24 Hour Brother

Falling Away & Repentance

2010-03-10T18:35:00.006-04:00

Here is a topic we discussed at Bible Study Sunday night ...
Can an immersed believer (baptized) who has fallen away (turning their back on God) be brought back to repentance?

Here is a piece of scripture I feel answers that question:
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Hebrews 6: 4-6

It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace.
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For me, I think the key to the text is where the person is in their walk with the Lord before they "fall away" .... to have been enlightened, have shared in the Holy Spirit and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age ... wouldn't that person have to have reached repentance but for some reason at some point decided to turn against God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit? According to this scripture, it's impossible to be brought back to repentance.

Sure glad I'm not the one to decide & I never want to be that person who has 'fallen away'!

Question for ya

2009-04-01T07:05:00.002-03:00

I was asked the follow question yesterday and I'd like to ask it to you. It's a great question.

What is Truth?

The Lord's Grace to Paul --- Is also The Lord's Grace to us!

2009-02-21T21:33:00.004-04:00

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.

Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Timothy, Chapter 1: Verse 12-17)

I like this portion of text. It's so simple to understand.

1) Christ came to save us from the our sins. To be an example of how we are to live. And to teach & spread the gospels.

2) All we have to do is accept the grace of the Lord, trust in him, believe in him and turn our lives over to Christ and be baptized in his name. We too are to be an example of how to live. We too are to teach & spread the gospels so the lost can be saved. We are also to show mercy and display unlimited patience.

I am very much trying to do all of the above but find that I come up short on a daily bases. Thank goodness Our Lord and God are so patient!

What's your thoughts on this piece of scripture?

That's My King --- Do You Know Him (Remix Style)

2008-08-12T21:44:00.002-03:00

Speech by Dr. S.M. Lockridge will make you Think ... Clips from The Movie 'Passion of the Christ' make you Feel ... and Both help to remind us just what Christ did for us while we were (and still are) sinners!!!

My King ... I wonder --- Do You Know Him? (Original Style)

2008-08-12T21:10:00.006-03:00

Speech by DR. S.M Lockridge

Wisdom Call --------- Wise Words

2008-06-19T07:11:00.003-03:00

Proverbs 10
(Proverbs of Solomon)
1 A wise son brings joy to his father,
but a foolish son grief to his mother.

2 Ill-gotten treasures are of no value,
but righteousness delivers from death.

3 The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry
but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.

4 Lazy hands make a man poor,
but diligent hands bring wealth.

5 He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son,
but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.

6 Blessings crown the head of the righteous,
but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked. [a]

7 The memory of the righteous will be a blessing,
but the name of the wicked will rot.

8 The wise in heart accept commands,
but a chattering fool comes to ruin.

9 The man of integrity walks securely,
but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.

10 He who winks maliciously causes grief,
and a chattering fool comes to ruin.

11 The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life,
but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.

12 Hatred stirs up dissension,
but love covers over all wrongs.

13 Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning,
but a rod is for the back of him who lacks judgment.

14 Wise men store up knowledge,
but the mouth of a fool invites ruin.

15 The wealth of the rich is their fortified city,
but poverty is the ruin of the poor.

16 The wages of the righteous bring them life,
but the income of the wicked brings them punishment.

17 He who heeds discipline shows the way to life,
but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.

18 He who conceals his hatred has lying lips,
and whoever spreads slander is a fool.

19 When words are many, sin is not absent,
but he who holds his tongue is wise.

20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver,
but the heart of the wicked is of little value.

21 The lips of the righteous nourish many,
but fools die for lack of judgment.

22 The blessing of the LORD brings wealth,
and he adds no trouble to it.

23 A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct,
but a man of understanding delights in wisdom.

24 What the wicked dreads will overtake him;
what the righteous desire will be granted.

25 When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone,
but the righteous stand firm forever.

26 As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes,
so is a sluggard to those who send him.

27 The fear of the LORD adds length to life,
but the years of the wicked are cut short.

28 The prospect of the righteous is joy,
but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing.

29 The way of the LORD is a refuge for the righteous,
but it is the ruin of those who do evil.

30 The righteous will never be uprooted,
but the wicked will not remain in the land.

31 The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom,
but a perverse tongue will be cut out.

32 The lips of the righteous know what is fitting,
but the mouth of the wicked only what is perverse.

Sweetly Broken - Jeremy Riddle

2008-05-10T10:58:00.002-03:00

Sherwood Church of Christ

2008-04-30T07:31:00.003-03:00

Please click on the link below to hear last Sunday's sermon by my good friend Matt McGonnell, Senior Minister at Sherwood ... I know you'll enjoy it and I hope to see you next week at Sherwood so you can enjoy the sermon and friendly fellowship in person!!!

The Best Meal In Town

Love'em Like Jesus

2008-03-28T21:12:00.004-03:00

"The Ten Commandments" song: I Am Willing

2008-02-16T09:11:00.002-04:00

Please Read Steve McMillan's Blog Entries Below

2008-02-06T20:17:00.000-04:00

These are blog entries by Steve McMillan (Maritime Christian College 2007 Lectureship Speaker).

Why bother attending Church? Part 1

Why bother attending Church? Part 2

Why bother attending Church? Part 3

Wow! Awesome Stuff!!!

I have a Dream!!!

2008-02-04T20:06:00.000-04:00

I have a dream and it's one that I like to think is realistic. As I find myself becoming more and more committed in my walk with Christ, I continually find I'm asking myself ... "Am I doing all I can do to serve God, to serve Christ, to serve the leadership in my church ... to serve my fellow congregational members ... to serve those who have not yet excepted Christ as their personal savior???"And the answer is usually the same ... "Harley, no you're not ... but don't be to hard on yourself because you are getting better at it. You are doing more. You just need to continue to grow. Grow both in your faith and in your service to God."

You see. I never would have asked myself that question before. I would have asked myself ... "What is my church doing for me? What is God doing for me? Am I getting anything out of this?" but that's not how it works. God has a plan for us. All of us. The difference is, if we do for God, in his name, God will do for us... but if we continue to focus on what's in it for us? ... Well ... If we're having to ask that question than chances are we are not doing ... and if we're not doing ... than we are missing out.

My Dream is this, as we walk with Christ and hold the hand of God ... that we stop asking what's in it for us ... because we already know ... Salvation is our reward ... forgiveness for our sins is what in it for us ... I dream that we start asking "Am I doing enough Lord? ... what more can I do to serve in your name? ... to serve you? ... to serve the family of God!"

What can an ordinary person really do?

2008-01-17T07:00:00.001-04:00

This is pretty good!!!

2008-01-04T20:08:00.000-04:00

Life Long Resolution to Christ --- To God!!!

2008-01-01T09:13:00.000-04:00

It's New Years Eve and it's that time of the year again. Tonight we will make resolutions for 2008. This got me thinking about the life long resolution I made to God ... Where I proclaimed before God that Jesus Christ is my savior and that he was sacrificed because of my sins ... and through him, my sins are forgiven. Through him I am saved. I then entered the waters of Baptism where my sin covered body was buried, my sins washed away and as I came up out of the water ... I re-entered the world with my new body in Christ. A follower of Christ. As I was reading my bible the other night I came across a passage of scripture that helped put things into perspective ... I don't need to be focusing on giving up more things ... I need to get refocused on living for Christ ... on living a life that is pleasing to God. That's my New Year's/New Life Resolution!!! ... What about you???

Colossians, Chapter #3
Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Run To The One Who Loves Us

2007-11-08T21:33:00.001-04:00

I find myself thinking about my four year old daughter and how she reacts when she gets caught doing something she is not supposed to be doing. It's usually very cute but of course you can't tell her that. She get this look of "Oh No ... " on her face ... then there is a pause to think ... then she pretends to either be doing something else or that what she's doing is no big deal ... but when she gets to the point that she knows she's in trouble and not going to get out of it ... she then walks over to me with her head down and lip quivering. I pick her up and she puts her face into my neck/shoulder region and just starts howling.

Funny when you think about it. She has just gotten caught. She's scared that she is going to be in trouble. First thought is to pretend it's no big deal ... and then when that doesn't work, instead of running for her life, she actual goes to the one who is about to punish her to find comfort!

Do we do the same thing when it comes to our relationship with God, or with his son Jesus. How often do we find ourselves doing something that we know to be wrong, and after we have done it our guilt factor starts kicking in. It's at this point we know that God has walked into the room, ready to punish us. Now it's decision time. Do we turn to God, to Jesus, and confess our sin and ask for forgiveness we know we don't deserve ... or ... do we pretend our sin is no big deal and move on. Do we find ourselves placing a level or degree on our sin ... justifying it by saying to ourselves .... "Well it's not like I did This or That"... Whatever way you look at it ... Sin is Sin. We can't pick and choose which parts of our sin is big enough to ask for forgiveness and which ones really aren't that big a deal.

We are human and we are going to sin. But can you imagine how much better life would be if we truly started acting like children of God. The Bible clearly points out what is right and wrong in the eyes of God our Father. If we worked harder at listening and studying the word of God, wouldn't our lives be that much better? Wouldn't we have much more clarity in regards to our actions or habits? In regards to which ones are right and which are wrong. Imagine if our relationship with God was strong enough that when we do have our weak moments in life, we are strong enough to lower our heads, turn to God, with our lower lip quivering and ask Jesus to forgive us. Imagine if we could get ourselves to the point that we are continually trying to remove all the sin from our lives ... that the next time we are faced with an opportunity to put someone down, we don't, instead we build them up. The next time we find ourselves wanting another drink when we have already had enough, we don't take that drink. The next time we're at the store and the clerk gives us back to much change by accident, we go back and return the difference rather then putting it in our pocket. This is where it starts. If we make the right decisions on the little things, it's only going to help us make the right decisions on the big things.

