Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Thoughts About Christmas



For most of the world Santa Claus came and went last week and Christmas is over. Many of us in the church world have spent so much time celebrating, eating, and spending that we have forgotten the true meaning of the Holy Days. Yes, I said Holy Days. 
The denominational world goes to church to mark the glorious event of our savior's birth. However, our people scorn tradition so we throw one big party that lasts from about the first of December until New Year's Eve. So what about Jesus Christ? Perhaps we should reconsider our family first traditions that leave out the reason we celebrate.  
Christmas bells ring out on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning while OUR churches are silent as the grave. Our people are home taking a break from church...leaving worship for the New Year! We cannot leave our families...or God forbid...bring them to church with us while we worship and remember the birth of the King of Kings. 
Perhaps we should rethink this flouting of traditional worship that we think keeps us separate from the world. It does not keep us separate.  The First Century Church kept these days holy and we should do that too.
My message is not that we should stop celebrating with friends and family, but rather that we should include Jesus Christ in the celebration of His birth. It is time we came back to church to honor the Lord on His birthday!

Take a moment to read the essay from Barry Setterfield about the events leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ. It is enlightening and will lay to rest the belief by some people that December 25 is from a Roman holiday. Christmas was celebrated on Dec 25 years before the Romans began their celebrations and we should ask ourselves why. 

 

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Learning To Dance In The Rain

"Life's not about waiting for the storms to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain."
~Vivian Greene


We spend a lot of time worrying about how to get out of trials and tribulation that comes into our lives. Sometimes our storms get the better of us and we want to crawl into our shell and disappear!  We pray for God to deliver us from our afflictions. No one wants to suffer, but the way we handle adversity is equally important as how we handle our blessings. 

Storms are a part of life. There is an old song that goes..."Into each life some rain must fall, but too much has fallen in mine..."   Do you feel like that sometimes? God knows all about your pain, but if you are reaching for a higher level you must endure pain to rise to the top. There are lessons to be learned when you are stretching that can be learned no other way!


I Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

16Be joyful always; 17pray continually; 18give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 

Learning to worship and give thanks when you are in the valley is part of your walk with God. Keeping a good attitude when your world is caving in around you is not easy. Dottie Rambo put it like this, "The earth all around me is sinking sand, on Christ the Solid Rock I stand..." Your world may be shaking but Jesus Christ is the same Yesterday, Today, and Forever! 


Dancing in the rain is not the same as enduring the rain slapping you in the face. Dancing implies happiness in spite of the rain. When you are able to give God wholehearted worship even in the face of despair, hurt, pain, sickness, death, you will have learned something about dancing in the rain. 








Thursday, November 26, 2009

Thoughts About Thanksgiving


Thoughts About Thanksgiving

Another year has come and gone,
Fleetingly it has passed.
Our joys...our heartaches...our triumphs...
Are fading into the past.

This moment in time is important!
This moment is all you have.
For family and friends soon leave you...
Without warning... in an instant... they’re gone!

Only memories linger...
Your choices in the maddening throng!
Every second and microsecond vital,
In the days that lie ahead.

At every milestone you’ll wonder...
About that moment in time long past.
Was I right? Was I wrong? Mistaken?
What if? What if? What if?

So make every day a good one.
Live without need for regrets!
Be thankful for the good times,
And forget about the rest!

Copyright © Sandra Rone Mireles November 26, 2009

God loves you and I love you!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Colossians 3: 15

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Why Worry When You Can Pray



I got up this morning and I began reading my email. I get alerts from some conservative blogs and was reading about the affects of terrorism on the military written by Colonel Oliver North. His evalution of the situation was pretty grim. He was talking about our president and the upcoming trials for the World Trade Center terrorist Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and four other terrorists in New York City. As I was reading I thought how much fear people in this country have over the things that are happening in the world right now.  Suddenly a voice from my childhood rang out in my head and I heard Sister Chloe Lott singing an old song. Why worry when you can pray? Trust Jesus...let him be your stay. Don't be a doubting Thomas! Rest fully on His promise! Why worry...worry...worry...worry...when you can pray!

There are two important points to this story.
  1. What are you worried about? Pray...Pray...Pray!
  2. Our children need teaching songs. They learn from their music values they never forget!
Luke 21: 25-28

25And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;
 26Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.
 27And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
 28And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. 
Don't Worry...Pray!


