Thursday, October 9, 2008
Move Completed
The transfer to WordPress is completed, so this will be my last post on Blogger. I was able to move all the archives so all the old postings are there. Hopefully WordPress likes my computers better. So jump on in and set the new address to your favorites. See you there!
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
The Move Is On
After a couple of weeks fighting to get on my blog, I'm moving Be Refreshed to WordPress. It will take me a couple of days to get it up and running, but hopefully I can take my whole archive with me. Check out the new and improved and hopefully accessible Be Refreshed at
See you there soon! Go ahead and save the new site under your favorites or just make it your homepage:)
Be Refreshed!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Blog Down
Hey Friends.
I apologize for no new postings lately. For some reason my laptop or home computer cannot access my Blogger account to update. Sorry about that. I haven't had much time to try and crack through though. I'm on my secretary's computer now just to apologize.
Keep the faith and try to go on with your normal lives if possible.
Be Refreshed!
I apologize for no new postings lately. For some reason my laptop or home computer cannot access my Blogger account to update. Sorry about that. I haven't had much time to try and crack through though. I'm on my secretary's computer now just to apologize.
Keep the faith and try to go on with your normal lives if possible.
Be Refreshed!
Monday, September 22, 2008
Fall In
Fall officially rolled in a little after noon today. The forecast is around 80 all week so the transition should be easier. What a beautiful summer though.
Week three of The House God Loves yesterday was "What Prayer Accomplishes." Prayer brings Power. Prayer brings Brokenness. Prayer helps us Overcome.
I bookended the sermon with two Scriptures:
1. James 5:17-18 17 Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.
2. Acts 4:13 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.
God isn't looking for the next superstar, He's looking for people just like us who are available. Elijah was a man just like us. (James 5) Peter and John were unschooled and ordinary (Acts 4). But as they prayed, were filled with the Holy Spirit, and sought God's kingdom, God did the miraculous. God's looking. Are you willing to pray?
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 22:11 He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the king for his friend.
Scripture of the Day: 1 Corinthians 1:26 26 Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."
Quote of the Day: "The Holy Ghost does not flow through methods, but through men. He does not come on machinery, but on men. He does not anoint plans, but men---men of prayer." E. M. Bounds
Week three of The House God Loves yesterday was "What Prayer Accomplishes." Prayer brings Power. Prayer brings Brokenness. Prayer helps us Overcome.
I bookended the sermon with two Scriptures:
1. James 5:17-18 17 Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.
2. Acts 4:13 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.
God isn't looking for the next superstar, He's looking for people just like us who are available. Elijah was a man just like us. (James 5) Peter and John were unschooled and ordinary (Acts 4). But as they prayed, were filled with the Holy Spirit, and sought God's kingdom, God did the miraculous. God's looking. Are you willing to pray?
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 22:11 He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the king for his friend.
Scripture of the Day: 1 Corinthians 1:26 26 Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."
Quote of the Day: "The Holy Ghost does not flow through methods, but through men. He does not come on machinery, but on men. He does not anoint plans, but men---men of prayer." E. M. Bounds
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Blog On
A busy week has kept me from the blog recently. A R.R. campout, a funeral, meeting out of town, etc. Excuses, excuses.
Week two of The House God Loves this Sunday was "When God Says No." There are two extremes in prayer. One being a "God's gonna do what God's gonna do" and it really doesn't matter how or if I pray. The other is making God our bell boy who does whatever we tell Him to. A healthy middle is a sovereign God who answers prayer. But why does God say "No" sometimes? Here are a few reasons.
-Did we even pray? We have not because we ask not. (James 1:2)
-Did we pray with wrong motives. James 4:3 "When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures."
-Does your prayers match your life? Isaiah 58:1-5
-Sin has consequences. Grace wipes away the stain of sin, but not all consequences disappear. 2 Samuel 12:13-14 Then David said to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LORD." Nathan replied, "The LORD has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. 14 But because by doing this you have made the enemies of the LORD show utter contempt, the son born to you will die."
-Did we give up too soon? Luke 18:1-7
-Did we pray in faith? James 1:6-8
-Were we using a cheap formula prayer? Acts 19:13-16
-Does God have a greater plan? "Three times I [Apostle Paul] pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." 2 Cor. 12:8-9
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 17:3 The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart.
Scripture of the Day: 1 John 5:14-15 14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: 15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.
Quote of the Day: "It is not enough for the believer to begin to pray, nor to pray correctly; nor is it enough to continue for a time to pray. We must patiently, believingly continue in prayer until we obtain an answer. Further, we have not only to continue in prayer until the end, but we have also to believe that God does hear us and will answer our prayers. Most frequently we fail in not continuing in prayer until the blessing is obtained, and in not expecting the blessing. Those who are disciples of the Lord Jesus should labor with all their might in the work of God as if everything depended upon their own endeavors. Yet, having done so, they should not in the least trust in their labor and efforts, nor in the means that they use for the spread of the truth, but in God alone; and they should with all earnestness seek the blessing of God in persevering, patient, and believing prayer. Here is the great secret of success, my Christian reader. Work with all your might, but never trust in your work. Pray with all your might for the blessing in God, but work at the same time with all diligence, with all patience, with all perseverance. Pray, then, and work. Work and pray. And still again pray, and then work. And so on, all the days of your life. The result will surely be abundant blessing. Whether you see much fruit or little fruit, such kind of service will be blessed.: George Muller
Week two of The House God Loves this Sunday was "When God Says No." There are two extremes in prayer. One being a "God's gonna do what God's gonna do" and it really doesn't matter how or if I pray. The other is making God our bell boy who does whatever we tell Him to. A healthy middle is a sovereign God who answers prayer. But why does God say "No" sometimes? Here are a few reasons.
-Did we even pray? We have not because we ask not. (James 1:2)
-Did we pray with wrong motives. James 4:3 "When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures."
-Does your prayers match your life? Isaiah 58:1-5
-Sin has consequences. Grace wipes away the stain of sin, but not all consequences disappear. 2 Samuel 12:13-14 Then David said to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LORD." Nathan replied, "The LORD has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. 14 But because by doing this you have made the enemies of the LORD show utter contempt, the son born to you will die."
-Did we give up too soon? Luke 18:1-7
-Did we pray in faith? James 1:6-8
-Were we using a cheap formula prayer? Acts 19:13-16
-Does God have a greater plan? "Three times I [Apostle Paul] pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." 2 Cor. 12:8-9
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 17:3 The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart.
Scripture of the Day: 1 John 5:14-15 14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: 15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.
Quote of the Day: "It is not enough for the believer to begin to pray, nor to pray correctly; nor is it enough to continue for a time to pray. We must patiently, believingly continue in prayer until we obtain an answer. Further, we have not only to continue in prayer until the end, but we have also to believe that God does hear us and will answer our prayers. Most frequently we fail in not continuing in prayer until the blessing is obtained, and in not expecting the blessing. Those who are disciples of the Lord Jesus should labor with all their might in the work of God as if everything depended upon their own endeavors. Yet, having done so, they should not in the least trust in their labor and efforts, nor in the means that they use for the spread of the truth, but in God alone; and they should with all earnestness seek the blessing of God in persevering, patient, and believing prayer. Here is the great secret of success, my Christian reader. Work with all your might, but never trust in your work. Pray with all your might for the blessing in God, but work at the same time with all diligence, with all patience, with all perseverance. Pray, then, and work. Work and pray. And still again pray, and then work. And so on, all the days of your life. The result will surely be abundant blessing. Whether you see much fruit or little fruit, such kind of service will be blessed.: George Muller
Monday, September 8, 2008
Back to Church
Here's how good the Back to Church picnic was yesterday...
I took my camera to the picnic but I was so relaxed in my chair that I couldn't muster up the energy to stand up and go take pictures. Now that's a good picnic. Low 70's, mostly sunny, soft breeze, lots of great food, football, volleyball, inflatable jump house, more food, my best friends.
Good times.