Well ... just a thought!

You Have to Watch This... It's Awesome!

2007-10-15T21:52:00.001-03:00

The Song is:
Who Am I ... by Casting Crowns

Don Moen - "OUR FATHER"

2007-10-15T21:11:00.001-03:00

AMEN!!!

TEMPER .... Quick or Slow???

2007-09-24T11:06:00.001-03:00

(Titus, Chapter 2:Verses 1-15)
You must teach what is in accord with sound doctrine. Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance.

Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.

Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.

Teach slaves to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you.

Where do you stand on this ... do you blow your top ... or are you able to remain calm in the realm of anger? This is something that I seem to continually have trouble with. Despite what some might think, I have a hard time keeping an even keel. I have things that get on my nerves. I try to deal with them at once while I'm still under control. Then, either something else happens to test my patience or the original annoyance continues because my request has been ignored. At this point I find myself being pushed to the brink ... I try to calm down but then something I really really don't want to hear at that point is said and I loose it. What happens, I usually end up making foolish, unrealistic threats that allow those around me to know that I'm upset ... but these threats make it hard for them to take what I'm saying serious. By now you probably know that I'm talking about dealing with teenagers.

I read the above section of scripture this morning and it hit home to me. I spend way to much time giving out warns of what I want and mean and much less time leading by example. If I want my kids to grow up to be obedient, ready to do good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward those around them ... then I need to be doing this myself. I need to act like this towards them and to everyone around me. I need to be more self-controlled so that I can teach self-control. In everything I do, I need to set the example by doing what is good. In my teaching I need to show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned (or ignored). If I can lead by this example, then those who oppose me shall feel ashamed because they will have nothing bad to say about me or my actions.

I also have to remember, when I get to that boiling point and feel that it's time to explode ... rather then blow, I need to stop and pray to God ... pray that he help me get my bearings ... and them calmly address the situation. Try this ... I think you will be amazed at what happens!!!

Through your faith in God, all things are possible!!! Amen.

A Must Read Devotional by Jon Walker

2007-09-22T12:49:00.000-03:00

This Is SO AWESOME ... (please click on the link below):

The Woman At the Coffee Bar

(Purpose Driven Life Daily Devotional - 2007/09/21)

John 3:16

2007-09-15T17:34:00.000-03:00

(John, Chapter 3:Verse 16)
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Perhaps one of the most recognized verses from the bible ... and probably one of the most taken for granted. It's one that a lot of people recognize NOT because it's the very words of Jesus Christ, or because of it's message ... but rather because of it's biblical location ... John 3:16. For those of us who have come to know Jesus as our Saviour .... we truly believe this ... we know it's true. This is the base of our spiritual faith.

However, our church recently celebrated it's 40th anniversary and as a result we had a special weekend full of music, fellowship, fun and more importantly the sharing of the message to those already in the church and to those who are still searching. There was a theme in the message that was preached ...

Those in the church must remember we are not better than those who are not. We must remember that our purpose is to help save the lost ... we need to go out of our way to make those who are searching feel welcome and at home ... like a lost child who has finally found his way back home to his parents .

and for those who have not yet found Christ, for those who are searching for something more, something better, for those who are skeptical ... please know that you do not have to be perfect to attend church ... or to get to know Jesus. You don't have to get your life all straightened up before you can start attending. For only one man has ever been perfect, Jesus himself. We all have our problems. We all have excess baggage. We all have sinned. But with the help of God, Jesus Christ and fellowship with other Christians ... we can start to release some of that baggage, be forgiven for our sin and find a place where people care for each other. We spend enough time condemning ourselves ... we spend enough time being put down by those living for the world ... it's time to know that there is another way ... a better way!!!
John 3:17
(John, Chapter 3:Verse 17)
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

Old School Direction

2007-08-26T19:46:00.000-03:00

Today I found myself flipping through my bible looking for direction in patience. Not only did I find direction for it ... I found direction for all the areas of my live within the passage below. I also found that I have a tendency to get so caught up in looking for guidance from the New Testament that I forget that the Old Testament has a lot of good ol' direction as well.
(Proverbs, Chapter 19)
Better a poor man whose walk is blameless
than a fool whose lips are perverse.

It is not good to have zeal without knowledge,
nor to be hasty and miss the way.

A man's own folly ruins his life,
yet his heart rages against the LORD.

Wealth brings many friends,
but a poor man's friend deserts him.

A false witness will not go unpunished,
and he who pours out lies will not go free.

Many curry favor with a ruler,
and everyone is the friend of a man who gives gifts.

A poor man is shunned by all his relatives—
how much more do his friends avoid him!
Though he pursues them with pleading,
they are nowhere to be found.

He who gets wisdom loves his own soul;
he who cherishes understanding prospers.

A false witness will not go unpunished,
and he who pours out lies will perish.

It is not fitting for a fool to live in luxury—
how much worse for a slave to rule over princes!

A man's wisdom gives him patience;
it is to his glory to overlook an offense.

A king's rage is like the roar of a lion,
but his favor is like dew on the grass.

A foolish son is his father's ruin,
and a quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping.

Houses and wealth are inherited from parents,
but a prudent wife is from the LORD.

Laziness brings on deep sleep,
and the shiftless man goes hungry.

He who obeys instructions guards his life,
but he who is contemptuous of his ways will die.

He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD,
and he will reward him for what he has done.

Discipline your son, for in that there is hope;
do not be a willing party to his death.

A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty;
if you rescue him, you will have to do it again.

Listen to advice and accept instruction,
and in the end you will be wise.

Many are the plans in a man's heart,
but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.

What a man desires is unfailing love;
better to be poor than a liar.

The fear of the LORD leads to life:
Then one rests content, untouched by trouble.

The sluggard buries his hand in the dish;
he will not even bring it back to his mouth!

Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence;
rebuke a discerning man, and he will gain knowledge.

He who robs his father and drives out his mother
is a son who brings shame and disgrace.

Stop listening to instruction, my son,
and you will stray from the words of knowledge.

A corrupt witness mocks at justice,
and the mouth of the wicked gulps down evil.

Penalties are prepared for mockers,
and beatings for the backs of fools.

WOW ... How's that for direction? ... This is a passage that definitely makes you think. One that makes you evaluate how you live and who you live for! How can anyone ready this and not see that God has written it for our purpose? How can anyone read a passage like this and not want to find out more? How can we read this passage and still put ourselves first? I definitely needed this wake up call. Thanks God. You always know what to say WHEN I finally ask!!!

Are You Ready?

2007-08-14T06:45:00.001-03:00

This is awesome. I like Bluegrass and after hearing this, I now want to hear more of Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder. Enjoy!

WWJD ... What Would Jesus Do???

2007-08-12T20:47:00.000-03:00

I have had something heavy on my heart lately. Not heavy in a stressful way, but heavy in the way that I have something to say but I'm not just sure of the correct way to say it. You see my step-son made a comment the other day and I wasn't fully ready for how I should respond. He told us he was interested in joining the army so he could serve and protect our freedom. He wants to protect us from the Taliban and such. He wants to introduce people to Jesus. However, for those who are willing to fight us, persecute us and kill us for being Christians ... for those people the bible says put them to the sword.

This got me thinking. Right away I wanted to say ... but that was the Old Testament ... The New Testament is all about winning people for Jesus. Aren't we to feel blessed if we are persecuted for being followers of Jesus. Earth is not freedom ... Eternal Life in Heaven ... that's our true freedom. Shouldn't we be willing to try and introduce our enemies to Christ, even if it means we run the risk of being persecuted and even put to death! Wouldn't God want us to try and save the lost rather than rushing them off to Hell. What would Jesus do???

What did Jesus do?
(Matthew 26: 47-55)
While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: "The one I kiss is the man; arrest him." Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, "Greetings, Rabbi!" and kissed him.

Jesus replied, "Friend, do what you came for."

Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him. With that, one of Jesus' companions reached for his sword, drew it out and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.

"Put your sword back in its place," Jesus said to him, "for all who draw the sword will die by the sword. Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?"

At that time Jesus said to the crowd, "Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me? Every day I sat in the temple courts teaching, and you did not arrest me. But this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled."
(Matthew 5: 38-42)
"You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you."
(Matthew 5: 43-48)
"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."

What did Peter do? Stephen? ... What about Paul? Paul (Saul ... the very man who wanted all Christians to be persecuted and killed) the worst of Sinners saved buy Jesus so that he could be used to save the lost ... so that he would personally see how much we must suffer for the name of Jesus:
(Acts 9: 15-16)
But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name."
Don't you think we are called to persevere ... and leave the judgment of death up to God and his Son, Jesus?
(Jude 1:17-23)
But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. They said to you, "In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires." These are the men who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.

But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.

Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.

God Bless!

When It's All Been Said and Done

2007-08-07T21:00:00.001-03:00

I was inspired to post this after reading Ben's most recent post "Last Few Pages"!

I really like this song ... I find it helps me to put things into perspective ... My goal ... "When it's all been said and done .... There is just one thing that matters ... Did I do by best to live for Truth? ... Did I live my life for You?" ... with your help ... I hope that on my Final Page ... When I'm standing before Christ ... My answer is "YES"!!! ... and I pray your answer is the same. God Bless!

Are You an Encourager?