Monday, November 23, 2009

Thanksgiving...More Than A Tradition

This week we are taking time to Give Thanks to God. Here are some thoughts about this celebration.


Thanksgiving...More Than A Tradition

Saturday, October 24, 2009

What is All The Talk About Predestination?



Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.(NIV)

The discussion about predestination can be confusing to those who do not understand the true meaning of predestination in connection with your walk with God. The Apostle Paul was an educated man and a deep thinker. He had a wonderful revelation about God and completely understood the place of the believer in God's Plan. Look at verse 29 above. For those God foreknew...

Take a moment to check out the dictionary definition of the word, foreknew. Basically, the word is the past tense of the verb foreknow. It means to be aware of (an event) before it happens.

Understand this, God lives in Eternity. That means that God exists at both ends of the time line at the same time. He is the Alpha and Omega, Rev. 1:8 I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.

When God told Moses in Exodus 3 to speak to Pharaoh, Moses wanted to know God's name. God told him, I AM who I AM. The reason for this is simple. God always exists in the present. This is hard for people like us who are limited by time constraints.

But...here is the kicker...because God always exists in the present He knew from the very beginning who would make a commitment and would keep that commitment to serve him to the very end.

Because God knew from the very beginning who would finish the race, he predestined these people, he justified these people, and glorified these people.

We, on the other hand, do NOT live in eternity as yet. We do not know who was predestined, or glorified, or justified. This race is not over until the very end. You must keep the faith and keep up the fight until the Lord returns or calls you home. That does not mean you have to live in fear, but you do have to commit your way to the Lord and do your very best to live holy every day of your life. God knows you or I make mistakes. However, if we continue to make the exact same mistake it becomes a lifestyle choice. Do not lie to yourself or try to fool yourself.

Galatians 6: 6-9
6 Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches.
7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. NKJV

Blessings!

Spiritual Truths From A Layman's Point of View: I'm In The covenant By Lee Stoneking

Spiritual Truths From A Layman's Point of View: I'm In The covenant By Lee Stoneking

Monday, October 5, 2009

Israel In the End Times

Our world is in trouble. Danger presents on every side. As a people we are commanded by Jesus to be observant of the signs of the time. When we see the Day approaching we are to pray without ceasing and prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord.

Last week the United Nations met in New York City and leaders from around the world came together to make speeches and discuss the future of the world. The Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu gave a masterful speech that was hard and to the point. He did not pull any punches about Israel's desires or need to defend herself. This week Benjamin Netanyahu traveled to Moscow to take a list of more than 200 Russians who had involved themselves with the Iranian terrorists. Things are getting serious and we as a people should be aware of what is happening around the world. We must be ready for any changes that may effect us.

This video of Natanyahu's speech is shown in four parts. When you finish with the first part check the news reel at the bottom of the screen for parts 2-4. It is a must see!

Monday, August 24, 2009

A Call To Sacrifice

A Call To Prayer and Fasting


Behold! Let it be known through all the land. Cry aloud with the voice of triumph! A fast has been proclaimed. A fast shall be performed by all the people. Prayer and fasting to seek favor with our God. Humble yourselves before the Lord. Seek the face of the Lord while He may be found! A festival has been appointed for the third week of the ninth month when all shall come to The House of Prayer to seek the Lord your God.


More to Come


The Church of Humble

September 13-19, 2009


Isaiah 56:7 Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.



Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Keep up the Fight!


Monday Night Prayer August 10, 2009

We are fighting a battle with unseen foes. These foes seek out our weak spots and use them against us. For those of you in our prayer group at TCH, you have signed on to the battle that is raging around us. We have purposed in our hearts that we will reach God for the healing of our people! God will provide our needs! We will have revival within our selves, and within the hearts and minds of those we meet! Our calling and mission is clear! We will not be satisfied with anything less than victory!

God has called us to a higher purpose. No longer will we be satisfied with a mediocre experience that says...God can heal... We will say...God healed Sis Edwards back! God healed Sis Mireles of heart disease and arthritis! God healed Sis. Dee. The pain in her bones is gone. God healed Bro. Rickey Donohue's brother of cancer! We will say God healed Sis. Rone of cancer! We will say God is healing Bro. Jerry Johnson of diabetes! There will be no retreat! We will say God has provided for our needs and God is saving souls! We will say God healed Bro Stanley of cancer! We will say God saved our families!