We started our fall sermon series yesterday, "The House God Loves." Our theme verse is Matthew 21:13a where Jesus says, "It is written," he said to them, " 'My house will be called a house of prayer,'"
Mark Twain said, "Everybody talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it." I think sometimes many Christians fall into the same boat with prayer. We can talk about it and know we need to do it, but do we actually do it? To help us do something about it, here are our prayer opportunities for this church year.
Sundays:
-Prayer in Sunday School Classes
-Anointing with oil during worship
-Open altars
-Prayer and Praises in p.m. services
-Monthly suppers for Eight where you pray for each other in your homes
Mondays: Ladies prayer at 8:30 a.m.
Tuesdays: All church prayer 7-8 p.m.
Wednesdays: Praise and prayer twice a month at 7 p.m.
Prayer and Bible study the other two nights
Thursdays: Open Sanctuary from 6-8 a.m.
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 8:17 I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me. [wisdom]
Scripture of the Day: Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
Quotes of the Day: "I have seen many men work without praying, though I have never seen any good come out of it; but I have never seen a man pray without working." Hudson Taylor
"This much is sure in all churches, forgetting party labels; the smallest meeting numerically is the prayer- meeting. If weak in prayer we are weak everywhere." Leonard Ravenhill
"Have you noticed how much praying for revival has been going on of late - and how little revival has resulted? I believe the problem is that we have been trying to substitute praying for obeying, and it simply will not work. To pray for revival while ignoring the plain precept laid down in Scripture is to waste a lot of words and get nothing for our trouble. Prayer will become effective when we stop using it as a substitute for obedience." A. W. Tozer
"If you are strangers to prayer you are strangers to power." Billy Sunday
I took my camera to the picnic but I was so relaxed in my chair that I couldn't muster up the energy to stand up and go take pictures. Now that's a good picnic. Low 70's, mostly sunny, soft breeze, lots of great food, football, volleyball, inflatable jump house, more food, my best friends.
Good times.
We started our fall sermon series yesterday, "The House God Loves." Our theme verse is Matthew 21:13a where Jesus says, "It is written," he said to them, " 'My house will be called a house of prayer,'"
Mark Twain said, "Everybody talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it." I think sometimes many Christians fall into the same boat with prayer. We can talk about it and know we need to do it, but do we actually do it? To help us do something about it, here are our prayer opportunities for this church year.
Sundays:
-Prayer in Sunday School Classes
-Anointing with oil during worship
-Open altars
-Prayer and Praises in p.m. services
-Monthly suppers for Eight where you pray for each other in your homes
Mondays: Ladies prayer at 8:30 a.m.
Tuesdays: All church prayer 7-8 p.m.
Wednesdays: Praise and prayer twice a month at 7 p.m.
Prayer and Bible study the other two nights
Thursdays: Open Sanctuary from 6-8 a.m.
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 8:17 I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me. [wisdom]
Scripture of the Day: Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
Quotes of the Day: "I have seen many men work without praying, though I have never seen any good come out of it; but I have never seen a man pray without working." Hudson Taylor
"This much is sure in all churches, forgetting party labels; the smallest meeting numerically is the prayer- meeting. If weak in prayer we are weak everywhere." Leonard Ravenhill
"Have you noticed how much praying for revival has been going on of late - and how little revival has resulted? I believe the problem is that we have been trying to substitute praying for obeying, and it simply will not work. To pray for revival while ignoring the plain precept laid down in Scripture is to waste a lot of words and get nothing for our trouble. Prayer will become effective when we stop using it as a substitute for obedience." A. W. Tozer
"If you are strangers to prayer you are strangers to power." Billy Sunday
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Feeling the Palin
I never watch either political convention and rarely discuss politics, but last night was fun watching the coming out speech for Sarah Palin.I'll still leave the politics aside, but do you know Sarah's religious roots? She was born into a Catholic family but they moved to an Assemblies of God church when she was young and she was baptized in water there when she was 12 or 13. She attended an A/G church till the last few years and now attends either an A/G church or a Bible church depending whether she is at home or at the capitol. An interesting side story in another election cycle.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 4:26-27 26 Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. 27 Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.
Scripture of the Day: Acts 2:42-43 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.
Quote of the Day: "They get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations." Barack Obama
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
New Life
A couple Sundays ago there was an article in Today's Pentecostal Evangel about one of the guys I played basketball with at Central Bible College.
Jimmy Jack was a strung out drug addict, thief, and tough Italian guy on the streets of New York till God miraculously set him free. He then entered Teen Challenge and eventually came to Central Bible College. He then returned and started a Teen Challenge Center on Long Island. He used to tell us stories on some of those long road trips, but it was so hard to believe because we only knew of the NEW Jimmy Jack. Later he was in Sonya's and my wedding.
I had put the article on my desk to read later and just got back to it today. It contained an excerpt from his new autobiography so I was trying to track it down on-line to order a copy for myself. I couldn't find it so I eventually gave up. Several minutes later I opened a box I thought was from Chicago Teen Challenge about their upcoming banquet. It was really from Jimmy and the Long Island Teen Challenge and contained a copy of the book! Cool God. A mailing label had partially covered the name.
Check out more:
Long Island Teen Challenge
Rock the Block
IL Teen Challenge
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 2:6 For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding
Scripture of the Day: 16 But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
Quote of the Day: When I got up from that place of prayer, I felt like my sins, bondage and all my vices stayed in that chair. I was free. I knew instantly that I was a new creation. I was forgiven. All the men stood in a circle holding hands and praying. I was filthy, stinking like a gin mill and wearing grimy, ripped-up pants and clothes, but for the first time in my life I realized I was clean — really clean. Jimmy Jack, I Can Dream Again
Friday, August 29, 2008
Living Large
For the last three years we've said, "This is probably the last year for the Caravan. We better start looking around for a newer van." And yet as it soon turns 250,000 miles, the old grey mare just keeps on cruising. But with Ethan driving and the kids insisting on growing taller, it was time to get more serious about the search. The search ended yesterday with this used GMC Savana. Finally the kids won't have to touch each other and we'll actually have storage for luggage.
We prayed for probably a year with our kids for a van when we bought the Caravan 8 years ago. I believe God answered our prayers both then and for the ensuing years. Earlier this summer we were talking about that and said we needed to be praying about this again and God answered our prayers. Thank you God. I don't think God likes me any better than others, but I do think that as we pray, wait on Him, and be faithful as we wait, God will be faithful back. I'm not a farmer, but I think that Malachi 3 (below) applies to lots of areas of our lives.
Test Him. We wants you to.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 29:17 Discipline your son, and he will give you peace; he will bring delight to your soul.
Scripture of the Day: Malachi 3:10-11 "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it. 11 I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not cast their fruit," says the LORD Almighty.
Quote of the Day: "I have found that there are three stages in every great work of God: first, it is impossible, then it is difficult, then it is done." Hudson Taylor
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Opening Day
Isaac and the Cornerstone Christian Academy Royals kicked off the season last night at Leland. They have only had a week of practice together and a couple kids just joined this week, so the first game was a slow start. Lots of promise though once they come together.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 27:2 Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; someone else, and not your own lips.
Scripture of the Day: 1 Thessalonians 5:17 "pray continually;"
Quote of the Day: There is a general kind of praying which fails for lack of precision. It is as if a regiment of soldiers should all fire off their guns anywhere. Possibly somebody would be killed, but the majority of the enemy would be missed. --Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
More Checks
I've had several comments on the revival posts as of recent. I ran across another response from a well know charismatic leader who runs in those circles. Once again I'm not trying to get in on all the most recent "Christian gossip", but I think there are good checks in here for our own desire for the supernatural and revival.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 26:12 Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
Scripture of the Day: Galatians 6:1-3 1 Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.
Quote of the Day: "This much is sure in all churches, forgetting party labels; the smallest meeting numerically is the prayer- meeting. If weak in prayer we are weak everywhere." Leonard Ravenhill
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 26:12 Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
Scripture of the Day: Galatians 6:1-3 1 Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.