2007-07-23T07:06:00.000-03:00

I have noticed this and had to deal with this more often lately. We have individuals within our congregations and the Christian community that try to build you up by pointing out what you are doing wrong. Now this is not always a bad thing ... but it can be if this is all these people ever do ... if they are constantly pointing out the negative and never giving any positive encouragement ... never pointing out what you are or have done well. I truly feel that some of these people do not even know how damaging they are being... rather they think they are being very helpful ... while others seem as if they are getting some joy out of it. However, the people around them, especially those who see them quite often can find themselves becoming discouraged, frustrated and just down right bummed out because they start to feel that no matter what they do they can never do it good enough! Do you know anybody who is like this? ... Are you one of these people? ... Am I?

As a Church and as Christians I feel it is more important that we spend our time building each other up with positive words, encouraging words, words that edify rather than breakdown. We are all human, we all make mistakes, we all sin, we all have our faults ... and I bet most of us know what these are without having to have them pointed out to us each and every week/day. I for one am going to try and make it a point to use words of encouragement in my conversations rather than words of negativity ... I challenge you all to do the same!
(Ephesians, Chapter 4:Verses 1-32)
Unity in the Body of Christ
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says:
"When he ascended on high,
he led captives in his train
and gave gifts to men."
(What does "he ascended" mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Living as Children of Light
So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more.

You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. "In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

In Vain? ... or ... In Christ?

2007-07-11T19:01:00.000-03:00

(1 Corinthians, Chapter 15:Verses 1-11)
Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.

For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.

For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. Whether, then, it was I or they, this is what we preach, and this is what you believed.
(1 Peter, Chapter 2:Verses 4-12)
As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him— you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says:

"See, I lay a stone in Zion,
a chosen and precious cornerstone,
and the one who trusts in him
will never be put to shame."
Now to you who believe, this stone is precious.
But to those who do not believe,
"The stone the builders rejected
has become the capstone," and,
"A stone that causes men to stumble
and a rock that makes them fall."
They stumble because they disobey the message—
which is also what they were destined for.

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

POINTS BY PETER & PAUL:
a) We are nothing without God.
b) Christ is the Cornerstone for those who believe & a stumbling block for those who don't or whose faith is weak.
c) Through the scriptures we are built up.
d) Through Christ we are saved --- Ours sins forgiven.
e) Hold firm to the Scriptures, Live by the Word and live in Christ!

HARLEY'S THOUGHTS:
When we are baptized, we are baptized in Christ because of our faith in him --- not because we want to please man --- otherwise our baptism is in vain.

When we live our lives, we are to live a life of faith by the example put forth for us in the scriptures. We are to live a life pleasing to God, pleasing to Christ. If we are living our lives to please man, we are living our lives and faith in vain.

Today I challenge you to look at yourself, your faith, your life and truly ask yourself --- ask yourself if you are living a life that is pleasing to God ... pleasing to Christ ... worthy of the sacrifice Christ made for us ... worthy of being saved?

Why Them Again? ... Why Not Those People?

2007-06-27T09:03:00.000-03:00

(James, Chapter 1:Verse 12)
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
(2 Peter, Chapter 2:Verses 6-10)
if God condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah by burning them to ashes, and made them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly; and if he rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men (for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard)— if this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment. This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the sinful nature and despise authority.
(James, Chapter 1:Verses 2-8)
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
(1 Peter, Chapter 2:Verse 16-17)
Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.
(1 Peter, Chapter 2:Verse 19-23)
For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God. But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.
"He committed no sin,
and no deceit was found in his mouth."
When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.

My Aunt is currently in the hospital and is quite ill. This family was already dealing with the lose of their 19 year old son (2 yrs ago) and now this. She continues to ride a roller coaster ... one day she is improving and a few days later she's back on life support. Feelings of joy ... she's getting better! ... then gut wrenching pain as she has had another set back and is fighting for her life. Why?

Why? How much does this family have to go through? Why does this family have to deal with trial after trail? This family that would give you the shirt off their backs to help you if you needed it ... while the guy down the road, the guy with everything you ever wanted, the guy who would step over his own momma to get what he wants ... this guy never seems to have to deal with these types of trials ... Why?

These are a few questions a friend of mine threw at me yesterday. And to be totally honest ... I also asked myself the same things. It's not an easy answer. In fact, I don't think we are really ever going to know the answer until that wonderful day ... the day that God calls us home to be with him in his kingdom. We are human and although we try, we real can't understand why God allows bad things to happen to good people ... and what we perceive to be good things happen to bad or unjust people. But ... as far as I can tell, it all really comes down to this ... we know the evil desires of the world and we know it's easy to love and follow the world ... it's also easy to love God and the sacrifice of Christ, but it is much harder to follow and live the lifestyle placed before us when we follow Christ! However, we know we are going to have trials. We are going to go through times that we feel are unjust. We are going to have times that we question what is going on ... but throughout all of this we must remember that we do not know the thoughts or plans that God has for us or our neighbor who has everything ... but we do know that by faith, baptism, and by following The Way ... in the end we will be saved ... in the end, when we stand before Christ and we are being held accountable for our actions here on earth, we will be allowed entrance into the kingdom of heaven ... and our neighbor with everything here on earth ... well ... he will most likely in the end, unless he changes his ways, .... all he will have is his short worldly life here on earth.

Yes, we will suffer from time to time while down here on earth but in the end we will have Eternal Life after Death ... while those who look like they are living the high life here on earth with only have Death.
(1 Peter, Chapter 4:Verses 1-11)
Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who has suffered in his body is done with sin. As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.

The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Friends ... What a Blessing! What a Treasure!

2007-06-25T08:29:00.000-03:00

(Proverbs, Chapter 17:Verse 17)
A friend loves at all times,
and a brother is born for adversity.
(Proverbs, Chapter 18:Verse 24)
A man of many companions may come to ruin,
but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
This post has been brought on by reading Francine's Blog. She wrote about how blessed she is by the friends she has in her life and it got me thinking about my life and my friends. I started thinking about how much my life has changed, changed for the better, and how blessed I am by my friends. I recently wrote the final test for my Securities Course and have received the good news that I have passed. I have successfully completed the course. For me that is good news but not great news. You see, over the past six months I have been studying harder than I have ever studied in my life. The course was fairly intense and many of my friends realized how hard I was working at it. The Great news ... throughout this course, I didn't just learn about investments and securities, I also learned that I have a large group of friends that love me and care deeply for me. I had friends e-mail, phone and even stop by for a visit so that they could give me some words of support and encouragement. I even had friends tell my how they were praying for me to successfully complete the course so I can move forward with my new career as an Investment Advisor. I can't tell you how much I appreciated that. You all know who you are ... thank you from the bottom of my heart and may God bless you and your family as he continues to bless myself and mine! .... and to my wife ... thank you for all the love and support you show me each and everyday ... I love you so much!!!
(1 Peter, Chapter 1:Verse 22-25)
Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart. For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. For,
"All men are like grass,
and all their glory is like the flowers of the field;
the grass withers and the flowers fall,
but the word of the Lord stands forever."And this is the word that was preached to you.

Congratulations Charity!!!

2007-06-22T15:16:00.000-03:00

This is a proud day for Meredith and I. This is Charity, our oldest daughter, and she is graduating from Grade 12 today... I'm so proud of her ... way to go Charity ... I love you ... and I know that God has big plans for you. Follow your dreams, be confident, trust your heart, keep God close and always remember that your Mom & I are always there for you!

Love always,
Your Step-Dad

That's My King ... Do You Know Him

2007-06-14T09:10:00.001-03:00

Who Are You???

2007-06-05T09:56:00.000-03:00

Written so long ago ... yet we (the world) still struggle with putting our Trust and Faith in God.
(Psalm 115)
Not to us, O LORD, not to us
but to your name be the glory,
because of your love and faithfulness.

Why do the nations say,
"Where is their God?"

Our God is in heaven;
he does whatever pleases him.

But their idols are silver and gold,
made by the hands of men.

They have mouths, but cannot speak,
eyes, but they cannot see;

they have ears, but cannot hear,
noses, but they cannot smell;

they have hands, but cannot feel,
feet, but they cannot walk;
nor can they utter a sound with their throats.

Those who make them will be like them,
and so will all who trust in them.

O house of Israel, trust in the LORD—
he is their help and shield.

O house of Aaron, trust in the LORD—
he is their help and shield.

You who fear him, trust in the LORD—
he is their help and shield.

The LORD remembers us and will bless us:
He will bless the house of Israel,
he will bless the house of Aaron,

he will bless those who fear the LORD—
small and great alike.

May the LORD make you increase,
both you and your children.

May you be blessed by the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

The highest heavens belong to the LORD,
but the earth he has given to man.

It is not the dead who praise the LORD,
those who go down to silence;

it is we who extol the LORD,
both now and forevermore.
Praise the LORD.

When you read this Psalm ... can you honestly say that you are a "God Fearing Christian" or are you a "Lover of The World"? ... Do you ask "Where is my God?" or do you already know? ... Do you completely trust in the Lord ... or do you just go through the motions of being a Christian? ... When others look at you ... do they see God in your reflection or just the shadow of man? We all extol something ... but is it the Lord or the World?

Who's Really To Blame ... God or You???

2007-05-28T09:35:00.000-03:00

(1 Corinthians, Chapter 9:Verses 24-27)
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.

Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

Dealing with failure ... something I am not good at. I am lucky because I haven't had to deal with it all that often but when I do it is sometimes not that pretty. But in the last few years I have realized a change in myself and how I deal with this. Have you ever found yourself working hard for something while at the same time praying to God that he helps you attain your goal ... only to come up just short in the end? When this happens ... do you place the blame on God? or do you place the blame on the one who deserves full credit for this failure (yourself)? Now, I'm not saying failure is a bad thing ... because it's not ... it's from our mistakes that we can learn some of out biggest lessons! However, placing the blame on God for our failures in life is. I spent years rewarding myself for my good fortunes and blaming God for the bad. This was and is wrong.

Just last week I received some disappointing news ... I didn't pass an exam that I had been studying very hard for. Disappointing ... Yes, Surprising ... No. I went into the exam prepared but not as prepared as I could have been. I was semi-confident writing it but not fully confident. When I finished writing, I knew it would be close and it was ... 4 marks short. For one of the first times in my life my first thought was not ... "Why God? Why didn't you help me?" but rather "Sorry God, I know I could have applied myself more but thank you for sticking with me, for I could feel your presence with me as I wrote and I know that you will be with me as I prepare to re-write. Please help me to better apply myself this time around so that I can be successful." ... God is here to help and support ... not to hand you want you want on a silver platter just because you ask ... we need to apply ourselves. While thinking about my most recent failure I have had to also deal with something even more disappointing ... the fact that when it comes to applying myself to the Word of God and the example set by Christ, I am coming up short. I haven't been applying myself completely ... I have been holding back in some areas and this is wrong ... it's also my fault for doing this ... not God's. How about you ... are you holding back in your Walk with Christ? ... Are you placing blame on God when you know in your heart that you could have done better? When you run, are you running in away as to get the prize? Are you running to please yourself? ... or are you running to please God?

Well ... it's time to apply myself to my studies!

WestBow Press Signs Deal to Release Novel: The Man in White

2007-05-22T10:02:00.000-03:00

Quote from WestBow Editor, Ami McConnell:
“____ obtained a seminary degree and spent the better part of a decade researching and writing this novel about the Apostle Paul,” says McConnell. “Billy Graham said from the pulpit that it was the best book on Paul that he’d ever read. For me, Man in White testifies to ____’s artistic intensity and to his desire to unpack the meaning of the New Testament Scriptures. It’s an amazing book.”

Do you know who the Author is?
Here's a hint: "Hello ... I'm Johnny ____!"
I am extremely excited about this book … I received it the other day and can't wait to start reading it!!!

Here’s a link to where you can order the book: Man in White: A Novel about the Apostle Paul

Today's Challenge!!!

2007-05-07T09:01:00.000-03:00

Paul is in chains as he writes this letter to the church at Phillipi (and to me, as well as you):
(Phillipians, Chapter 1:Verses 19-30)
I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.

This morning, as I read this piece of scripture, it made me think ... do we really truly realize just how much of a life altering change we are entering into when we choose to follow Christ? At the time of my baptism, I knew I needed God in my life and that I need to change the way I was living it. I just didn't realize at the time just how much I need to change. I know that as each day goes by I realize how much I have changed, but also see how much farther I have to go. But it gives me great comfort to read passages like the one above and see that even someone as faithful as Paul had a tough go of it ... but it was his faith in Christ God and his willingness to suffer for the gospel, that someone as lost as I ... could be saved ... and that really humbles me. I'm humbled even more when I realize that God has given me that same calling ... the opportunity to use my life as a tool to do what Paul did ... to humble myself before God ... before Christ ... for it has been granted to me on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, so those who do not yet know Christ God can also be saved.

So I put this challenge before you (and myself): Today as we go out into the world, will we go about about our day eagerly expecting and hoping that we will in no way be ashamed, but we will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in our body, whether by life or by death. For to us, to live is Christ and to die is gain. Will we go on living in the body, fruitfully laboring for the lord?

Where Are You in Your "Walk By Faith"???

2007-05-05T22:46:00.000-03:00

(Ephesians, Chapter 4:Verses 1-6)
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called - one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
(Ephesians, Chapter 4:Verses 14-6)
Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more.

You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. "In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Are you living as a prisoner for the Lord, a life worthy of your calling? Are you living as a Child of God? or Are you living as the Gentiles did? Are you saying you live for Christ but find it more important to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more. When you talk, are you building up your fellow Christian or breaking him down? Are you carrying around bitterness, rage and anger, brawling or slander? Are you forgiving your fellow man as Christ God has forgiven you?

Where ever you are in your walk, I pray that you are closer to walking with Christ as a prisoner for the Lord, then walking with Christ as the Gentiles did. I pray that if you are having a hard time forgiving as Christ God forgave you, that you would pray to God, to help you soften your heart and not only forgive but also to rebuild. Amen.

Jeremy Camp - Walk by Faith (live dvd version)

2007-05-02T11:21:00.001-03:00

I recently came across this video and thought it was awesome. I wanted to post this for Al ... a man that very much shows everyone that he Walks by Faith and Truly Believes!!! Our prayers are with you Buddy.

Do You Believe This???

2007-04-30T10:52:00.000-03:00

(1 John, Chapter 5: Verses 9-13)
We accept man's testimony, but God's testimony is greater because it is the testimony of God, which he has given about his Son. Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about his Son. And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.

I like to think that these words are not just for those who believe... but also for those who do not believe, those who are searching, and those who are not sure.

It's not for me to tell you what you believe ... that decision is yours and yours alone ... but I would like to close this post with a question that only your heart can answer ... and it's not me who needs to hear what that answer is ... but rather the person who is asking the question:

(John, Chapter 11:Verses 25-26)
Jesus said ... , "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"

Why Do I Need Sunday's Service in My Life???

2007-04-25T12:08:00.000-03:00

Are you currently going to church with the attitude of allowing God to draw nearer to you? Are you going to have your body cleansed and the guilt of sin forgiven? Are you going to church to spur one another on with love? ... OR... Are you going there just for your own selfish needs? Are you going with a plan to find fault in the service and those around you? Are you going to church with the intentions of putting something into the service & its fellowship?... Or.. Are you only looking to get something out of it for yourself? ... Are you even going to church?

Whether you are currently attending church, have stopped attending church, or have never attended church .... I think the following passage clearly explains why we need to be going and the attitude we need to bring with us:
(Hebrews, Chapter 10: Verses 19-25)
Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Two Hearts Beat as One!

2007-04-18T08:20:00.000-03:00

(Ephesians, Chapter 5: Verse 31)
... man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.

This has been my most difficult blog posting to date because words can not fully describe my feelings. The above passage of scripture describes Meredith and myself ... But it wasn't until last week that it truly hit home for me. I guess I always thought of myself as one who is able to function on my own. I love Meredith and know that she is my one true love and that I want more than anything to spend the rest of my life with her.

Last week I realized just how much she has become part of me. She was only gone for 8 days but it was the longest we have ever been apart. Whenever we are apart I always miss her but can function until she gets back. Last week I was doing alright until about day three leading into day four and it hit me ... just how much I was missing her ... and it wasn't because I was doing the single parent thing. It's kind of funny, but it made me thing of the movie Good Will Hunting when Robin Williams is describing how he misses his wife who had passed away and I think he hits the nail right on the head. You miss the normal everyday things like having coffee, talks in the car on the way to and from work, lunch, watching a show together etc., you know the normal everyday things ... but it's more than that ... I noticed myself missing the little things that she does throughout the day that make me smile. Things that she may not even know she does. Things that I have taken for granted and didn't even realize it. You know, the things that only you notice. The things that truly connect you at the heart. I never noticed just how much of our lives and love I have taken for granted. Last week I realized that I am not just growing in my faith for God but I am also growing more and more united at the heart with my one true love each and everyday.

Meredith, I know you won't believe it, but I have been working on this post for almost a week wanting to get the words as close as possible to describing how I feel ... but I guess the best ones are these .... I miss you when you are not with me and I love you more than you could ever imagine. You're the best thing that has ever happened to me and it brings a smile to my face knowing that we are going to grow old together! I Love Ya Babe!!!

Johnny Cash- Redemption

2007-04-17T10:33:00.001-03:00

Johnny Cash ... What else needs to be said ... This is awesome!!!

I Say What I Mean & Mean What I Say!!!

2007-04-14T12:26:00.000-03:00

I always loved that expression, but I would like to modify it a little ... "I do as I say and mean what I do!".

We are very good at telling others what they need to be doing or what they are not doing. Quick to point out their faults but slow to encourage their gives and good qualities. If you are a parent you will truly understand what I am saying. The next time you find yourself giving your opinion to someone, stop and ask yourself ... "Does my character and my actions reflect what I am saying? Do I have these faults? Can this person look at my life and see that I am not just saying this with words but with my day to day actions?" ... because if you can't answer yes to all of these questions perhaps it's best to keep your opinion between you and God until you have corrected these faults in your own life.

I found myself doing this yesterday. I have a child who is lazy. He'll admit it. But he is getting better. I find myself getting upset because I know he sees areas where he can help out but chooses not to because he knows either myself or Meredith will end up doing it. ... Well I finally admitted to myself that at times I do the same ... You see, Friday is garbage day and I hate hauling the big bins to the road. I procrastinate until I can't wait any longer and by then my Dad (who lives next door) has already done it for me while hauling his own up to the road. I lie to myself and say "Well I was going to do it" while knowing deep down inside that if I waited long enough ... Dad would take care of it. Well it's hard to try and teach your kid to do something the right way if you are not doing it yourself. The right thing ... I knew I needed to be the one hauling my own bin to the road while at the same time hauling Dad's up with it. I have been hauling both up for some time now but with yesterday's snow I really wasn't looking forward to it, but I got it done. My father would never have let my grandfather do it for him and I thank him for showing and teaching it to me ... thanks Dad ... I love You!
(Romans, Chapter 6:Verses 11-16)
In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace.