We at The Church of Humble are a people of prayer and we are just getting started. There is much work to be done but we know that God is in control and directing us toward a new understanding and victory! We will see souls born into the kingdom of God!

Years ago I heard an old song that changed my life.

Victory victory shall be mine...
Victory, victory shall be mine...!!!!
If I hold my peace...
Let the Lord fight my battle,
Victory victory shall be mine!!!!!



Ephesians 6: 10-18

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

2 Corinthians 10:3-7

3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; 6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled. 7 Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? if any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Do You Know His Name?


Our government

Our world is in transition. Many of us fear the changes we see happening every day. The Bible warned us of these things two thousand years ago. It has been a long time coming and many times people thought that the end had come. If we are truly living in Bible prophecy then nothing we do will change the inevitable outcome. Do not fear the future. Now is the time to make your calling and election sure! Now is the time to reach out to others who are fearful and offer them hope and a way out! You can be very sure that there is only one hope to the believer! Prayer and positioning yourself for the blessings and protection of the Lord as we tread softly into the fire is the answer to our need!

While it may not seem like it to you, in his book The Unchurched Next Door, Thom Ranier states that 8 out of 10 people would be happy to be invited to church. According to the Ranier Institute 8 out of 10 people would come to church if invited. That is a staggering total of 180 million people in the United States who want to be invited to church!

That means that we are not doing our duty when we are intimidated by appearances. You can not look at a person and know what their reaction might be to an invitation. Non-church going people need reassurance during these troubled times just as much as those who are part of the family of God. People are searching for answers. You do not need to have all the answers to be able to help someone! You only need to be friendly, kind, and let your light shine before men and women. That is all. Give them the church business card and invite them. Let God do the work.

If you know the name of the Lord...if you are one of His people...then you will choose to put your trust in Him. You will not allow the transition of the world to overcome your heart and inspire you to fear. God is still in His Heaven! God is still in control. We must believe that with our whole heart and give him praise for his loving care and protection in these troubled times.
The Psalmist knew about trouble. Utilize this prayer when you are afraid. This amazing passage exactly fits our world today and the fear we have. Trust in God. Comfort yourself with these words and go out to the world to find the hurting and lost before it is too late for them.

Psalms 9:9-11


9 The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed,
a stronghold in times of trouble.

10 Those who know your name will trust in you,
for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.

11 Sing praises to the LORD, enthroned in Zion;
proclaim among the nations what he has done.

15 The nations have fallen into the pit they have dug;
their feet are caught in the net they have hidden.

16 The LORD is known by his justice;
the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands.
Higgaion. Selah

17 The wicked return to the grave,
all the nations that forget God.

18 But the needy will not always be forgotten,
nor the hope of the afflicted ever perish.

19 Arise, O LORD, let not man triumph;
let the nations be judged in your presence.

20 Strike them with terror, O LORD;
let the nations know they are but men.
Selah


Glenn Beck and Joel Rosenberg Discussing End Times and Iran



Video Response to Part 1 Bible Prophecy..Part 2

Sunday, July 5, 2009

What Can You Do With a Little Bit of Faith

Read: Matthew 17: 1-21

20And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. 21Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.

I hope every one of you will take the time to read the entire scripture reading today. The disciples were trying to cast out the devil from the man's son, and they could not. The man went to Jesus who cast out the devils. Then the disciples asked him why they could not cast out the devils.

Jesus looked at them and said, Because of your unbelief. Jesus was blunt and to the point. He said it like it was. Unbelief hinders miracles. Most of us think we believe, but when it comes right down to it we do not really believe. We always give ourselves an out by saying, well I know God can do it, but whether he will or not is another thing. It might not be his will.

To put it plainly in the language of the sixties...that is a cop out! It is time for the believers to get a grip on their belief system and decide to make that leap of faith.

John 14
12Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.13And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.

If you examine these scripture references you will discover that there are no qualifiers. Jesus said that if you believe, he will do anything you ask. So now, the ball is in your court. You must believe! So this is the answer to that never ending question, Why did God not heal me? Why did God not do what I asked? Why? Why? Why?

This, then is the answer to the question. You must have real faith. You must believe NOT that God CAN do it, but that God IS GOING to do it. This is two very different things. You must understand! When you believe that God is GOING to do something you ask, without doubting, God WILL do it. You have to focus and decide that you are coming out of the shadows to be a real believer. We are no longer waiting for the miracles to fall on us. We are laying hold on our miracles! We are reaching into the INVISIBLE world and PULLING OUT our: healing, financial miracle, deliverance, salvation for lost souls, and so much more.