Quote of the Day: "This much is sure in all churches, forgetting party labels; the smallest meeting numerically is the prayer- meeting. If weak in prayer we are weak everywhere." Leonard Ravenhill
Monday, August 25, 2008
Back to School
The kids are back in motion as home schooling gets going again this week. We work with a Classical Conversations group and they started back today, so we're getting a jump too before Labor Day. DeKalb, Sycamore, and NIU are also starting today so there's your prayer list for the week (year).
Yesterday's sermon was on hope. Our theme verse was Hebrews 10:23. " Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." True hope in Jesus is not a theory, concept, or a feel good dream. God and His Word are true and that hope does not waiver.
Where is your hope? Your 401k? Your house? Your career? Your toughness? The military? The government? Your rights?
The old hymn writer Edward Mote said it like this.
My hope is built on nothing less
than Jesus' blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
but wholly lean on Jesus' name.
On Christ the solid rock I stand,
all other ground is sinking sand;
all other ground is sinking sand. Be Refreshed!Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 25:21-22 21 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. 22 In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you.
Scripture of the Day: 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 16 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17 encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
Quote of the Day: There are three good reasons to be a teacher - June, July, and August. Author Unknown
...the truth is mothers - and fathers - exert far more influence over their children's intellectual development than is commonly realised. In fact, more than three decades of research shows that families have greater influence over a child's academic performance than any other factor - including schools. - Family Research Council, The One-House Schoolroom (Sept 1995 issue of Family Policy)
An eternal question about children is, how should we educate them? Politicians and educators consider more school days in a year, more science and math, the use of computers and other technology in the classroom, more exams and tests, more certification for teachers, and less money for art. All of these responses come from the place where we want to make the child into the best adult possible, not in the ancient Greek sense of virtuous and wise, but in the sense of one who is an efficient part of the machinery of society. But on all these counts, soul is neglected. - Thomas Moore
The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires. ~William Arthur Ward
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Family Celebration
The Bethel family got together tonight to celebrate new life at our annual outdoor baptismal. Here are a couple of shots of the beautiful night.
Then after the baptism we had a great evening of food, fellowship, and we told the kids to go jump in the lake.
I didn't realize it until later, but how is this for a odd tie in? Here is a picture of Pastor Erik Mangek from Victory Baptist in DeKalb who attended the baptismal tonight. My pastor growing up who baptized me was Pastor Robert Ross. When Pastor Ross left Quincy he came and pastored at Victory Baptist in DeKalb. (OK, so it's not that impressive. I thought it was kinda neat though)
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 24:26 An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.
Scripture of the Day: Matthew 28:19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Quote of the Day: God's people should be baptized because God commanded it, not because some church requires it. John Rice
Then after the baptism we had a great evening of food, fellowship, and we told the kids to go jump in the lake.
I didn't realize it until later, but how is this for a odd tie in? Here is a picture of Pastor Erik Mangek from Victory Baptist in DeKalb who attended the baptismal tonight. My pastor growing up who baptized me was Pastor Robert Ross. When Pastor Ross left Quincy he came and pastored at Victory Baptist in DeKalb. (OK, so it's not that impressive. I thought it was kinda neat though)
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 24:26 An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.
Scripture of the Day: Matthew 28:19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Quote of the Day: God's people should be baptized because God commanded it, not because some church requires it. John Rice
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Uth at Work
A little recognition for the youth today.
We had a joint youth service with Glad Tidings in DeKalb last night and the 2 groups combined gave almost $700 to Speed the Light in the offering. No fundraiser, no servant sale, no car wash. Just a summer challenge from 2 months ago to give, sacrifice, and raise money for our missionaries this summer. Great job to all the kids who sacrificed, mowed grass, and gave of their own money to help our missionaries Speed the Light.
We've also had youth in 4 times this week already helping scrape the tar paper off the wood flooring as we restore the room off the sanctuary. They've come with family or by themselves to grunt out some work for the church. Great job!
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 21:20 In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has.
Scripture of the Day: 1 Timothy 4:12 Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.
Quote of the Day: We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future. Franklin D. Roosevelt
We had a joint youth service with Glad Tidings in DeKalb last night and the 2 groups combined gave almost $700 to Speed the Light in the offering. No fundraiser, no servant sale, no car wash. Just a summer challenge from 2 months ago to give, sacrifice, and raise money for our missionaries this summer. Great job to all the kids who sacrificed, mowed grass, and gave of their own money to help our missionaries Speed the Light.
We've also had youth in 4 times this week already helping scrape the tar paper off the wood flooring as we restore the room off the sanctuary. They've come with family or by themselves to grunt out some work for the church. Great job!
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 21:20 In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has.
Scripture of the Day: 1 Timothy 4:12 Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.
Quote of the Day: We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future. Franklin D. Roosevelt
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Body Blow
The body of Christ takes another punch to the gut as another emerging prominent evangelist steps down with marital problems and a questionable relationship. I hadn't heard a lot about him from people in the area, but nationwide news stories and nightly telecasts on GodTV had brought Todd Bentley to the forefront this year. People were traveling from around the world to see the great outpouring of God's Spirit in Lakeland, Florida. Some had called it the greatest move of God since Azusa St.
I didn't know much about the meetings, so it's hard to judge them, but I know the media and non-believers now have one more reason in their minds to reject Jesus and His Church. There's and old saying that goes something like this, "The reason many people reject Jesus and the reason many people come to Christ are the same reason. Christians." We can let the love of Christ be a sweet aroma to those around us or we can be a stench that drives others away. People are watching to see if this "Jesus Thing" really works or is real.
I'm not trying to gossip or jump on the beat 'em up bandwagon, but here are a couple of resources to strengthen our faith and wisdom. The first is a column from a Charisma writer.
The second is a video link I put in a few weeks ago from our General Superintendent about revival in general.
Be Refreshed! (and be refreshing to others)
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 20:27 The lamp of the LORD searches the spirit of a man; it searches out his inmost being.
Scripture of the Day: 2 Corinthians 2:14-15 14 But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. 15 For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.
Quote of the Day: "I went on with my eager pursuit after more holiness and conformity to Christ. The heaven I desired was a heaven of holiness." Jonathan Edwards
I didn't know much about the meetings, so it's hard to judge them, but I know the media and non-believers now have one more reason in their minds to reject Jesus and His Church. There's and old saying that goes something like this, "The reason many people reject Jesus and the reason many people come to Christ are the same reason. Christians." We can let the love of Christ be a sweet aroma to those around us or we can be a stench that drives others away. People are watching to see if this "Jesus Thing" really works or is real.
I'm not trying to gossip or jump on the beat 'em up bandwagon, but here are a couple of resources to strengthen our faith and wisdom. The first is a column from a Charisma writer.
The second is a video link I put in a few weeks ago from our General Superintendent about revival in general.
Be Refreshed! (and be refreshing to others)
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 20:27 The lamp of the LORD searches the spirit of a man; it searches out his inmost being.
Scripture of the Day: 2 Corinthians 2:14-15 14 But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. 15 For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.
Quote of the Day: "I went on with my eager pursuit after more holiness and conformity to Christ. The heaven I desired was a heaven of holiness." Jonathan Edwards
Refreshment
We spent Sunday in Psalm 42 looking for encouragement and a refreshing from God. The psalmist is calling out to God in a time of need and discouragement. Here are a few things we found for when we feel like that too.
-Seek the Presence of God: "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?"
-Recall the Works of the Lord: "These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng."
-Expect God to Come: "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."
-Give Your Emotions to God: "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me?"
-Bring Your Questions to God: "I say to God my Rock, 'Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?'"
-Ask God for Help and Light: Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God. (Psalm 43)
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 19:17 He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done.
Scripture of the Day: John 3:17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
Quote of the Day: Prayer - secret, fervent, believing prayer - lies at the root of all personal godliness. William Carey
-Seek the Presence of God: "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?"
-Recall the Works of the Lord: "These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng."
-Expect God to Come: "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."
-Give Your Emotions to God: "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me?"