What Leads To Peace & Mutual Edification?

2007-04-10T23:03:00.000-03:00

Someone who I have come to consider a good friend and a close buddy, reminded me tonight of one of the callings we have as a Christian ... the calling of making every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification with those we consider a challenge to be around.

We are all different and are at different places in our walk with Christ. We all have flaws that make us human. However, we are to remember that it is not for us to place judgement or look down on our brother over disputable matters ... we are not to do anything that would cause our brother(s) to stumble. But ... we just can't always leave it be, Can we? ... and even if we don't mean to, we can become a stumbling block for others. We need not only be aware of ourselves and our actions but we need to be aware of how we are and how our actions affect those around us. He read a piece of scripture that puts this into perspective and followed it up by saying that he wished everyone read this before starting each day ... I too would have to agree with him on this. I think if we started each day by reading the following piece of scripture ... we would find our hearts and mouths glorifying God as we walk with Christ!
(Romans, Chapter 14:Verses 1-23)
Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters. One man's faith allows him to eat everything, but another man, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. The man who eats everything must not look down on him who does not, and the man who does not eat everything must not condemn the man who does, for God has accepted him. Who are you to judge someone else's servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.

One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord. He who eats meat, eats to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who abstains, does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God. For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone. If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.

For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living. You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat. It is written:

" 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord,
'every knee will bow before me;
every tongue will confess to God.' "

So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way. As one who is in the Lord Jesus, I am fully convinced that no food is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for him it is unclean. If your brother is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy your brother for whom Christ died. Do not allow what you consider good to be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.

Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a man to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble. It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall.

So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves. But the man who has doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.
(Romans, Chapter 15:Verses 1-7)
We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me." For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

Why?

2007-04-05T10:21:00.000-03:00

Recently I was watching a show where the worldly ' I don't believe in God ' question was asked: "If there is a God, why would he let something so terrible happen to you?"

It's a good question, because even us Christians find ourselves asking this same question from time to time. The answer I have come up with is this. We don't know God's plan for us. But what we do know is that God does have a plan and it is one that is so much better and so much more fulfilling than what we could ever hope to comprehend. There are times when we pray, we ask God for what we think is best rather than putting our faith in him to do what is best. There will be times when bad things will happen to good people. Things that can not be rationalized by our human minds. This is when we show just how strong our faith is. This is when we can choose to pray to God for the strength to overcome or choose to be angry at him for allowing this thing to happen. Angry for not listening to our prayers and answering them with our will rather than his.

In our lives we will face trials and heartache, but it is by faith that we grow beyond and heal. I think Jeremy Camp (Christian Singer) puts it best in is introduction to his song ' Walk By Faith ' ... When is wife was dying from cancer he recalls constantly praying to God for her to be healed. When she died, he was mad because God didn't heal her the way Jeremy wanted. But then it hit him ... she was healed ... she was a devoted Christian and she was now in a much better place. Jeremy realized that his Faith during this very difficult time was not for God's will but rather his. He states "It's easy to have faith when things are going well ... it's when things are bad that we realize just how strong our faith in God is!"

God has a plan for us and along the road there will be highs and lows but he will never gives us more than we can handle.

(James, Chapter 1:Verses 2-4)
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

(Romans, Chapter 8:Verse 28)
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

(Jeremiah, Chapter 29:Verse 11)
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Tag Team Ministry Hitting It's Stride!!!

2007-04-02T10:09:00.000-03:00

(1 Thessalonians, Chapter 5: Verses 9-28)
For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.

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

Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.

May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.

Brothers, pray for us. Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss. I charge you before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

WOW ... Now that is a great letter with a powerful message Paul has written to the Church of the Thessalonians. What responsibility!

I don't know what it is ... have I grown spiritually? ... am I feeling more content? ... Am I more open minded? ... Or is it that the Leadership, Ministers and Deacons here at Sherwood are working as a complete unit? ... I suppose it could be a little of each ... but I have to say, I have really found Sunday Mornings very spiritually recharging for me. I'm leaving the church feeling encouraged and searching ... two good things. I go home and find myself reading scripture throughout the week, trying to pick-up where the Sunday message left off. For me, with each passing week I am seeing our ministers becoming more and more comfortable with their new roles and responsibilities here at Sherwood. I read the above passage of scripture and I thought of them and how they are towards us (the congregation). Keep up the good work Matt and Ben. Thank you for the encouragement and building up. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ is most definitely serving in you both.

Your brother in Christ.

Putting Myself Out There

2007-03-29T11:06:00.000-03:00

(Titus, Chapter 3:Verses 3-8)
At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.

This is something I am thankful for each and everyday ... but it is also something that I struggle with each and everyday. I was lost and heading down a destructive road when God placed in my life people who cared enough about my salvation that they went out of their way to make sure I heard the message. Now it's my turn to do the same. I have spent a good number of years focusing on me ... focusing on changing my ways from worldly desires to making them heavenly desires. I know that I have changed, and I know that those around me can see the changes. However, I have been slow in the area of helping my lost friends find the path to righteousness. This is my new focus ... I'm now ready to take that next step and put myself out there. I know by doing this I risk losing close friends and that is hard to except. But if it means being able to help save some in the process ... then that makes it so worth while. For what good is it for me to be learning and growing in Christ but yet not be out there sharing this message of salvation with the ones I love and care about. As verse 8 states: ", so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good." ... This is my plan ... how about you?

Divide? ... or ... Conquer?

2007-03-28T11:16:00.000-03:00

Major Disagreement Between Paul and Barnabas

(Acts, Chapter 15: Verses 36-41)
Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, "Let us go back and visit the brothers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing." Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, but Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

How do we as Christians handle differences of option when it comes to our actions and the actions (or lack of action) of others? We are human. Paul and Barnabas prove it. They both had strong feelings in regards to the matter of Mark serving/ministering. So strong that it divided them to the point that they parted company. However, although they disagreed on the matter of Mark, neither spoke ill of the other. Neither put any stumbling blocks in the others way. Instead, the opposite happen. They showed support for the other. Here are a few examples of what I mean:

Paul writes about Himself and Barnabas
(1 Corinthians , Chapter 9: Verses 1-6)
Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you not the result of my work in the Lord? Even though I may not be an apostle to others, surely I am to you! For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.

This is my defense to those who sit in judgment on me. Don't we have the right to food and drink? Don't we have the right to take a believing wife along with us, as do the other apostles and the Lord's brothers and Cephas? Or is it only I and Barnabas who must work for a living?

Paul writes about Mark
(Colossians, Chapter 4, Verse 10)
My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.)

(2 Timothy, Chapter 4: Verse 11)
Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry.

(Philemon, Chapter 1: Verse 24)
And so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke, my fellow workers.

What a great example of agreeing to disagree while also showing support to the other and the work each had done for the Lord. Paul even went a step farther and showed us that even though he felt he couldn't work with Mark at the time in Acts ... he was able to get past this and work with Mark later on in his ministry of the Word.

How about us? How do we handle these situations in our lives? Do we let it divide us or do we look past it to the big picture of serving, spreading and sharing in the fellowship of Christ?

Requests to God!!!!

2007-03-21T20:07:00.000-03:00

(Philippians, Chapter 4: Verses 6-7)
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

How true! I wrote the first part of my Canadian Securities Exam last week. Leading up to the hours/minutes before the exam I was quite stressed. As I sat in the classroom waiting to write I found myself talking to God. I began to pray. Before I knew it, I was totally calm. My mind was relaxed and I felt a confidence that was not there when I entered the room. The test began and two hours later I put down my pencil. I didn't feel 100% sure about how well I did but I knew there was nothing I could do about it now ... except thank God for guarding my mind and emotions ... and also to wait for the test results. I found out today that I passed. I am truly happy about this. But it's my faith that I am more happy about. You see ... when I was praying to God that day, I wasn't praying for him to provide me with the answers to pass but rather I was praying that he would let me feel his presence as I wrote so that I would stay calm and focused, knowing that I was not writing this test alone .... I would never have prayed a prayer like that ten years ago!

Thanks God.

Your loving servant in Christ!

Communion Thought ... Everyday Thought

2007-03-19T22:15:00.000-03:00

Jesus said to the Disciples in (John 4:34-36)
"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. Even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together.
Jesus said to the people after he fed the Five Thousand in (John 6:27)
Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval."
The Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy in (2 Timothy 4:1-8)
In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.

For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

I would like to ask you the following questions that I ask (and struggle with) myself:

Are you feeding on the "Food of Jesus" or the "The Food of the World"?
Are you "Spreading the Word of the Lord"?
Are you Correcting, Rebuking and Encouraging?
Or .... Are your itching ears only hearing what you want to hear?

Jesus paid a high price on the cross so that we could be reconciled with God - our sins forgiven. We cannot just follow his doctrine when it is convenient to do so, or to study his "Word" and not share it with those around us.
(Matthew 10:32-33) States:
Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven.
When your time comes and you are standing before Jesus ... Will you be able to say that you finished the race, you fought the good fight, you kept the faith? ... Will you have earned a crown of righteousness?

Who Are We Going to Harm .... ???

2007-03-05T14:01:00.000-04:00

Are you prepared to give a reason for your hope in God?

This is a question I don't think I will ever be able to answer with a convincing "YES" ... but I know that I am improving my answer all the time. To truly be able to answer this question, I don't believe I can answer it with words alone but also by my daily actions.