I ask you to consider this thought. If only one person with faith equal to the grain of mustard seed can say to that mountain to be removed and cast into the sea, AND IT IS DONE, And two people who agree about any matter under the sun, AND IT COMES TO PASS. How much power do you think will be generated when an entire congregation comes together in ONE MIND AND ONE ACCORD like they did on the day of Pentecost? I will tell you what will happen...people will get their healing. People will be delivered! Financial miracles will happen, and the entire city will be turned upside down just like Jerusalem on the DAY of PENTECOST! You have it in your hands to make it happen! God is waiting on you to make the first move! Are you ready to see REAL POWER?

TODAY I saw a woman who had been told by her doctors she was going to die with COPD many take laps around the church without losing her breath! God is a healer! TODAY I saw a woman with Colon Cancer who had her most recent chemo treatment 10 days ago DANCE BEFORE THE LORD FOR more than fifteen minutes under the power of God. This woman does not take pain medicine, she does not experience nausea or ANY of the usual side affects of this type of treatment. Do not tell me what God will not do! Sometimes God wants to show you how to WALK BY FAITH under pressure. God took MY damaged heart and brought it back to life. My cardiologist told me personally that GOD had given me a great gift. If you want to know why I believe God, it is because God is still in the miracle working business. You can choose to live a life filled with power. You have the choice.

FAITH is the key and PRAYER opens the door to your miracle. Learning to pray and travail is not easy. It is not pleasant. There are many distractions. But, if you persevere you will walk in the footsteps of the Apostles and the first believers who saw REAL CHANGE, AND REAL POWER with God.

Here I Come To Worship - Darlene Zschech



Shout To The Lord: Darlene Zschech Ron Kenoly

Monday, June 22, 2009

Are You a Friend of God?

Proverbs 18:24A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

We treasure our friendships and work to maintain good relationships. What about God? Is God your friend? Do you work on keeping your relationship on sound footing? Most of us are so euphoric when we first make the acquaintance of the Lord that we overlook the basic rules of the relationship. Walking around on an emotional high, we forget that God is the other half of the partnership.

Did you know that God has expectations about the relationship you have with him? You already know that God loves you. It is implicit in the sacrifice He made for you through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. And yet, there is so much more available to the believer than the initial acceptance of the invitation to be a part of the body of Christ.

Prayer is the means by which you get to know the Lord. Simply stated, prayer is a conversation with God. While God is interested in your cares and problems, sometimes he would just like to hear you say that you love him. I challenge you...Take 15 minutes of your prayer time and ask for nothing! Simply tell the Lord how much you love and adore him...worship him, and nothing more. You will discover that it is one of the hardest things you will ever do. It is not hard because you don't want to do it. It is hard because you (and I) have gotten into the habit of falling on your knees and unloading all our problems into God's ear. While I know God wants to hear your problems...it must be nice for Him to hear about our hopes, dreams, goals, and our love for Him!

When you feel that your prayers never go higher than the ceiling, it is important to remember that feelings do not count in your relationship with God. How solid is your belief that God is real and loves you? If you truly believe that God listens...then it is possible to pray even when it feels like you are talking to yourself. Absolute trust requires that you talk to God no matter how you feel about the conversation. In time the feeling you are looking for will come. God never changes in that his love is everlasting. However, the range of emotions you experience will continue to change throughout your life. God is more than GOOGLE, and He has all the answers. Be patient, and your answer will come!

Blessings!


I Am A Friend of God

Phillips, Craig, and Dean




Here I Am To Worship

Phillips, Craig, and Dean

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Let's Talk About Faith

Image Credit: www.flickr.com/photos/heart_windows_art/2330771133/

Hebrews 11: 1-2
1Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. 2This is what the ancients were commended for. 3By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. (NIV)

The Reverend J.J. Bourne is a great man of faith. He said it like this: Faith is when you reach into nothing and pull out something. That means when you want or need something that you cannot see, feel, or touch; your faith or belief in God reaches into the invisible world and makes your request solid, and real.

I did not make that up. The New International Version of the Bible says exactly that. God commanded the universe to be formed by elements that were not visible in our reality. Yet we see the earth, the sky, the galaxies...all created from nothing. I can prove this by science.

