standard.
Aren’t you glad that God commanded us to be fruitful, rather than to be successful? Again, please don’t misunderstand me: success can be a very good thing, and in each of our Callings, we hope to see it as we proceed with hard work, perseverance, and excellence. But it isn’t the ultimate measure of a man or a woman. Still, some people spend so much time worrying about being successful, they forget to be fruitful.
But when all is said and done, the opposite of failure is not success. It is fruitfulness. And that’s the secret of life on the Vine.
Shun Lee
Director
Hollywood Connect
This Week’s Quotes - Fruitfulness
See golden days, fruitful of golden deeds,
With joy and love triumphing.
– John Milton, poet, author & civil servant
You've got to go out on a limb sometimes because that's where the fruit is.
- Will Rogers, entertainer
When the root is strong, the fruit is sweet.
- Bob Marley, singer-songwriter & musician
Every day you may make progress. Every step may be fruitful.
Yet there will stretch out before you an ever-lengthening, ever-ascending,
ever-improving path. You know you will never get to the end of the journey.
But this, so far from discouraging, only adds to the joy and glory of the climb.
– Winston Churchill, statesman, historian, writer & artist
Hollywood Connect Newsletter (07/23/09)
(c)2009 Hollywood Connect
www.hollywoodconnect.com
I’ve talked to numerous truly creative people from all sorts of places who have confided in me their times of discouragement in the pursuit of their creative callings, and it so often comes down to this: that despite their earnest and extended efforts, they have yet to see Success. Very sincerely, they share with me how close they are to throwing their hands up and walking away because Success has seemed so elusive. Some have even told me that Success seemed so elusive, so fantastically unattainable at the outset, that they decided not to attempt the pursuit of their Calling at all.
I suppose that, in the grand scheme of things, this is understandable. We live in a culture in which Success, as it is popularly defined, is the gold standard by which all are measured and either celebrated or found wanting. We see it as the standard in business, in government, in education, in the world of sports, entertainment, and the arts, and sadly enough, many, many times in the Church.
Oh, I don’t mean that Success is an inherently bad thing – it’s not. (Well, I suppose that depends upon what it is we have become successful at doing…) In fact, Success is something to be thankful for when we experience it. I work towards and want to be successful as an artist and in other areas of life. What I mean, rather, is that Success is not the measure that God intended for us to use when He called us to this adventurous life. It is not and never should be the standard by which we should measure ourselves and one another. When we do so, we set all of ourselves up for all sorts of discouragements, great and small.
That’s because God never called us to be successful. He called us to be fruitful. And there’s a difference. I find it interesting that in the Bible, every time that “success” is mentioned, it is in the context of “…and God gave him success,” whereas He reminded His people over and over again to “be fruitful.” In fact, this instruction to bear fruit was the very first command He gave after creating man and woman. The responsibility of fruitfulness was put into our hands, the responsibility for our success He kept for Himself. There are a lot of people who spend all their time struggling to learn the will of God for their lives, when they have ignored His will found in this Prime Command: Be fruitful. Live out who I created you to be.
Ultimately, God’s command of fruitfulness is the easier one – it flows directly from what God has already loaded into us as we walk through the continuing process of Redemption. Success as a standard involves chasing a sort of “completeness” that the world set up and which it is constantly redefining. Is it any wonder that so many people live life in disheartened exhaustion? They live under the never-ending pressure to meet an ever-changing standard.
Aren’t you glad that God commanded us to be fruitful, rather than to be successful? Again, please don’t misunderstand me: success can be a very good thing, and in each of our Callings, we hope to see it as we proceed with hard work, perseverance, and excellence. But it isn’t the ultimate measure of a man or a woman. Still, some people spend so much time worrying about being successful, they forget to be fruitful.
But when all is said and done, the opposite of failure is not success. It is fruitfulness. And that’s the secret of life on the Vine.
Shun Lee
Director
Hollywood Connect
This Week’s Quotes - Fruitfulness
See golden days, fruitful of golden deeds,
With joy and love triumphing.
– John Milton, poet, author & civil servant
You've got to go out on a limb sometimes because that's where the fruit is.
- Will Rogers, entertainer
When the root is strong, the fruit is sweet.
- Bob Marley, singer-songwriter & musician
Every day you may make progress. Every step may be fruitful.
Yet there will stretch out before you an ever-lengthening, ever-ascending,
ever-improving path. You know you will never get to the end of the journey.
But this, so far from discouraging, only adds to the joy and glory of the climb.
– Winston Churchill, statesman, historian, writer & artist
7/20/09
Michael Jackson's REAL cause of death! [OFFICIAL]
What really happened to the king of pop?
Here is a very clear and clever message shared by Ray Comfort on Hollywood Blvd in front of Michael Jackson's star.
Why do people die and what happens after we pass on?
The "Fair Use" law allows us to teach from the MJ clips/pictures used, without violating copyright laws. It has wonderful evangelistic potential, so please pass this clip on all over the Internet.
Living Waters Publications is a registered 501c3 non profit organization. FL 102, Fair Use, and Circular 21, Reproductions of Copyrighted Works by Educators and Librarians.
7/18/09
Your Identity In Christ
Who are you? Trying to define yourself by possessions, accomplishments, or the way others perceive you often leads to disappointment. We were designed to live as God’s children, finding our ultimate fulfillment and contentment in His will for our lives. Unless we define our identity primarily by our relationship with Christ, we will encounter problems over time.
Our identity “in Christ” is emphasized over and over in Scripture. Below is a summary of what the Bible says about us:
Forgiven for our sins though the death of Jesus (Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 2:13-14)
Accepted in Christ (Romans 15:7)
Wholeness in Christ (Colossians 2:9-10, 1 Corinthians 6:17)
Adopted as God's Child (John 1:12, Ephesians 1:5)
A friend of Jesus (John 15:15)
Victory over the power of the enemy (Romans 6:6)
Chosen to bear fruit (John 15:16)
Part of a royal priesthood and a holy nation (1 Peter 2:9)
A citizen of Heaven, part of the Heavenly Kingdom (Philippians 3:20, Colossians 1:13-14)
Other people, satan, your experiences, and even your own thoughts will tell you all kinds of lies about your significance. That’s why you must take God’s perspective to heart. Monitor your thoughts closely. As you become aware of falsehoods, replace them with truth.
The clear teaching of the New Testament is that we should act consistent with who we are in Christ. We don’t need to try in order to be.
Ask the Lord how you should act on your new identity. This includes two parts: saying no to sinful patterns, and choosing God’s best. For instance, someone tempted to gossip must both resist sharing hurtful facts about others and develop healthy interests to discuss. A stingy person must not only deny the fear that God won’t provide; she must also choose to give generously to others.
Don’t live as a spiritual pauper, trying to find your security and significance through people, accomplishments, or possessions. As a believer in Jesus, you are a child of the King of Kings. Learn to walk in the spiritual victory He provides.
Prayer: Lord, Your Word tells me I am a new creation in Christ, but sometimes I have difficulty living in light of that truth. Teach me how to recognize my false beliefs and replace them with Your perspective. Reveal to me the great security I have as Your child. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Adapted from "Discovering Your Identity in Christ" bible study by Charles Stanley.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5307569/k.3B0A/Discovering_Your_Identity_in_Christ.htm
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
Our identity “in Christ” is emphasized over and over in Scripture. Below is a summary of what the Bible says about us:
Forgiven for our sins though the death of Jesus (Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 2:13-14)
Accepted in Christ (Romans 15:7)
Wholeness in Christ (Colossians 2:9-10, 1 Corinthians 6:17)
Adopted as God's Child (John 1:12, Ephesians 1:5)
A friend of Jesus (John 15:15)
Victory over the power of the enemy (Romans 6:6)
Chosen to bear fruit (John 15:16)
Part of a royal priesthood and a holy nation (1 Peter 2:9)
A citizen of Heaven, part of the Heavenly Kingdom (Philippians 3:20, Colossians 1:13-14)
Other people, satan, your experiences, and even your own thoughts will tell you all kinds of lies about your significance. That’s why you must take God’s perspective to heart. Monitor your thoughts closely. As you become aware of falsehoods, replace them with truth.
The clear teaching of the New Testament is that we should act consistent with who we are in Christ. We don’t need to try in order to be.
Ask the Lord how you should act on your new identity. This includes two parts: saying no to sinful patterns, and choosing God’s best. For instance, someone tempted to gossip must both resist sharing hurtful facts about others and develop healthy interests to discuss. A stingy person must not only deny the fear that God won’t provide; she must also choose to give generously to others.
Don’t live as a spiritual pauper, trying to find your security and significance through people, accomplishments, or possessions. As a believer in Jesus, you are a child of the King of Kings. Learn to walk in the spiritual victory He provides.
Prayer: Lord, Your Word tells me I am a new creation in Christ, but sometimes I have difficulty living in light of that truth. Teach me how to recognize my false beliefs and replace them with Your perspective. Reveal to me the great security I have as Your child. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Adapted from "Discovering Your Identity in Christ" bible study by Charles Stanley.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5307569/k.3B0A/Discovering_Your_Identity_in_Christ.htm
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
Escaping The Performance Trap
Escaping the Performance Trap
by Charles F. Stanley
A treadmill is one of the most effective tools for burning calories, despite the fact that the person exercising stays in the same place. Similarly, many workers worry and grope through each day, without actually making headway. Isn’t it ironic that in both pursuits, people must give great effort without really going anywhere?
So it is with people who try to work their way to righteousness. Many Christians grow stagnant in their faith because they expend tremendous energy trying to attain some lofty ideal of the “Christian experience.” They usually understand that grace is what saved them but believe they must pay God back with good works in order to remain saved.
Have you become a modern-day Pharisee? Do you maintain a mental or psychological checklist to ensure that you do what you should and resist what you should not? Are you closer to living under the law than under God’s grace?