If we truly want to be God's children and we have entered the waters of baptism ... then we need to be able to spread the "Word of God" and the "Life of Christ" with the very words we speak and the very actions we live by each and every day. People shouldn't have to ask us if we are Christians ... or whether or not we believe in God. Friends, Family and Strangers should be able to tell within moments who is the light of our lives.

My question is not "Who is going to harm us?" but rather "Who are we going to harm by setting our hearts upon Christ our Lord and being eager to do good?"

Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened." But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.
(1 Peter, Chapter 3:Verses 13-22)

Third Day Music

2007-02-28T14:00:00.000-04:00

Just in case you haven't seen my link on the right under "Fine Christian Music" ... I thought I would put it here as well. Third Day has release a Free Music Station on their website. If you are a Third Day fan you can listen to all their music all day any day!!! ... now that is AWESOME!!!

Thirdday.com - Free Music

FREE: Third Day Radio Station

Enjoy

Patience ... Where art thou???

2007-02-26T11:13:00.000-04:00

I remember when I was younger, an older gentleman told me that as we get older we become more and more patient. My patience must be following the same path as my Christian walk ... it's late blooming! All I know is that I find myself praying to God more and more each day to give me patience ... sometimes I get the prayer request in on time and I find myself calming ... most times I'm late with the request and I'm left with a big old bag of frustration. But I will continue to move forward in the hope that someday I will more often than not end up with a big old bag of "Calm" rather than "Frustration"!!!

A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension,
but a patient man calms a quarrel.
(Proverbs, Chapter 15: Verse 18)

The end of a matter is better than its beginning,
and patience is better than pride.
Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit,
for anger resides in the lap of fools.
(Ecclesiastes, Chapter 7: Verses 8-9)

Living "in Christ" ... Dead to Sin

2007-02-14T11:14:00.000-04:00

This is something that I have been thinking about a lot lately. I have been looking at my life and my faith. I once was living a life that was alive in Sin. I don't mean that I was a bad or evil person. I was just a person who was living a very worldly life. I put myself first and everyone else second. I claimed to know Christ but yet could not have been farther away from him. Looking back now I can safely say I knew Christ Jesus the same way I know Donald Trump ... I don't know "The Donald" but I definitely know a lot about him. He on the other hand has no idea who I am. I was fortunate. I met and married a beautiful lady that has a close and personal relationship with Jesus. She helped to introduce me to him in a personal way. I have since been building a fantastic personal relationship with Him. We talk each day. I confide in Him each day. I study His message each day. I give thanks and praise to Him each day ... and by "Him" I mean Christ Jesus. I now find myself building my faith "on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief corner-stone" (Ephesians 2:20) rather than seeing this foundation as the "stone that causes men to stumble, and a rock that makes them fall" (Isaiah 8:14).

The big question I struggle with right now is this: I know I have changed. I no longer want to live in the Sin of this World but rather I want to Live in Christ ... I know this ... but does everyone around me know this? ... or do they still see the "Old" Harley?

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
(2 Corinthians, Chapter 5: Verse 17)

Baptism & The Holy Spirit

2007-02-07T11:04:00.000-04:00

Last night we had a very interesting discussion at bible study ... in the book of Acts it states that the Samaritans were baptized but did not receive the Holy Spirit until Peter and John laid their hands on them ...

But when they believed Philip as he preached the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. When they arrived, they prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, because the Holy Spirit had not yet come upon any of them; they had simply been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
(Acts, Chapter 8: Verse 12 & Verses 14-17)

What made this so interesting was the question "when do we actually receive the Holy Spirit?" ... Don't we receive this when we are baptized in the name of Jesus? ... Yes.

Why then did the people of Samaria have to wait for the laying on of the apostles hands? The Christian church was just getting going and I personally believe it was to show that this was a special event taking place to jump start the overall worldly growth of the church. I believe the Holy Spirit had to be delivered in this special way so that God's massage was made perfectly clear ... The Gift of the Holy Spirit was not just for one group of people ... it was for Every Group of People. You see it again in Chapter 10 with the Gentiles receiving the Holy Spirit while listening to Peter's message.

While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.

Then Peter said, "Can anyone keep these people from being baptized with water? They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have." So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.
(Acts, Chapter 10: Verses 44-48)

I think this had to take place to truly convince the people of the time that the "Way" was the real deal. That Christ died so that everyone could be saved. I would like to share with you a piece of text from the book "New Testament Survey" where I think the author provides a great description for this:

"The mission of Philip was reinforced by the aid of Peter and John, who visited Samaria to see what had been accomplished and to make sure the Samaritans received the Holy Spirit. The book of Acts recounts four occasions on which the Holy Spirit came to people in a spectacular manner: to the apostles at Pentecost (2:1-4), to the Samaritans (8:17), to the Gentiles in the house of Cornelius (10:44-46), and to the disciples of John the Baptist at Ephesus (19:6). Each of these instances represents the introduction of the Holy Spirit to a different class of people. Collectively they mark the beginning of the Spirit's work in the lives of the individual believers at the opening of the church era. The gift of the Holy Spirit was the proof of conversion (Romans 8:9) and the stamp of divine approval on the apostles' work." pg247
(From the book "New Testament Survey" - Merrill C. Tenney)

What's your thoughts? ... I'd love to hear them!

Am I Worthy To Be Called A Christian?

2007-01-29T13:35:00.000-04:00

Have you ever asked yourself the question ... "Am I worthy to be called a Christian?". I have. I do it all the time. I have a hard time forgetting my past life. My life before submitting to Christ. I believed in God and I was aware of Christ dying on the Cross. But I didn't need to put this in the forefront of my life nor did I need to discuss it with others. I was not against God or His Message. It was just that I didn't feel I needed to read or live this everyday. I really didn't realize just how destructive I was being towards God and his Message. Now that I realize just how wrong I was I can't help but feel guilty. Guilty because I spent a good part of my life doing what I wanted, when I wanted and how I wanted. I didn't spend this time trying to win the approval of God but rather that of Man. It's because of my life of partying and trying to please man that I wonder how can God offer me this new life, this clean slate through the death of his Son, Jesus. Why would Jesus do this for me? Do I really deserve this? Am I really the example God wants for his church in today's society?

Then I read the book of Acts ... Where it tells of a man who not only wasn't living a God Fearing live ... he was actually trying to destroy those who were ... this man came to know Christ and was one of his most important preachers of the gospel ... This man was Paul (also known a Saul in Acts). If God could take a man that had so much hatred for Jesus and turn him into an apostle ... then there is hope for me yet! If you have never read the book of Acts, I encourage you to do so. You may be surprised just how much you and Paul have in common.

The answer I found for my question: "No I was not worthy to call myself a Christian in my earlier years but since submitting myself to Jesus through the waters of baptism just over eight years ago ... God has made me worthy to be called a Christian!"

I leave you with the following passage and question ... Does this sound like anyone you know?

Paul Called by God:
I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel I preached is not something that man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ.

For you have heard of my previous way of life in Judaism, how intensely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it. I was advancing in Judaism beyond many Jews of my own age and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers. But when God, who set me apart from birth and called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not consult any man, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went immediately into Arabia and later returned to Damascus.

Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Peter and stayed with him fifteen days. I saw none of the other apostles—only James, the Lord's brother. I assure you before God that what I am writing you is no lie. Later I went to Syria and Cilicia. I was personally unknown to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. They only heard the report: "The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy." And they praised God because of me.
(Galatians, Chapter 1: 11-24)

Worried About The Future...

2007-01-23T20:50:00.000-04:00

It's funny ... well not ha ha funny ... But I find I'm have an awful lot of Global Warming conversations lately. It's amazing how worked up and worried people can get over this. They are so concerned about their future and that of their children. Yes, Worldly concerned ... global warming is changing the earth. And yes it looks like it's going to eventually cause great havoc in the future. But what about these people and their kids ... are they as concerned about their life and their kid lives in heaven? Are they focused on Christ and the sacrifice he made for them on the Cross so that they could be saved from this world ... the one they are so focused on saving? I know that we could be doing more to preserve the earth ... but in all reality ... do you really think global warming is our biggest concern? What about all the fighting that's currently going on?

Perhaps if we became more focused on reading the Word and living a life pleasing to God ... we would find that this global warming and all the fighting may possible start to slow down... Perhaps rather than explaining to someone how they can make their children's lives better by using energy saving light bulbs we can discuss how we can be saving our children's eternal lives by introducing them to Christ and the sacrifice he made for us on the Cross ... perhaps rather than showing our kids it's every man for himself ... we could show them it's even man for Jesus and his forgiveness ... Perhaps rather than focusing on pay back, we focus on loving back. Just a thought!

Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet,"and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself."Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.
(Romans Chapter 13: 8-14)

Lay Down Our Pride!!!

2007-01-19T10:52:00.000-04:00

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge.

Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place. Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice.

Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you. Save me from bloodguilt, O God, the God who saves me, and my tongue will sing of your righteousness. O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise.
Psalm 51

Right Place ... Right Path!!!

2007-01-16T11:08:00.000-04:00

Ever find yourself in a situation that after the events have played out you can only look back and Say "Wow ... I got the message God ... Thanks!". Well this happened to me last Friday. I was getting ready to sit down in my quiet little study area to review my Canadian Securities material when I seen there was already a couple of guys sitting there deep in conversation. Now at this point I would usually go to the library because it can be distracting trying to study in this area with a lot of talking around me but I decided sit at the only remaining open table. Besides, I had my MP3 player that I listen to when studying so all the surrounding sound can be blocked out. Well I started studying and within minutes my MP3 player went dead. The batteries had died (and unfortunately these batteries don't rise again). So needless to say, I tried to block out the conversation from the next table but I couldn't. Mostly because it was very interesting.