Science claims that a Big Bang brought the world into existence. How many of you have ever looked into this claim? It is very interesting and absolutely confirms the Genesis story of creation!


Here is the link that will take you to the discussion about this image. http://members.tripod.com/~ssscott/BigBang.html

Genesis 1

The Beginning

1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. 3 And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light.
For those of you who take the time to look into the Big Bang you will discover that there was nothing. Even the scientists believe that matter was compressed into nothingness. The suddenly for no reason something caused the elements to begin forming. A number of complex changes happened in less than one second. Then for the next three minutes something else happened. After three hundred thousand years of these complex changes, out of NOTHNG came LIGHT just like God commanded.

God brought the worlds into existence from his word. God is a God of order. You can see that in all His creations. Remember that faith is something you cannot see becoming a reality because of your belief without doubting that God can and will do it! Many times we give ourselves an escape clause by saying that we believe God CAN do anything. However, when pinned down we are not so quick to say that God WILL do something we have requested. Faith means you believe not only that God can, but that he will do what you request. ARE YOU A BELIEVER? Now is the time to make your petitions known to God and Believe with all your heart that God WILL answer in a timely fashion. Do not give up after the first day. Keep on believing!

Have Faith!

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Change You Can Believe In!

CHANGE YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!







Our president talkes a lot about CHANGE you can believe in. The changes he has brought about have inspired a great deal of fear and consternation in some circles.
Image Credit: www.whitehouse.gov



Newt Gingrich wrote a book called, REAL CHANGE! Newt's changes have nothing in common with the changes undertaken by our new president!

Credit: jeffreyricker.files.wordpress.com/2007/10/new.





CHANGE THROUGH PRAYER




We are going to change our world through prayer. PRAYER YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!

Jesus threw out a challenge to the world 2 millennia ago when he said,










Luke 9:23

Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.

Are you looking for change? Do you want to change the world? Today is the day! Now is the time!

Image credit: Poster created by All posters.com imagecache.allposters.com/images/pic/APG/114-...

Through Prayer you will change yourself first, then you will change your personal environment, then your will enlarge your reach to your church, your city or town, and then the world!

Real Change comes from within. It starts with one person who catches a glimpse of what might be and commits to make that change a reality. GOD IS LOOKING FOR A PEOPLE IN THE LAST DAYS WHO NO LONGER ARE TIED TO THE REALITY OF THIS WORLD. He is looking for a people who have one purpose...that is to bring souls into the kingdom. God is looking for a people who BELIEVE WITHOUT DOUBTING that Apostolic miracles, signs, and wonders are ours for the taking! Are you a BELIEVER?

Hebrews 11

By Faith We Understand
1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 2 For by it the elders obtained a good testimony.
3 By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.




Thursday, June 4, 2009

Do You Believe Prayer Works?

James 5:
13 Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms. 14 Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. 16 Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. 17 Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. 18 And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit. NKJV

My question to you is very simple. Do you believe that prayer works? Do you believe that fervent prayer works better? Do you believe that God is listening to the prayers of his people?

These are very serious questions to ponder. Many of us speak about prayer but we never seem to pray. This is a fact. We talk a good story...but as you know...talk is cheap. DO YOU REALLY BELIEVE THAT PRAYER WORKS?
If you REALLY believe that prayer works, WHY do you not pray? I understand that prayer is not easy. I understand that it is hard to focus your attention to the needs of others. I understand that it is hard to find time to make this commitment. I understand that you have many cares and problems that require your attention. I understand that live sometimes breaks you down.

God has the answer! God is the answer! Are you looking for miracles, signs, and wonders? Do you think about the Apostles and the power they had? If you have the Holy Spirit you have the POWER to do anything the Apostles were able to do. You just have to stir up the gift that is within you and go for it! This is your moment. I challenge you to become a PRAYER WARRIOR! Go For It!

You choose the live you live. No one makes these choices for you. You choose the life you live. Stop allowing your life to run you and react to life as it happens to you. YOU make the choice to change your world. Do it through prayer!

Dust On The Altar



Stand On The Word

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

PRAYER WARRIOR CHALLENGE







Last week I began thinking about being a prayer warrior. So I ask myself...what is a prayer warrior? Who is a prayer warrior? What does a prayer warrior do?