When you act outside of God’s will, your life runs on finite “fumes”: your own strength. The result can be exhaustion, withdrawal, and bitterness. The real Christian experience requires only that we have faith in Jesus Christ and abide in Him, the true Vine (John 15:5).
You can’t do anything to make God love you more. Nor can you do anything to make Him love you less. This is a liberating truth! Your heavenly Father isn’t keeping score—we can’t pay Him back for His grace. In fact, no amount of good works can pay the debt of love we owe. The apostle Paul wrote, “The Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor” (Gal. 3:24-25). He explained that there is no way we can keep God’s moral code perfectly. We need a Savior.
Even after we become Christians, God doesn’t want us to add law to His grace. He wants obedience, of course. But obedience is the overflow of a heart full of love, not legalism.
When Jesus tells us to keep His commandments, He emphasizes that obedience shows others we love Him (John 14:31). The moral law shows us our need of a Savior. But we cannot obey the Lord Jesus without His help. We are children wanting to please the Father because we love Him. This delivers us from legalism and keeps us grounded in grace, not only for salvation, but also for living the Christian life.
Living by Grace
The Scriptures compare our relationship with God to a race. Paul calls us to run so that we may win
(1 Cor. 9:24)—and the author of Hebrews adds that we are to do so with endurance (Heb. 12:1).
Only by running on the wings of grace can believers triumphantly finish the course God has assigned for each one of His children. The legs of performance eventually grow weak. The muscles of legalism and religion weigh us down and become rigid hindrances. Our main problem is that we can understand the need for grace in salvation, but we tend to rely on other means for process of sanctification.
How can you cease striving, get off the performance treadmill, and learn to walk in grace? Here is the key: the more you humble yourself before God, the more you will receive the fullness of His grace.
God “gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5). Not to the strong, but to the weak. Not to the self-sufficient, but to the dependent. Grace belongs to the poor in spirit—in other words, those who humble themselves by recognizing God’s majesty and worshipping Him. The more you adore and praise the Savior, the more highly you’ll think of Him.
Humbling yourself won’t reduce your self-esteem or diminish your worth to God. Rather, it positions you to receive your sustenance from the source of all good things, Jesus Christ. As a humble believer, cast yourself on the grace of God, leaning on Him with your full weight. Draw all your strength, peace, joy, and security from the sufficiency of the Holy Spirit living within you.
Be strong in grace. Throw off the chains of works and “religion,” and receive the remarkable power of God’s merciful lovingkindness.
Adapted from Charles F. Stanley’s “Into His Presence” (2000), “Seeking His Face” (2002), and “Handbook for Christian Living” (1996).
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5307575/k.46BC/Escaping_the_Performance_Trap.htm
by Charles F. Stanley
A treadmill is one of the most effective tools for burning calories, despite the fact that the person exercising stays in the same place. Similarly, many workers worry and grope through each day, without actually making headway. Isn’t it ironic that in both pursuits, people must give great effort without really going anywhere?
So it is with people who try to work their way to righteousness. Many Christians grow stagnant in their faith because they expend tremendous energy trying to attain some lofty ideal of the “Christian experience.” They usually understand that grace is what saved them but believe they must pay God back with good works in order to remain saved.
Have you become a modern-day Pharisee? Do you maintain a mental or psychological checklist to ensure that you do what you should and resist what you should not? Are you closer to living under the law than under God’s grace?
When you act outside of God’s will, your life runs on finite “fumes”: your own strength. The result can be exhaustion, withdrawal, and bitterness. The real Christian experience requires only that we have faith in Jesus Christ and abide in Him, the true Vine (John 15:5).
You can’t do anything to make God love you more. Nor can you do anything to make Him love you less. This is a liberating truth! Your heavenly Father isn’t keeping score—we can’t pay Him back for His grace. In fact, no amount of good works can pay the debt of love we owe. The apostle Paul wrote, “The Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor” (Gal. 3:24-25). He explained that there is no way we can keep God’s moral code perfectly. We need a Savior.
Even after we become Christians, God doesn’t want us to add law to His grace. He wants obedience, of course. But obedience is the overflow of a heart full of love, not legalism.
When Jesus tells us to keep His commandments, He emphasizes that obedience shows others we love Him (John 14:31). The moral law shows us our need of a Savior. But we cannot obey the Lord Jesus without His help. We are children wanting to please the Father because we love Him. This delivers us from legalism and keeps us grounded in grace, not only for salvation, but also for living the Christian life.
Living by Grace
The Scriptures compare our relationship with God to a race. Paul calls us to run so that we may win
(1 Cor. 9:24)—and the author of Hebrews adds that we are to do so with endurance (Heb. 12:1).
Only by running on the wings of grace can believers triumphantly finish the course God has assigned for each one of His children. The legs of performance eventually grow weak. The muscles of legalism and religion weigh us down and become rigid hindrances. Our main problem is that we can understand the need for grace in salvation, but we tend to rely on other means for process of sanctification.
How can you cease striving, get off the performance treadmill, and learn to walk in grace? Here is the key: the more you humble yourself before God, the more you will receive the fullness of His grace.
God “gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5). Not to the strong, but to the weak. Not to the self-sufficient, but to the dependent. Grace belongs to the poor in spirit—in other words, those who humble themselves by recognizing God’s majesty and worshipping Him. The more you adore and praise the Savior, the more highly you’ll think of Him.
Humbling yourself won’t reduce your self-esteem or diminish your worth to God. Rather, it positions you to receive your sustenance from the source of all good things, Jesus Christ. As a humble believer, cast yourself on the grace of God, leaning on Him with your full weight. Draw all your strength, peace, joy, and security from the sufficiency of the Holy Spirit living within you.
Be strong in grace. Throw off the chains of works and “religion,” and receive the remarkable power of God’s merciful lovingkindness.
Adapted from Charles F. Stanley’s “Into His Presence” (2000), “Seeking His Face” (2002), and “Handbook for Christian Living” (1996).
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5307575/k.46BC/Escaping_the_Performance_Trap.htm
The Trials Of Paul
The Trials Of Paul
By: Charles F. Stanley
If we listen close enough, we can almost hear the scrape of the calamus reed across the parchment, taste the sorrow of Paul's tears, and feel the ache of his heart in being left alone. "Make every effort," he writes, "to come to me soon; for Demas, having loved this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me."
For a moment, we sense the reality of his imprisonment and find ourselves wondering if the distress is greater than he can bear. But in recalling the words he wrote earlier to the Corinthians, we find Paul had learned a great and powerful secret. He said that God's grace was sufficient for all he faced because "[His] power is perfected in [our] weakness," (2 Corinthians 12:9). There was a much greater reward waiting for him than he could ever hope to gain here on this earth.
It is as if he recalls this same thought and, picking up the writing reed, he finishes his letter to young Timothy. "Pick up Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for service. But Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus. When you come bring the cloak which I left at Troas with Carpus, and the books, especially the parchments" (2 Timothy 4:11-13).
In Second Timothy, we are given a rare glimpse into the life of one of God's most precious servants. Paul had been faithful. He had lived his life in obedience to the Word of God. Casting aside his own desires in order to do the Lord's will, time after time he had walked away from things of this world—desires and temptations that had the potential to draw him away from God's plan and purpose for his life. Now his life was drawing to a close.
You may think this is not a fitting way to end one's life—alone and suffering—especially after serving God so faithfully. It is difficult to understand until we step aside from what we think is right and ask God to open our eyes to His eternal plan. It is not what we do for God that is important. It is our love and devotion to Christ that bring the greatest reward.
God sees the inner lining of our hearts. He sees our hurts and fears, but He also is aware of the great potential our lives contain. He is committed to preparing us to live and serve Him for all eternity.
Trials and testings teach us how to trust Him more completely. We study the circumstances of life by the light of His truth. Trials last for a season, but the knowledge we gain from the experience remains with us throughout time. He stretches our faith to prove that it is strong and binding. When He is sure it will hold, He sends His greatest blessings our way.
From the point of his conversion on the Damascus Road until his death, Paul lived for one reason, and that was to tell others about Jesus Christ. He literally explained the Christian life to us through his devotion, determination, and many writings to the churches throughout Asia Minor. Even before his conversion, Paul was a scholar, having sat under the teaching of one of the greatest instructors of his day. Yet all he learned in Gamaliel's schoolhouse paled in comparison to the truth he gained in God's classroom.
Though he faced unbelievable circumstances, God gave Paul the strength to overcome each one. His words of hope and truth refresh us and keep us focused on the object of our faith—the Lord Jesus Christ. Instead of being overcome, Paul became the overcomer.
Timothy's conversion to Christ and call to the ministry were a direct result of Paul's instruction and influence. Now at the end of his life, the one thing the aging apostle wanted most was the company of a valued friend.
All the blessings and teachings of Paul come together here in this fourth chapter of Timothy. His love of God was not deferred. His desire to remain faithful to the Lord he served held fast. He had truly fought the good fight, finished the course set before him, and could look forward to the reward God had waiting for him. Every trial, every test that comes your way is tailored by God to fit His will for your life.
Life was not too difficult for Paul. It was just right. Though it was extremely trying at times, it trained him how to live the Christian life by faith and not by sight. At any point, had Paul given up, we would have missed a great and mighty blessing as a major portion of the New Testament would have gone unwritten.
Paul had no way of knowing his trials and exhortations were being used to complete a large portion of God's holy Word. While God's Word is now complete, we remain His personal testimony. We may never know what blessing our obedience will bring to the life of another. Therefore, let godly obedience and determination be the fiber of your life. And the God of all peace and comfort will bless you perfectly.
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5288131/k.BD83/The_Trials_of_Paul.htm
By: Charles F. Stanley
If we listen close enough, we can almost hear the scrape of the calamus reed across the parchment, taste the sorrow of Paul's tears, and feel the ache of his heart in being left alone. "Make every effort," he writes, "to come to me soon; for Demas, having loved this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me."