At the next table was an older man telling a younger man about his life journey and some of the things that he had come across. The older man kept referring to these men of faith that had come into his life. He would tell stories about these men and how he felt they had the power to heal others through prayer because their faith was so strong. He also talked about how the church has lost focus on helping the less fortunate. How the financially well off see those in need but just walk by without helping. The older man then pulled our his bible and started to read some pieces of scripture and would then explain the meaning behind them to the younger man. I quickly learned a few things about the older chap. He was well off but he was also struggling with illness. As he talked he often mentioned how he would love to be able to get close to someone who is strong in the faith so that he could place his prayers with him. He also talked about how he has been trying to help those financially less fortunate.

This is where it got difficult for me. I could see that this man was searching for God and was trying to grow his faith. I could also see that from his explanations of the scriptures he had read and his feeling towards these "Men of Faith" and what they could do, that he was somewhat missing the mark. Then my internal struggle started: a)I was not part of their conversation and so therefore it was not my place to interject my opinion. b) this person is not afraid to discuss scripture in public and is not ashamed to let others know he is search for the path of God ... if I rebuke, will I discourage this man from sharing his take on scripture.

Now if I was part of this conversation I would have no problem giving my take on things but I was not. So I finally decided I did need to say something but it had to be encouraging while at the same time corrective. So as I left my table I told the older gentleman that I enjoyed hearing him openly discuss the scriptures and his walk. That it is encouraging to see someone who is so comfortable doing so in public. I also told him that I could see where he was coming from with his take on the pieces he read but I felt there was a greater message in these passages. I encouraged him to take a deeper look at what they were saying. Stated that I felt that God is saying we need to put our complete faith in him. That it's important to financially help those who are less fortunate but more importantly, we need to help people find God in their lives. Show love to others the way we want to be loved. We need to connect with God with our faith and lay our prayers on his ears for him to hear. We all can be men of faith.

I thought of this all weekend and realized that God presented an opportunity to show myself how much I have grown in my faith but that I still have a long way to grow.... and I'm loving every step of the journey!!!

Are You Going to be Living on the Holy Hill?

2007-01-09T11:10:00.000-04:00

LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill?

He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart and has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman, who despises a vile man but honors those who fear the LORD, who keeps his oath even when it hurts, who lends his money without usury and does not accept a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken.
(Psalm 15)

Pretty high standards when you read them. But when you really think about it, don't we already do this inregard to our family and our closest friends. We never give it a second thought. When it comes to these relationships we are always willing to do and say what is right and honorable, no matter how tough or difficult the situation, because these are the people we love and care about. So then ... why is it so different when it comes to the Lord. I mean really ... read Pslam 15 again and tell me ... Is this really a bad way to live? Are people going to hate you for living a life like this? Are we going to hurt anyone by living this live? ... I know I would sure like to be surrounded by people who live like this ... perhaps starting today ... right this minute ... if you are not already trying to live like this for the Lord ... you can start ... WE CAN START!!!

Missed Fellowship...If Only I Knew Then!

2007-01-03T13:17:00.000-04:00

Well as you see in my first post for 2007 I have been looking back on my "Walk of Faith". In doing so it has stirred up a lot of emotions inside me. Some of these emotions I have never really understood why they are so strong. Not until recently. You see. I can't even say Allan Smith's name without getting a little choke up. And it's not because he was a part of my life for as long as I can remember ... in fact it is the opposite. I didn't even meet Allan until I was 24/25 and unfortunately he passed away a few years later. But it wasn't as much the time that effected me ... as it was the message!

You see I grew up going to church and believed in God. I knew what Jesus had done for me. But I didn't really read my bible, learn the scriptures and apply them to my everyday life. I didn't pray daily. I believed I was a good person and as long a I believed in God and went to church every now and then I would be fine. My spot in heaven would be held for me. AND I sure knew I didn't need to be baptized as an adult because I was baptized as an infant.

BOY WAS I WRONG .... But Allan had a way about him that was a gift. He didn't push this on you and he didn't make you feel uncomfortable discussing it. However, he didn't let it slide either. He just knew. He knew how and when to talk, when to listen and when to give you a nudge in the right direction. I had a one-on-one bible study with Allan and in the begin I hated the thought of doing it. But I met with him each week. And each week it became easier and easier. Wouldn't you know it, by the end I was actually enjoying it. But in the end I still struggled with one big decision. To be or Not to be Baptized. I struggled with this because I now knew what it really meant and if I was to chose to do this then I would have to surrender my current way of living. I couldn't serve two masters. Again ... Allan never pushed but he often reminded. Allan did baptize me. But very shortly after this Allan passed.

I didn't get to have a bible study with him after my baptism. I also never got the chance to pick his brain the way I know he wanted me too. For that I'm sorry. I also remember how happy Allan was when I was baptized and I always thought it was because he helped to get me there. Now I know different ... it was because he could now stop worrying about me ... I had finally realized I couldn't do it my way and I was ready to let God lead.

I miss him and our fellowship ... but ... it is because of our fellowship that I am here ... And since I am still here ... I hope I can help others to find God in their lives the way Allan has done for me.

If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
(1 John Chapter 1: 6-7)

New Years Resolution:Be More Foolish!

2007-01-01T19:28:00.000-04:00

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written:

"I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate."

Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe.
(1 Corinthians,Chapter 1: 18-21)

It is amazing when you think about it. For the most part, we are a society made up of people who care for others. If we see someone who needs a helping hand we stop and help. If we see a friend struggling or feeling down we try to help. Some of us have even taken jobs where our profession is trying to save lives. We want to let everyone know when someone does something nice to help us. But we are slow to share the Word of God even though we know it can truly save someone's life!

I am one of the fortune ones. The direction of my life took a 365 degree turn about 9 years ago. A beautiful lady named Meredith came into my life and changed it for the better. The Word of God and the Sacrifice made by Jesus was (and still is) very important to her and she made it clear that it was something she wanted for me as well. Because of her I made a connection that will for every change me. I met Allan Smith. A great man. But even more so, a proud and faithful servant of God that saw something in me that I didn't. He saw somebody who needed to be saved from his worldly life. Someone who could be used to not only to serve God but someone to spread the word of God so that others like me could be saved as well!!!

As stated in the piece of scripture above: I too at one time thought the message was somewhat foolish but I now feel completely different. I can only hope that God will be pleased through the foolishness that I try to preach in the hope that others can become believers and be saved.

Meredith and Allan will always have a special place in my heart for the gift they helped me to find and for that I am eternally grateful. I only hope that I can do the same!!!

----------Happy New Year!!!-----------

2006-12-28T15:02:00.000-04:00

Wishing you a Year Full of Good Health, Happiness
and Growth in Your Spiritual Walk with Jesus!!!

Empty Words & Promises

2006-12-12T15:23:00.000-04:00

As children of God we are to show love and compassion. We are to submit to one another out reverence for Christ. This I understand. What I have difficulty with is when do we back away when the person or person's you are trying to help seem to be offering up empty words and promises. It's a tough call but at the end of the day it's the person you are trying to help that makes that decision for you. I don't think we are to turn our back on them, but rather step aside until they are serious about giving themselves up to Christ and putting God first in their lives! There are too many people out there that are serious about being saved but just haven't found the pathway to God. That is where we come in.

Ephesians, Chapter 5: 6 &7
Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them.

Thankful

2006-12-01T12:17:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I get so caught up focusing on the things I don't have and on the areas where I feel I have failed that I forget to be thankful for the things I do have and the things I have achieved. I've had a week like this but today I realized that I was just being stupid. I'm not perfect. All I can do is do my best and make sure that my faith in the lord is not just strong but growing stronger each and every day. I'm thankful that I have a loving wife that is so strongly connected to the lord ... (not to mention she's smart and beautiful ... That's just a bonus!!!). She is my lighthouse that helps to keep my focus on God in all of my storms. It's because of her that I have truly found God. Its because I have found God and his Son Jesus that I have been saved and excepted into his family. I am surrounded by a loving wife, my kids and my Christian family ... for all of this I am truly thankful!!!

Fellowship ... It's Amazing!!!

2006-11-30T18:22:00.000-04:00

Ben wrote a great message on his blogsite yesterday about how beneficial it is to seek counsel from our elders ... I agree ... but it is also nice to be able to seek counsel from our Christian friends that are growing and developing along the path to becoming part of this mature older Christian group. I feel as though God has been disciplining me for trying to deal with things "my way" rather than following "his word and wisdom". It was after some great fellowship with my Christian brothers that I picked up my bible and located the following passage:

Hebrews 12: Verses 5-11
you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons:

"My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son."

Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

Thanks Matt and Ben ... I can see why you guys look so forward to Thursday's Men's Breakfast!!!

and thanks to my beautiful wife ... Love ya Babe!!!

Are you a "Do-er"? or a "Teach-er"?

2006-11-28T10:26:00.000-04:00

Have you ever heard the saying:
"Those who can ... Do! and those who can't ... Teach!"