A prayer warrior is ANYONE who believes that interceding with God on behalf of others will achieve measurable results! The youngest child can be a prayer warrior if there is faith. The business world is outcome oriented with fancy metrics to discover these outcomes. You do not need a metric to discover if God has answered your prayers. God is looking for people who are willing to get beyond themselves and (1) make a choice to pray (2) make a commitment to stay with it.

A PRAYER WARRIOR prays! A PRAYER WARRIOR commits to daily prayer for others. A PRAYER WARRIOR is not defeated when things look their worst. A PRAYER WARRIOR knows that God may answer in many ways and that yes and no are not the only possible answers to a situation. A PRAYER WARRIOR does not whine about their own problems to the Lord. A PRAYER WARRIOR tells God all about it and moves beyond self to intercede for others. A PRAYER WARRIOR takes up the shield of faith and KNOWS without doubt that God is listening!

Be a PRAYER WARRIOR! Nothing you choose to do will compare with the battles you will win in the heavenlies!

Ephesians 6:16
In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

I challenge you today! Take up the shield of faith and go forth to do battle on behalf of the church of God! Claim your lost children, your friends, and give spiritual covering to your church family in the Name of Jesus Christ!


Image Credits
Retrieved from Creative Commons Google and Yahoo Images May 19, 2009

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Faith


Faith is at the core of the belief system for every follower of Jesus Christ. So what is faith? Hebrews 11: 1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 2For by it the elders obtained a good report.
The New International Version makes this even more plain: 1Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. 2This is what the ancients were commended for.

Hebrews 11:6
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Romans 1:17
For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Hebrews chapter 11 is a wonderful recounting of the patriarchs and early believers who followed God without reservation. These ancients demonstrated the value of living and walking by faith. Their lives were blessed and they received miracles of astounding greatness.

Hebrews 12: 1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,


2Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Our world is at a crossroad that may lead to the end of the age. But...we are not there yet! At this moment in time it is important to stand firm on your faith. Keep up your prayer life! Review your attitudes daily. Ask yourself what God is looking for in you? What can I do that will be pleasing to God?

To you older believers who have stood firm for your whole life...thank you. However, you must remember that the race is not run...the battle is not over...and the end has not come. While you may wonder what God can do with you at your time of life, you must make yourself available to the Lord. God is looking for prayer warriors. Prayer is the greatest thing you can do for yourself, your family, your church family, and your community! God will take your prayers and turn your church into a powerhouse and a soul winning station! It is up to you to take up the challenge and stand on the faith that you have carried with you through the long years of your life.

Be a PRAYER WARRIOR! Nothing you choose to do will compare with the battles you will win in the heavenlies!

Ephesians 6:16
In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

I challenge you today! Take up the shield of faith and go forth to do battle on behalf of the church of God! Claim your lost children, your friends, and give spiritual covering to your church family in the Name of Jesus Christ!


Image Credits
Retrieved from Creative Commons Google and Yahoo Images May 19, 2009

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

How to Handle Tragedy

There are times in our life when something, sickness or death, or both stops us in our tracks and grabs our attention in the worst way. Sometimes fear comes upon us unexpectedly. At times like these it is important to stop the panic and distress. Step back and take a moment to review our situation in the light of the word of God. God's promises are true and faithful. We do not know why we must go through terrible trials. We may never know the answer. One thing I do know is that God has a plan for every one of us! You had a plan from the moment you were born. Sometimes plans get changed because of choices we make but there is always a plan.

The following exerpt from Psalms 55 has now become a prayer for help in time of tragedy and need. Pray this prayer when you are in doubt and distress. Dig deep in your faith and purpose in your heart to stand fast on the word of God. He loves you. His love never fails.
  1. Psalm 55:22
    Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.
    Psalm 55:21-23 (in Context) Psalm 55 (Whole Chapter)
1 Give ear to my prayer, O God,
And do not hide Yourself from my supplication.
2 Attend to me, and hear me;
I am restless in my complaint, and moan noisily,...

4 My heart is severely pained within me,
And the terrors of death have fallen upon me.
5 Fearfulness and trembling have come upon me,
And horror has overwhelmed me.
6 So I said, “Oh, that I had wings like a dove!
I would fly away and be at rest.
7 Indeed, I would wander far off,
And remain in the wilderness. Selah
8 I would hasten my escape
From the windy storm and tempest.”