For a moment, we sense the reality of his imprisonment and find ourselves wondering if the distress is greater than he can bear. But in recalling the words he wrote earlier to the Corinthians, we find Paul had learned a great and powerful secret. He said that God's grace was sufficient for all he faced because "[His] power is perfected in [our] weakness," (2 Corinthians 12:9). There was a much greater reward waiting for him than he could ever hope to gain here on this earth.
It is as if he recalls this same thought and, picking up the writing reed, he finishes his letter to young Timothy. "Pick up Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for service. But Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus. When you come bring the cloak which I left at Troas with Carpus, and the books, especially the parchments" (2 Timothy 4:11-13).
In Second Timothy, we are given a rare glimpse into the life of one of God's most precious servants. Paul had been faithful. He had lived his life in obedience to the Word of God. Casting aside his own desires in order to do the Lord's will, time after time he had walked away from things of this world—desires and temptations that had the potential to draw him away from God's plan and purpose for his life. Now his life was drawing to a close.
You may think this is not a fitting way to end one's life—alone and suffering—especially after serving God so faithfully. It is difficult to understand until we step aside from what we think is right and ask God to open our eyes to His eternal plan. It is not what we do for God that is important. It is our love and devotion to Christ that bring the greatest reward.
God sees the inner lining of our hearts. He sees our hurts and fears, but He also is aware of the great potential our lives contain. He is committed to preparing us to live and serve Him for all eternity.
Trials and testings teach us how to trust Him more completely. We study the circumstances of life by the light of His truth. Trials last for a season, but the knowledge we gain from the experience remains with us throughout time. He stretches our faith to prove that it is strong and binding. When He is sure it will hold, He sends His greatest blessings our way.
From the point of his conversion on the Damascus Road until his death, Paul lived for one reason, and that was to tell others about Jesus Christ. He literally explained the Christian life to us through his devotion, determination, and many writings to the churches throughout Asia Minor. Even before his conversion, Paul was a scholar, having sat under the teaching of one of the greatest instructors of his day. Yet all he learned in Gamaliel's schoolhouse paled in comparison to the truth he gained in God's classroom.
Though he faced unbelievable circumstances, God gave Paul the strength to overcome each one. His words of hope and truth refresh us and keep us focused on the object of our faith—the Lord Jesus Christ. Instead of being overcome, Paul became the overcomer.
Timothy's conversion to Christ and call to the ministry were a direct result of Paul's instruction and influence. Now at the end of his life, the one thing the aging apostle wanted most was the company of a valued friend.
All the blessings and teachings of Paul come together here in this fourth chapter of Timothy. His love of God was not deferred. His desire to remain faithful to the Lord he served held fast. He had truly fought the good fight, finished the course set before him, and could look forward to the reward God had waiting for him. Every trial, every test that comes your way is tailored by God to fit His will for your life.
Life was not too difficult for Paul. It was just right. Though it was extremely trying at times, it trained him how to live the Christian life by faith and not by sight. At any point, had Paul given up, we would have missed a great and mighty blessing as a major portion of the New Testament would have gone unwritten.
Paul had no way of knowing his trials and exhortations were being used to complete a large portion of God's holy Word. While God's Word is now complete, we remain His personal testimony. We may never know what blessing our obedience will bring to the life of another. Therefore, let godly obedience and determination be the fiber of your life. And the God of all peace and comfort will bless you perfectly.
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5288131/k.BD83/The_Trials_of_Paul.htm
Manna Fest w/Perry Stone:The Coming War For Oil, Water and Food
Taped on location in Israel, Perry Stone discusses the upcoming clash over natural resources that was prophesied in the Bible.
Video Link: http://voe.sermon.tv/2213896
©2008 - 2009 Perry Stone Ministries
http://voe.org/
Video Link: http://voe.sermon.tv/2213896
©2008 - 2009 Perry Stone Ministries
http://voe.org/
Voice Of The Martyrs USA - Prayer Update for July 17, 2009
VOM–USA Prayer Update for July 17, 2009
The Voice of the Martyrs USA: www.persecution.com
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. Romans 1:16
SOMALIA — Sons of Christian Beheaded — Compass Direct News
1 Thessalonians 2:2
But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict.
Islamic extremists have beheaded two boys in Somalia because their Christian father, 55 year-old Musa Mohammed Yusuf, refused to give them information about an underground church leader, according to Compass Direct News. The extremists from the group al shabaab killed 11-year-old Abdi Rahaman Musa Yusuf and 12-year-old Hussein Musa Yusuf, after abducting them in front of their mother. The terrorists are currently looking for Yusuf in Kenyan refugee camps. Yusuf was a leader of an underground church in Yonday village, 19 miles from Kismayo, Somalia. On February 20, the extremists interrogated Yusuf about his relationship with Salat Mberwa, the Christian leader who discipled him in the faith and led an underground fellowship with 66 believers. When Yusuf told them he did not have any connection to him and knew nothing about him, they left and vowed to return the next day. Yusuf fled immediately and the next day the extremists killed his sons. Yusuf’s wife and 7-year-old son have joined him in the refugee camp in Kenya where Mberwa and other believers are helping them. VOM encourages you to pray for Yusuf and his family as they have lost their sons. Pray God comforts them during this difficult time, and provides the family with other believers who can encourage them with scriptures and songs.
TANZANIA — Church buildings burned down in Zanzibar — Compass Direct News
Acts 4:29-31
Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.
On June 28, two church buildings on the outskirts of Unguja Township on the Tanzanian island of Zanzibar were burned by suspected Muslim extremists, according to Compass Direct News. A flier stating, "We don't want churches on our street. Today we are going to burn the church, and if you continue we are going to burn your house also," was left at the home of the man who donated the plot of land for The Evangelical Assemblies of God church building. The church was burned. The Pentecostal Evangelical Fellowship in Africa church building, only a few miles away, was also torched. The week before, an assistant sheikh approached the church leader and told him that the building, which was in the final stages of construction, would be destroyed unless the construction was stopped. Pray that increased persecution will result in increased boldness among believers in Zanzibar. Pray that the passion of God's people in Zanzibar will be a light that draws others to Christ.
CHINA — Chinese couple sentenced for "engaging in illegal religious activities" — China Aid Association
Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.
Officials arrested Pastor Dou Shaowen on June 14 along with other believers during a house church raid. He was given a one year-sentence of "re-education" through labor, according to China Aid Association. Pastor Dou's wife, Feng Lu, received the same sentence. While Pastor Dou is imprisoned in a labor camp, authorities have permitted Feng Lu to serve her sentence at home so she can care for their 12-year-old daughter. However, officials informed her she will be sent to the camp if she is discovered engaging in further "illegal religious activities." The believers who were given 15-day administrative sentences following the June 14 house church attack have not been released at last report. Pray for this family, especially their child. Ask God to encourage and protect them.
Add the PrisonerAlert.com application on Facebook by visiting http://apps.facebook.com/prisoneralert/
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
The Voice of the Martyrs USA: www.persecution.com
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. Romans 1:16
SOMALIA — Sons of Christian Beheaded — Compass Direct News
1 Thessalonians 2:2
But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict.
Islamic extremists have beheaded two boys in Somalia because their Christian father, 55 year-old Musa Mohammed Yusuf, refused to give them information about an underground church leader, according to Compass Direct News. The extremists from the group al shabaab killed 11-year-old Abdi Rahaman Musa Yusuf and 12-year-old Hussein Musa Yusuf, after abducting them in front of their mother. The terrorists are currently looking for Yusuf in Kenyan refugee camps. Yusuf was a leader of an underground church in Yonday village, 19 miles from Kismayo, Somalia. On February 20, the extremists interrogated Yusuf about his relationship with Salat Mberwa, the Christian leader who discipled him in the faith and led an underground fellowship with 66 believers. When Yusuf told them he did not have any connection to him and knew nothing about him, they left and vowed to return the next day. Yusuf fled immediately and the next day the extremists killed his sons. Yusuf’s wife and 7-year-old son have joined him in the refugee camp in Kenya where Mberwa and other believers are helping them. VOM encourages you to pray for Yusuf and his family as they have lost their sons. Pray God comforts them during this difficult time, and provides the family with other believers who can encourage them with scriptures and songs.
TANZANIA — Church buildings burned down in Zanzibar — Compass Direct News
Acts 4:29-31
Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.
On June 28, two church buildings on the outskirts of Unguja Township on the Tanzanian island of Zanzibar were burned by suspected Muslim extremists, according to Compass Direct News. A flier stating, "We don't want churches on our street. Today we are going to burn the church, and if you continue we are going to burn your house also," was left at the home of the man who donated the plot of land for The Evangelical Assemblies of God church building. The church was burned. The Pentecostal Evangelical Fellowship in Africa church building, only a few miles away, was also torched. The week before, an assistant sheikh approached the church leader and told him that the building, which was in the final stages of construction, would be destroyed unless the construction was stopped. Pray that increased persecution will result in increased boldness among believers in Zanzibar. Pray that the passion of God's people in Zanzibar will be a light that draws others to Christ.
CHINA — Chinese couple sentenced for "engaging in illegal religious activities" — China Aid Association
Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.
Officials arrested Pastor Dou Shaowen on June 14 along with other believers during a house church raid. He was given a one year-sentence of "re-education" through labor, according to China Aid Association. Pastor Dou's wife, Feng Lu, received the same sentence. While Pastor Dou is imprisoned in a labor camp, authorities have permitted Feng Lu to serve her sentence at home so she can care for their 12-year-old daughter. However, officials informed her she will be sent to the camp if she is discovered engaging in further "illegal religious activities." The believers who were given 15-day administrative sentences following the June 14 house church attack have not been released at last report. Pray for this family, especially their child. Ask God to encourage and protect them.