I have heard this many times and have used it a few times myself. I had always thought of this as an insult to those who are in the teaching group. An insult because it meant they cannot do. Again, you will find me reflecting and having a change of heart. I have a change of heart because the more I read my bible the more I see just how important it is to have Do-ers ... but more important is that fact that we need Teach-ers. If you are one that is able to do, you are blessed because people "will see" your faith by your actions. Also, as you are doing, you are building! You are building up your "Personal Textbook" for teaching. For as sure as I know that one day I am going to die ... I also know that one day my body is going to tell me I can no longer do! When that day comes I will not meet it with sadness but rather I will meet it with joy. I will be joyfully because I will know that God no longer needs me to make doing my main focus but rather because of my doing, my faith and spiritual maturity will be at a place were I can comfortably open my "Personal Textbook" and begin focusing more on the teaching of God's Word for all "to hear"!

Now I'm not saying that because you can do you are not expected to teach (or vise versa) ... What I mean is that we are all equipped to do one or the other or both. But whatever it is, we need to make sure that this gift is at the forefront for all to see or hear. At a resent meeting between the elders and deacons the following piece of scripture was read. It's really clear. God has put us on this earth with a purpose and a gift ... The question I have for you is this: Are you a "Do-er" or "Teach-er"?

Romans 12: 1-8
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will.

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.

Who Are We To Judge Our Neighbor?

2006-11-21T10:01:00.000-04:00

This has been heavy on my heart lately. I have said it myself and recently I have heard it a lot more often ... but it was not until recently that I realized, in most circumstances, I don't have the right to even say the following phase: "it's too little too late!"

Now if I'm talking about my golf game and I'm 5 shots behind Jim with two holes left to play and I have just made two birdies ... even though I have improved my play, I am not going to be able to catch him ... I don't have enough holes left to play. So yes, in this circumstance it is a case of too little too late. But how can we say this about Our Christian Walk or Our Brother's/Sister's Christian Walk?

How do we really know what we need? How do we really know what is best for us? How do we really know what is best for someone else? Who gave us the power and authority to judge our neighbor?

I am a deacon in my church. I know that I have much to offer and it's because of the grace of God that I can do this. God has given me a gift to be used in away that is pleasing to him. That's the easy part. It's the areas that I am not gifted where it's a struggle. But none the less I need to continually work to improve myself in these areas and to do this I need to be encouraged and supported... OR DO I? ... perhaps some feel any growth I show in my faith from now on is "too little too late" ... I certainly hope not ... I'm going to let God decide that one!

(James Chapter 4: Verses 11-12)
Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you - who are you to judge your neighbor?

(1 Thessalonians Chapter 5: Verses 9-11)
For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

What's Your Gift?

2006-11-17T09:18:00.000-04:00

I just finished reading today's Purpose Driven Life Devotional. I find these little devotionals are a great way to get my day started. Today's got me thinking about my part in the church and how am I doing at using my gift(s) to teach and encourage those in the church as well as those outside of it. It led me to this section of Ephesians and I thought I would share it with you:

As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says:
"When he ascended on high, he led captives in his train and gave gifts to men". (Ephesians 4:1-8)
It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-13)

Speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
(Ephesians 4:15-16)

Are we using our gifts in a way that is pleasing to God?

Parents Just Don't Understand

2006-11-15T09:24:00.000-04:00

Now that I am a parent I realize the truth about this statement. However, I think it is more like trying to build a solid foundation for your kids while only having bits and pieces of the building plan.

It's funny, when kids are small they get mad at you, start to cry and then want you to pick'em up to comfort them. I think this is the hardest thing to deal with as they get older. They become teenagers on the verge of becoming adults. They want more independence and want to make decisions for themselves. As a parent you know this and hate it. You hate it because of what you have to give up. Which is being able to protect them. Teenagers think you are trying to control them and they don't always understand why we do what we do. As a parent, it is not always easy to explain why. Leading to the not understanding part.

I am a person who has made many mistakes. I look back and in some cases I see what led me to make these mistakes or stupid decisions. As a parent you want to do all you can to protect your child from making these same mistakes. It can be hard to explain when it hasn't even happened or may never happen to your child. It's not that you don't trust them ... it's that you don't even want them to be put in the situation where they have to make a choice. They don't understand and they feel as though we don't trust them to make the right decision ... We don't understand how they don't see that we are just trying to protect them and have their best interest at heart.

I don't know much. But what I do know is this: I love my kids. The decisions that Meredith and I make in regards to them will always be in their best interest whether they agree with these decisions and understand them or not. And I will always love my kids no matter what. And I know that Meredith and I are not alone in this ... God is with us every step of the way.

I also realize that I have to deal with another truth. Charity and Simon are now at an age where the hugs are less and the independence is more. I have to (but not completely) start to loosen the parent grip so that they can begin making their own decisions. I have to believe that the foundation we have been building is strong enough for them to start building their own life on. I also realize that they will not always agree with or understand our decisions or the advice that we offer, but because we have been there and because we only have their best interest at heart, we can only hope they will listen and follow. In the same way I realize that I am God's child and that he has made decisions and has provided advice for me and because everything he says or does is in my best interest, I need to follow it. I know our kids will not always listen. They will fall and they will get hurt. But Meredith and I will always be there to pick'em up and comfort them. Just as God has done for us.

I am not great, or even good at saying it, but I hope my family knows just how much I love them.

What's Sports Have to Do with It?

2006-11-09T12:13:00.000-04:00

Isn't the Bible great ... especially for me since I don't have to read it! ... with BibleGateway.com I can choose any section of scripture and it will read it to me. For someone like me who doesn't really enjoy reading it's fantastic.

But as I read the bible (or should I say 'listen and follow along') I see more and more how my life revolves around it. Christ couldn't be everywhere and do everything all the time. He needed the help of God and his Apostles to teach, show and spread the good news. I have played sports all my life and if there is one thing I have learned from playing, it is this: No matter how good or talented you are, you can't do everything by yourself.

For a hockey team to be successfully you need to work as a unit with each and ever player giving their best at all times. If your talent is scoring goals, you will not asked to play nets ... but you will be expected to skate back and help out your defense and goaltender. Same goes for a defenseman. You will not be expected to score goals every night but you will be expected to try to score when given the opportunity. You see where I am going. The whole key to a successful team is to play as a unit. Congratulating your teammates when they do something good while still supporting them when they make mistakes. Each player has a special gift they bring to the team but that doesn't mean they are not expected to work hard to improve themselves in the areas of the game they find more difficult. You can have a team of superstars. But if they can't or wouldn't play with and support each other that team will fail. (I'm seeing this first hand with my Philadelphia Flyers).

To me my position in the Church is the same. I bring a talent to this family of God and I am expected to use this gift to the best of my ability so that it is pleasing to God. But this doesn't mean that because I may struggle or find other areas difficult, that I do not have to serve in those areas.... Not only do I need to serve but I am expected to serve in those areas. However, if I see a fellow member struggling, I need to help and encourage because this may not be his gift. I know that I struggle daily and I am often looking for help. I want to be successful. But more so, I want my church to be a successful. I also know that for this to happen I need to make sure that I am using my gift to it's full potential while also working to improve on the areas I am less gifted in (or not gifted in at all). For at the end of the day, if I have truly done this and all the members of my team have done this ... WE CAN NOT LOSE!!!

A Good Day

2006-11-07T10:05:00.000-04:00

I had a pretty good day on Sunday. It was a day full of mixed emotions and much relief. Our Church was voting on making Matt our Senior Minister. After much prayer, evaluation and discussion, My Elders and a Review Committee selected Matt for this position. I also feel Matt can successfully fill it. But more important, I trust and believe in my elders. It is with God's support that I know our congregation can move on and continue to grow closer not just as friends but as part of God's family.

Now ... that evening the pressure was all on me. My curling team was playing and we had lost our last two games. And when I say lost, I mean we got creamed. I was not willing to except defeat on this night. I am glad to say, as much as it looked like we were trying to lose the game we weren't and we won.

All in all, not a bad day!

My Daily Walk with Christ

2006-11-03T11:20:00.000-04:00

We are not trying to please man but God, who tests our hearts.
(1 Thessalonians, Chapter 2, Verse 4)

My actions as a Christian Brother
As God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on Love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. (Colossians, Chapter 3, Verse 3-4)

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the Law of Christ. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load.(Galations, Chapter 6, Verse 2-5)

Regard for My Elders
Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you. (Hebrews, Chapter 13, Verse 17)

Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. Those who sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that the others may take warning. (1 Timothy, Chapter 5, Verse 19-20)

When I Pray
When I pray, I need to pray as the Apostles did in Acts when they had to chose a member of their group to replace Judas. They prayed asking the Lord to show them his will not theirs. No matter what I am praying for I need to ask God what's his will and not mine.

Then they prayed, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas has left to go where he belongs." (Acts, Chapter 1, Verse 24-25)

The Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.(Romans, Chapter 8, Verse 26-27)

My Christian Life (What does God want from me?)
The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.(1 Peter, Chapter 4, Verses 7-11)

As I get older and hopefully a little more mature, I become more and more grateful for the Lord's sacrifice on the cross. I know that each day I fall short of these expectations and I am so thankful that God loves me so much that he would sacrifice is own flesh and blood so that my sins can be forgiven. It's because of this love that I find myself falling a little less each day.

Your brother in Christ,

My Beautiful Family

2006-11-02T09:38:00.000-04:00

My Beautiful Wife--My Two Fantastic Step Kids--My Little Girl
Meredith, Charity, Simon and Avelyn.

A Huband/Father couldn't ask for a better family!!!!!

LIFE IS GOOD!!!

Lets Try This Again

2006-10-31T12:23:00.000-04:00

Well don't ask me how ... but of course it would happen to me ... I somehow removed myself as my administrator for my original Blog site and now Ben is ... but Ben can't change it back to me ... so this is now my new site and the old one will be left vacant!!!