-Bring Your Questions to God: "I say to God my Rock, 'Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?'"
-Ask God for Help and Light: Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God. (Psalm 43)
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 19:17 He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done.
Scripture of the Day: John 3:17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
Quote of the Day: Prayer - secret, fervent, believing prayer - lies at the root of all personal godliness. William Carey
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Super Novas 2-0
Elizabeth's AYSO U10 Super Novas improved to 2-0 this morning with another big win. Elizabeth had a hat trick with three goals in the lopsided win. Elizabeth is just 8, so she is on the younger side of this division (8-9 years old) but she is holding her own. The field gets bigger and goalies are added in this division, though last week she scored twice and this week three times. I'm sure not all the year will be that high but we're off to a good start.Tomorrow is Sunday. Is your anticipation building? Is your faith peaked at what God can do when His people get together and worship? Or are you getting ready for the routine of 8 songs, an offering, a sermon, and beating the Baptists to Culvers? Come hungry. (And I'm not talking about Culvers either...)
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
Scripture of the Day: Ephesians 3:20-21 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Quote of the Day: I can teach a kid who doesn't have ability, as long as he doesn't know it. Bear Bryant
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
And the Sun Begins to Set...
Summer is slowly winding down and the schedules tighten up next week so we thought we'd better get our last hurrah in yesterday. Sonya was suffering from beach withdrawal so we headed to the Warren Dunes in MI on Lake Michigan. It was a great mix of beach, huge sand dunes, lapping waves, grilling out, hiking, napping, swimming, and even DQ on the way home. Here's a few shots to share the day...
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 13:5 The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked bring shame and disgrace.
Scripture of the Day: John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
Quote of the Day: Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability. ~Sam Keen
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Legacy
We were in Quincy last week and had hoped to mow for mom and dad all day, but a storm kept us out of the yard until early evening. I grabbed the camera and took a little tour of my spiritual roots.
Here is the church I grew up at. My parents have attend First Southern Baptist Church for probably 50 years.
I attended here from the womb through high school. Mommy Muriel, Mr. Bill, Tiny, Bugs, (us punk junior boys had a lot of nicknames) Coach Ray Good, Pastor Robert Ross, Polly, Mary, and all the other faithful saints who walked Jesus out in front of me.
Big mega-churches get a lot of the spotlight, but for every one of those there are a 100 First Southerns faithfully lifting up Jesus. I was and am blessed.
Here is the first church I ever preached at. It was an independent Pentecostal church named Praise the Lord Chapel just outside of Quincy. I had just finished my sophomore year at Central Bible College and was going to Japan for the summer on a 2 month missions trip. One of my best friends growing up attended there and they invited me to preach and gave me an offering for the trip.
I still remember sitting in the parking lot going over my sermon notes early that morning. My prayer was, "God touch the lives of these people today. And PLEASE help me not to embarrass myself! PLEASE let me preach at least 15 minutes!"
Be Refreshed!
Proverbs of the Day: Proverbs 7:2 Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye.
Scripture of the Day: Hebrews 11:39-40 39 These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. 40 God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.
Quote of the Day:"Our days are numbered. One of the primary goals in our lives should be to prepare for our last day. The legacy we leave is not just in our possessions, but in the quality of our lives. What preparations should we be making now? The greatest waste in all of our earth, which cannot be recycled or reclaimed, is our waste of the time that God has given us each day." Billy Graham
Here is the church I grew up at. My parents have attend First Southern Baptist Church for probably 50 years.
I attended here from the womb through high school. Mommy Muriel, Mr. Bill, Tiny, Bugs, (us punk junior boys had a lot of nicknames) Coach Ray Good, Pastor Robert Ross, Polly, Mary, and all the other faithful saints who walked Jesus out in front of me.
Big mega-churches get a lot of the spotlight, but for every one of those there are a 100 First Southerns faithfully lifting up Jesus. I was and am blessed.
Here is the first church I ever preached at. It was an independent Pentecostal church named Praise the Lord Chapel just outside of Quincy. I had just finished my sophomore year at Central Bible College and was going to Japan for the summer on a 2 month missions trip. One of my best friends growing up attended there and they invited me to preach and gave me an offering for the trip.
I still remember sitting in the parking lot going over my sermon notes early that morning. My prayer was, "God touch the lives of these people today. And PLEASE help me not to embarrass myself! PLEASE let me preach at least 15 minutes!"
Be Refreshed!
Proverbs of the Day: Proverbs 7:2 Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye.
Scripture of the Day: Hebrews 11:39-40 39 These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. 40 God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.
Quote of the Day:
"Our days are numbered. One of the primary goals in our lives should be to prepare for our last day. The legacy we leave is not just in our possessions, but in the quality of our lives. What preparations should we be making now? The greatest waste in all of our earth, which cannot be recycled or reclaimed, is our waste of the time that God has given us each day." Billy Graham
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
...and then the wind knocked out
Barely 24 hours after the conclusion of an awesome week of VBS I got the call. "Can we stop by and see you in your office tonight? It can't wait till tomorrow." (People usually don't want to stop by to tell you they love your ministry and just couldn't wait another day to tell you:) Unfortunately it would be one of those hard meetings. A great young couple in our church are moving to southwest Colorado for work. He was on the worship team, they were Uth leaders, she had taught VBS just that week, he'd sacrificed many hours this summer on our church remodeling, and on the list goes. But most importantly they loved God, were great friends, and part of the family was moving away.
An old school ministry method was to keep your distance. Don't get too close. I've never believed that, ministry is relational. Unfortunately it makes departures difficult. We're not losing a parishioner, a family unit, or a constituent, we'll be missing family.
What would your church say if you moved?
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 6:6 Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise!
Scripture of the Day: Psalm 150:6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.
Quote of the Day: "We Christians too often substitute prayer for playing the game. Prayer is good; but when used as a substitute for obedience, it is nothing but a blatant hypocrisy, a despicable Pharisaism...To your knees, man! and to your Bible! Decide at once! Don't hedge! Time flies! Cease your insults to God, quit consulting flesh and blood. Stop your lame, lying, and cowardly excuses. Enlist!" CT Studd
An old school ministry method was to keep your distance. Don't get too close. I've never believed that, ministry is relational. Unfortunately it makes departures difficult. We're not losing a parishioner, a family unit, or a constituent, we'll be missing family.
What would your church say if you moved?
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 6:6 Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise!
Scripture of the Day: Psalm 150:6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.
Quote of the Day: "We Christians too often substitute prayer for playing the game. Prayer is good; but when used as a substitute for obedience, it is nothing but a blatant hypocrisy, a despicable Pharisaism...To your knees, man! and to your Bible! Decide at once! Don't hedge! Time flies! Cease your insults to God, quit consulting flesh and blood. Stop your lame, lying, and cowardly excuses. Enlist!" CT Studd
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Up for Air
A family get together out of town last weekend and a full week of VBS this week have left me just trying to keep up. Finally I got a breath today, but really it's a quick turn around for tomorrow.
It's been a full great week, but let me start with family first. Last Sunday, July 27th, was the 55th anniversary of the end of the Korean War. My dad was in the Navy in the Korean War and here's his picture from the Korean War Memorial in Springfield, IL from our family get together last weekend.
Thanks dad for serving our country.
We stopped by Quincy on the way to the get together. We'd hoped to mow all day but the rain kept us in most of the down. We did get out in the mud to slide and mow a bit that evening. I'll be posting some more pictures next week.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 2:11 Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.
Scripture of the Day: Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Quote of the Day: I could stay at VBS all day. Gigi
It's been a full great week, but let me start with family first. Last Sunday, July 27th, was the 55th anniversary of the end of the Korean War. My dad was in the Navy in the Korean War and here's his picture from the Korean War Memorial in Springfield, IL from our family get together last weekend.
Thanks dad for serving our country.We stopped by Quincy on the way to the get together. We'd hoped to mow all day but the rain kept us in most of the down. We did get out in the mud to slide and mow a bit that evening. I'll be posting some more pictures next week.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 2:11 Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.