Add the PrisonerAlert.com application on Facebook by visiting http://apps.facebook.com/prisoneralert/
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
7/16/09
Michael Jr, on the road less Traveled
Comedian Michael Jr, sets out to see what would happen when he takes is comedic gift to those who can't come to a club or a church and get it.
The Path of Least Resistance
"The Path of Least Resistance"
Excerpt from Hollywood Connect Newsletter 07/16/09.
www.hollywoodconnect.com
(c)2009 Hollywood Connect
I've had a Non Sequitur comic strip on my desk for a few years entitled "The Magic of Hollywood," in which a handful of studio executives sit around a conference table in dark business suits. The chairman of the meeting states, "A motion has been put forth that we should seek to create rather than imitate. All in favor of killing this silly notion, nod in mindless agreement…"
Unfortunately, this is what the entertainment industry is too often known for.
I wonder how many times our own creativity – whether in the arts, business, or just life in general – gets shut down simply because we’ve spent our time imitating rather than creating. The former is usually easier than the latter, and more often than not, it’s a result of neglect – failing to take the time and effort to stand up, look around, and see things in a new way, apart from what others have done or are doing. In the end, however, it’s never as effective or fulfilling, artistically or otherwise.
Do we tend to do things only because "that's what's worked before" or "that is the path of least resistance" or “that’s what everyone else is doing”?
It happens not only in the area of creativity, but in our broader spiritual lives as well. We have a tendency to want to take that same path of least resistance, taking our cues from those around us instead of heading out into what might be the unknown, the dangerous, or the solitary – even in those heart-thumping times we recognize that God has called us to meet Him there. This is unfortunate, especially because we are called not only to be believers in Christ, but followers of Christ, choosing to follow Him wherever He leads, even when that means diverging from the rest of the crowd.
Shun Lee
Director
Hollywood Connect
Excerpt from Hollywood Connect Newsletter 07/16/09.
www.hollywoodconnect.com
(c)2009 Hollywood Connect
I've had a Non Sequitur comic strip on my desk for a few years entitled "The Magic of Hollywood," in which a handful of studio executives sit around a conference table in dark business suits. The chairman of the meeting states, "A motion has been put forth that we should seek to create rather than imitate. All in favor of killing this silly notion, nod in mindless agreement…"
Unfortunately, this is what the entertainment industry is too often known for.
I wonder how many times our own creativity – whether in the arts, business, or just life in general – gets shut down simply because we’ve spent our time imitating rather than creating. The former is usually easier than the latter, and more often than not, it’s a result of neglect – failing to take the time and effort to stand up, look around, and see things in a new way, apart from what others have done or are doing. In the end, however, it’s never as effective or fulfilling, artistically or otherwise.
Do we tend to do things only because "that's what's worked before" or "that is the path of least resistance" or “that’s what everyone else is doing”?
It happens not only in the area of creativity, but in our broader spiritual lives as well. We have a tendency to want to take that same path of least resistance, taking our cues from those around us instead of heading out into what might be the unknown, the dangerous, or the solitary – even in those heart-thumping times we recognize that God has called us to meet Him there. This is unfortunate, especially because we are called not only to be believers in Christ, but followers of Christ, choosing to follow Him wherever He leads, even when that means diverging from the rest of the crowd.
Shun Lee
Director
Hollywood Connect
HANDY LITTLE CHART - GOD HAS A POSITIVE ANSWER:
HANDY LITTLE CHART - GOD HAS A POSITIVE ANSWER:
You say: "It's impossible"
God says: All things are possible (Luke 18:27)
You say: "I'm too tired'
God says: I will give you rest(Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: "Nobody really loves me"
God says: I love you (John 3:16 & John 3:34 )
You say: "I can't go on"
God says: My grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: "I can't figure things out'
God says: I will direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5-6)
You say: "I can't do it"
God says: You can do all things (Philippians 4:13)
You say: 'I'm not able'
God says: I am able (2 Corinthians 9:8)
You say: "It's not worth it"
God says: It will be worth it (Roman 8:28)
You say: "I can't forgive myself"
God says: I forgive you (1 John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: "I can't manage"
God says: I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19)
You say: "I'm afraid"
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7)
You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated"
God says: Cast all your cares on ME (1 Peter 5:7)
You say: "I'm not smart enough"
God says: I give you wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:30)
You say: "I feel all alone"
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5)
You say: "It's impossible"
God says: All things are possible (Luke 18:27)
You say: "I'm too tired'
God says: I will give you rest(Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: "Nobody really loves me"
God says: I love you (John 3:16 & John 3:34 )
You say: "I can't go on"
God says: My grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: "I can't figure things out'
God says: I will direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5-6)
You say: "I can't do it"
God says: You can do all things (Philippians 4:13)
You say: 'I'm not able'
God says: I am able (2 Corinthians 9:8)
You say: "It's not worth it"
God says: It will be worth it (Roman 8:28)
You say: "I can't forgive myself"
God says: I forgive you (1 John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: "I can't manage"
God says: I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19)
You say: "I'm afraid"
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7)
You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated"
God says: Cast all your cares on ME (1 Peter 5:7)
You say: "I'm not smart enough"
God says: I give you wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:30)
You say: "I feel all alone"
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5)
Cherokee Rite Of Passage
I got this sent to me in an email. It's called "Cherokee Rite Of Passage."
Do you know the legend of the Cherokee Indian youths' Rite of Passage?
His father takes him into the forest, blindfolds him and leaves him alone.
He is required to sit on a stump the whole night and not remove the blindfold until the rays of the morning sun shine through it.
He cannot cry out for help to anyone.
Once he survives the night, he is a MAN.
He cannot tell the other boys of this experience, because each lad must come into manhood on his own.
The boy is naturally terrified.
He can hear all kinds of noises.
Wild beasts must surely be all around him.
Maybe even some human might do him harm.
The wind blows the grass and earth, and shakes his stump, but he sits stoically, never removing the blindfold.
It would be the only way he could become a man!
Finally after a horrific night the sun appears, and he removes his blindfold.
It is then that he discovers his father sitting on the stump next to him.
He has been at watch the entire night, protecting his son from harm.
We too are never alone.
Even when we don't know it, God is watching over us, sitting on the stump beside us.
When trouble comes, all we have to do is reach out to Him.
If you liked this story, pass it on.
If not, you took off your blindfold before dawn.
Moral of the story: Just because you can't see God, doesn't mean He is not there..
'For we walk by faith, not by sight.'
Do you know the legend of the Cherokee Indian youths' Rite of Passage?
His father takes him into the forest, blindfolds him and leaves him alone.
He is required to sit on a stump the whole night and not remove the blindfold until the rays of the morning sun shine through it.
He cannot cry out for help to anyone.
Once he survives the night, he is a MAN.
He cannot tell the other boys of this experience, because each lad must come into manhood on his own.
The boy is naturally terrified.
He can hear all kinds of noises.
Wild beasts must surely be all around him.
Maybe even some human might do him harm.
The wind blows the grass and earth, and shakes his stump, but he sits stoically, never removing the blindfold.
It would be the only way he could become a man!
Finally after a horrific night the sun appears, and he removes his blindfold.
It is then that he discovers his father sitting on the stump next to him.
He has been at watch the entire night, protecting his son from harm.
We too are never alone.
Even when we don't know it, God is watching over us, sitting on the stump beside us.
When trouble comes, all we have to do is reach out to Him.
If you liked this story, pass it on.
If not, you took off your blindfold before dawn.
Moral of the story: Just because you can't see God, doesn't mean He is not there..
'For we walk by faith, not by sight.'
7/15/09
Manna Fest w/Perry Stone: Has America Entered The Fullness Of Time?
What are ancient patterns revealing about America and its future? Perry Stone shows us how the Roman Empire compares to the United States. One of the best messages/teachings I've ever heard. So incredibly interesting, insightful and powerful. Praise God!
Taken from Perry Stone's "Manna Fest" episode 431 and 432 which was filmed at the 2008 Hixson Conference at Abba's House in Hixson, Tennessee.
Part 1 Video Link: http://media.voe.org/Manna_fest/2213868
Part 2 Video Link: http://media.voe.org/Manna_fest/2213867
©2008 - 2009 Perry Stone Ministries
www.voe.org
Taken from Perry Stone's "Manna Fest" episode 431 and 432 which was filmed at the 2008 Hixson Conference at Abba's House in Hixson, Tennessee.
Part 1 Video Link: http://media.voe.org/Manna_fest/2213868
Part 2 Video Link: http://media.voe.org/Manna_fest/2213867
©2008 - 2009 Perry Stone Ministries
www.voe.org
In Opposition To S.909 aka "Matthew Shepherd Hate Crimes bill"
I am against S.909 aka the "Matthew Shepherd Hate Crimes bill" that has been proposed and is finally apparently coming to a vote in the Senate. If Senate were to vote in favor of this bill then President Obama is likely to sign it into law. This needs to not happen and here is why:
1) Laws already exist in all 50 states to punish violent crime, making the Matthew Shepherd Hate Crimes bill (S.909) unnecessary, unfair, indefinable, un-American and constitutionally suspect. S.909 is not designed to aid in fighting crime. The reality is that the purpose of this bill is to silence those who speak out against homosexuality.
2) I am opposed to S. 909 – the “Hate Crimes” bill. One reason for my opposition is that Congress has refused to define what is meant by sexual orientation in S.909. By doing so, this means that the 30 different sexual orientations – including pedophilia - will be federally protected classes.
3) Hate Crimes legislation is one more step in the campaign to legitimize homosexuality in our culture by treating it as a protected class along with race, gender and religion.
4) Again, I ask you to oppose the “Hate Crimes” bill. In order to push it on the American people, it is likely that the bill will be introduced as an amendment to the Defense Authorization Bill.