12 For it is not an enemy who reproaches me;
Then I could bear it.
Nor is it one who hates me who has exalted himself against me;
Then I could hide from him.

16 As for me, I will call upon God,
And the LORD shall save me.
17 Evening and morning and at noon
I will pray, and cry aloud,
And He shall hear my voice.
18 He has redeemed my soul in peace from the battle that was against me,
For there were many against me.

22 Cast your burden on the LORD,
And He shall sustain you;
He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.
  1. 1 Peter 5:7
    Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
    1 Peter 5:6-8 (in Context) 1 Peter 5 (Whole Chapter)

Monday, May 11, 2009

Does God Hear Our Prayers?


Do you feel sometimes that your prayers get no higher than the ceiling and that God is a million miles away? Do you wonder if God is listening or if he has turned his attention away from you?

These feelings are natural and part of the human condition. God is always listening. He does not always answer when WE feel that he should. Of course we need to remember that we are serving God and not the other way around. God does not serve at our pleasure. We serve Him!

Hebreews 4

14Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.

15For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

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

Sometimes it is hard to understand that just because God does not send an answer immediately, it does not mean that he is not listening. Walking by Faith is a hard task at times. When you decided to take up your cross and follow Jesus you made a hard choice. Included in that choice is the obligation to keep the faith even when your feelings get the best of you. Feelings will deceive you. They will make you think many things that are totally false.

Sometime God says, "My grace is sufficient." Not what you wanted to hear!

God is listening, take heart, soon you will have your answer!

Blessings!


Image Credit

Creative commons Google Images

www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/1...

Thursday, April 30, 2009

What is Sin? What Does God Hate?


Can Sin Be Disregarded?


We live in a world where sin is no longer part of our reality. Some people believe that there is no real right and wrong, it is all relative. Fads and fashions in the world come and go. As children of God it is important that we know what God hates and detests. Here is something for you to consider.

Proverbs 6

16 There are six things the LORD hates,
seven that are detestable to him:

17 haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,

18 a heart that devises wicked schemes,
feet that are quick to rush into evil,

19 a false witness who pours out lies
and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.

Opinion is just that...opinion! When seeking the Lord it is best to make sure you deal in reality!

Blessings!

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Lay Hold on Eternal Life




  1. 1 Timothy 6:12
    Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
  2. 1 Timothy 6:19
    Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
I have been thinking a lot about laying hold on eternal life. I have lived for the Lord by choice almost as long as I have been alive. It seems to me many of us become accustomed to living for God and the lifestyle that it becomes a way of life. Now, this can be a good thing or a bad thing.

If we become so used to living for God that we lose sight of the intensity, the passion, and the need to pray more effectively, we may find ourselves in trouble during the perilous times in which we now live. It is time for the believers to forget about superficial values and get to the core of the issue. The hard questions must be asked. Do you or do you not believe we are living in the End Times? If you do believe we are in the end times, it is beyond foolish to live in a manner that does not acknowledge that fact.

Jesus gave us specific instructions about living in the last days.

Luke 21
The Coming of the Son of Man
25 “And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; 26 men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.”
The Parable of the Fig Tree
29 Then He spoke to them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. 30 When they are already budding, you see and know for yourselves that summer is now near. 31 So you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. 32 Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all things take place. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.
The Importance of Watching
34 “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. 35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

Friends, I feel in my soul that something has changed. I can't quite put my finger on it. I have been looking for the Rapture of the Church every day of my life as long as I can remember. One thing I know is that He is coming for a people who are looking for Him. Today there are more people who are haters of Christianity. In fact many people hate anyone who represents God...any god! Purpose in your heart today that you will make your calling and election sure!

Blessings!

Sunday, April 19, 2009

God is Not Finished With Me Yet!


2 Corinthians 12:9
And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Some of us have physical infirmities, some have spiritual or emotional infirmities. No matter what your problem, if God says to keep going you have few options! You just keep going! But...perhaps some timely reflection about what God wants might be in order.

I have several issues I need to work out, but one is more pressing than all the others. I have spent the last week whining about it to the Lord...I know he said to cast your cares on him, but he also wants you to be smart enough to know when to shut up!

Now guys, you may or may not believe that God talks to you in a way in which you can get a clear message. Personally, I get messages from God all the time because I have trained myself to look for them. Not all of them are yes answers, either! The problem with most of us is that we do not believe in our heart of hearts that God will, or should, say no! Some of us (me) tend to think that if you have suffered with a problem for a while that God should just say, Ok, that is enough...it's over! It does not work that way. God is waiting for you to learn the lesson he is trying to teach you. Not easy!