Scripture of the Day: Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Quote of the Day: I could stay at VBS all day. Gigi
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
The Full Gamut
I went from 10 hours at Ignite Chicago (a Christian music festival) with the youth Sunday afternoon to the Senior Saints' breakfast today. Concerts help keep me young, but I'm still tired today.
We got our first fruits from the garden last night. A few cucumbers, a mess of beans, and some lettuce. Wanna guess why we harvested cucs, beans, and lettuce? That's what we sowed. What are you sowing?
We're gardening long distance (about 5 miles) so it's hard to keep up with the weeds sometimes. We'll get it all cleaned up and think, maybe it will stay clean this time. Maybe we finally knocked out the last of the weeds and grass. Maybe they'll get the idea. But guess what? They just keep coming back. I think there are a few good spiritual lesson for us there.
-- Weeds grow. Temptation will always be in our lives. It takes different shapes as we move through life, but they will always be there.
--Weeds are best dealt with when they are small and on a day to day basis. Weeding our spirits every now and then gets messy and can be ugly. Walking in the Spirit is a daily cleansing.
--Weeds choke out the good. The best fruit comes from a garden where all the sunshine, nutrients, and water are reserved only for the good seed. Weeds steal our strength and keep us from what could be.
Slip away today with God and do a little weeding.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 22:2 Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all.
Scripture of the Day: Psalm 150 1 Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. 2 Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. 3 Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, 4 praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute, 5 praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals. 6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.
Quote of the Day:
do not tell me what I can and cannot do when I rock
original material my crew nonstop
we're keepin' it fly we'll turn it out
ya'll feelin' some of that? no doubt!
John Reuben, chorus of "Do Not" at Ignite Chicago
We got our first fruits from the garden last night. A few cucumbers, a mess of beans, and some lettuce. Wanna guess why we harvested cucs, beans, and lettuce? That's what we sowed. What are you sowing?
We're gardening long distance (about 5 miles) so it's hard to keep up with the weeds sometimes. We'll get it all cleaned up and think, maybe it will stay clean this time. Maybe we finally knocked out the last of the weeds and grass. Maybe they'll get the idea. But guess what? They just keep coming back. I think there are a few good spiritual lesson for us there.
-- Weeds grow. Temptation will always be in our lives. It takes different shapes as we move through life, but they will always be there.
--Weeds are best dealt with when they are small and on a day to day basis. Weeding our spirits every now and then gets messy and can be ugly. Walking in the Spirit is a daily cleansing.
--Weeds choke out the good. The best fruit comes from a garden where all the sunshine, nutrients, and water are reserved only for the good seed. Weeds steal our strength and keep us from what could be.
Slip away today with God and do a little weeding.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 22:2 Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all.
Scripture of the Day: Psalm 150 1 Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. 2 Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. 3 Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, 4 praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute, 5 praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals. 6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.
Quote of the Day:
do not tell me what I can and cannot do when I rock
original material my crew nonstop
we're keepin' it fly we'll turn it out
ya'll feelin' some of that? no doubt!
John Reuben, chorus of "Do Not" at Ignite Chicago
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Revival
One of the hallmarks of the Assemblies of God and Pentecostals has been revival. The supernatural move of God among His people. We were birthed out of the revival that swept America at the beginning of the 20th century as God poured out His Spirit. From Topeka, to Azusa St, to Hot Springs, God was moving.
Our Assemblies of God General Superintendent George Wood recently put out a video message on revival. It's a good test for us and also a good benchmark for us as we continue to pursue God. Is it feelings? Is it volume? Is it the supernatural? What do we need to focus on as we seek for revival in northern DeKalb County, IL?
Check out this video and let it be a guide for your life and prayers.
Our Assemblies of God General Superintendent George Wood recently put out a video message on revival. It's a good test for us and also a good benchmark for us as we continue to pursue God. Is it feelings? Is it volume? Is it the supernatural? What do we need to focus on as we seek for revival in northern DeKalb County, IL?
Check out this video and let it be a guide for your life and prayers.
VIDEO
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
Scripture of the Day: 1 Corinthians 14:1 Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy.
Quote of the Day: In the Irish Revival of 1859, people became so weak that they could not get back to their homes. Men and women would fall by the wayside and would be found hours later pleading with God to save their souls. They felt that they were slipping into hell and that nothing else in life mattered but to get right with God... To them eternity meant everything. Nothing else was of any consequence. They felt that if God did not have mercy on them and save them, they were doomed for all time to come. Oswald Smith
Be Refreshed!
Scripture of the Day: 1 Corinthians 14:1 Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy.
Quote of the Day: In the Irish Revival of 1859, people became so weak that they could not get back to their homes. Men and women would fall by the wayside and would be found hours later pleading with God to save their souls. They felt that they were slipping into hell and that nothing else in life mattered but to get right with God... To them eternity meant everything. Nothing else was of any consequence. They felt that if God did not have mercy on them and save them, they were doomed for all time to come. Oswald Smith
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Chillin' and Grillin'
A mid-summer break this Sunday night with the Bethel Chill & Grill. We rolled out the big grill to the park for a picnic and softball games. The weather was perfect with the lower 80's and sunny. Just enough breeze to keep the mosquitoes away. We had a great kid's game and then let the "big" kids take the field.
Our youth are off at Teen Camp this week so here's your prayer list: Allison A, Lydia Z, Rita L, Ethan M, Isaac M, Zach J, Colby E, Matthew M, Kevin M, & Scott B. Pray that this will be a pivotal week in their life.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 15:10 My son, if sinners entice you, do not give in to them.
Scripture of the Day: Galatians 5:16-17 16 So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17 For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want.
Quote of the Day: "Such a blessed people should be a thankful people." Cotton Mather
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Good Home Coolin'
"Smoky" Hale (BBQ guru) says that "The best BBQ is cooked in someone's backyard; not in restaurants, not in contests." I think what he really means is that BBQ is much more than just the food. It's friends, family, and the relationships together in the backyard that make it good. While I didn't have time to fire up the smoker today, we did crank up the ice cream machine.
4 cups of heavy whipping cream, 4 cups whole milk, 5 eggs, 2 3/4 cups sugar, fresh strawberries, plus a few other additions made quite the good old fashioned homemade ice cream. My cholesterol jumped a few points, but it was worth it.
I'm trying to follow my own advice of making this a great family summer. We fired up the grill with BBQ pork chops, pineapple, and grilled veggies for dinner on the deck tonight and followed it up with strawberry ice cream. Good Times.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 12:4 A wife of noble character is her husband's crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.
Scripture of the Day: Psalm 150:1-2 1 Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. 2 Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness.
Quote of the Day: Life is like an ice-cream cone, you have to lick it one day at a time. Charles M. Schulz
4 cups of heavy whipping cream, 4 cups whole milk, 5 eggs, 2 3/4 cups sugar, fresh strawberries, plus a few other additions made quite the good old fashioned homemade ice cream. My cholesterol jumped a few points, but it was worth it.
I'm trying to follow my own advice of making this a great family summer. We fired up the grill with BBQ pork chops, pineapple, and grilled veggies for dinner on the deck tonight and followed it up with strawberry ice cream. Good Times.Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 12:4 A wife of noble character is her husband's crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.
Scripture of the Day: Psalm 150:1-2 1 Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. 2 Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness.
Quote of the Day: Life is like an ice-cream cone, you have to lick it one day at a time. Charles M. Schulz
Friday, July 11, 2008
No Good Excuse
Finally getting back the the blog after almost a week. No good excuse, just a bunch of little ones. An evening meeting, a couple hospital runs, moving a family, the garden, a waterpark, my family. All those little things:)
Hope you're having a great summer. Next Tuesday is July 15th, so we're about halfway through. Don't let the time slip by and then say where did it go. A great opportunity is this Sunday night's Grill and Chill. Bethel is heading to the park with our new big grill for a picnic and softball games. A great chance to hang out with the family. The weather forecast is 81 and sunny. No excuses.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 11:4 Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.