5) If Hate Crimes legislation passes, pastors could be prosecuted under the federal inducement statute for preaching the biblical view of homosexuality. Similar laws have been used to prosecute religious speech in the U.S. at the state level and abroad.
Please contact your senators asap and tell them you oppose this bill.
http://www.capwiz.com/afanet/callalert/index.tt?alertid=13736111
1) Laws already exist in all 50 states to punish violent crime, making the Matthew Shepherd Hate Crimes bill (S.909) unnecessary, unfair, indefinable, un-American and constitutionally suspect. S.909 is not designed to aid in fighting crime. The reality is that the purpose of this bill is to silence those who speak out against homosexuality.
2) I am opposed to S. 909 – the “Hate Crimes” bill. One reason for my opposition is that Congress has refused to define what is meant by sexual orientation in S.909. By doing so, this means that the 30 different sexual orientations – including pedophilia - will be federally protected classes.
3) Hate Crimes legislation is one more step in the campaign to legitimize homosexuality in our culture by treating it as a protected class along with race, gender and religion.
4) Again, I ask you to oppose the “Hate Crimes” bill. In order to push it on the American people, it is likely that the bill will be introduced as an amendment to the Defense Authorization Bill.
5) If Hate Crimes legislation passes, pastors could be prosecuted under the federal inducement statute for preaching the biblical view of homosexuality. Similar laws have been used to prosecute religious speech in the U.S. at the state level and abroad.
Please contact your senators asap and tell them you oppose this bill.
http://www.capwiz.com/afanet/callalert/index.tt?alertid=13736111
7/14/09
Our Corrupt Social & Health "Care" System
I hate our idiotic social and health "care" system. Its corruption and unfairness is evil. Nothing's ever going to be good if things remain the same and all these stupid ideas don't do anything. Only a revolution can change anything, but hardly anyone is rational and courageous enough to do anything about it. Everyone's too busy being weak and politically-correct, and wasting time with all talk and no action.
7/13/09
7/12/09
Hal Lindsey Newsletter - Iran's Nuclear Capabilities (07-10-09)
This week on 'The Hal Lindsey Report' (07-10-09)
On this week's edition of "The Hal Lindsey Report," I'll examine the factors that lead me to believe monumental things are about to happen in Iran.
Iran is close to producing a nuclear weapon. Experts vary in their opinions of how soon that may happen, but any time is too soon. Of course, Iran must also be able to produce a miniaturized version for mounting on a missile, but we know they're quite advanced in their missile technology.
Iran's leaders have warned the world quite clearly about what they plan to do when they finally achieve nuclear capability: wipe Israel from the map. Plan B is to use their new weapons to launch an EMP attack on America or Israel or Europe. In fact, they've been practicing for precisely this.
Several European nations are within range of Iran's missiles and have expressed concern over the latest developments. Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan, and other Arab/Muslim nations also fear Iran's nuclear ambitions - perhaps more than Israel because they don't have Israel's sophisticated defenses.
In fact, it seems that the United States and Russia are the two nations that don't seem so concerned about Iran's nuclear pursuit anymore.
The problem is that if Iran achieves nuclear weapons capability, it instantly becomes the leader of the Muslim world. It will be the 'big dog' on the block known as the Middle East. What it says -- or what its proxies Hamas, Hezbollah, or al-Qaeda say -- will be what goes, because then it will have the muscle to back it up. And it's probably safe to say that no one (except Hugo Chavez) wants to see that happen! (I know that Pakistan, a Muslim nation, already has nukes, but it has never been as aggressive in its political or jihadist ambitions as Iran.)
Also, remember that Iran's newly "re-elected" Mahmoud Ahmadinejad believes he's the one chosen by Allah to start the conflagration that will usher in the return of Islam's messiah, the Mahdi. Saudi Arabia and Egypt, especially, want nothing to do with that!
So the problem is this. Chance are if Iran gets nukes, then Israel will get nuked. America and/or Europe may also be EMP-attacked. That would elicit a nuclear response by Israel and/or America and/or Europe. That means that Iran would be completely annihilated.
However, the Bible prophets say that Israel and Iran will both be intact in the run-up to Armageddon. That means that something must prevent Iran from launching a nuclear attack against Israel which would then cause Israel to wipe Iran from the map.
So, the way I see it, one of two things will happen soon. One: Israel will launch a preemptive strike against Iran's nuclear facilities to decimate or delay its nuclear program. This is not so far-fetched. Just this week, Vice President Joe Biden said that America can't dictate to Israel what it can or cannot do. After all, Israel is a sovereign nation (wink)! Also, Saudi Arabia has apparently indicated that it won't be concerned if the Israeli Air Force just happens to stray into its airspace (on its way to Iran?). Further, Egypt recently allowed an Israeli submarine with nuclear cruise missiles to pass through the Suez Canal (on its way to Iran?).
Two: The revolt that is quietly gaining strength in Iran over the obviously rigged re-election of Ahmadinejad will cause the current regime to fall. This is not so far-fetched, either. This week, the most prestigious group of Muslim clerics in Iran declared that the election was not valid. This amounts to an open mutiny against Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei and the Guardian Council.
Either way, I believe Iran's nuclear ambitions will be thwarted for a while, allowing them to survive a bit longer. This may also be why Iran needs Russia's cover to finally launch its attack on Israel.
Then, on top of everything else, I'm going to discuss some of the historical aspects of this situation. What Ahmadinejad and Khamenei threaten to do has been attempted before. And by guess-who. Persia, later known as Iran. It's not exactly deja-vu, but remember Haman, Esther, the prince of the kingdom of Persia? Welcome to the same song, second verse.
See why I say exciting, maybe monumental, things are about to happen? Don't miss this week's Report on TBN, Daystar, Inspiration, CPM Network, various local stations, www.hallindsey.com or www.hischannel.com.
God Bless,
Hal Lindsey
mail: HLMM, P.O.Box 1475, Palm Desert, CA 92261
email: mail@hallindsey.com
web: http://www.hallindsey.com
On this week's edition of "The Hal Lindsey Report," I'll examine the factors that lead me to believe monumental things are about to happen in Iran.
Iran is close to producing a nuclear weapon. Experts vary in their opinions of how soon that may happen, but any time is too soon. Of course, Iran must also be able to produce a miniaturized version for mounting on a missile, but we know they're quite advanced in their missile technology.
Iran's leaders have warned the world quite clearly about what they plan to do when they finally achieve nuclear capability: wipe Israel from the map. Plan B is to use their new weapons to launch an EMP attack on America or Israel or Europe. In fact, they've been practicing for precisely this.
Several European nations are within range of Iran's missiles and have expressed concern over the latest developments. Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan, and other Arab/Muslim nations also fear Iran's nuclear ambitions - perhaps more than Israel because they don't have Israel's sophisticated defenses.
In fact, it seems that the United States and Russia are the two nations that don't seem so concerned about Iran's nuclear pursuit anymore.
The problem is that if Iran achieves nuclear weapons capability, it instantly becomes the leader of the Muslim world. It will be the 'big dog' on the block known as the Middle East. What it says -- or what its proxies Hamas, Hezbollah, or al-Qaeda say -- will be what goes, because then it will have the muscle to back it up. And it's probably safe to say that no one (except Hugo Chavez) wants to see that happen! (I know that Pakistan, a Muslim nation, already has nukes, but it has never been as aggressive in its political or jihadist ambitions as Iran.)
Also, remember that Iran's newly "re-elected" Mahmoud Ahmadinejad believes he's the one chosen by Allah to start the conflagration that will usher in the return of Islam's messiah, the Mahdi. Saudi Arabia and Egypt, especially, want nothing to do with that!
So the problem is this. Chance are if Iran gets nukes, then Israel will get nuked. America and/or Europe may also be EMP-attacked. That would elicit a nuclear response by Israel and/or America and/or Europe. That means that Iran would be completely annihilated.
However, the Bible prophets say that Israel and Iran will both be intact in the run-up to Armageddon. That means that something must prevent Iran from launching a nuclear attack against Israel which would then cause Israel to wipe Iran from the map.
So, the way I see it, one of two things will happen soon. One: Israel will launch a preemptive strike against Iran's nuclear facilities to decimate or delay its nuclear program. This is not so far-fetched. Just this week, Vice President Joe Biden said that America can't dictate to Israel what it can or cannot do. After all, Israel is a sovereign nation (wink)! Also, Saudi Arabia has apparently indicated that it won't be concerned if the Israeli Air Force just happens to stray into its airspace (on its way to Iran?). Further, Egypt recently allowed an Israeli submarine with nuclear cruise missiles to pass through the Suez Canal (on its way to Iran?).
Two: The revolt that is quietly gaining strength in Iran over the obviously rigged re-election of Ahmadinejad will cause the current regime to fall. This is not so far-fetched, either. This week, the most prestigious group of Muslim clerics in Iran declared that the election was not valid. This amounts to an open mutiny against Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei and the Guardian Council.
Either way, I believe Iran's nuclear ambitions will be thwarted for a while, allowing them to survive a bit longer. This may also be why Iran needs Russia's cover to finally launch its attack on Israel.
Then, on top of everything else, I'm going to discuss some of the historical aspects of this situation. What Ahmadinejad and Khamenei threaten to do has been attempted before. And by guess-who. Persia, later known as Iran. It's not exactly deja-vu, but remember Haman, Esther, the prince of the kingdom of Persia? Welcome to the same song, second verse.
See why I say exciting, maybe monumental, things are about to happen? Don't miss this week's Report on TBN, Daystar, Inspiration, CPM Network, various local stations, www.hallindsey.com or www.hischannel.com.