I think that one problem with modern Christians is that even though some of us understand that God can say no, we still somewhere in the back of our mind have the feeling that God really does not want us to suffer and that everything should be a bed of roses. I am getting the feeling that we have got it wrong.

Moses was a great leader but he suffered and God held him to a strict standard of obedience. Isaiah was a great prophet who knew the Lord but his life was not an easy one. Jeremiah suffered all of his life for his commitment to the Lord. The Apostle Paul was an educated man and could have been wealthy if he had used his abilities to further his own cause, and yet, God told him, "my grace is sufficient." The apostle John who loved Jesus and was loved dearly in return lived to be an old man but suffered all the way.

I urge you today to take a moment to think about your goals and where you want the Lord to take you. If you have high aspirations in your service to God it will not come easy. It has been said that the way of the cross leads home. Look at this verse again with new eyes. Are you looking for power with God in your life? That power is not going to come easily or without a price.

2 Corinthians 12:9
And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Luke 9:23
And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.

Luke had a good understanding of what it meant to follow Jesus Christ. He added the word daily to this great command that is found in Matthew and Mark. I believe the reason Luke added daily to this verse is because it is necessary to re-commit your life to your purpose of serving the Lord every day! Not just once at the beginning! We are a fickle people and we lose our sense of direction and purpose. We must re-commit every day and maybe morning and evening if necessary. My cross is not the same as your cross. These burdens sometimes get the best of us. Sometimes we fall...and fail! I am going to glory in my infirmities, wait patiently on the Lord, make new commitments, and receive the power of God in my life. There can be no other way! Join me!
Blessings!

Sunday, April 12, 2009

He Is Risen!



Jesus Buried in Joseph’s Tomb
57 Now when evening had come, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who himself had also become a disciple of Jesus. 58 This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be given to him. 59 When Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and laid it in his new tomb which he had hewn out of the rock; and he rolled a large stone against the door of the tomb, and departed. 61 And Mary Magdalene was there, and the other Mary, sitting opposite the tomb.
Pilate Sets a Guard

62 On the next day, which followed the Day of Preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees gathered together to Pilate, 63 saying, “Sir, we remember, while He was still alive, how that deceiver said, ‘After three days I will rise.’ 64 Therefore command that the tomb be made secure until the third day, lest His disciples come by nightm]">[m] and steal Him away, and say to the people, ‘He has risen from the dead.’ So the last deception will be worse than the first.”
65 Pilate said to them, “You have a guard; go your way, make it as secure as you know how.” 66 So th ey went and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone and setting the guard.



Matthew 28

He Is Risen
1 Now after the Sabbath, as the first day of the week began to dawn, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb. 2 And behold, there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door,a]">[a] and sat on it. 3 His countenance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. 4 And the guards shook for fear of him, and became like dead men.
5 But the angel answered and said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. 7 And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead, and indeed He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him. Behold, I have told you.”
8 So they went out quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to bring His disciples word.
The Women Worship the Risen Lord

9 And as they went to tell His disciples,b]">[b] behold, Jesus met them, saying, “Rejoice!” So they came and held Him by the feet and worshiped Him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell My brethren to go to Galilee, and there they will see Me.”

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

God Can Use Anyone

Get to Know Rahab of Jericho


God can use anyone. When you start to think that you are nothing and have no special talents and skills take the time to remember Rahab of Jericho. This was a woman who was a prostitute. Everyone looked down on her and she had no power, money or fame before her path crossed the spies of Israel who came to Jericho to check it out! God wants you to be ready to make the choice when the time comes. You do not know when God may call your name and ask for your help. Will you be ready when the time comes? Learn more about Rahab of Jericho. Her name is still remembered today because of her heroic actions.

Joshua 1-6

Spiritual Insights From a Layman's Point of View

Friday, March 6, 2009

Prayer


Prayer is a great gift. Through prayer we are lifted up above our problems, distractions, and wounds. Life has a way of wounding the soul and spirit. Having the ability to touch God in prayer gives us hope, comfort, and a sense of our place in the universe. Psalm 46: 1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Take a moment today to indulge yourself with the gift of prayer. You will be blessed and in so doing bless others.





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