Scripture of the Day: Philippians 1:3-6 3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Quote of the Day: "The bible knows nothing of solitary religion." John Wesley
Hope you're having a great summer. Next Tuesday is July 15th, so we're about halfway through. Don't let the time slip by and then say where did it go. A great opportunity is this Sunday night's Grill and Chill. Bethel is heading to the park with our new big grill for a picnic and softball games. A great chance to hang out with the family. The weather forecast is 81 and sunny. No excuses.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 11:4 Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.
Scripture of the Day: Philippians 1:3-6 3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Quote of the Day: "The bible knows nothing of solitary religion." John Wesley
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Blob Blog
A great week at Family Camp. I didn't post much, but here are a few pictures from the last couple of days.
Nothing says love like blobbing your wife. The Blob is a long tube filled with air floating on the lake. One person sits on on end and another person jumps off a platform landing on the other end. The blobee then flies into the air and into the water.
We won our third straight three on three basketball championship. What I've lost in quickness, agility, and speed over the years I've made up for in weight. I'm still hobbling around 2 days later, but we won.
Here's Ethan after videoing the Blob.
Sonya and Elizabeth out for a canoe ride.
Elizabeth and Lily.
Isaac in the pool tournament on Family Fun Day.
Jeremiah also was in the pool tournament.
Elizabeth (right) on the climbing wall.
We ended the week with the traditional Bethel Pizza, Pop & Sparklers at the closing night fireworks show. I think we had 24 Bethel-ites there and some other friends too. Good Times.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 5:18 May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.
Scripture of the Day: 2 Peter 1:3-4 3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
Quote of the Day: You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them. Desmond Tutu
Nothing says love like blobbing your wife. The Blob is a long tube filled with air floating on the lake. One person sits on on end and another person jumps off a platform landing on the other end. The blobee then flies into the air and into the water.
Three-Peat!
We won our third straight three on three basketball championship. What I've lost in quickness, agility, and speed over the years I've made up for in weight. I'm still hobbling around 2 days later, but we won.
Here's Ethan after videoing the Blob.
Sonya and Elizabeth out for a canoe ride.
Elizabeth and Lily.
Isaac in the pool tournament on Family Fun Day.
Jeremiah also was in the pool tournament.
Elizabeth (right) on the climbing wall.We ended the week with the traditional Bethel Pizza, Pop & Sparklers at the closing night fireworks show. I think we had 24 Bethel-ites there and some other friends too. Good Times.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 5:18 May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.
Scripture of the Day: 2 Peter 1:3-4 3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
Quote of the Day: You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them. Desmond Tutu
Monday, June 30, 2008
Camp Courier
Just a few shots from Family Camp today.
Here's Isaac scaling the Iceberg.
Old Friends.
Tonight was the missions service. Great Worship. Great Message. Great altar call. God give me missionaries was my prayer as my boys responded. Here are a few of our IL missionaries who are home on furlough and in the area for Family Camp.
Then we ended the night out on the patio by the fountain with our former senior pastor Kent & Judy Anderson. We were their youth pastors in Milford, NE when we were right out of grad school. They are great friends, taught us a lot, and we were blessed to work with them.
Thanks Kent & Judy for taking a chance on a couple of green, wet behind the ears, young people. We are blessed by your lives.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 30:5-6 5 Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. 6 Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.
Scripture of the Day: Acts 13:2-3 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
Quote of the Day: "I have seen, at different times, the smoke of a thousand villages - villages whose people are without Christ, without God, and without hope in the world." William Moffat
"And people who do not know the Lord ask why in the world we waste our lives as missionaries. They forget that they too are expending their lives... and when the bubble has burst they will have nothing of eternal significance to show for the years they have wasted." Nate Saint (He was later martyred)
"Today Christians spend more money on dog food than missions." Leonard Ravenhill
"'Not called!' did you say? 'Not heard the call,' I think you should say. Put your ear down to the Bible, and hear him bid you go and pull sinners out of the fire of sin. Put your ear down to the burdened, agonized heart of humanity, and listen to its pitiful wail for help. Go stand by the gates of hell, and hear the damned entreat you to go to their father's house and bid their brothers and sisters, and servants and masters not to come there. And then look Christ in the face, whose mercy you have professed to obey, and tell him whether you will join heart and soul and body and circumstances in the march to publish his mercy to the world." WIlliam Booth
Sunday, June 29, 2008
On Belay
We headed out of town till the heat dies down over the Airsoft incident. Today was day two of Family Fest. We've had great services and a great time away with the family. Here Elizabeth is almost to the top of a climbing tower.Tonight The Mills defended their title of Family Scavenger Hunt Champions with our third annual consecutive victory. We completed the list in just a little over 15 minutes of the alloted hour.
This year you had to look up verses and then go find the item listed in that verse. We had 3 Bibles going, one coordinator, and three runners. Great victories are not won just on the court, they are won in the mind. Discipline, strategy, and practice all help bring the trophy home. (or in this case a jumbo bubble maker:) The Stensruds came in second. They are young but coming along. Another few years under my tutelage and I think they'll be OK.
Be praying for my family this week. It is times like these in an atmosphere of God, family, and friends that God touches and builds lives for Him. My prayer this week has been refreshing for my wife and revelation for my kids. Thanks for remembering us.
We finished off the evening with friends from church on the patio by the fountain. Good Times...
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 29:2 When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.
Scripture of the Day: Philippians 2:1-3 1 If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.
Quotes of the Day: "A five day camp is the equivalent of one year in church." Dan Reiland
"Camp is the single most important activity the church has to offer our young people today." Thomas Trask
"Of any place in the world where kids can understand spiritual truth, it is at camp." Josh McDowell
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Free Willie
This may be my last post for a very long time. Right now I'm holed up in my church office taking sanctuary from the authorities, but at any moment I know they're going to kick the door in and haul me away. I was feeling fine till last night when I clicked on the Chicago Tribune web page to check the news. At first it was just another day in Chicago. A few shootings, a little corruption. But then I scrolled down and saw a STORY of a dad arrested and charged with domestic battery on his three kids. His crime? Shooting his kids with an AIRSOFT GUN.
Now I don't know the specifics of that particular incident, and I guess you could abuse your kids with one, but I've shot my kids many times with our Airsoft guns. A couple of my kids have gone off with their friends for a whole day of Airsoft wars. Airsoft guns are similar to a BB gun except they shoot plastic BB's. You want to be sure to wear a mask (you could put your eye out ya know) and a heavy long sleeve shirt helps too. But they are designed to shoot each other. Sometimes when we have friends over we suit the kids up in winter coats and have them run around the back yard while we try to pick them off. My kids used to think it was fun, now I'm just a common criminal.
I wish I would have known all of this when I was growing up. Sometimes when us kids were getting on my mom's nerves (my sister's fault I'm sure) she'd make us go outside and lock the door behind us. She also kept a yard stick (back when they were made of real wood) on top of the kitchen cabinets for a "rod of correction."
When I was about 10 I was at the neighbor's house and we were wrestling over something that we both wanted. Somehow in pulling back and forth I caught a forearm in the mouth and broke one of my teeth in half. I went running home and the next day it was a trip to the dentist for some work. His mom called to check up on me and we were playing together again the day after. Not one call to the lawyer or the police. What was I thinking?
Ethan has scrapes all over his arm from a game of Uth Group Capture the Flag in the woods last night. When will we stop these games of violence that hurt our kids? Jeremiah has cuts and scrapes on his legs from Kid's Camp last week. I think I'll sue them to teach them a lesson (It's not the money, it's the principle). Isaac's at a waterpark today with a friend's youth group. We told him to wear long sleeves and sit in the shade all day. Don't go on any of the waterslides, they're slick!
So if you don't hear from me again I have started my new jail ministry. Hopefully I'm not in with the hardened criminals but people more on my own level. Men who had fireworks, rode bikes without helmets, and talk on the cell phone when they drive. Men who don't to like wear coats when it's cold, who eat meat, and shoot their kids with Airsoft guns.