God Bless,
Hal Lindsey
mail: HLMM, P.O.Box 1475, Palm Desert, CA 92261
email: mail@hallindsey.com
web: http://www.hallindsey.com
The Voice of the Martyrs–USA Prayer Update for July 10, 2009
VOM–USA Prayer Update for July 10, 2009
The Voice of the Martyrs USA: www.persecution.com
When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. Acts 11:23
MAURITANIA — Christian aid worked killed — VOM Sources
1 Corinthians 4:9-14, 16
For I think that God has displayed us, the apostles, last, as men condemned to death; for we have been made a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are distinguished, but we are dishonored! To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now. I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. Therefore I urge you, imitate me.
On June 23, Al-Qaeda reportedly claimed responsibility for shooting and killing, Christopher Leggett, an American aid worker in Nouakchott, the capital city of Mauritania. On June 25, Al-Jazeera TV reportedly received an audio statement from Al-Qaeda which stated that "two knights of the Islamic Maghreb succeeded Tuesday morning at 8:00 a.m. to kill the infidel American Christopher Leggett for his Christianising activities." Leggett worked for a non-governmental organization in Mauritania involved in training and equipping prisoners to re-enter society. He also oversaw a microloan program which fostered the growth of small businesses. He had been a resident of Mauritania for the past seven years along with his wife and four children. Thank the Lord for Christopher Leggett's life as a cross-bearing disciple. Ask God to comfort those who mourn for him. Pray that Christians in Mauritania will be emboldened to follow in their savior’s footsteps and remain steadfast in faith.
EGYPT — Christians attacked by Muslims — VOM Canada
Psalm 146
Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, O my soul! While I live I will praise the LORD; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being. Do not put your trust in princes, Nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help. His spirit departs, he returns to his earth; In that very day his plans perish. Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, Whose hope is in the LORD his God, Who made heaven and earth, The sea, and all that is in them; Who keeps truth forever, Who executes justice for the oppressed, Who gives food to the hungry. The LORD gives freedom to the prisoners. The LORD opens the eyes of the blind; The LORD raises those who are bowed down; The LORD loves the righteous. The LORD watches over the strangers; He relieves the fatherless and widow; But the way of the wicked He turns upside down. The LORD shall reign forever— Your God, O Zion, to all generations. Praise the LORD!
On June 21, Christians in the village of Ezbet Boshra-East, Egypt were fearful to leave their homes after a Muslim mob attacked believers and damaged property, according to VOM contacts. A group of 25 Christians from Cairo arrived in the village to visit Father Isaac Castor, who lives in a building owned by the Coptic Church. When Muslims noticed six of the believers entering the building, they approached the remaining Christians waiting outside and began to taunt them. A Muslim woman approached one of the Christians and slapped her. Hundreds of Muslims then started to throw stones at the building and the believers. Some Christian homes in the village were plundered, farmers' crops were uprooted and Father Castor's car was vandalized. Over a dozen Christians and several Muslims were injured in the violence. Nineteen Christians were arrested and released the following day. Their homes were reportedly ransacked by police and they were mistreated while in detention. Pray for healing for those injured. Pray that Christians in Egypt will put their hope in the Lord as the one who upholds their cause. Ask God to move in the lives of those who persecute believers in Egypt.
CHINA — Update: House church leaders released in Sichuan — China Aid Association
Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.
Praise God! The house church leaders arrested in Langzhong city, Sichuan province on June 9 have been released following international pressure, according to China Aid Association. Thirteen of the leaders served 10 days of administrative detention and were released on June 20. The five leaders placed in criminal detention were released on June 23. Meanwhile, three other house church leaders arrested on June 14 for “illegal religious activities,” in Taochuan village, Shaanxi province have been released. Praise God for these believers and their faithfulness. Ask God to protect them as they continue serving him.
Add the PrisonerAlert.com application on Facebook by visiting http://apps.facebook.com/prisoneralert/
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
The Voice of the Martyrs USA: www.persecution.com
When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. Acts 11:23
MAURITANIA — Christian aid worked killed — VOM Sources
1 Corinthians 4:9-14, 16
For I think that God has displayed us, the apostles, last, as men condemned to death; for we have been made a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are distinguished, but we are dishonored! To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now. I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. Therefore I urge you, imitate me.
On June 23, Al-Qaeda reportedly claimed responsibility for shooting and killing, Christopher Leggett, an American aid worker in Nouakchott, the capital city of Mauritania. On June 25, Al-Jazeera TV reportedly received an audio statement from Al-Qaeda which stated that "two knights of the Islamic Maghreb succeeded Tuesday morning at 8:00 a.m. to kill the infidel American Christopher Leggett for his Christianising activities." Leggett worked for a non-governmental organization in Mauritania involved in training and equipping prisoners to re-enter society. He also oversaw a microloan program which fostered the growth of small businesses. He had been a resident of Mauritania for the past seven years along with his wife and four children. Thank the Lord for Christopher Leggett's life as a cross-bearing disciple. Ask God to comfort those who mourn for him. Pray that Christians in Mauritania will be emboldened to follow in their savior’s footsteps and remain steadfast in faith.
EGYPT — Christians attacked by Muslims — VOM Canada
Psalm 146
Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, O my soul! While I live I will praise the LORD; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being. Do not put your trust in princes, Nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help. His spirit departs, he returns to his earth; In that very day his plans perish. Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, Whose hope is in the LORD his God, Who made heaven and earth, The sea, and all that is in them; Who keeps truth forever, Who executes justice for the oppressed, Who gives food to the hungry. The LORD gives freedom to the prisoners. The LORD opens the eyes of the blind; The LORD raises those who are bowed down; The LORD loves the righteous. The LORD watches over the strangers; He relieves the fatherless and widow; But the way of the wicked He turns upside down. The LORD shall reign forever— Your God, O Zion, to all generations. Praise the LORD!
On June 21, Christians in the village of Ezbet Boshra-East, Egypt were fearful to leave their homes after a Muslim mob attacked believers and damaged property, according to VOM contacts. A group of 25 Christians from Cairo arrived in the village to visit Father Isaac Castor, who lives in a building owned by the Coptic Church. When Muslims noticed six of the believers entering the building, they approached the remaining Christians waiting outside and began to taunt them. A Muslim woman approached one of the Christians and slapped her. Hundreds of Muslims then started to throw stones at the building and the believers. Some Christian homes in the village were plundered, farmers' crops were uprooted and Father Castor's car was vandalized. Over a dozen Christians and several Muslims were injured in the violence. Nineteen Christians were arrested and released the following day. Their homes were reportedly ransacked by police and they were mistreated while in detention. Pray for healing for those injured. Pray that Christians in Egypt will put their hope in the Lord as the one who upholds their cause. Ask God to move in the lives of those who persecute believers in Egypt.
CHINA — Update: House church leaders released in Sichuan — China Aid Association
Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.
Praise God! The house church leaders arrested in Langzhong city, Sichuan province on June 9 have been released following international pressure, according to China Aid Association. Thirteen of the leaders served 10 days of administrative detention and were released on June 20. The five leaders placed in criminal detention were released on June 23. Meanwhile, three other house church leaders arrested on June 14 for “illegal religious activities,” in Taochuan village, Shaanxi province have been released. Praise God for these believers and their faithfulness. Ask God to protect them as they continue serving him.
Add the PrisonerAlert.com application on Facebook by visiting http://apps.facebook.com/prisoneralert/
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
7/11/09
The Courage To Obey
The Courage To Obey
By Charles F. Stanley
How would your friends who know you best describe you – courageous or cowardly? And when you face a difficult situation what is your most overpowering emotion – self-preservation or the desire to stand strong for what is right and true?
Following God is never simple or easy for any one, it takes courage. A passion to obey God does not suddenly appear in the believer’s life. Salvation sparks love and a desire to please Him, but a courageous fire is built slowly from the timbers of spiritual knowledge, faith, and devotion.
Obedience usually begins with a fear of the consequences of disobeying. Until believers build a firm foundation of biblical knowledge and trust that offers better reasons to follow God, we are kept safe by the desire to avoid harsh repercussions. Thankfully, as we mature and gain greater scriptural wisdom, fear is replaced by recognition of God’s sovereignty and a commitment to submit to His wisdom.
Following God’s will shifts our focus from disobedience’s consequences to obedience’s blessings. Once we taste the best He has to offer, we want to keep good flowing into our lives. Obedience and God’s best are natural partners—good derives from following divine commands, while suffering results when we stubbornly choose our own way. This irrevocable principle plays out in the Bible as well as in day-to-day life. Every act of obedience is rewarded—either on earth or in heaven. As we become more aware of how blessing follows obedience, we realize that complying with the Lord’s will is the only wise choice.
As our faith grows, we will learn that blessing’s motivational power is not as strong as that of devotion. All the promised blessing in the world cannot make a believer follow God into some frightening places. But love for our Father compels us toward passionate obedience, no matter what is at stake.
The man and the woman who courageously walk with God will always reach their destination.
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5288115/k.F70B/The_Courage_to_Obey.htm
By Charles F. Stanley
How would your friends who know you best describe you – courageous or cowardly? And when you face a difficult situation what is your most overpowering emotion – self-preservation or the desire to stand strong for what is right and true?
Following God is never simple or easy for any one, it takes courage. A passion to obey God does not suddenly appear in the believer’s life. Salvation sparks love and a desire to please Him, but a courageous fire is built slowly from the timbers of spiritual knowledge, faith, and devotion.
Obedience usually begins with a fear of the consequences of disobeying. Until believers build a firm foundation of biblical knowledge and trust that offers better reasons to follow God, we are kept safe by the desire to avoid harsh repercussions. Thankfully, as we mature and gain greater scriptural wisdom, fear is replaced by recognition of God’s sovereignty and a commitment to submit to His wisdom.
Following God’s will shifts our focus from disobedience’s consequences to obedience’s blessings. Once we taste the best He has to offer, we want to keep good flowing into our lives. Obedience and God’s best are natural partners—good derives from following divine commands, while suffering results when we stubbornly choose our own way. This irrevocable principle plays out in the Bible as well as in day-to-day life. Every act of obedience is rewarded—either on earth or in heaven. As we become more aware of how blessing follows obedience, we realize that complying with the Lord’s will is the only wise choice.