You can have my Airsoft gun when you pry it from my COLD DEAD HANDS.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 26:3 A whip for the horse, a halter for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools!
Scripture of the Day: Ephesians 6:4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Quotes of the Day: It would seem that something which means poverty, disorder and violence every single day should be avoided entirely, but the desire to beget children is a natural urge. ~Phyllis Diller
The quickest way for a parent to get a child's attention is to sit down and look comfortable. ~Lane Olinghouse
Don't handicap your children by making their lives easy. ~Robert A. Heinlein
The problem with children is that you have to put up with their parents. ~Charles DeLint
My mom used to say it doesn't matter how many kids you have... because one kid'll take up 100% of your time so more kids can't possibly take up more than 100% of your time. ~Karen Brown
Give me the life of the boy whose mother is nurse, seamstress, washerwoman, cook, teacher, angel, and saint, all in one, and whose father is guide, exemplar, and friend. No servants to come between. These are the boys who are born to the best fortune. ~Andrew Carnegie
Now I don't know the specifics of that particular incident, and I guess you could abuse your kids with one, but I've shot my kids many times with our Airsoft guns. A couple of my kids have gone off with their friends for a whole day of Airsoft wars. Airsoft guns are similar to a BB gun except they shoot plastic BB's. You want to be sure to wear a mask (you could put your eye out ya know) and a heavy long sleeve shirt helps too. But they are designed to shoot each other. Sometimes when we have friends over we suit the kids up in winter coats and have them run around the back yard while we try to pick them off. My kids used to think it was fun, now I'm just a common criminal.
I wish I would have known all of this when I was growing up. Sometimes when us kids were getting on my mom's nerves (my sister's fault I'm sure) she'd make us go outside and lock the door behind us. She also kept a yard stick (back when they were made of real wood) on top of the kitchen cabinets for a "rod of correction."
When I was about 10 I was at the neighbor's house and we were wrestling over something that we both wanted. Somehow in pulling back and forth I caught a forearm in the mouth and broke one of my teeth in half. I went running home and the next day it was a trip to the dentist for some work. His mom called to check up on me and we were playing together again the day after. Not one call to the lawyer or the police. What was I thinking?
Ethan has scrapes all over his arm from a game of Uth Group Capture the Flag in the woods last night. When will we stop these games of violence that hurt our kids? Jeremiah has cuts and scrapes on his legs from Kid's Camp last week. I think I'll sue them to teach them a lesson (It's not the money, it's the principle). Isaac's at a waterpark today with a friend's youth group. We told him to wear long sleeves and sit in the shade all day. Don't go on any of the waterslides, they're slick!
So if you don't hear from me again I have started my new jail ministry. Hopefully I'm not in with the hardened criminals but people more on my own level. Men who had fireworks, rode bikes without helmets, and talk on the cell phone when they drive. Men who don't to like wear coats when it's cold, who eat meat, and shoot their kids with Airsoft guns.
You can have my Airsoft gun when you pry it from my COLD DEAD HANDS.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 26:3 A whip for the horse, a halter for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools!
Scripture of the Day: Ephesians 6:4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Quotes of the Day: It would seem that something which means poverty, disorder and violence every single day should be avoided entirely, but the desire to beget children is a natural urge. ~Phyllis Diller
The quickest way for a parent to get a child's attention is to sit down and look comfortable. ~Lane Olinghouse
Don't handicap your children by making their lives easy. ~Robert A. Heinlein
The problem with children is that you have to put up with their parents. ~Charles DeLint
My mom used to say it doesn't matter how many kids you have... because one kid'll take up 100% of your time so more kids can't possibly take up more than 100% of your time. ~Karen Brown
Give me the life of the boy whose mother is nurse, seamstress, washerwoman, cook, teacher, angel, and saint, all in one, and whose father is guide, exemplar, and friend. No servants to come between. These are the boys who are born to the best fortune. ~Andrew Carnegie
Monday, June 23, 2008
Prayer Barometer
You can tell a lot about a person by looking at their calender or checkbook. How do you spend your time? How do you spend your money? Words and good intentions can try and cover our tracks, but those two things are a pretty good barometer.
Another good barometer of what we value is what do we pray about? Or maybe even, do we pray? Take what you prayed about last week and boil it down to a 1/2 sheet of paper. What do you have? Missions? The lost? My stuff? America? Family? Me? The Kingdom of God? More stuff for me? Help? Healing? Finances? Relationships? Finances for more stuff? Finances for the stuff I owe money on?
We walked through the Apostle Paul's prayer for the Colossians from Colossians 1 yesterday. Not a lot of fluff or stuff, but a pretty good prayer list for ourselves almost 2000 years later. So give your prayer life a tune up this week (or jump start maybe) and move from the temporary to the eternal. WWPP...What Would Paul Pray?
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 23:17 Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the LORD.
Scripture of the Day: Colossians 1:9-14 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. 10 And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Quote of the Day: A day without prayer is a boast against God. Owen Carr
Another good barometer of what we value is what do we pray about? Or maybe even, do we pray? Take what you prayed about last week and boil it down to a 1/2 sheet of paper. What do you have? Missions? The lost? My stuff? America? Family? Me? The Kingdom of God? More stuff for me? Help? Healing? Finances? Relationships? Finances for more stuff? Finances for the stuff I owe money on?
We walked through the Apostle Paul's prayer for the Colossians from Colossians 1 yesterday. Not a lot of fluff or stuff, but a pretty good prayer list for ourselves almost 2000 years later. So give your prayer life a tune up this week (or jump start maybe) and move from the temporary to the eternal. WWPP...What Would Paul Pray?
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 23:17 Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the LORD.
Scripture of the Day: Colossians 1:9-14 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. 10 And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Quote of the Day: A day without prayer is a boast against God. Owen Carr
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Ready to Hit Bottom
As I was getting ready for bed last night Nightline was interviewing a researcher who said that people are the unhappiest at age 44. You start high when you are young and then slowly bottom out at age 44 and then get happier again. At first I thought it was a little depressing since I'm 42 and that means I should bottom out in the next two years. But then I thought that if this is as bad as it gets, I'm blessed.
Happiness is overrated anyway. Joy is much more stable. Happiness for most depends way too much on circumstances, the temporary, and "what about me?" Joy is a fruit of the Spirit and is in abundant supply if I stay connected to the Vine.
The hymn writer Barnet Warren put it like this:
I have found His grace is all complete,
Happiness is overrated anyway. Joy is much more stable. Happiness for most depends way too much on circumstances, the temporary, and "what about me?" Joy is a fruit of the Spirit and is in abundant supply if I stay connected to the Vine.
The hymn writer Barnet Warren put it like this:
I have found His grace is all complete,
He supplieth ev’ry need;
While I sit and learn at Jesus’ feet,
While I sit and learn at Jesus’ feet,
I am free, yes, free indeed.
Refrain
It is joy unspeakable and full of glory,
Refrain
It is joy unspeakable and full of glory,
Full of glory, full of glory,
It is joy unspeakable and full of glory,
It is joy unspeakable and full of glory,
Oh, the half has never yet been told.
I have found the pleasure I once craved,
I have found the pleasure I once craved,
It is joy and peace within;
What a wondrous blessing!
What a wondrous blessing!
I am savedFrom the awful gulf of sin.
Refrain
I have found that hope so bright and clear,
Refrain
I have found that hope so bright and clear,
Living in the realm of grace;
Oh, the Savior’s presence is so near,
Oh, the Savior’s presence is so near,
I can see His smiling face.
Refrain
I have found the joy no tongue can tell,
Refrain
I have found the joy no tongue can tell,
How its waves of glory roll!
It is like a great o’erflowing well,
It is like a great o’erflowing well,
Springing up within my soul.
Refrain
So here's to the worst years of my life.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 21:21 He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.
Scripture of the Day: Matthew 5:3-12 (Amplified Version) 3 Blessed (happy,to be envied, and spiritually prosperous--with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the poor in spirit (the humble, who rate themselves insignificant), for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!
4 Blessed and enviably happy [with a happiness produced by the experience of God's favor and especially conditioned by the revelation of His matchless grace] are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted!
5 Blessed (happy, blithesome, joyous, spiritually prosperous--with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the meek (the mild, patient, long-suffering), for they shall inherit the earth!
6 Blessed and fortunate and happy and spiritually prosperous (in that state in which the born-again child of God enjoys His favor and salvation) are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God), for they shall be completely satisfied!
7 Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous--with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy!
8 Blessed (happy, enviably fortunate, and spiritually prosperous--possessing the happiness produced by the experience of God's favor and especially conditioned by the revelation of His grace, regardless of their outward conditions) are the pure in heart, for they shall see God!
9 Blessed (enjoying enviable happiness, spiritually prosperous--with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they shall be called the sons of God!
10 Blessed and happy and enviably fortunate and spiritually prosperous (in the state in which the born-again child of God enjoys and finds satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of his outward conditions) are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake (for being and doing right), for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!
11 Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous--with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of your outward conditions) are you when people revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely on My account.
12 Be glad and supremely joyful, for your reward in heaven is great (strong and intense), for in this same way people persecuted the prophets who were before you. [II Chron. 36:16.]
Quote of the Day: There's nothing more contradictory than an unenthusiastic Christian. The Bible tells us that God loves us so much, in fact, that God gave his only son so that all who believe in him will have everlasting life. Nothing not even death can separate us from God's love! If we really believe that, we can't help but overflow with joy! Ronald Newhouse
Be merry, really merry. The life of a true Christian should be a perpetual jubilee, a prelude to the festivals of eternity. Theophane Venard
Any one can sing in the sunshine. You and I should sing on when the sun has gone down, or when clouds pour out their rain, for Christ is with us. Anonymous
There is a joy which is not given to the ungodly, but to those who love Thee for Thine own sake, whose joy Thou Thyself art. And this is the happy life, to rejoice to Thee, of Thee, for Thee; this it is, and there is no other. Augustine
Joy is not the absence of suffering. It is the presence of God. Robert Schuller
Refrain
So here's to the worst years of my life.
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 21:21 He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.
Scripture of the Day: Matthew 5:3-12 (Amplified Version) 3 Blessed (happy,to be envied, and spiritually prosperous--with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the poor in spirit (the humble, who rate themselves insignificant), for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!
4 Blessed and enviably happy [with a happiness produced by the experience of God's favor and especially conditioned by the revelation of His matchless grace] are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted!
5 Blessed (happy, blithesome, joyous, spiritually prosperous--with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the meek (the mild, patient, long-suffering), for they shall inherit the earth!
6 Blessed and fortunate and happy and spiritually prosperous (in that state in which the born-again child of God enjoys His favor and salvation) are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God), for they shall be completely satisfied!
7 Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous--with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy!
8 Blessed (happy, enviably fortunate, and spiritually prosperous--possessing the happiness produced by the experience of God's favor and especially conditioned by the revelation of His grace, regardless of their outward conditions) are the pure in heart, for they shall see God!
9 Blessed (enjoying enviable happiness, spiritually prosperous--with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they shall be called the sons of God!
10 Blessed and happy and enviably fortunate and spiritually prosperous (in the state in which the born-again child of God enjoys and finds satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of his outward conditions) are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake (for being and doing right), for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!
11 Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous--with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of your outward conditions) are you when people revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely on My account.
12 Be glad and supremely joyful, for your reward in heaven is great (strong and intense), for in this same way people persecuted the prophets who were before you. [II Chron. 36:16.]
Quote of the Day: There's nothing more contradictory than an unenthusiastic Christian. The Bible tells us that God loves us so much, in fact, that God gave his only son so that all who believe in him will have everlasting life. Nothing not even death can separate us from God's love! If we really believe that, we can't help but overflow with joy! Ronald Newhouse
Be merry, really merry. The life of a true Christian should be a perpetual jubilee, a prelude to the festivals of eternity. Theophane Venard
Any one can sing in the sunshine. You and I should sing on when the sun has gone down, or when clouds pour out their rain, for Christ is with us. Anonymous
There is a joy which is not given to the ungodly, but to those who love Thee for Thine own sake, whose joy Thou Thyself art. And this is the happy life, to rejoice to Thee, of Thee, for Thee; this it is, and there is no other. Augustine
Joy is not the absence of suffering. It is the presence of God. Robert Schuller
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
The Hearts of the Fathers
I challenged the dads this past Father's Day to be the patriarch of their family. Patriarchs have a generational view. It goes far beyond today, next year, and even our lifetime. The great men of the bible affected generations. Too often we get caught up on the stumbling blocks of men. Our job, our stuff, and trying to fit in. Israel battled this constantly. When they served God wholeheartedly they lived blessed lives. When they got caught up with their stuff and the idols around them they fell hard.
One of the saddest sections of Scriptures in the Bible comes from Judges 2:6-11:
Deuteronomy 5:5-12 5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
God is looking for patriarchs. Your kids are looking for patriarchs. So what will it be? Your job? Your stuff? Fitting in? Building your little earthly kingdom? Or will you help turn the hearts of your children to God?
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 18:22 He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD.
Scripture of the Day: Malachi 4:5-6 5 "See, I will send you the prophet Elijah before that great and dreadful day of the LORD comes. 6 He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers; or else I will come and strike the land with a curse."
Quote of the Day: "Pray to God. Love God. Fear God. Serve God. Take not God's name in vain. Do not Swear. Do not Steal. Cheat not in your play. Play not with bad boys. Call no ill names. Use no ill words. Tell no Lies. Hate Lies. Speak the Truth. Spend your Time well. Love your School. Mind your Book. Strive to learn. Be not a Dunce." A Lesson for Children. 1777
One of the saddest sections of Scriptures in the Bible comes from Judges 2:6-11:
6 And when Joshua had let the people go, the children of Israel went every man unto his inheritance to possess the land.
7 And the people served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders that outlived Joshua, who had seen all the great works of the LORD, that he did for Israel.
8 And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died, being an hundred and ten years old.
9 And they buried him in the border of his inheritance in Timnathheres, in the mount of Ephraim, on the north side of the hill Gaash.
10 And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, which knew not the LORD, nor yet the works which he had done for Israel.
11 And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and served Baalim:
God had given them the formula, but somewhere they missed it.Deuteronomy 5:5-12 5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
10 When the LORD your God brings you into the land he swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, to give you—a land with large, flourishing cities you did not build, 11 houses filled with all kinds of good things you did not provide, wells you did not dig, and vineyards and olive groves you did not plant—then when you eat and are satisfied, 12 be careful that you do not forget the LORD, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
Your kids don't need a new cell phone, the latest video game, another club, sport, or activity. They don't need to know who wins American Idol or any other reality TV show. They need patriarchs who see eternity and make an impression on them. An impression when they wake up, walk along the road, sit around the house, and go to bed at night. They need patriarchs who fill their house and lives with the presence of God. Don't be a Joshua generation who enjoyed the blessing and miracles of the Lord and forgot to pass it along to the next generation.God is looking for patriarchs. Your kids are looking for patriarchs. So what will it be? Your job? Your stuff? Fitting in? Building your little earthly kingdom? Or will you help turn the hearts of your children to God?
Be Refreshed!
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 18:22 He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD.
Scripture of the Day: Malachi 4:5-6 5 "See, I will send you the prophet Elijah before that great and dreadful day of the LORD comes. 6 He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers; or else I will come and strike the land with a curse."
Quote of the Day: "Pray to God. Love God. Fear God. Serve God. Take not God's name in vain. Do not Swear. Do not Steal. Cheat not in your play. Play not with bad boys. Call no ill names. Use no ill words. Tell no Lies. Hate Lies. Speak the Truth. Spend your Time well. Love your School. Mind your Book. Strive to learn. Be not a Dunce." A Lesson for Children. 1777
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