As our faith grows, we will learn that blessing’s motivational power is not as strong as that of devotion. All the promised blessing in the world cannot make a believer follow God into some frightening places. But love for our Father compels us toward passionate obedience, no matter what is at stake.
The man and the woman who courageously walk with God will always reach their destination.
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5288115/k.F70B/The_Courage_to_Obey.htm
7/10/09
Michael Jackson - Million Dollar Bill (Gospel Tract)
The million dollar question: Will you go to Heaven when you die? Here's a quick test. Have you ever told a lie, stolen anything, or used God's name in vain? Jesus said, "Whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart." Have you looked with lust? Will you be guilty on Judgment Day? If you have done those things, God sees you as a lying, thieving, blasphemous, adulterer at heart. The Bible warns that if you are guilty you will end up in Hell. That's not God's will. He sent His Son to suffer and die on the cross for you. You broke God's Law, but Jesus paid your fine. That means He can legally dismiss your case. He can commute your death sentence: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." Then He rose from the dead and defeated death. Please, repent (turn from sin) today and trust in Jesus alone, and God will grant you the gift of everlasting life. Then read your Bible daily and obey it.
http://livingwaters.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&category_id=8&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=389&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=199
7/9/09
The Story Of God
The Story of God
Once upon a time, there was God. The Story was always about Him, although like every good story, the main character wasn’t in every scene. But you always knew He was there. It was His story, after all, and a fascinating story at that. Heroes rose and fell, but those who fell and were true heroes got back up again. And each one did something that no one had ever seen before and what has never been seen since.
However, like every really good story, the Story of God was filled with conflict, dark villains, and hard times. Overwhelming odds rose up. But this was to be expected, for it’s impossible for anyone to have a good story without conflict. And so the Story of God became one of dark suspense, and for some, dramatic horror.
Several chapters into the Story, however, there was a sudden and unexpected plot twist (although if you look back, you can see several clues leading up to it): In the midst of those overwhelming odds, God provided a creative and unprecedented means of overcoming the odds and for infusing abundant life to all those characters who were in His story. Those characters in God’s story – who were already heroes, mind you – became larger-than-life, triumphantly achieving great exploits as they battled those overwhelming odds. And so it was that with that plot twist, God’s story became an action-adventure and a beautiful romance. And then…
The End.
Oh, wait, I suppose there are several letters from a few of the Story’s characters (because this was a true Story), and then there’s that glimpse into the eternity that is to come. All of that, we can see, is important to the telling of the tale, but then the back cover of the book is closed. We settle back with a satisfied sigh: what a good story. We laughed, we cried. Two thumbs up and a five-star rating. We remind ourselves to tell someone else the highlights of the Story. We get together weekly in a book club and discuss the Story. We commit to reading one or two chapters of the Story periodically, maybe even daily. Boy, there sure is a lot we can learn from the Story of God, now that it’s completed.
But wait a minute… The audience gasps in surprise. What’s this? Another plot twist! Could it be…? Yes, it is! It’s almost too good to be true, but this Story, this beautiful, wonderful Story of God is not over. In spite of what some people – maybe even you – have thought, it’s not completed yet.
The truth is that this is God’s story, and because God has no ending, neither does His Story. His Story continues, and you and I are the ones who are writing it now. Oh, I’m not saying that we’re adding to the biblical canon. What I am saying is that our lives as we live them are telling the next chapter of that Story that worked its way from Adam and Eve, through Job and Moses, Joshua and David, Esther and Elisha, and Peter, Paul and Mary. The Story continued through centuries of being written – sometimes poorly, sometimes well. And now it has come to you and me.
What will be God’s story in your life? Will it be an action-adventure? A romance? Or, in spite of your best intentions, a story in which your actions and inaction are motivated by fear – that is, a horror story? Will it be a story about hesitance or courage? Will it be defined more by doctrinal correctness than by fervor, alive and growing? Will its central theme be one of waiting and wondering, or one of heroically applied faith?
Sometimes I think that, simply by default, it would be easy enough to have my chapter in this great Story end up being one of something other than great heroism and faith. But it doesn’t have to be that way. It could be something tremendous. It could be something unexpected – even by all the other characters around me in the Story. It could be something no one has ever seen before. I’m pretty excited to see how it turns out. In fact, I’m excited to see how yours turns out too, and so are a lot of people – perhaps even the rest of the world. Could it be that that you are the hero of your own chapter and God is waiting for you to continue His story?
Shun Lee
Director
Hollywood Connect
(c)2009 Hollywood Connect
www.hollywoodconnect.com
Once upon a time, there was God. The Story was always about Him, although like every good story, the main character wasn’t in every scene. But you always knew He was there. It was His story, after all, and a fascinating story at that. Heroes rose and fell, but those who fell and were true heroes got back up again. And each one did something that no one had ever seen before and what has never been seen since.
However, like every really good story, the Story of God was filled with conflict, dark villains, and hard times. Overwhelming odds rose up. But this was to be expected, for it’s impossible for anyone to have a good story without conflict. And so the Story of God became one of dark suspense, and for some, dramatic horror.
Several chapters into the Story, however, there was a sudden and unexpected plot twist (although if you look back, you can see several clues leading up to it): In the midst of those overwhelming odds, God provided a creative and unprecedented means of overcoming the odds and for infusing abundant life to all those characters who were in His story. Those characters in God’s story – who were already heroes, mind you – became larger-than-life, triumphantly achieving great exploits as they battled those overwhelming odds. And so it was that with that plot twist, God’s story became an action-adventure and a beautiful romance. And then…
The End.
Oh, wait, I suppose there are several letters from a few of the Story’s characters (because this was a true Story), and then there’s that glimpse into the eternity that is to come. All of that, we can see, is important to the telling of the tale, but then the back cover of the book is closed. We settle back with a satisfied sigh: what a good story. We laughed, we cried. Two thumbs up and a five-star rating. We remind ourselves to tell someone else the highlights of the Story. We get together weekly in a book club and discuss the Story. We commit to reading one or two chapters of the Story periodically, maybe even daily. Boy, there sure is a lot we can learn from the Story of God, now that it’s completed.
But wait a minute… The audience gasps in surprise. What’s this? Another plot twist! Could it be…? Yes, it is! It’s almost too good to be true, but this Story, this beautiful, wonderful Story of God is not over. In spite of what some people – maybe even you – have thought, it’s not completed yet.
The truth is that this is God’s story, and because God has no ending, neither does His Story. His Story continues, and you and I are the ones who are writing it now. Oh, I’m not saying that we’re adding to the biblical canon. What I am saying is that our lives as we live them are telling the next chapter of that Story that worked its way from Adam and Eve, through Job and Moses, Joshua and David, Esther and Elisha, and Peter, Paul and Mary. The Story continued through centuries of being written – sometimes poorly, sometimes well. And now it has come to you and me.
What will be God’s story in your life? Will it be an action-adventure? A romance? Or, in spite of your best intentions, a story in which your actions and inaction are motivated by fear – that is, a horror story? Will it be a story about hesitance or courage? Will it be defined more by doctrinal correctness than by fervor, alive and growing? Will its central theme be one of waiting and wondering, or one of heroically applied faith?
Sometimes I think that, simply by default, it would be easy enough to have my chapter in this great Story end up being one of something other than great heroism and faith. But it doesn’t have to be that way. It could be something tremendous. It could be something unexpected – even by all the other characters around me in the Story. It could be something no one has ever seen before. I’m pretty excited to see how it turns out. In fact, I’m excited to see how yours turns out too, and so are a lot of people – perhaps even the rest of the world. Could it be that that you are the hero of your own chapter and God is waiting for you to continue His story?
Shun Lee
Director
Hollywood Connect
(c)2009 Hollywood Connect
www.hollywoodconnect.com
7/5/09
Love Is Not A Crime
My true home is Heaven. Therefore, I am a wanderer on this earth, waiting and persevering, trying to make the best of things, until I make it back home to my Father's kingdom. I enjoy things, I don't enjoy things. Like Jesus, I live in this world, but I don't really belong to it. I live amongst the people, but I'm not them. I love people even when they don't love me back. I'd die for people even if they wouldn't do the same. I always forgive people no matter how bad they are. I speak the message to people. I put up with people no matter how difficult. Love is not a crime. The just shall live by faith. The wicked will keep on sinning. You reap what you sow. The righteous shall reap their reward. The wicked shall reap theirs. This world will not always last the way it is. Someday Jesus will come back and restore it to the way it's meant to be. Don't be on the losing side. But, even before then you will die. Everyone dies and you can't stop that. But, God loves you and He's there with open arms to forgive and restore you. Don't resist it. Don't run away from it. It's the best thing you could ever have. Don't waste it. He lived and died for you, and He didn't have to. He did it because He loves you. Would you do the same for Him or for anyone?
7/4/09
Come Back To God
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
14 Either way, Christ’s love compels us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life. 15 He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.
16 So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! 17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
18 And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. 19 For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. 20 So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” 21 For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.
14 Either way, Christ’s love compels us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life. 15 He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.
16 So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! 17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
18 And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. 19 For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. 20 So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” 21 For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.
7/3/09
Patriotic Wallpaper From C28
Patriotic Wallpaper: It has the letters "notw" (Not Of This World - a Christian reference) with a ribbon around it that says "pray for our troops." They also have t-shirts with this same design, only not in this color I don't think. www.c28.com
It says "In God We (Should) Trust," "Pray For Our Nation," "NOTW" and 2 Chronicles 7:14 (full quote).
It says "Not Of This World," "Pray For Our Troops" and Deuteronomy 20:4 (full quote).
C2:8, Inc ©2009 All Rights Reserved (www.c28.com)
Socialism??
University Prof gets it right! This says it all!!
An economics professor at a local college made a statement
that he had never failed a single student before but had once failed an entire
class.
That class had insisted that socialism worked and that no
one would be poor and no one would be rich, a great equalizer.
The professor then said, "OK, we will have an experiment in
this class on socialism. All grades would be averaged and everyone would receive
the same grade so no one would fail and no one would receive an A.
After the first test, the grades were averaged and everyone
got a B..
The students who studied hard were upset and the students
who studied little were happy.
As the second test rolled around, the students who studied
little had studied even less and the ones who studied hard decided they wanted a
free ride too so they studied little.
The second test average was a D! No one was happy.
When the 3rd test rolled around, the average was an F.
The scores never increased as bickering, blame and
name-calling all resulted in hard feelings and no one would study for the
benefit of anyone else.
All failed, to their great surprise, and the professor told
them that socialism would also ultimately fail because when the reward is great,
the effort to succeed is great, but when government takes all the reward away,
no one will try or want to succeed.
Could not be any simpler than that.....
An economics professor at a local college made a statement
that he had never failed a single student before but had once failed an entire
class.
That class had insisted that socialism worked and that no
one would be poor and no one would be rich, a great equalizer.
The professor then said, "OK, we will have an experiment in
this class on socialism. All grades would be averaged and everyone would receive
the same grade so no one would fail and no one would receive an A.
After the first test, the grades were averaged and everyone
got a B..
The students who studied hard were upset and the students
who studied little were happy.
As the second test rolled around, the students who studied
little had studied even less and the ones who studied hard decided they wanted a
free ride too so they studied little.
The second test average was a D! No one was happy.
When the 3rd test rolled around, the average was an F.
The scores never increased as bickering, blame and
name-calling all resulted in hard feelings and no one would study for the
benefit of anyone else.
All failed, to their great surprise, and the professor told
them that socialism would also ultimately fail because when the reward is great,
the effort to succeed is great, but when government takes all the reward away,
no one will try or want to succeed.
Could not be any simpler than that.....
The Christian Citizen
The Christian Citizen
By: Dr. Charles Stanley
One of the blessings we most frequently overlook is the freedom we enjoy as citizens of the United States. Over and over throughout our history, God has blessed this nation in unique ways. Let’s examine what it means to be a Christian citizen—both of heaven and of our earthly country.
A. Our Kingdom Citizenship
Our primary allegiance belongs to the Creator. Philippians 3:20 says, “Our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
1. Privileges
We’ve been given amazing promises and privileges, simply because we have been born into the family of God.
* Name a few personal blessings you receive as a citizen of the heavenly kingdom (Matt. 7:7-8; John 1:12; 14:26, 15:16; Rom. 6:23; Phil. 4:13).
* How can these privileges impact the way you live as a Christian in America?
2. Responsibilities
* List some of our responsibilities as citizens of heaven (John 4:24; 15:10; Matt. 28:19-20; 1 Thess. 5:11-22).
Some believers see parts of their lives as “off limits” to God—areas such as finances, relationships, business deals, or civic activities.
* What areas of your life, if any, have you traditionally seen as “off limits” for your faith? Why is/was this so?
* What can you do to allow your faith to impact every aspect of your daily life?
Jesus Christ commissioned us to be the salt and light of this world (Matt. 5:13-16). Saltseasons, flavors, and preserves. But when kept inside the shaker, it is practically worthless. Light drives out darkness and illuminates paths. It also removes every pretense and falsehood, revealing things for what they really are.
* Why are salt and light appropriate metaphors for the influence godly believers can have in their communities?
* Name some specific actions you could take to be salt and light in your neighborhood.
B. Our National Citizenship
As American citizens, we all enjoy rights, liberties, and provisions that seldom exist elsewhere in the world. We also have several distinct obligations.
1. As Christians in America, we must actively impact the decisions that shape our nation. If you are a child of God, then being an active citizen should be a part of your life. The choices we make during our lifetime will affect future generations. We simply cannot be silent about the decay of our culture’s morals.
* Respond to this statement: “You cannot be a good Christian and an irresponsible, uninvolved citizen at the same time.” Is this true? Why or why not?
* We must fulfill our civic duties based strictly on the Word of God. When we try to effect change in our culture, our motivation should derive from biblical principles, not merely from personal preferences.
* How do you typically make decisions about matters facing our country? Do you rely on logic and personal preference, or do you examine the issues according to Scripture? Why?
3. We must hold our leaders accountable for their actions and decisions. In his book “A Century of Congress,” James Garfield, the twentieth President of the United States, wrote:
Now more than ever before, the people are responsible for the character of their Congress. If that body be ignorant, reckless, and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness, and corruption. If it be intelligent, brave, and pure, it is because the people demand these high qualities to represent them in the national legislature. If the next centennial does not find us a great nation, it will be because those who represent the enterprise, the culture, and the morality of the nation do not aid in controlling the political forums.
We are given the freedom to choose our leaders and the obligation to hold them accountable. Write a letter, send an e-mail, make a phone call—do something to make sure your representatives know that you hold them accountable.
* How did Nathan correct King David’s choices (2 Sam. 11-12)?
* What are some ways in which you can make your voice heard? How can you personally have an impact on the world around you?
4. We must pray for our leaders. There are enough believers in this country to pray our nation into radical new directions and godly decisions.
* If you disagree with those in leadership, why should you still pray for them (1 Tim. 2:1-2) ?
Closing: As citizens of the United States and believers in Jesus Christ, we have dual citizenship. Our responsibility is to live as salt and light. Only when we accept the call to be actively involved in our communities can we help preserve this great nation of ours.
Prayer: Father, thank You for allowing me to be a citizen of both this country and an eternal home. Show me how to live in light of these two citizenships. I ask this in Christ’s name. Amen.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.4951651/apps/s/content.asp?ct=6682699
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
By: Dr. Charles Stanley
One of the blessings we most frequently overlook is the freedom we enjoy as citizens of the United States. Over and over throughout our history, God has blessed this nation in unique ways. Let’s examine what it means to be a Christian citizen—both of heaven and of our earthly country.
A. Our Kingdom Citizenship
Our primary allegiance belongs to the Creator. Philippians 3:20 says, “Our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
1. Privileges
We’ve been given amazing promises and privileges, simply because we have been born into the family of God.
* Name a few personal blessings you receive as a citizen of the heavenly kingdom (Matt. 7:7-8; John 1:12; 14:26, 15:16; Rom. 6:23; Phil. 4:13).
* How can these privileges impact the way you live as a Christian in America?
2. Responsibilities
* List some of our responsibilities as citizens of heaven (John 4:24; 15:10; Matt. 28:19-20; 1 Thess. 5:11-22).
Some believers see parts of their lives as “off limits” to God—areas such as finances, relationships, business deals, or civic activities.
* What areas of your life, if any, have you traditionally seen as “off limits” for your faith? Why is/was this so?
* What can you do to allow your faith to impact every aspect of your daily life?
Jesus Christ commissioned us to be the salt and light of this world (Matt. 5:13-16). Saltseasons, flavors, and preserves. But when kept inside the shaker, it is practically worthless. Light drives out darkness and illuminates paths. It also removes every pretense and falsehood, revealing things for what they really are.
* Why are salt and light appropriate metaphors for the influence godly believers can have in their communities?
* Name some specific actions you could take to be salt and light in your neighborhood.
B. Our National Citizenship
As American citizens, we all enjoy rights, liberties, and provisions that seldom exist elsewhere in the world. We also have several distinct obligations.
1. As Christians in America, we must actively impact the decisions that shape our nation. If you are a child of God, then being an active citizen should be a part of your life. The choices we make during our lifetime will affect future generations. We simply cannot be silent about the decay of our culture’s morals.
* Respond to this statement: “You cannot be a good Christian and an irresponsible, uninvolved citizen at the same time.” Is this true? Why or why not?
* We must fulfill our civic duties based strictly on the Word of God. When we try to effect change in our culture, our motivation should derive from biblical principles, not merely from personal preferences.
* How do you typically make decisions about matters facing our country? Do you rely on logic and personal preference, or do you examine the issues according to Scripture? Why?
3. We must hold our leaders accountable for their actions and decisions. In his book “A Century of Congress,” James Garfield, the twentieth President of the United States, wrote:
Now more than ever before, the people are responsible for the character of their Congress. If that body be ignorant, reckless, and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness, and corruption. If it be intelligent, brave, and pure, it is because the people demand these high qualities to represent them in the national legislature. If the next centennial does not find us a great nation, it will be because those who represent the enterprise, the culture, and the morality of the nation do not aid in controlling the political forums.
We are given the freedom to choose our leaders and the obligation to hold them accountable. Write a letter, send an e-mail, make a phone call—do something to make sure your representatives know that you hold them accountable.
* How did Nathan correct King David’s choices (2 Sam. 11-12)?
* What are some ways in which you can make your voice heard? How can you personally have an impact on the world around you?
4. We must pray for our leaders. There are enough believers in this country to pray our nation into radical new directions and godly decisions.
* If you disagree with those in leadership, why should you still pray for them (1 Tim. 2:1-2) ?
Closing: As citizens of the United States and believers in Jesus Christ, we have dual citizenship. Our responsibility is to live as salt and light. Only when we accept the call to be actively involved in our communities can we help preserve this great nation of ours.
Prayer: Father, thank You for allowing me to be a citizen of both this country and an eternal home. Show me how to live in light of these two citizenships. I ask this in Christ’s name. Amen.
http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.4951651/apps/s/content.asp?ct=6682699
© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.
Our Battles Are Won On Our Knees
Every battle we face as believers is won on our knees - so to speak - by faith, by love, by prayer and by thankfulness to God.
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